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Tuesday, October 31, 2017

Be Something Else Day - Revisit

1984 - An Early Outing
I posted the narrative below two years ago and it is still relevant on today's "Be Something Else Day". It is likely you already had your ESCAPE, when adults partied last weekend or maybe you will do an escape at work today. Tonight is for the kids and the aspiring. 

Halloween was a red-letter day when I first started getting out. Planning started months in advance and I always staged an out of town trip so I could get out. Fast forward to today; Rhonda is not a costume and I treat the day as any other faux-holiday. If there is a reason to be out then it is just another day for Rhonda.    

However, there are wonderful memories of my "Be Something Else Days", past.  Take the opportunity to escape, if you have not already. 



___________________________________


This is national cross dressing day.  A day when we can pretend to be anything we want to be.  Little boys like being a super hero. Little girls like being a princess. Then there is us.  

Delia Melody described it this way: "I'm not the only one who loves the excuse to play dress-up in public without the weird stares at least once a year. It's fun to pretend to be someone, or something else for a night."  

I am not going to rain on a parade so today I will tell you about my first time ever “really dressed” and going out. Something I had only fantasized about doing.  Months of planning - frequenting wig shops, boutiques, and hair salons to get makeup lessons all were part of the plan. This was a time before electronic spreadsheets, but had they existed I am sure the engineer in me would have prepared a detail plan.  Instead, I had written checklists.   

I used Halloween and being out of town to solicit help, an innocent request - “My spouse wants to dress me up – so I want to know what I can look like beforehand.” was my cover story. It seemed plausible and remember, this was the late 70’s.  I had barely admitted to myself I was transgender and still had delusion that just seeing my self dressed “once” would cure me.  Let’s get this thing out of my system - forever.  

Several makeup artists really enjoyed the process, which amazed me.  There was one that was so proud of her work she went to get her partner, that also worked in the mall, to show him her masterpiece. I think there was a secondary motive in that she wanted to dress him up. Several insisted that we do it again and next time bring the whole “costume”, so they could see the total look. Oh darn – must I – If you insist?  After each encounter, I had pages colored in and products in little bottles with numbers that corresponded to the colors on the face sheet. Revelation One: Makeup was much more complicated and expensive than I ever imagined.   

The big day arrived and still out of town, I revisited my favorite make-up artist for the makeover.  She helped me get dressed and WOW.  Revelation Two:  This was not going to be the cure. I loved the look. I would date the woman staring back at me from the mirror. Where can we go?

I had studied and several upscale restaurants were having a costume party so dinner with my newly unnamed friend seemed in order. Just choose one and go. So drive I did to one place. Side note: As I look back now, going everywhere, anytime and in a variety of outfits, I see that my anxiety was so unfounded.  Note to younger self – Just do it.

I had arrived too early and there was still some daylight.  “I can’t go in yet.”  So I waited for a while - but saw no one else go in wearing a costume. Cannot go here! So I drove to the other place. Now it was dark and I was safe, but there were only a few cars in the lot. Let’s wait until a few more show up. After about an hour, waiting in the car, only a few and none in costume. Cannot go here!  So, I drove back to the other place. Now I did see a few going in wearing a costume and it was dark. Perfect.

Cannot go in yet!  By now, nerves and anxiety had taken its toll on my makeup. Therefore, I need a quick trip back to my motel to see if I was still together. I will come back once I know I still look OK. After a quick check, I was still together and did return to the restaurant. It was getting late by now and I was seeing people leaving in costume. Had I missed my opportunity?  

I finally worked up enough courage to go in and sure enough the “costume walk was over”. Prizes had already been awarded. The host suggested that I go to the bar where several of the “costumed customers” had congregated for a final drink. “You look great – who did your makeup” was her comment. With much fear, I did go and join in at the bar. I sat down and the bartender asked without hesitation asked" ma’am what can I get you?" I felt the need to explain everything and his comment – “This is not going to be the last time you do this, is it?”  

Revelation three: No truer statement was ever said.







Monday, October 30, 2017

The Job Interview

Interview Outfit 
I love to interview. Maybe because it is an opportunity to present my skills or maybe it is the actor in me. The “can I pull this off” challenge. An interview is a wonderful test and even if you have a job or not looking, interviewing is something you should do whenever possible. You never know when it might be a necessity. For many, it is like public speaking, which is also a business necessity. I have found the more frequently I interview, the better I get. Like everything else in life.

You may have noticed that I have not been listing upcoming trips on my Sunday's post. Good reason; there have not been any since July - Not enough work or travel. Since my last non-profit job/office moved south, I have been working as a contract software setup/training consultant. My typical schedule, travel in on Monday, setup/train Tuesday through Thursday and either travel back Thursday evening or Friday. If my trips are to an interesting city that I have not visited before, then I sometimes stay over the weekend.  

The sales staff for the product has not been doing their job and that has affected my travels and certainly their overall revenue. Two last-minute sales have generated trips to Portland Oregon the first full week in November and Salem Oregon the next week. It made no sense to fly back to Florida, so I will be staying over in Portland the weekend between the two.

My interview was with an established non-profit organization. A Washington DC based think tank. The best definition of a think tank is: “A body of experts providing advice and ideas on specific political, economic problems or topics.” This one is the epitome of that. So much so, that interested parties are willing and able to contribute to its operation and success. Provided in return is insight into cutting edge policy research. Fundraising presentations introduce more to the advantages gained by membership and support.  

The job description is an almost mirror image of Rhonda's two previous non-profit positions. Some administrative, some database work, some event work, and much constituent direct contact. I love it. I had no previous experience in the non-profit world before the two jobs and volunteering was my gateway. Volunteering lead to part-time and then to full time - six years in total. I came to enjoy the day-to-day operation. 

I know my interview went well. I had my hair done and before the interview appointment I sat for an hour at a local Starbucks to review my presentation packet and think through potential questions. It is all about sales. I wore a brown Jones NY V-neck knit dress, Coach 3” signature heels and some, but not overwhelming jewelry.  Feminine but not overstated; Event-business-dressy would be a good description.

I would love to find something that provides more outside work than I have now. There is a plus side to this job. Events and briefings are held all over the eastern half of the US so there would be travel. Still one of my favorite business perks.  

There are questions I have that will need to be addressed in a second interview  that is scheduled for next week. Before accepting, if there is an offer, I will ask my current contract employer, if there is any anticipation for more sales and installations. I always want to be fair. You never know when you may need to re-cross a bridge.  

If anyone would like advice, or help preparing for an interview please contact me. I will help if I can. You mileage will vary. Also see Forbes "The 10 Commandments Of The Job Interview".  Good advice. 

Offer or not, I enjoyed the interview and the opportunity to present Rhonda.  She is an interesting person.  



Saturday, October 28, 2017

Friday, October 27, 2017

Guest Post - Great Advice from Bri



Thanks Bri - Great Advice 

Hope you've been well.  With the arrival of Fall I've had a chance to look back and reflect on the Summer we just had.  First thing that comes to mind is the craziness of Mother Nature.  The devastating hurricanes in your part of the world, the devastating earthquakes in Mexico and the devastating wild fires in my part of the world.  

Combined that with several other recent tragic events and it's a good time to ESCAPE and do what makes us happy and feel good. For me that always involves a cute pair of shoes, paired with a nice outfit and enjoying the day. And starting the day with a yummy coffee.

Hugs, Bri



Thursday, October 26, 2017

AOL and The Gazebo

The 1990’s were a time of discovery for our community. Prior we had the closeted support groups mainly secretive and secluded. To attend you needed the secret handshake and had to pass multiple screening interviews. Just kidding on the secret handshake however each group was an island to itself. 

While traveling in the late 1980‘s I became a member of the Neutral Corner Support group in San Diego and Power Puffs of Orange County (PPOC) in Los Angeles. To my absolute amazement, there were others like myself and we all had so much in common. The conversations could go on forever.  

The few transgender conventions were becoming a way to finally meet others. We still had no clue as to the depth of our sorority.

The real break came from an emerging technology and finally, we had a way to find each other.  


The Computer / The Internet. 


Gwen Smith
I foster communities,
 I shape opinions, and I dance the dream.
In the early 1990s, Gwendolyn Smith, a desktop publisher in California, stumbled on an offer for five free hours on something called America Online. She discovered "Chat Rooms" and in particular, one named TV Chat. (The community referred to itself then as TV/TS — Transvestite/Transsexual.) 

Ms. Smith, described it this way. “I found my people. It was on American Online that I first identified myself regularly by a feminine name and gender and explored my trans(gender) feelings,”.

Starting in 1992, she lobbied America Online, getting the company to change its policies and allow discussions on gender issues on their service. This led to the creation of a public forum on an emerging major online service — the AOL Transgender Community Forum. After some initial resistance from AOL, Ms. Smith opened this dedicated chat room, The Gazebo, for transgender people. It became a gathering place, a resource center, and a bulletin board. This was new and we had a place to meet. No longer did you need full geek credentials to be online with your sisters. 

By the mid-1990s, Ms. Smith said, "The Gazebo had tens of thousands of unique visitors a month. Many veteran leaders of the transgender movement first connected there."  I found the TV/TS chat room early on and was an early attendee to The Gazebo. Those Sunday evening sessions were wonderful. My handle - “RhondaTV”

In November of 1993 at the Holiday En Femme Convention in Burbank, several of us met in person for the first time. There is still a website that has Gwendolyn journal from the event in 1993

Gwendolyn is still active in our community and founded The Transgender Day of Remembrance. A day to memorialize people who have been killed as a result of anti-transgender prejudice. Since 2000, she has been a columnist for the Bay Area Reporter. Her column is called, "Transmissions." She also manages the website called, Genderfork. (source Wikipedia

Gwendolyn, thank you and others for the remarkable effort you put in helping us to create a global community. Our community has evolved into a movement and force. Less we never be denied our ESCAPES and understand that our strength centers from being visible, active and vocal. 



Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Civilians Doing Halloween

Crossdressing is a constant on Halloween. Many of us have used it as a vehicle to enable our first escape - Me included.  I have even referred to it as National Crossdressing Day. I typically do not go out that day unless there is a legitimate reason. Rhonda is not a costume. 

What I do find interesting is seeing the occasional trick-or-treater come to the door cross dressed. Mostly amateur efforts, however on several occasions over the years I have seen someone making the grade. Likely not his first adventure out, nor the last. As the saying goes, "If only knew then what I know now".  

What if an adult civilian tried crossdressing? That was the claim and narrative written up on the Japanese news site, SoraNews24. The title “16 Things I Learned From Dressing in Drag: Confessions of a One-night Crossdresser”. The observations written by jessicaocheltree are insightful coming from a non-transgender person. Was there a repeat performance. I would bet yes

First the opening:


There are all kinds of men in the world, but I have arbitrarily decided that the kind of man that wants to try wearing women’s clothes at least once in his life are in the majority. I’m not talking about becoming a cross-dresser for life, but most guys would like to see what it’s like to go around in a dress at least for a little bit, right?

If you want to read the "16 Thing" do go to the web site. I will share two as a tease:


1. Being told you are pretty or cute is cause for extreme happiness. Everyone likes to be complimented on their appearance, regardless of gender. Although you might make a modest show of refusing the compliment, on the inside, you feel like jumping for joy.


16. After dress up time is over, you feel empty. Dressing as a woman was unexpectedly intoxicating, but I couldn’t stay like that forever. Going back to my usual self was kind of sad, though. I took off the makeup, removed the wig, traded my dress for my usual men’s clothes, and thought, “Well, that’s that.” It was rather dreary to look in the mirror and find the usual boring face reflected back at me. I almost wanted to cry.





Tuesday, October 24, 2017

Feminine Differential – Vulnerability

Those of us that are transgender have a rare exposure to femininity. It is easy to think in this time of enlightenment, equal rights and androgyny that the two genders are converging. However, nothing has highlighted this differential more so than the Harvey Weinstein scandal. 

Many are calling it a “scandal” like Watergate or election tampering, however it goes much deeper. It is a tragedy. Females seeking nothing more than career advancement were abused by a powerful man; A systemic problem, which begs for justice and change.

Many are coming forward shining a light on Weinstein, a serial sexual predator. Even our president has been accused of this callous disrespect of females. There is a tape and in my opinion, you do not brag without means, motive and opportunity. Yes, sexual assault; a crime. According to USA TODAY, “Institutional blindness has allowed Harvey Weinstein to harass, to bully, to allegedly assault his way to the top of the Hollywood elite. The behavior we would otherwise find deranged and intolerable”.

Is this susceptibility limited to only females?  Mostly but not always. In my youth, I had a brush with a sexual predator and can tell you that it was frightening. I was aware of my surroundings and acted quickly; nothing happened. He was a medical specialist and prayed on teen boys. He eventually left the small town and I hope that myself and others coming forward, hastened that.  

There have been other times as a female that I have felt the sting of vulnerability. I had a job phone interview as Rhonda and it was said that I had a "sexy voice". Next he wanted me to come late in the afternoon for a “casual interview”. He mentioned he would be at home, by the pool and would leave the door open - just come in. To make sure the intent was clear, he mentioned, “if you like, bring your toothbrush”. I declined the interview.  

Even leaving a mall as Rhonda at times has cause for trepidation. Although I have always thought that the element of surprise could be in my favor, sill an uneasiness occurs. Having a dinner alone in a restaurant on several occasion has brought unsolicited attention. Motives may have been innocent, still I felt vulnerable. If I accept, is there an expectation for conversation; more?  

Let us all understand what has happened with Weinstein. Finally, another social wrong has come out of the closet. Let us all understand that this is not acceptable behavior. If you are in a position of power over someone, do not use it to unfair advantage. On the other side, know that as a feminine person there are situations where saying “NO” is your escape word. Use it quickly and with resolve.   

Sara M. McDonald in an article “What we can learn...“ stated this good advice: “Let’s follow Hollywood’s lead of offering support to victims, standing beside them while they come forward and encouraging those who need to come forward to do so.”

Seeing both sides of any situation is a rare privilege. We have a unique perspective.


Monday, October 23, 2017

Simple Chic



A few nights ago I visited the Colony Hotel's Polo Room, Palm Beach.  It is one block off the beach and backs out on the the world famous Worth avenue.  Thursday evening every week ,is and impromptu pre-weekend Palm Beach mixer. Reasonable cocktails and wine plus a very eclectic crowd; even for Palm Beach. I am not quite a regular but drop in about one a month. Many of the regulars know me and I always meet new personalities. Last night was no exception.  


Colony Hotel Palm Beach Polo Room
My friend Harvey played the piano and we had a much larger crowd than usual for early season. Great conversations ensued and fun. I stayed from about 6:00 to 8:00.  Escapes are so much fun.

Just that day I found the above black cotton, off the shoulder top at Macy's.  It is Ralph Lauren and I found it on sale; original price $79.00 and with the "Last chance"  promotion $11.00. I kept my outfit simple for the evening, pairing it with a black above the knee, pencil skirt, stretch belt from Amazon and Cole Haan, Eliza Grand (85mm) pumps. The purse is Polo Ralph Lauren "Medium Sullivan Saddle Bag" from last year.  I believe it is still available and on sale.  

After knowing that I was going to wear the black off the shoulder top everything else came together in less than 5 minutes. Not my usual choosing an outfit, elapse time. Note to self - Over thinking is not always the best approach.  This outfit ended up being, "Simple Chic".    




Friday, October 20, 2017

Breaking News - Playboy

Playboy features first ever transgender Playmate as model Ines Rau bares her breasts and wears nothing but a pair of heels in Hef memorial edition.


By CHRIS SPARGO FOR DAILYMAIL.COM

 11:08 EDT, 19 October 2017 

  • Ines Rau is the Playmate of the month for November 2017, making the French model the first transgender woman to appear in the magazine's centerfold
  • Rau, 26, bares her breasts in the 8-page spread and for the centerfold is completely naked except for a pair of red velvet heels as she lies on the ground
  • She began transitioning when she was 16 and had gender reassignment surgery soon after
  • 'I lived a long time without saying I was transgender. I dated a lot and almost forgot. I was scared of never finding a boyfriend,' said Rau of coming out
  • Rau has previously walked the runway for the likes of Balmain and Hood by Air and recently shot a video for 'Vogue'
  • This is not her first time in 'Playboy' however, with Rau previously appearing nude in a 2014 spread shot by Ryan McGinley 
The upcoming issue of 'Playboy' will feature a transgender model as the Playmate of the month - the first time this has ever occurred inside the pages of the men's magazine.

It was revealed this week that Ines Rau had landed a spot in the magazine's much-coveted centerfold, with the beauty of French-North African descent earning the title of November 2017 Playmate of the Month.

She is seen in the iconic bunny ears and a white angora sweater in one image and wearing nothing but a G-string as she poses with a string of lights wrapped around her bare breasts in another photo. 

The 8-page spread, plus pullout centerfold, features a total of seven pictures of Rau.

And for the centerfold, Rau is photographed completely naked except for a pair of red velvet heels as she lies on the ground, thus covering up everything except for her rear.

Rau also makes it clear that she has no time for her transphobic critics, stating: 'If I want to get a sex change it's between myself and my body. I could hide it, but I don't, because I respect people.'

________________

Read the whole article here : DailyMail . com  Warning Parental Discretion. 
 

November 2017 Cover

Thursday, October 19, 2017

First Transgender Doll

We have been on roller coaster ride these past months with mostly bad news. Uninformed bigots want to deny us basic privacy rights. The presidential tweets of non military acceptance, and the rescinding of protections for transgender students. These all hit home.  When a positive note occurs, I am the first to smile.

Young people are the the most open. Prejudices have not been ingrained yet. They are open to questioning and when being transgender is presented, natural curiosity occurs as in this video. Bless the young!

A New York doll company has unveiled a transgender doll, the first of its kind, modeled after advocate Jazz Jennings. We are fortunate to have such a positive teen role model. Jennings, 16, has identified as female since she was a toddler. She celebrated the creation of the doll before Tonner Doll Company unveiled a prototype last week at the Toy Fair in New York City.

What she said at the unveiling:


I hope that it can place transgender people in a positive light by showing that we are just like all other people,” Jennings wrote in an Instagram post on Feb. 10. “For those asking: the doll is considered to be the first ‘transgender’ doll because it’s based on an individual who is trans. Of course it is still just a regular girl doll because that’s exactly what I am: a regular girl!

The Jennings-inspired doll — which arrives as more toy makers are moving to embrace gender inclusivity — will be rolled out in a limited-edition run this spring or summer, the New York Times reported. Different versions are expected to cost between $89.99 and $100
.



To match the outfit that Jazz Jennings wears on the cover of her second book, the doll will be wearing a pink top and jean shorts. Credit Tonner Doll Company Inc.

____________________

I have a question - Anyone play with dolls as a child?  I had a doll house with furniture and a table that all my dolls sat around. I had a tea set and would stage elaborate tea parties with plates, cups and my grandmother baked cookies. This was before Barbie so do not remember dressing my dolls up, however remember more than once playing with them in strollers and talking then out for a ride. Maybe this was an "only child" thing so had no one to tell me I was being stupid. Funny how I look back now with fond memories.       


Breaking News (Reuters)

Proposed settlement reached in North Carolina's transgender bathroom lawsuit.

  Source Reuters 


October 18, 2017 / 4:54 PM 
Reporting by Colleen Jenkins; Editing by Peter Cooney

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Reuters) - Transgender people would be allowed to use public restrooms in North Carolina that match their gender identity under a settlement agreement filed on Wednesday that aims to resolve the federal lawsuit over the state’s widely criticized bathroom law.

The consent decree proposed by Governor Roy Cooper, the American Civil Liberties Union and transgender people who sued the state would remove some of the law’s harmful effects, civil rights groups said.

The judge in the case must sign off on the proposal before it takes effect.

North Carolina has been mired in litigation about transgender rights since Republican lawmakers enacted a law in 2016 that restricted bathroom choice in state-run buildings to the sex on people’s birth certificates rather than their gender identity.

A measure passed in March rescinded the so-called bathroom bill known as HB 2 and helped bring back some business and sports events pulled from the state in protest. But activists said transgender people still faced discrimination under the new law, which left state lawmakers in control of bathroom policies.

The consent decree says that under current state law, transgender people are not prevented from using their preferred public facilities.

“For too many reasons, it is not in our state’s best interest to remain in drawn-out court battles that still linger because of HB 2,” Cooper, a Democrat, said in a statement.

Republican legislative leaders, who intervened in the court dispute, were not part of the agreement.

Cooper on Wednesday also signed an executive order that bars state agencies and those who have contracts with the state from discriminating on the basis of gender identity or expression.

Activists were pleased by both actions but said they would continue to fight for full nondiscrimination protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in the state.

“Nothing can make up for the cruel and senseless attacks transgender people have faced in North Carolina, but I am hopeful that the court will agree to clarify the law so that we can live our lives in less fear,” said Joaquín Carcaño, a transgender man and the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit.

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Animal Prints Fall 2017


These are all item in my closet from seasons past. I was happy to see that for this season they are are still very much in style. If you are looking for a great animal prints Chico's is always a good source.  Check here. The ones I have are Lauren from several years ago as well the tan leather skirt. 

The black outfit would work as well with my black Talbots leather skirt. Talbots seems to have a good selection of leather skirts each year and is a good addition to your wardrobe. An investment purchase and year-after-year, always in style. I love the feel of leather

Notice that the black pants could go with either top.   

The Coach ankle boots are from last year, purchased at Dillards on sale. With a little bit of effort you should be able find them or something similar. They never seem to go out of style and always look great with pants. If I were taller, maybe I could get away with them with skirts, but for me pants are my best option with ankle boots.  

Deborah over at Fabulous After 40 has the suggestion of pairing animal prints with a dash of red. A great look and combination. Check out her fashion layout.  Also Just Trendy Girls as a great layouts on Ralph Lauren handbags and boots.  

Shop your closet and plan your ESCAPE.      





Tuesday, October 17, 2017

A Plus Size Halloween

Plus Size Halloween Costumes for the Ladies


There is about two weeks before "National Cross Dressing Day" AKA Halloween. I do not see Rhonda as a costume, however have utilized Halloween more than once to build courage and facilitate an ESCAPE. In my early days of "crossdressing" the Halloween excuse was used for wig shopping, professional makeovers and photoshoots. I fault no one for crossdressing at Halloween or this being your ESCAPE. Any escape is so worth it and a confidence builder.  


Not all of us are a size 2 as the model in the center flapper outfit. This year there seems to be a good selection of larger costumes (plus sizes) so here is our opportunity. I found some of these by just by Googling and others on the Bearfoot Budgeting site - Plus Size Halloween Costumes for the Ladies.  This is what the site had to say:


Attention Curvy Girls!  Plus Size Halloween Costumes are HOT!  Ugly fat girl costumes are a thing of the past and curvy girl love is in!  Trick or Treat! It’s up to you.

Did you guess? Yup, Im a curvy mamma and news flash, I LOVE Halloween!  These are just a few of my favorites and I just can’t decide which one?  HELP!!!
 


Also there are some great suggestions at Plus Size Women Fashion - Best & Sexy Plus Size Halloween Costumes Ideas 2017. As this site says, "There are many adult Halloween party ideas that are just waiting to be exploited. Be creative and you can also have a great time with your friends and family."







Monday, October 16, 2017

Car Club Meeting

I make an effort to put into practice the things this blog encourages; Escapes. A much as I make an effort, that does not mean that there are not moments of hesitation. I had one of those Saturday. Here is the outing. 

I have a fellow blogger friend and she has posted several times about attending car club gathering with her social partner. The group MBCA - Mercedes-Benz Club of America.  This is how the group describes itself:


Simply stated, the Mercedes-Benz Club of America, or MBCA, is a community of people with a passion for Mercedes-Benz—one of the most revered luxury vehicles in the world. Our community is comprised of men, women and young adults living in the United States, Canada and 22 foreign countries from Argentina and Brazil to New Zealand and Norway.


18' SL550 
I love cars as I had talked about before, so like minds come together for fun. I e-mailed the local chapter (Road Star Section) for information and receive an encouraging note back; A meeting coming up Saturday at a nearby Mercedes-Benz dealership. Offered was a light breakfast snacks and Todd, the general manager would give a presentation on what's new. He also would have his technical and service manager there to answer any questions. After the presentation we would have free time to roam and look at all the new 2018 models in the showroom.  

I attended the informative presentation and may have been one of the younger attendees - well at least dressed younger. I even asked a few questions. Following the dealership visit, I was invited to go with the group for lunch at a nearby waterfront restaurant.  

As I parked that morning and sat alone in my car, shades of “Are you really sure?” came to mind. Answer; “Oh well, why not”. I could pick my participation and if not comfortable, could bail at any point. 


After the presentation, as I was wandering the showroom the group president/organizer came up and we talked. I had already joined the group on-line and he welcomed me. I was told about upcoming events, one of which will be a Christmas party and I was encouraged to be there. (Oh No, I have nothing to wear - not.) Several others introduced themselves and everyone I met was friendly. So far - so good.  

I joined the group for lunch. Announcements included “Are there any new members?” and I was asked to stand and tell a little about myself. During lunch I was seated with a three very friendly couples and all went well. I believe several of the wives were encouraged to have another female in the group.  

My original hesitation was unfounded. I will participate again and there are social events coming up that are of interest. I promise to report more as I attend other events. I can't wait for my official "Rhonda" MBCA badge to arrive.  

  

Saturday, October 14, 2017

Louboutin Quote - Not 100% True



Not 100% True

Christian Louboutin Pumps 

Friday, October 13, 2017

Fall Is Here!


If you detect a slight sarcastic glee in my post you are correct. I am so ready for some cool weather. Yes the month of October brings a noticeable difference. In South Florida the daily high drops for 90 to 87. We will likely have to wait at least another month for our first cool front and finally we will have delightful 70's again. So why am I showcasing sweaters. I just could not help myself this morning.

I have a trip coming up to the north-west for 10 days so like the look. I am hoping either of these will go with the pink dress pants or for sure, the white pants. Both models are shown wearing jeans which makes a great combination. I was able to order on-line and if in stock, Nordstrom has store pick up, so I will pick up the order there later today. If they do not workout an easy return.  

With all sarcasm put aside, they will be great for the cool late December to February days here in Florida and upcoming trips. If interested the off-the-shoulder sweater can be found here and the V-neck sweater is here. Very reasonably priced for Nordstrom at $49.00 and $45.00.  Both very stylish. 

Enjoy and ESCAPE. 


Thursday, October 12, 2017

The Great Lie

Candidate Donald Trump said he supported lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights. President Donald Trump is eroding those rights in a number of ways, including by putting anti-LGBTQ judges onto federal courts.

Yesterday Pat made an interesting comment on my post A Step Backward. 


In a Constitutional Republic these issues rest first with Congress and then with the courts... In due time change will come and it will be better if it comes with the force of law rather than the opinion of a governmental administrative fiat

Pat makes a very good point and in theory I agree. However there needs to be a balance. 

Almost 10 years before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 the US Supreme Court in the 1954 landmark decision "Brown v. Board of Education Topeka" declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students to be unconstitutional. In the rehearing of the case in the fall 1953, special attention was given to the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause.

In his reading of the unanimous decision, Chief Justice Warren noted the adverse psychological effects that segregated schools had on African American children. Source Wikipedia

There are times when the courts must be in front of legislators, whose only clear motivation is re-election. This is why reasonable judges are so important. The judges that Trump is appointing could well be his lasting legacy - and not a pretty one at that. Read on:

_____________________


Trump Is Filling Court Seats With Anti-LGBTQ, Anti-Abortion Judges

From The Huffpost - By Jennifer Bendery


WASHINGTON ― Thursday (October 5) was a good day for Amy Coney Barrett. A Senate committee voted to advance her nomination to be a federal judge.



It wasn’t a pretty vote. Every Democrat on the Judiciary Committee opposed her nomination. They scrutinized her past writings on abortion, which include her questioning the precedent of Roe v. Wade and condemning the birth control benefit under the Affordable Care Act as “a grave infringement on religious liberty.” One Democrat, Al Franken (Minn.), called her out for taking a speaking fee from the Alliance Defending Freedom, a nonprofit that’s defended forced sterilization for transgender people and has been dubbed a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center.



But Republicans don’t need Democrats’ votes, and now Barrett, a 45-year-old law professor at the University of Notre Dame, is all but certain to be confirmed to a lifetime post on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit — a court one level below the Supreme Court.

Barrett is the model judicial candidate for this White House: a young conservative opposed to abortion and LGBTQ rights. For all the stories about President Donald Trump using his executive power to roll back civil rights protections — in the past day, his administration axed the ACA birth control benefit and ended workplace protections for transgender people — it is here, on the courts, where his team is working most aggressively to reshape the country.

“Trump’s speed in nominating judges has been perhaps the most successful aspect of his presidency,” said Carl Tobias, a law professor at the University of Richmond who specializes in judicial nominations. “Trump has easily surpassed Obama, Bush and Clinton at this point in the first year of their presidencies in terms of the sheer number nominated.”