Brandy, You're a Fine Girl

I'm a bit plowed right now, as Mrs. Leslie made Brandy Alexanders for us. Good stuff, on the tail of a good day.

Firstly, I went to my support group meeting tonight. This was not the best meeting I've ever attended; that honor goes to my second meeting, the one where I was finally able to live a few glorious hours as myself after forty years of waiting. Tonight's meeting was, though, a close second. It was a sparsely attended affair, eleven of us, all MtF. Two newcomers were there, and getting them up to speed on people's back stories was the impetus for lots of in-depth discussion. I learned so much about the new girls, and about some members that have been around awhile. Plus, I shared some of my difficulties and issues. It was all quite emotional and engaging.

On top of all that, I was dressed to the nines. I told everyone that since I didn't make it out on New Year's Eve, I was treating the next day as my party night. I regret not thinking to get my picture made, as I felt as pretty as I have ever been. The memory will have to suffice for me, and imagination for you. Long patterned velvet skirt, gold shell, and patterned silk peplum jacket, with the brown pumps. I pulled it all together myself from the parts bin that I call my closet, none of it designed to go together. Felt like a fashion maven!

Before I left for my meeting, I was bantering with Mrs. L in the kitchen. I had just made a pithy remark, when she said that she was about to pay me a compliment, but might not now. She said that her therapist earlier in the week had told her that since I was being a good husband and parent the last two weeks, that she needed to reinforce me with honest praise. I don't think she was fully comfortable doing this, but she pushed through anyway, and let me know that she appreciated the more equitable labor division we've had during my vacation period. She was happy that I was stepping up and taking on tasks. I wish she could've said it without the disclaimer beforehand, but it was good to hear.

I feel very satisfied tonight, and serene. If something I said here lacked coherence, I blame it on the brandy, the creme de cacao, and the bossa nova.