Mon, Is This A Good Time...

 

I never got to have that conversation. I lost my mother just as I became a teen.  In her place were the most loving and caring Grandparents (parents) any kid could wish for  Both in their late 60s, they took on a lot of responsibility.  I did my best to be appreciative and stay out of trouble. There was mutual respect and love. 

Near as my grandmother ever came to seeing my crossdressing self was a dress rehearsal for a womanless beauty pageant.  My then girlfriend did the full deal, makeup, heels and her prom dress. There was a sense I felt that bordered on something just short of "whatever".  It was never discussed later.  

Any of you that may have had the above type discussion were fortunate.  So many times I wish I had had the opportunity for full disclosure. Like going back in time, altering the past may have change everything in the future. So, I am Ok with the way my life progressed. Although my biggest regret is not bein more honest. First, with myself and with family. Many lost opportunities and a lot of concealing.   

How abut you? Did you have an open discussion with your mother as a youth or adult? What reactions?  We all share such similar events / experiences in our lives.  Please tell us your experience.  

Grace At Any Age...

 It Never Goes Out Of Style

A Boot Story...

 

Classy!

The above Coach boots have a love story. Vintage, made in US quality and purchased well over 5 years ago. Sadly they languished in my closet with an occasional try. Yes the correct size and with incredible heavy high quality leather they are a treasure.  A 4" heel with an ever so slight 1/2" platform bed inside the shoe. The most impressive aspect is the quality; oh and the sexy part too.

The problem, the top circular band was manufactured not open. Yes, there was  a leather band with buckle that was decoration. The zipper ended at the top of the fixed top band. I have a high instep and there was no getting my foot past the top closed band even with the zipper open. Not wanting to destroy the beautiful boots, I debated several times just cutting the fixed band. I hesitated. 

However, last week I did do just that and to my amazement the zipper still had stops to keep it in place, on track. The top  band was now open. I only need to take the boots in to my shoe shop to get the decorative top buckle strap tacked down on both side of the zipper. 

I love the other three straps and buckles that are completely decorative.  

Can I get them on; YES,  And, the zipper closes / goes all the way up even with my exaggerated calves. They work! Now, should I wear then? That is the question. My first attempt at standing was meet with a near tip over. That would have been a face plant. Next came a very cautious shuffle.  

So, much practice will be needed and I have not worn even 3 1/2 pumps in a while. I so want to pair these boots with the long skirt shown above. These are all items in my closet. I see it as a cool, yet an elegant look with the wide belt pulling everything together; pun intended. Not a Florida look, but maybe for next fall?  

I will keep you posted and maybe at least model the outfit. I will post a photo.   

 

Why Do Women Wear High Heels?

 And Some Men...

High heels have come to symbolize sexuality and power. But interestingly, it wasn’t women who first wore them. Erin Moriarty reports on an exhibition that showcases the history of high-heeled shoes

Political Cartoons 4-26-2026

 

Atlantic Writer Says She Was ‘Inundated’ With New Sources After Report On ‘Vindictive’ Kash Patel

The Atlantic’s Sarah Fitzpatrick said she has been “inundated” with new sources since publishing her bombshell report on FBI Director Kash Patel, which accused him of “excessive drinking and unexplained absences.”

A Positive Mind...

 

Gender Performativity

 

Joanna Santos' blog "Starting Again...." had a very interesting post titled "Pointless". It discussed gender as performative. She made mention of Judith Butler saying we perform gender.  Here is a Youtube that further discusses that subject. Thank you Joanna for finding this:

  

Camera Ready

 

It is amazing how easy a selfie is today.  By the time I was a teen I was very interested in photography.  My mother sparked the interest with her "Brownie" that was always used for birthdays, trips and holidays.  Some of her photos are my most endearing memories of her and my family. 35mm was the rage of serious photographers with a cousin having an Asihi Pentax that I was fascinated with. He spent time on the farm with my Uncle one summer and took many 8x10, B/W image I still have. 

Polaroid was the rage in the 60's with its instant photos. Advertised on the Ed Sullivan show, It had a simplicity factor going for it and the appeal of not having to take your photos in to be processed; instant gratification.  

Polaroid Land 100 and self-timer
Still have both

My first serious amateur camera was a Polaroid Land 100.  it was  super fast (low-light photos), low grain B/W film that was easily loaded. After taking a B/W photo you had to "fix" the photo with a clear goo. I still have several photos that have held up well through the years. 

Aah, it had available an optional shutter release / self timer. You know where this is going. The still un-name girl-within could now take selfies. After the photo whirred out of the side, no one but myself would ever see the photo. I am sure this played a part in my camera choice of the day. 

In the 1950s and ‘60s, an underground network of transgender women, gender nonconforming people, and men who dressed as women found refuge at a modest house in the Catskills, NY known as Casa Susanna. A surviving photos shows one of our sisters with her trusty Polaroid. 

Casa Susanna
Everyone taking photos

The above cartoon rings with such a feeling of our desire so see how we looked as a girl, yet fearful of the local photo lab discovering our truth.  

My next camera was a 35mm Minolta SRT 101, and I learned the art of developing and printing in a darkroom. Later, I discovered an understanding professional photographer with a studio and had a professional portfolio done. The ultimate validation as to how my feminine person looked.  

We have come along way...  Our phone has contributed to the selfie phenomenon. Photo editing programs allowed us to enhance our selfies in a way that was only possible with hours in the darkroom. Plus, with AI we can become our fantasy female / queen with just a few clicks.  

How about you? Were you brave enough to just drop your film roll off for processing at the drive-through; (in the next town over)? Also, what was your first serious camera? If you say the iPhone we will know your age.   

Every Day Is...

 

Not just for the marina 

I love this look.  For someone that knew nothing about being casual ten year ago, I am at a place where I could live every day in this exact look.  Why not? 

So What Have We Gained and At What Cost?

Aug 4, 2015:  The Iran Deal

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)

The United States and the world’s major powers — the United Kingdom, France, Germany, China, Russia, and the European Union — and Iran sat around the negotiating table month after month, negotiating every detail that would inch us ever-closer to delivering on a promise President Obama had made before he first took office. Then, on July 14, 2015, with a shared commitment to peace, the United States and our international partners announced we had secured a nuclear deal that would achieve the necessary: Verifiably prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

It is an historic deal — a promise fulfilled. It blocks every possible pathway Iran could use to build a nuclear bomb while ensuring — through a comprehensive, intrusive, and unprecedented verification and transparency regime — that Iran’s nuclear program remains exclusively peaceful moving forward.

May 8, 2018: The Withdrawal

President Donald Trump officially announced that the United States would withdraw from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear agreement.

 

BBC: New leak claims Trump scrapped Iran nuclear deal 'to spite Obama' 

July 2019: The Mail on Sunday reports that Sir Kim wrote to Mr Johnson informing him Republican President Trump appeared to be abandoning the nuclear deal for "personality reasons" - because the pact had been agreed by his Democrat predecessor, Barack Obama.

Trump tore up the deal in 2018, and a return to that framework has Obama alums wondering what, exactly, was the point in abandoning it in the first place.

April 20, 2026 Trump stated:

PBS: What do you want from the negotiating team in Islamabad?

Trump: No nuclear weapons. Very simple. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. Very simple.

Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense in the Obama administration said. “And how many people had to die to gain what we already had?” [cost?]

Fact Check Team: How much is the Iran war costing the US?

KOMONEWS: One widely cited tracker called the Iran Cost Ticker estimates the U.S. has spent nearly $51 billion so far. That figure is based on an initial $11.3 billion spent during the first week of strikes, as reported by the Pentagon, followed by roughly $1 billion per day in ongoing costs. At about 46 days into the conflict, that pushes the total near the $51 billion mark.

__________________

My Notes: 

All of this money and cost to the American people and lasting harm to the reputation of the USA worldwide, over what?  A personal vendetta / jealousy; malignant narcissism?

Politico: Threatening to annihilate an entire civilization or its essential civilian infrastructure is widely considered a violation of international law and, according to many legal experts, constitutes a war crime.

Action today is needed from The Congress (immediate impeachment) or the Cabinet (25 amendment); less you be co-conspirators. 

Stop the madness!

Post Script: From HuffPost today, 4/21: Eight Weeks In, Trump May Be Headed Toward An Iran Deal Similar To Obama’s.

Sanctions relief in return for a moratorium on nuclear fuel enrichment is the exact arrangement that Trump and many Republicans criticized for years.

The Dress Mannequin

It is amazing how some memories become part of our collective consciousness and stay. After so many years it becomes difficult to be sure which are fantasy or reality. Transgender storied abound with the above scenario. Although, I have my own story here and I am sure it happened.

My mother was not a seamstress. Although she was very fashion aware and always had beautiful dresses and shoes. Side point: Easter reminds me that there was always a new dress for Sunday service. Here is my memory and I am sticking with it:

In my case there was no father around and I remember one Saturdays afternoon at home with my mother like it was yesterday. I was playing with my tiny plastic soldiers in my room and she called for help.  

There was a dress she wanted me to put on so she could get the hem even. This was about the extent of her sewing. I remember vividly standing on a stool with the dress on while she pined it all around. I do not recall any other clothing items being added. However,  I am sure I would not have objected had this turn into a dress-up event. Why did I not ask?  

With permission from Stana at 
http://www.femulate.org/

Exactly why this happened I will never know other than just being "mommy's helper". I was still quite a bit shorter than my mother so don't think my seven or eight years old self was that much of a help. Without doubt, I remember it as a compelling event, thus contributing to it being long remembered. 

I am sure the crossdressing/transgender seed was already planted before this happened. Before this, I do remember secretively playing and becoming proficient in walking in my mothers heels. So, this event was not the spark that ignited the fire. 

How about you. Do you have any similar events in your memory closet? Please share.   

   

Political Cartoons 4-19-2026

 

Be Who You Are ...

 

Creative Shopping...

 

I love this Lauren Graphic Short-Sleeve Top. Graphic T-shirts have a feminine differential depending on message and women's t-shirts have a very distinctive cropped arm opening. I loved it, so purchased it about a month ago at Macys full price of $79.00. Buyers remorse quickly set in knowing that was too much for a simple tee. Back it went.  

Today it was on sale for $47.70 and still a bit overpriced, but semi-justifiable. This is where the creative part comes in. My size was now sold out. Not to be deterred I found it in Woman's Plus 1X; much to large. However, I decided to try it on anyway. Turns out it draped beautifully and fits off-the-shoulder now. I love the feminine differential of off-the-shoulder. 

So, if I did not let my aversion to buying large get in the way. I would have missed out 1) better than full retail, and 2) a cute everyday feminine look.   

The Macys Ozula Denim Kitten Heel Sandals were ordered a few days ago, also on sale. I am updating by heels moving toward lower heel height. These are described as "Kitten Heels Heel Height: 2.5 inches".  Sadly, my beloved three and a half heels are becoming hazardous. I have several pair in this "Kitten Heel" style and can actually wear for extended evenings out. I have not receive these yet so will let you know how they work out.  

Think shopping creatively; out of the box sometimes...  

Back To The 50's

 Beauty never goes out of style - Escape to the 50's

See my post:  10 fashion trends from the 1950s

The Bumbling Clowns

 

The Raw Story: These bumbling clowns were so inept Iran's hardliners could barely keep straight faces 

Opinion by John Casey 

There is an old American idiom for a group so collectively inept they couldn’t organize a one-car parade, as another axiom goes. We call them the Three Stooges. They were a legendary comedy trio famous for their chaotic, physical slapstick and for being a cultural shorthand for lovable but total incompetence.

After watching JD Vance (Mo), Steve Witkoff (Curly), and Jared Kushner (Larry) stumble out of Islamabad empty-handed, having failed to end a six-week war, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, or extract a single meaningful concession from Iranian hardliners, the comparison feels apropos.

______________________

My Question: Are we or the world better off today than we were six weeks ago?

Born A Girl...

What an interesting question.  In business I did take full advantage of male privilege. So being born a girl would have change much. However, today, I have seen clouds from both sides as Joni Mitchell sings. 

Here is a real shocker; women do not get the same respect. My example: working as Rhonda there were meeting I had express an interest in attend thus having expertise in the area being discussed. Was I taken seriously and invited; NO.

That is not the only instance either... 

Moreover, being my version of a woman socially is enjoyable. I get to be more outgoing, some would ever call flirtatious. There is so much variety in choosing a look for the day. Maybe age, or look, courtesy is shown in some situations which always makes me smile.  

In the past, I have been accused of picking and choosing what social presence is best for the situation. That is correct. However, not so much today being perceived / seen as female most of the time. Doors are opened for me and I am waved to go ahead in lines, simply for being a woman. In some circles, chivalry still exist. I do not correct that perception and do "Enjoy the fun of being a girl".

Do not underestimate female advantage or the fun that can be had.  Escape!

Tell us your experience?

   

 

Political Cartoons 4-12-2026

 

Never To Old...

 

10 fashion trends from the 1950s

 That are making a comeback

Full Skirt

My Note: view the post at Good Housekeeping to see all of the wonderful photos. Be still my heart!

Story by Alesandra Dubin

Fashion has always been cyclical, with past eras inspiring modern trends decade after decade. So, it should be no surprise that the exuberant fashion trends of the 1950s are making a comeback.

Indeed, the polished yet playful styles of the 1950s are experiencing a revival, offering a fresh take on vintage elegance. “The 1950s fashion embraced femininity with A-line dresses, matching sets, puffy skirts, and romantic details like softer shoulders, lace, and delicate patterns,” says Tali Kogan, a personal stylist and fashion coach for the 900 North Michigan Shops in Chicago. “This era marked a shift from formal attire to styles that balanced comfort and elegance — a timeless concept that very much resonates today.”

These days, she says, the shops are well-stocked with styles that reflect these nostalgic influences. “Modern fashion trends prioritize less formal, more comfortable ways to look elevated and put together,” Kogan says, giving these vintage elements an especially practical, wearable spin. Ready to give these iconic looks another go? Here are 10 fashion trends from the 1950s to keep your eye on now.

Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Cinched-Waist Peplum

Structured Handbags

Full Skirts

Lace and Romantic Details

Opera Gloves

Wooden Heels

Ankle-Strap Shoes

Corset Waist

Two-Piece Sets

Chamber Music Concerts 26

 

I love classical music and the venue adds much to the overall experience. For the last 26 years I have been attending the seasonal Flagler Museum Music Series. There I have listened to and enjoyed world class chamber music in a beautiful 1900's room seating about 80. I have also made many "Music" friends over the years. At first, just "All dressed up with somewhere to go" hiding in the back row. However, the experience has evolved into a real love for the music in an intimate venue. 

Sadly, this year I missed several of the concerts due to health issues. Late in the season, I did get to attended the last two. The music never disappoints and I am looking forward to next season's concerts. Here are two photos from this year.     

Escapes abound.  All it takes is a little research and daring. Why not? 

In the Grand Hall entrance and heading into the concert.
Both beautiful evenings. 

How Many Feminine Differentials Do You Count?

 

Try one - Try all. See what works for you.
Add your special flare. 

In A Perfect World...

 

Being A Cover Girl...

 Maybe Someday... 

Political Cartoons 4-5-2026

____________________________________________________________

HuffPost Notes from the week:

The speech showed (Tuesday Evening} that Trump is stuck. He is constitutionally incapable of accepting that he made a mistake by attacking Iran with no plan for keeping 20% of the world’s oil — not to mention around 20% of the world’s fertilizer — moving through the strait, or to take action to rectify it. Instead, he now claims that it’s “somebody else’s problem” and, in his speech to the nation, called on European and Asian countries to “grab it and cherish it.”


Since this isn’t going to happen, the only other options are likely desperate. Trump could escalate and invade Iran with ground troops, which will make the energy crisis catastrophically worse.

 

Dress Your Self In...

 

Spring Has Sprung

 

This one of those easy outfits that make you look so put-to-together. The long sleeves top work for a cool early spring evening dinner out.   

What was new for me and my spring look is the Dooney "Botanical Small Kiley Hobo Bag".  On spring special for 189.00 

Sweet Little Lies

 

Trump says Iran war is ‘nearing completion’ in address to the nation

The president repeated familiar talking points and vowed to hit Iran hard over the next two to three weeks.

White Shorts, Stripe Top

An "Escape" day at the Beach.