Standing up - Commander Emily Shilling

While Trump’s trans military ban is challenged in court, long-serving troops prepare for what’s next

March 21, 2025

A decorated Navy pilot with over 60 combat missions and high-risk work as a test pilot, spoke with PBS News’ Lisa Desjardins about her legal challenge to Trump’s executive order. Watch the segment below.

Trump made targeting trans people one of the cornerstones of his re-election campaign, crescendoing to a multi-million dollar campaign ad blitz weeks before November’s vote. There were ads with anti-trans rhetoric against a group of people that makes up less than 1 percent of the U.S. population.

In remarks from the Oval Office last week, Trump said he told Republicans to focus on trans rights in the ramp-up to Election Day.

“I said, ‘Don’t bring that subject up because there is no election right now. But about a week before the electin, bring it up,’” he said

The language in the Trump administration’s policy rollout also demeans trans people as “dishonest and selfish and undisciplined,” said Jennifer Levi, senior director of transgender and queer rights at GLAD Law.

“It’s a character assassination based on nothing,” said Levi, who’s a lead attorney in the case that received the nationwide preliminary injunction. “And animus alone can never justify targeting a group and punishing them without justification other than hostility.”

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Political Cartoons 3-30-2025

 

Woman Up

 

Surprised You Recognized Me ...

 

Red High-Waist Leggings

 

Two Pieces -  Leggings and Racerback Bra Tank

I wore something a bit outrageous to a house party this last Sunday. I have never worn something so form fitting and body hugging. I got the two piece matching top and leggings with my employee discount and was looking / longing for an opportunity to wear it. Not wanting to look like i had just left the gym, I added a jeans top / tunic to tone down the outfit. It worked. I had seen a similar combination on Pinterest; my go to source for fashion ideas. I had fun and did get complements. I was surprisingly comfortable among several much younger women.  

The top had a built in bra that kept the front and back lines to a minimum / smooth. I was pleasantly surprised how it shaped my front to be just the size that enhanced the look. I did wear the jeans shirt / tunic open more than is shown.    

The heels were an afterthought but really pull the outfit into the sexy athletic gal look. I do love the way it all came together and I am looking for another opportunity to wear it.  And, maybe get the set in black too.      

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24/7 by Soma Bra Tank is made to keep up with your busy schedule—from yoga class to running errands to walking the dog, this weekend warrior has got you covered. You'll love the longline silhouette, it'll look perfect paired with one of our 24/7 high-waisted bottoms.

Pinterest Inspiration

I Am One Of Them - How My Motorcycle Keeps Me Young

 

"Refusing to be defined by my age!"

"The story of how I  (the video producer) got started riding later in life - and how it's critical to my well being. A mini autobiography, in black and white." 

___________________

A few years back I rekindled my love of riding two wheels of terror.  Not all the time is there terror. There are moments of absolute solitude. You - One with machine / road - Adrenaline surging. It s hard to explain if you do not ride.  

One of the best simplistic descriptions is: "You driving a car - You ride a motorcycle." You smell the air, feel the wind, and experience time / distance with intensity.

While purchasing my older/used bike about 5 years ago during Covid, I handed my Drivers License (still motorcycle certified after all the years) to the small shop owner. He studied it carefully, and commented, "I don't think I have ever sold a bike to anyone your age." My response, "Don't you have a better sales pitch than that?" After I assured him I could ride and still had somewhat reasonable cognitive abilities. Although buying a motorcycle (at my age) may not have been proof of that. With eyebrows raise, he happily completed the sale.

That bike was over 15 years old, with very low miles. Even then parts were becoming an issue as *Harley distanced itself from what turned out to be an engineering marvel, marketing failure. One drop could render it a total-loss, if the right/wrong parts became damaged. After a lifetime collection of Japanese bikes, it was my first Harley. I traded it one year ago for the new bike below. it was still in great running shape. 

Harley 2023 Softail Standard

With the new bike I love the ride and do feel more comfortable on something 200 ponds lighter. Parts, now are not an issue. In fact parts are a distraction, with so many accessories to add. "Does that part come in "chrome?"

On many weekend days there are "ride-in's" at my local dealer with free hotdogs and beer. There is some solitude in knowing I am not the oldest there. Although many of the older biker diehards are now on trikes, (three wheel motorcycles). 

 I guess you never lose the desire for freedom and exaltation, that only riding provides.

____________________ 

 

 *Why did Harley stop production of the VRod in 2017?  It was  was simply too radical for the traditional Harley-Davidson customer. At the final reckoning, the Harley-Davidson V-Rod’s biggest problem was also its biggest strength: it was unlike anything else Harley had ever built before or was building at the time. 

I am going to provide a comment on my take of Harley's sad future.  

Rockey Horrow Show Turns 50

The Term "Transvestite" Goes Main Stream 

"The Rocky Horror Show" is a musical that was written by Richard O'Brien and first premiered in London in 1973. It is a humorous tribute to science fiction and horror B-movies and tells the story of a young couple, Brad and Janet, who stumble upon the castle of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a transvestite scientist. The musical gained a cult following due to its catchy songs, risqué themes, and audience participation.

In 1975, "The Rocky Horror Show" was adapted into a film called "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." Directed by Jim Sharman and featuring much of the original stage cast, the film became a significant cultural phenomenon. It initially received a lukewarm response but gradually developed a dedicated fan base through midnight screenings and audience participation. People began dressing up as characters, shouting lines, and engaging in interactive rituals during the screenings.

Did you go?  Did you participate?

NPR - Tim Curry remembers his first film role in 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show'

_____________________

Don't Dream It Lyrics

Frank:

Whatever happened to Fay Wray?

That delicate, satin-draped frame?

As it clung to her thigh

How I started to cry

`cause I wanted to be dressed just the same.

Give yourself over to absolute pleasure.

Swim the warm waters of sins of the flesh.

Erotic nightmares, beyond any measure

And sensual daydreams to treasure forever.

Can't you just see it? Oh, oh, oh.

Don't dream it - be it. (four times)

All:

Don't dream it - be it. (four times)

All:

Don't dream it - be it. (six times as background for below.)

Scott:

Ach! We've got to get out of this trap

before this decadence saps our wills.

I've got to be strong, and try to hang on

Or else my mind may well snap

Und my life will be lived ...for the thrills!

Brad:

It's beyond me; help me Mommy!

Janet:

God bless Lilly St. Cyr.

New Phone

New Phone Selfie
An everyday just in from work look.

Recently I upgraded my phone to Samsung S25+; very happy.  I am a Samsung/Android user because I am predominantly a PC user with all my software development tool there. The iPhone and Apple sphere, I believe, has been coasting for a long time with few innovation. I am not saying that the iPhone and Apple OS are inadequate. However, technology history is littered with companies that felt their market domination precluded innovation. Two of the best examples are IBM and WordPerfect.

Customers will only ride outdated technology for so long. If you are exclusively an internet / cloud user and do not rely on file / folder copying / transferring, then the Apple iPhone / Mac OS likely works for you. 

I also do a lot of Remote Desktop and direct connect to client's computers to update software and troubleshoot. 

My four-year-old phone was still adequate although the new phone is years better. The new phone has a much improved camera and does allow direct folder access as a device connected to my Windows 11 PC.  Photo transfer and backup is much improved.  

Switching phones is never a simple process. One of the reason I had waited so long, although the upgrade was much improved from the last. In preparation for the change over I copied all of my photos to a local network drive and then deleted the photos from the phone. That greatly speedup the data and app transfer. The real daunting task was remembering e-mail passwords and account setup information. I have an outdated "Bellsouth" e-mail address which is now administrated by ATT/Yahoo. That took some doing to get re-setup. I should shutdown that e-mail address and use exclusively my G-mail account, but there is over 25-years of accounts attached. A someday project.  

In this post is a new phone selfie from a few days ago. I am enjoying the new camera. So far I do recommend the Samsung S25 products. 

 

      

Political Cartoons 3-23-2025

 

One Life...

 

THE SNEAKY EYELINER TRICK

 FOR MATURE WOMEN | Nikol Johnson

Hungary’s Parliament Passes Law Banning Pride Events

 

The new legislation is the latest step against LGBTQ+ people taken by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's right-wing government.

Hungary’s lessons for Donald Trump"

There is a great man, a great leader in Europe — Viktor Orban. … He is the prime minister of Hungary. He is a very great leader, a very strong man.” – Donald Trump, January 2024.

AP: Lustin Spike

BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — Hungarian lawmakers on Tuesday passed a law banning Pride events and allowing authorities to use facial recognition software to identify attendees, continuing a crackdown by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s right-wing populist party on the country’s LBGTQ+ community.

The measure passed in a 136-27 vote. The law, supported by Orbán’s Fidesz party and their minority coalition partner the Christian Democrats, was pushed through parliament in an accelerated procedure after being submitted only a day earlier.

It amends Hungary’s law on assembly to make it an offense to hold or attend events that violate Hungary’s contentious “child protection” legislation, which prohibits the “depiction or promotion” of homosexuality to minors under 18.

Attending a prohibited event will carry fines up to 200,000 Hungarian forints ($546), which the state must forward to “child protection,” according to the text of the law. Authorities may use facial recognition tools to identify individuals attending a prohibited event.

As the vote was held in Hungary’s parliament in Budapest, opposition lawmakers ignited smoke bombs in the chamber, filling it with thick plumes of colorful smo

My Favorite Bra

 

I sell a lot of these and my favorite bra as well.

Shockingly Comfortable Bras That Reviewers Say They Sleep In

Enbliss Bralette

Not A Friend...

 

I must admit I am struggling with this. I have friends that may only know visually the extent of my being transgender. I have never directly outed myself, although my change in appearance over the years is self-evident. How could the not know is a good question.  

I have one friend who is Republican and fully supported Trump in the election.  Occasionally our conversations bring up politics although we seem to talk around it, never going for a deep dive. Family stuff, home projects, cars, work and sports predominate.   

I am becoming more aware of his FOX indoctrination with a comment recently on there only being two genders. I did challenge the notion but did not go full-on with the scientific reasons this is mis-information. 

I wish I could ignore this and believe that he is entitled to his own thoughts the same as I. However, I am not sure that letting this pass is my option. Empowering mis-information and hate is causing my friends and myself to lose rights. I may have to speak my mind. This may cause me to lose a long term friend. 

Have you lost or distanced yourself from friend in the current political climate. Please, your thoughts.   

How Dylan Mulvaney overcame 'Beergate'

 A Success Story

CNN's Sara Sidner sits down with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney to discuss her new book "Paper Doll." Mulvaney recounts her journey to womanhood -- from "beergate," to ayahuasca therapy, to how she came out to her mother at the age of four. #cnn #news #dylanmulvaney

Political Cartoons 3-16-2025

 

Be Careful...

Do You Wear Your Wife's Clothes...

Or Yours?

 

How many of us have been here?

 

Tell us your story.

Department of Gender Enforcement

By: Rhonda Williams

DGE is a newly funder department that is part of  DOGE. It is the follow-up to the administration's strict "male / female" gender mandate. It is being established to prevent cross-gender expression. With two departments; sports (competition / locker-room enforcement, bathroom monitoring) and a second department to define dress-code definitions. These new departments will oversee monitoring, training, enforcement and punishment. 

Private citizens are being recruited and trained to visually check / report suspected infractions. A reward of $500.00 per arrest and conviction will be provided to the individuals who aid the agency in rooting out the scourge of those who are not properly representing their birth-gender. 

Individuals who do not appear sufficiently masculine of feminine are encouraged to report to their local DGE office with birth certificate to receive a wrist barcode tattoo. This will help with misidentification.  

All children by the age of puberty must be barcoded by a registered and approved DGE physician who will verify that their emerging genetalia clearly agrees with their birth certificate. If necessary, a DNA / chromosome test may be necessary. A life tattoo will then be applied that cannot be altered under penalty of law.  

This tattoo is subject to inspection on demand before an individual can participate in any sporting event or use public facilities. Also the tattoo must be inspected by all merchants selling / providing gender specific under garments of outer-wear. The item SKU will be scanned along with the tattoo to collaborate and approve purchases.

Unacceptable androgynous behavior
under "DGE Guidelines"

The same verification must be carried out for all cosmetic products, and jewelry. A database of attempted violations will be kept at the national level to ensure enforcement. First time offenders will be sent a letter with a one-time warning. Repeat offenders will be subject to aversion therapy, followed by strict mongering to prevent future cross-gender presentations or activity. 

Incarceration is the punishment of last resort. However, it will be used to protect the public. 

To help individuals understand the masculine / feminine differential, seminars both online and in person will be required. Certification will occur after passing a test and a notation placed in the government's Gender Representation Database. Even the slightest violation of androgynous behavior or presentation will trigger re-training and/or punishment.  

An online manual will be published soon defining proper gender appropriate foot ware with acceptable heel heights. Hair styling will be monitored closely with street-cam photos using AI technology / enforcement. Wigs will be completely outlawed.

Further clarification with enforcement procedure will be forthcoming.  

_______________________

Think this cannot happen?

Read Diana’s Little Corner in the Nutmeg State - Off The Deep End!

"Cis woman confronted by police officers in Arizona Walmart restroom for looking too masculine speaks out (exclusive)"

And, my blog post.

Texas Bill Could Charge Transgender People With 'Fraud'...

Leading to Possible Prison Time

LGBTQ community advocates worry that transgender individuals who have changed some of their legal documents, but not all, might be targeted.

My Note:  This bill seems improbable. However, so did the first bathroom bill 9 years ago. (March 2016: The North Carolina HB2) Could someone who dresses in the clothing of the opposite gender, not also be committing "Gender Identity Fraud"? The crossdressers have been obtuse to the transgender plight until now... Soooo;

What is it going to take for us to become united, standup and fight!

First they came for the Transgender 

And I did not speak out 

Because I was only a 'crossdresser'"....

You know the rest!

_____________________ 

Monday, March 10, 2025

The Latin Times: A Texas lawmaker filed a bill that would amend the Texas Penal Code to include a new criminal offense: "Gender Identity Fraud." In House Bill 3817, Rep. Tom Oliverson (R-Houston), details that a person could commit gender identity fraud by "identifying the person's biological sex as the opposite of the biological sex assigned to the person at birth."

Those found guilty could face up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine if the legislative proposal were to become law. LGBTQ community advocates have expressed concern over the possible criminalization of transgender individuals, particularly those who have changed some of their legal documents, but not all.

Texas stopped letting transgender people update the gender on their driver's licenses in 2024. It's unclear whether those who changed their licenses before the ban could face legal trouble under this new bill.

In an interview with Houston-based publication Chron, Callie Butcher, founder of a Dallas law firm that serves LGBTQ individuals, condemned the language being used in the bill, claiming it is in line with Republican efforts to "police people's gender and how they're able to identify themselves."

Sadie Hernandez, a spokesperson for the Transgender Education Network of Texas, told the news outlet that while the transgender community is "facing threats at all levels of government," HB 3817 is unlikely to make it out of both legislative chambers and into the governor's desk due to its "low priority" status.

As of Sunday evening, HB 3817 was just getting started in the legislative process, sitting at Stage 1 of seven. For it to become law, it has a long road ahead. First, a House committee has to review and approve it. Then, it moves to the full House chamber for a vote. If it passes there, it goes through the same process in the Senate—first a committee, then the full Texas Senate. If it clears all those hurdles, the final step is getting Texas Governor Greg Abbott's signature.

Since the bill has no co-sponsors and hasn't been assigned to a committee yet, political observers predict it might just get overlooked. With more than 3,000 other proposals already in the mix—many of them considered top priorities—this one could easily get lost in the shuffle.

Top Republicans across the country, especially in Texas, successfully used anti-LGBTQ messaging in their 2024 campaigns, with most of their focus targeting the transgender community.

​Additionally, in his inaugural address, President Donald Trump declared, "As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders: male and female."

Following his speech, President Trump signed Executive Order 14168, titled "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government," which formalized the recognition of only two genders within federal policy.

I Love A Success Story - Sona Avedian

 TRANSITION INSPIRATION

Political Cartoons 3-9-2025

 

Be A Girl...

 

You Only Accept What You Think You Deserve

We accept things that belittle us or make us unhappy, because it’s an easier option than standing up for what we are or what we want.    

Rhonda Williams 

Here is a bit of an explanation for my "Knock-Knock" post last Saturday.  My daily blog views are down 75% since Trump took office. Is the fear so palpable that even reading about being transgender is striking fear? Seems so. "Is Musk accessing my browser history?"

The Guardian: Research by TotalJobs finds 65% now believe secrecy is necessary to feel safe at work in the UK.

However, I do want to thank those of you that provided positive comments. There seems to be a core group of 40-50 readers.   

Back in the 80's I attended a Support Group that ahead of the meeting sent out a newsletter to its members only. Although the hotel was never mentioned the newsletter contained a veiled description of a vehicle (every month different) with a number noted on the dash. This was our room number for our meeting.  

I attend another Support Group meeting in the early 2000's where the restaurant only allowed use of a toilet in a cleaning supply closet; dirty mops, smelly trash bags and bleach bottles everywhere. The meeting took place in a dingy meeting room that was no longer used. The florescent lights, that worked, likely had not been changed since the 70's. I pulled up to the front to valet my car, was told to only park in the back and to enter through the service entrance. 

Are we headed back to this? Don't blame Trump. Blane yourself for being willing to accept being treated as second-class humans. 

The readers I have lost will not see this.  So it is up to you, my loyal readers, to stand up, contact your friends, organize, and don't let the bastards win. 

By being cowards, is not how the gays gained acceptance / tolerance. If we don't stand up, be visible and be proud then we are destine to be relegated to invisibility. And, the service entrance. 

Where will you be on March 31?

Try Doing Something...

Stephen Colbert’s brutal three-word message to Dems who protested Trump speech

 

My Note on Tuesday night:  I guess a few walked out, however most sat and took the insults as they were "deserved"; even applauding. We don't have an opposition party.  Until the Democrats find a spine and a leader, we are destine to go further down the Trump/Musk rabbit hole.  

With no opposition party, the billionaire controlled press, and a non-functioning checks-and-balance system, the outlooks looks bleak.  

I Am Creating...

 And will continue. 

Be Strong! Be Visible! Be Yourself!

Killing Me Softly - Roberta Flack

 

You're listening to the official audio for Roberta Flack - "Killing Me Softly With His Song" from the album 'Killing Me Softly'. This version of "Killing Me Softly With His Song" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1973 and won the Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

Very Proud...

Today I am going to talk about something dear to my heart; my daughters and what they have established. Living in Bar Harbor Maine, my daughter Robin started Acadia Ebike Adventure, Ebike rentals in Acadia National Park.  

Two of my daughters at the Ebike shop
Palm Beach Ebike Rentals

After several very successful season there and desiring to escape the Maine winter, she brought the bikes to South Florida for the winter.    

With her sisters they have established Palm Beach Ebike Rentals. All of the sisters are involved and stay busy. One of my daughter designed a three hour guided tour of downtown West Palm Beach and Palm Beach. Plus rentals are available by the hour or day to explore. With new Ebikes purchased (painted Palm Beach Pink) and a few from Bar Harbor, they found a great location next to the West Palm Beach Brightline train station. The grand opening party was in November. Anyone coming in for the day on Brightline from Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale, or Miami need only walk about 25 yards to the rental location. A great day-trip adventure.  

The bike vary in size to fit the rider, from small to x-large. Plus, you are fitted with the proper seat adjustments for your most comfortable bike before you go out. The parking lot allows you to practice. 

Robin and Scotti, have really done a first class job with mugs, t-shirts, maps, bike headsets, and child bicycle trailers. The bikes are easy to handle and all of the downtown streets are bike-friendly. If you get tired of peddling, just let the Ebike power you to the beach, a Palm Beach open air cafe or the Worth Avenue Shops. Detail maps are provided. 

All bikes have oversize baskets, for beach towels, picnic supplies and your shopping adventure purchases. 

The Ebike shop is conveniently located one block away from the The Saturday West Palm Beach GreenMarket. it is Routinely ranked as one of the best farmers markets in the country.

Another good reason for a Brightline / Ebike day-trip to Palm Beach.  

From their site:  Palm Beach Ebikes. 

Scenic Palm Beach Ebike Guided Tour

Join our local guides for a scenic ride on our premium electric bikes. Our group tours offer a peek into the lifestyles and grandeur of Palm Beach, past and present, revealing hidden treasures along the way ensuring you enjoy every moment of this unforgettable adventure. Incudes 2 hour guided tour and 1 hour self-guided Ebike rental.

Private guided Ebike tours. 

An intimate and discerning private tour perfect for couples, gatherings, celebrations or corporate events. Let us design an Ebike tour to explore Palm Beach with a curated custom itinerary and start times based on your preferences. Call to reserve an exclusive guided tour.  Hotel bike delivery and pickup is available. 

Discover Palm Beach on your own with an Ebike

Or for leisurely rides on you own, Palm Beach Ebike Rentals offers the ultimate way to discover West Palm Beach and Palm Beach with premium electric bike rentals and scenic guided tours. Located in downtown West Palm Beach, we provide a fun, effortless riding experience for all fitness levels. Join us for an exhilarating Palm Beach Ebike adventure!  Our easy-to-follow route maps with suggested stops will help you discover the best sights, dining, and attractions on your own schedule.

Due to high demand, we recommend reserving online to secure your Ebike rental.  For a "Friends-and-Family" discount just say "Rhonda Sent Me"

 

Political Cartoons 3-2-2025

 

Knock-Knock...

Anyone Home? 

The problem is, I do care. In July this blog will be eleven years old and as of today 3,600 post. Interesting 3,516 days and 3,600 post. 

My question - Are you going to just give up? Go back to the closet?  Quake from fear and let the bigots win? Are you afraid to read, comment or let the world know who/what you are? 

We exist and deserve the same rights as all. Nothing more, nothing less. 

Transgender rights are human rights.   

However, is our whole community so afraid they don't read Blogs any longer? Or Comment? Or follow? 

Makes me question if I should care?