Insensitive

Last week with my  Denim Top and Skirt post, I was called out for being insensitive to my climate challenged readers.  Yes, I do realize that you do have almost three months of winter left.  Yes, I understand just how brutal the wind, cold rain, and snow can be.  I have not always lived in South Florida and do travel occasionally to the frozen north; those areas north of Jacksonville Florida.  

Because of my business travels north, I have ever so reluctantly added warm-weather attire to my wardrobe. After being teased for not having anything warm during a long December-January contract in Iowa a few year back, I did buy a leather coat somewhere about my last week there. Who knew that -10 (f) could be so cruel.  Live and learn.

Last year for a business trip to Montreal I bought the above  Laundry by Shelli Segal white down puffer coat.  Not only is it warm, but cute, even though I look like the “Michelin Man” when I am wearing it. I have also been practicing the not so subtle technique of layering; camisoles, tops, sweater and coat.  About a month ago in Toronto I wore a long denim skirt, bulky sweater, tights, and boots as a total surrender to near freezing. I could not have been more pleased when leaving a store a random woman, somewhat young, stopped and told me I looked “put together and nice”.  Life can be good even when one is freezing.   

I am so sorry for being so insensitive. However, Florida does beckon to you for a visit (thaw) anytime. For this first week in January 2018, we are expecting temperatures in the low 80s (Friday 84). See you soon. Now, where did I put my white shorts and sandals? 

  

'18 In Review - What is your plan for 2019?

Every year after I put together a review, I cannot imagine having anything for the upcoming year. Last year I could only imagine 2018 being disappointing; however, it turned out to be just the opposite.  

One disappointment did occur early on as the contract software travel/training gig I had for the last four years came to an end. It was rewarding and provided opportunities to visit the few remaining US cities I have not visited, and a good chance to meet others in our community.  That door closed early in 2018. However, a non-profit locally has me doing their database work now. All dressed up and someplace to go - again. I love to work, so stay tuned for more details…

Big event of the year - February was my 70th birthday.  

April provided a fun trip back to Virginia (my childhood home) to attend the 50th anniversary of my college graduation. This was a milestone year not only for me but this year marked the 50 anniversary that the school became a University and merged with another prestigious Virginia college.  I had a great time and made contact with old friends that I had not seen in a number of years. I had a personal tour of the now expanded engineering school by the Dean and met with several professors doing some amazing work. I have received an invitation to be on the Engineering School Alumni board.

While there I was approached and asked if the school alumni magazine could do an article on my being a 50-year engineering graduate and being a transgender advocate. I readily accepted and the interview/story ran in the school’s alumni on-line magazine in June. The Engineering school picked up on the article, expanded it and ran it in their newsletter. The comments that both articles received were very positive/encouraging. 

The end of June I did my first ever cruise out of Fort Lauderdale.  The ship “Allure of the Seas” was the largest at the time and I am so sorry I had not done this adventure/escape before.  The food, the entertainment, the ports, the excitement was simply amazing.  All of the crew works so hard to make sure that everyone has a good time.  There were wine tasting, Broadway plays, pedicures, formal dining, and pool time.  The best of all, sitting on my balcony and looking out at a full moon; breathtaking.  


Some other events:  The international auto show in Toronto.  Events with my Mercedes Car Club. A trip over to Cape Coral to visit with Susan Street (fellow blogger). A trip to Cleveland to celebrate a friend’s 70th birthday and a day spent with Kandi. The Nutcracker Ballet in Toronto the first of December. Polo, and many business and social group “meet-ups” each month.  

What will 2019 bring?  Let’s hope for more interesting people, adventures, and escapes with purpose.  

What is your plan for 2019?