Spoke a lady who I assumed was there for the 1st time, and was perhaps only just coming out. But it turned out she had been over a decade ago, and despite having her surgery had been living in ambiguous mode for a few years now. I am not sure if she will return, hopefully she does.
Saturday 25th of Jan - Wakefield :
I decided to get on with sorting my passport out, as I felt I had lost a bit of momentum with my legal transition. I didn't like my drivers license photo that I did in a booth at the Co-up up the road, so I went into Wakefield to a 'Max Spielmann' I had been recommended before.
It was all over in an instant, and he didn't take the million shots I would normally do, before choosing the best - but it looked better than my driving license one.
I had also wanted to book a hair appointment, so I was brave an went into 'Scott Banks' which looked quite posh. The lady was very nice, and got me booked in for the following Friday, which was one of my days off.
I went to the Black Rock for a refreshing beverage to celebrate my successes. It was rather full, and mostly of the older generations, but I didn't get any bother from anyone. Although one chap was definitely keeping an eye on me.
26th of Jan - Swimming Bramley baths :
I equalled my PB of 42 lengths , Only Mars bars in the vending machine !
31st of Jan - Wakefield Hair Appointment :
I arrived , they offered to take my coat, and asked what I wanted to drink ! I am not used to this, it was nice.
I was introduced to Lucy and ushered upstairs.
She sat me down, brushed my hair a bit, and we discussed the plan, I had wanted a fringe - it is meant to be a good trans option, to hide the vast expanse of my forehead, which I have a bit of a thing about.
We agreed she could take a bit off the ends to tidy them up a bit, and it was determined that with a centre parting, I would need about 1 inch off one side, and 2 off the other !
After that we went to the washing station, where I was treated to a weird massage by the chair as she washed and treated my hair. Back to the other chair, and then had the blow dry.
At this point she double checked I really really wanted a fringe, and she did a rough cut to take off most of it. Then spent a good while refining it.
It was all done in an hour, a nice and relaxing experience. I must admit I wasn't 100% sure I had done the right thing with it, it just didn't look like me in the mirror. But I have grown to like it a lot.
I wear it a lot with a pony tail for work, and really only wear it as per the photo when I go out.
I do have to spray and blow dry my fringe for a few minutes each morning, but that has been a lot more simple that many of the YouTube videos seemed to make it out to be. So hasn't really added a great deal to my getting ready time.
Was advised that 8 weeks would be a good interval to aim for with the next cut, so I have booked one for the end of March.
Comments on social media seem to indicate that I look nice :)
4th of Feb - My passport arrived !! :
It was very quick - I got the supporting docs back the next day too, I was amazed
Friday the 7th of Feb : LFF
I had avocado and feta on toast for lunch with Benni, before heading to Pints and Straws for the afternoon bar crawl.
It was a lovely afternoon, met some newbies who really seemed to enjoy it too. There were quite a lot of us, which was a bit unexpected.
We ate at the Botanist , there were 5 of us there. I had a hanging kebab, which was delicious.
After this we headed to the main meeting bar, the 'Bridge End Social' , where we caught up with people for an hour or so, then onwards to a cocktail event in Farands.
I had a Black Velvet, which was Guinness and champagne based, it was OK, not too overpowering. Then I decided to have a Zombie - they didn't do flaming zombies there (my favourite drink at the sadly recently closed Shed bar). So I took it upon myself to recreate one, by fishing out a t-light from a table decoration, much to the alarm of my friends - Nobody died, or had their fringe burned off.
We ended up in the 'end bar' :) - didn't do much dancing, the friend I was sharing with wasn't feeling that great, and we were in one quite a walk away, so ended up going home about 1:30am ish.
Ended up watching an episode of LoveJoy while eating a pot noodle when we got back - very rock and roll :)
Saturday the 8th of Feb :
I didn't sleep too bad, but my digestive system was not happy with the cocktails, or cheese, or hanging kebab, beer, or all of the above.
We didn't manage breakfast, but I did try a pasty from the pound bakery. I only managed half.
Spent the afternoon with Alice and Rebecca, we did the armouries which was OK, then tried to get a table in a pub - this was problematic as all the pubs were rammed. We assumed it was football related, but it continued to be extremely busy well beyond the match time, and hardly any football clothing spotted.
We had to walk a fair way out of town to find a pub to eat in during the evening. We managed to find a table at the 'Midnight Bell'. I had a pheasant starter, followed by a chicken and chorizo cassoulet . It was lovely.
After this we went to 'The Hop' at the Granary Wharf, and had a relaxing few hours. I was pretty tired so we ended up going home before kicking out time. It was a bit of a trek to the Vicar lane Travelodge.
Sunday :
Breakfast at the Travelodge was achieved, it wasn't too bad, only scrambled eggs, but nice sausage !
I got home before lunch, which I didn't have. I ended up having a nap in the afternoon. I got an email from a YouTube subscriber who had offered me a free gearbox, and I followed up to see if he would mind if I picked it up that evening - he agreed.
Went to swimming, only managed 32 lengths, but I was trying to swim harder, and I think I got a good workout. They had restocked the vending machine !!! so I could have a twirl.
After saying goodbye to my friends, and expressing a hope that I wouldn't get murdered, I travelled north to meet the guy who has messaged me.
He turned out to be really nice, and even insisted on carrying it out to my car. It was a bit dirty, but seems to turn, so hopeful it can be used.
I returned home pretty late and hungry, with the swimming, and missing lunch.
My dad is a lot better, he is still nowhere near 100% back with us mentally. But he can speak in sentences now, he knows who we are, and he's complaining about the food :) . We had a chat with a doctor on Friday and it seems like he will be in there for a long time to recover.
On Wednesday my mum decided that there was not enough worry going around, and started to chuck in some passive aggressive comments about my lifestyle in some message she sent. Also was upset that my wife was not taking her up on her generous offer of support about that aspect.
She had knitted me a hat, and I had mistakenly assumed she would be pleased to see me wearing it, so I had sent her a picture (en-femme) - I think this set her off. I can't see me wearing it in bloke mode to be honest.
I shut her down pretty quickly - in a fairly nice way, saying that we had enough to worry about at the moment without getting into all that, and my wife might not feel comfortable talking about that with her. I didn't want to escalate issues, so refrained from returning a broadside to keep the peace - was quite angry.
But it did put in a pretty bad mood on Thursday. Thankfully I was going to Chams for the Xmas fuddle, and managed to have a really good time there. I was feeling massively more relaxed and happy as I left.
My wife has taken her into hospital to see my dad this morning, so I await to see what was said during the drive there and back.
Not long till Xmas now, I will be at the in-laws for four days, I am already dreading it, yet more family to see me with the long hair. I've trimmed my talons, so they are a bit less obvious at least. I only have one more social event planned before we go down and that is this evening, so I may leave the beard growing a bit - it's not a lot now, but it does help maintain the illusion.
It's the Trans-Wakefield Xmas meal tonight, I am off to Asda shortly to get food for lunch, then I will stick my face on.
Sunday Walk
Last Saturday I was meant to be walking around Newmillerdam with Trans-Wakefield, but hadn't been able to due to hospital visiting. So I decided to walk there on my own on the Sunday, it's about 6km from my house. I had been wanting to try going for local walks dressed, as I felt a little trapped without the ability to do that. I do enjoy going on a random Sunday walk.
I had bought a coat and wellies and a warm jumper from Ebay/Vinted for winter outdoor adventures, the wellies have rainbows on 🤣 - The hat as previously mentioned was knitted by my mum. I quite like it - but some friends have called it hideous.
I was still not as comfortable walking around in the countryside on my own as a city, felt a little on edge. Trapped by the narrow confines of the footpaths. If I were living alone I might well want a big dog with me. I wasn't doing much eye contact with passers-by, but it was fairly quiet out and I didn't see that many people.
When I got there, I went straight to the other pub over the road from the car park the 'Fox and hounds', it was very warm in there and not many places to sit, so I only stayed for one in there.
Next I headed the short distance to the pub I was in the previous day 'The Dam Inn'. It was nicer in there, and I stayed in there for the rest of the afternoon. The people behind the bar were very friendly, and felt safe and accepted in there.
It was dark by the time I wanted to leave, and my wife was worried and offered a lift, but I could tell it was an inconvenience so I decided to get an Uber. He was nice enough, had some small talk, nearly ended up on the other side of the car when he took a corner very quick though !
Chameleons
Had been looking forward to the fuddle, it is my most favourite of the meetings - not only because I get to stuff my face, but just gets us all moving around a bit more. I put on jeans and a Xmas jumper for the drive down.
As previously mentioned I wasn't in a fab mood, but I figured once I was there I would enjoy myself, so I should proceed as planned. I hadn't been 100% sure I would be able to go with my dad health as it was, so I hadn't said I was taking anything, and decided to buy a cheese selection and biscuits as this was not on the list of things others were buying. Looks like Joanna had the same idea , and we ended up with two cheese selections. But we ate it all , so glad we did !
I changed into a slightly bodycon sequin dress when I arrived, I didn't want to wear in on the way down in case i needed to pop into the services. Also put on my goth boots, which I really liked wearing with the big sequin dress at LFF a few weeks ago.
Someone had brought a mini speaker and put some xmas tunes on which was nice, it was quiet enough that we could all still talk.
Was really great to catch up with everyone, I had missed a few meetings in recent months.
Was feeling very relaxed and happy by the time I left, and very glad I had gone - as I knew I would be. I got back after midnight, I wasn't very frugal with the electrons on the way home, and it was warm enough I was in no danger of running low.
Xmas Shopping
I decided to go to Leeds yesterday, but changed my mind as I was driving and went to Wakefield instead. I spent the afternoon pottering around. Popped into my new favourite Café for a Mocha and some food. Tried the Lasagne this time, but it wasn't that good.
I didn't spend much on myself, other than some opaque tights from Matalan, some fake nails from Home Bargains, and some cheap own brand lashes from Superdrug. I favour the Eyelure ones normally, but they are quite expensive, usually at least £5. These ones were £2.50.
Also got a 'Choc Ice' Stout from Sainsburys to try.
I wore my Banned Retro Peacock dress, and my high heel DM's. I was quite overdressed really.
Also went looking for a record player, but they were out of stock in Currys and Argos, so I have bought online.
My dad has been in hospital for his 1st round of chemo to treat a blood cancer, and is likely to be in there for a number of weeks more as it didn't go as planned. So I have been doing my share of taking my mum to visit him. He seems to be doing OK at the moment.
Hormones, it's been a few weeks - not sure if anything I've been feeling is actually due to them or not. I had thought it had changed my sleep pattern, I seem to be waking up during the night a lot less. No problems noticed at least. Not sure I feel any different emotionally, which I assumed I would.
I am at least remembering to apply the gel every day !
My hair looks a bit of state in both modes, I have been trying Frizz Ease conditioner which seems to work a little. I need to dye it again really, I am thinking darker for the Goth weekend.
Need to spend some time watching some video's I think, work out if there is something simple I am missing in terms of styling.
Despite this I haven't actually worn a wig (other than for some pics at Chams) for most of the month, even though I've been out quite a few times - which I think is an achievement. Might wear one to the next LFF though :)
Adventures
Thursday 21st
Instead of my usual Wakefield group night, I had a drink with a friend - I was in drab, I mainly mention really as it was in working men's club and I'm a bit self conscious with how my hair looks in 'man' mode. There were no issues though.
Saturday 23rd - Blackpool
I didn't have any big meetups planned, but a friend in Blackpool had was unexpectantly free and asked if I wanted to visit. I got there at lunch time and they made me a nice meet free burger, then we went to a retro video game arcade.
You pay to enter, but all the machines were then free to play. It was really good, they had Time Crisis, Mario Kart, lots of really old machines like 1942, Galaxian etc: https://www.arcadeclub.co.uk/blackpool/
We were in there a few hours, had a really fun time. Afterwards we had an ice-cream at Notarianni , which I was told was the best ice cream in Blackpool - it was certainly very nice. We did some charity shops and I got a nice black dress for £6.
While waiting for some pizza's to be delivered, we watched a very funny but also terrible film : Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse ! Which I would totally recommend.
Then we got changed and headed out into the town for a bit of a pub crawl, we did Galleon's , a soul place I've forgotten the name of, then back to Galleons. We were not really on a drinking session, just taking it steady.
I stopped for a roast dinner on Sunday then headed home in the early afternoon. It was a very relaxing weekend, and a change from some of the more hectic things on the calendar, and really great to catch up with my friend.
Thursday 28th - Chameleons
I wasn't able to sneak off work early as had a lot on, so by the time I had finished faffing with my fake lashes it meant there was no danger of me being early. This unfortunately meant I wasn't able to meet up with Ann at the outlet before hand, but she was going to Chams afterwards anyway.
I had been looking forward to going with a more autumnal look, as I don't have that many summery dresses and I feel I had gone my money out of most already this year. So went with a 'Kurt Muller' dress I got from Barnsley market last year.
I stopped off at Tibshelf on the way down for snacks as I had neglected to bring biscuits, got a smirk from a tradesperson as I walked in, but if that's the worst I get I am very lucky.
There were already a few people there when I got to the centre, and the room soon filled up.
It was nice to see such a good turnout again, and the room was full enough that we were able to fragment into smaller groups. Was really nice to catch up with the other girls.
There was the additional fun of a charity used clothing and accessory sale, which meant we all had fun trying things on and messing about a bit. Got to poke some rather unconvincing boobs for instance :)
Lynn had tried on a wig which looked quite retro 80's and I decided to have a go with it too - I quite liked the way it looked so I put some funds in the donation box for it. I posted the pics on Instagram and it went down quite well !
Anyway it was a very enjoyable night, certainly in the shortlist for the best Chams meeting of the year :)
I was in the Leaf so I had a more relaxing journey home, I had the day off the next day too, so it didn't matter it was quite late when I got back.
Friday 29th - Bolton Abbey
I had planned on not doing anything at the weekend again - there was a beer festival, but I've been spending a lot of time away, and the hotels are quite expensive, so instead I plotted a solo adventure day trip. It was a dual purpose adventure in that I would be using the Morris as well.
I got ready at quite a leisurely pace, and it was fairly late before I set off. But I managed to get to Bolton Abbey for about 2:15pm. The drive itself was nice, no major issues, Josephine appeared to be in a good mood, not much crunching of gears or idling issues.
The lady at the car park kiosk complemented my on my vehicle ! - which made me smile :)
I headed for the Café first and got myself a cheese and onion pasty, a hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream, and a bit of cake. All of the major food groups, fat and sugar.
After this I headed over the river and down the opposite bank to where I had parked towards the stepping stones which would take me to the abbey. It wasn't the nicest weather, I had taken my brolly just in case but didn't need it.
I did some photo's at the stepping stones, but I couldn't actually cross as several had been swept away by tree's hitting them after being washed downstream in a storm. A bit of a shame, but I can always go back later.
I had a brief look around the remains of the abbey, and the church next to it, then headed back to the car. Overheard a few people commenting on her as I was faffing around getting ready to leave, she does attract attention.
My shitnav took my back through the middle of Leeds, which wasn't very relaxing, stop start traffic is no fun with no hydraulic assisted clutch and a crunchy gearbox. But we got home OK.
It was good to get some more miles under my belt, and fab to have a nice day out too.
GenderGP - they have provided me with a link to an online Pharmacy which will fulfil my prescription. There is a payment problem, but hoping I will get my gel through the post soon !
Laser - I got sunburnt at the weekend, and they didn't want to do my face because of this :( . But they are not going to charge me for it, as I did manage to get the unaffected parts of my torso done.
Think I am feeling a bit down, didn't want to attend my group tonight. Some of it was due to the heat and the fact the café can get very warm. My social calendar is looking a bit sparse this month too, not much to look forwards to for a while, probably some post event comedown too.
Adventures
The previous weekend was a very good one, it was Leeds First Friday as normal, then off to Morecambe for a Vintage event for the Saturday and Sunday.
LFF
I was trying Roomzzz for the first time, which is a 'Aparthotel' - so it's like a bedsit. It was really good, had a little kitchen and seating area, dishwasher and washing machine too. It wasn't really much more than I would have paid for a hotel room.
I did some shopping, met up with Alice and the gang in the afternoon, and was joined by Arabella for a few drinks before I checked into the room.
Had a fab Italian in Gino's in the Marriot for evening meal with Alice, Cindy and Lexi. I had a lasagne, it was very filling, tasted like proper pasta, lots of layers. I was hoping to hate it, as they were there reason why we lost access to the Marriot bar when they bought it, but it was all quite good.
Service was a bit slow, but I think we broke their system by not wanting to order drinks before food.
After food we joined the Newbie event in the Bridge - we didn't want to change into our final outfit of the day, in case we looked a bit intimidating 🤣
Met some nice people in there, one from Scotland who runs a Glasgow event, and who I can't remember her name now.
After a while I nipped back to my room, which was visible from the pub window to get changed into something a bit more adventurous.
We got some nice photo's in the Viaduct, and then I headed out around some non-LGBTQ bars with Arabella. We did 'The Botanist' , then 'Rolands' for cocktails (next to Northern Guitar), then into Revolution De Cuba for 5 mins, before heading to 'The End' for a final drink.
We were both driving to Morecambe in the morning, so didn't stay out late, or drink much for fear of being unfit to drive !
Vintage by the Sea 🌞🍹💃
I had been buying dresses and shoes, and a petticoat for this for a while before the event, and was really excited to be going. My friend Arabella attends lots of vintage events and had suggested it.
I had even contemplated taking the Morris Minor, but she has been a little unreliable of late, and initially we were thinking of only taking one car. The train strike put pay to that plan, and we both ended up driving in the end.
We both managed to get ready in good time, and after a brief stop at the Lancaster park and ride to get everything into my car (so we didn't have to pay to park two cars) we headed into Morecambe which was rammed, but we were lucky and got a space within 20 mins or so.
We did a bit of shopping at some vintage stalls setup inside a theatre, and slowly made our way to the Midland hotel which was the main focal point for the event. There were lots of vintage cars parked up in front of it, and had a good look around those - well I was mainly looking at the other Morris ones :)
Then we headed inside the hotel where there were more stalls - and we soon spied a bit with some hair stylists doing some vintage do's on some women. I probably wouldn't have signed up if I was there on my own, but with Arabella wanting to, I signed up too. We had about 45 mins to look around before our slot, so we did a few more stalls and I got a bottle of coke.
The stylist was really nice, she asked me what I wanted and I said to make me look as vintage as possible, and we agreed on some curls - she was a bit unsure if my hair was long enough, but seemed to like a challenge. I think it took about 30 mins, there were at least 6 hairpins, and lots of curly and half a can of hairspray, but I was really pleased with the results.
Arabella didn't seem so pleased with hers, but I thought it looked really nice too. I was beaming for a while after we had it done, I was most happy.
We went to check into the Travelodge after this, as was past 3pm. They were having the carpets redone and it all smelled like a carpet warehouse and was a bit grotty. The rooms were red hot too.
So we didn't stay long, and headed back out to find food.
The woman on reception had recommended a pub, but it was a bit rough inside and we decided to look elsewhere. Unfortunately didn't find anything great, so we ended up eating fish and chips on a bench in the park.
We did a few more photo's next to a bus, then headed back for a bit of a rest , before changing into evening attire.
I was in a British Retro dress, with Irregular Choice shoes. I decided not to wear my petticoat in case I got too warm dancing in it, but still thought it looked fab.
We had bought tickets for the afterparty, which was in a big tent out the back of the Midland hotel.
It was fairly dead when we arrived, but it soon started to fill up.
The bar wasn't staffed very well, and it got progressively impossible to get served, so we didn't end up drinking too much !
We met some lovely people, Arabella is good at talking to random people, and attracts interaction so you are never lonely for long. Met a middle aged woman with her daughter and son in law, had a really lovely chat with them.
One of the DJ's was a famous fashion guy, and I ended up stood next to him for a bit, not having a clue who he was - Wayne Hemingway , he seemed like a fairly ordinary nice chap !
Arabella had some trouble with a few rowdy girls who tried to pick her up, which put a bit of downer on the night - but overall it was really good, and would definitely do it again.
We finished the evening sharing a kebab and meandered back to the hotel.
Day 2
The stylist had suggested that I sleep with a pair of knickers on my head to preserve the hairdo - it worked mostly !!! There are no pictures of this fortunately.
I did get Arabella to help smooth some loose bits - I had seen the stylist use a technique where she sprayed hairspray onto her hand, then rubbed her hand along the loose hairs to get them to stay. This worked when we tried it too, which was nice !
Having not worn the petticoat the previous day, I did feel the need to put it on, and was really happy with how it all looked.
After checking out and stuffing our bags back into my car, we headed back to the Midland and I got a photo with a fab lilac Morris Million ! Then we did the vintage stalls in the old station building opposite.
I had my first experience trying to go to the loo in a petticoat - I ended up taking it off and hanging it on a hook on the toilet door :)
Had some nice chats with some of the stall holders, but I didn't buy anything, We had pizza from one of the vans parked out the front of that. Then I nipped to Morrisons for some supplies.
Arabella was meeting one of her friends in the afternoon, we wandered down the front with her and her little girl, and got some traditional ice-cream. Then I left them all to talk for a bit and wandered down the stone pier to see what was down there.
I met back up with Arabella mid afternoon and bid farewell to her friend, then we decided we had seen all there was to see and set off back to the car at 3ish
I got home about 5pm, and realised I had been quite badly sunburn on my neck and chest and arms !! I hadn't felt it due to the pleasant sea breeze, and then the aircon in the car.
Silly me .....
But anyway it was a really fantastic event, and weekend, and hopefully worth the pain. I will be more careful next time.
So a quick summary of key events in the weeks since Leeds pride :
GenderGP:
I have started my monthly £30 subscription, this means they will send my application off for final review, and I should hear back from them in a few weeks. I should get my prescription at this time, and be able to start on the microdose Estrogen.
I think I forgot to mention in my last post, but I dyed my hair, this was at the end of July just before LFF. I used Clairol Nice'n Easy colour 6G (Light golden brown). The colour is still good, I can start to see some grey on my roots now.
Pic to the right is at Wakefield at the start of the month:
I ordered some cheap straighteners, and attempted to sort the curls at the back, but it's still quite short back there and wasn't too successful. I did have a go on the rest of it, and it looked pretty good on that though. I used heat protection spray with them too of course.
I also tried some 'shine' product Bed Head by TIGI , which seemed to make it look nicer.
I've not been wearing my daytime wigs since really, swapping to the silver one with blue tint for my night time look.
Health:
I have been suffering with digestive issues, got booked in for a colonoscopy next week ! - such fun. My feet are still healing from Leeds pride, as long as I don't wear those same shoes I should be fine.
The patch of skin I lost when removing the boob tape is better now, but still a red area.
Events attended :
Wakefield Pride
The weather was a bit poor, but I had a fab day out with my friends from Trans Wakefield at the pride. There were not nearly as many people lining the streets as my first Wakefield pride last year. I was at least marching in the parade with people I knew this time, rather than tagging on the end.
There were plenty of people in the parade though, and the main event area was rammed with colourfully dressed people. There was some nice food on, I was quite hungry and had a venison burger, and a falafel wrap !
I hung around the main event for a while, and had half a flat cider which was very nice.
Then a few of us went to the 'Our House' LGBTQ+ café for a beverage and a cake in the early afternoon. I departed after this, I wasn't drinking due to the tummy issues, and also I had to drive my wife somewhere in the morning.
Lincoln Pride
I couldn't go down on Friday night as my wife needed picking up just after 5pm, and didn't see the point in going if I couldn't have the whole day there. So I went down Saturday morning instead.
I took the Morris Minor, just to make life more interesting :)
I was sharing a room with Lexi to keep costs down, Gemma and Cindy , and Jennifer and Justine were also coming.
I wore a shortish summer dress, my trainers with the Trans coloured laces (got the laces free at Leeds pride), and my grey bag - there was an A4 size limit at the main venue.
I met up with Lexi, Gemma and Cindy around 10:30am by the arch thingy which i always forget the name of. It didn't seem that well organised, they had to disperse the people waiting to form up to move one of the floats through. Gemma was adorned with sequins and LED's so had been given a place on
the floats, but chose the back one as the front was rammed.
We set off at 11:30am, and did a short walk - interrupted by the railway crossing. There were lots of people cheering us on, but possibly because it wasn't that local I didn't seem to feel as much for it all as the Leeds and Wakefield ones. It was still nice to be a part of it though.
I saw Jennifer and Justine in the crowd as we were past the crossing, and diverted out to grab them, and they joined us for the remainder of it.
We ended up at the main event just before 12pm , and had to queue for a while as they were searching everyone's bags.
We did the stalls, got some drinks, and watched the performers on the stage for a few hours. Some of them were pretty good - mainly dancers and drag performers. They had the Viaduct show girls on for a couple numbers - but we didn't find them as impressive really.
We left just before 3pm so we could check into our hotel room, Cindy came with us too. Then had a quick pint, and then headed off to a quirky little pub called 'The tiny tavern' where we had another one.
Then myself Cindy and Lexi did pizza at Zizzi's , before going back to our room to change for the evening.
We met up with Gemma, who had glammed back up, and had a few in the Carousel, then we headed to Popworld where we stayed until just before midnight I think.
Jennifer and Justine met us in Popworld, and stayed for an hour or so, but they had tickets for the official afterparty at 'The Scene' so left us to head there.
They had some very good music in there, and with the light up dancefloor and a few entertaining locals it was a very good atmosphere.
I did get described as 'a man' by one of the girls waiting for a cubicle in the loos, which stung a little. Never really had much of that, didn't really expect it - it wasn't an LGBTQ+ venue though. I guess it's much more likely to happen.
But overall it was a really fantastic day, and evening, and great to catch up with the girls.
Lincolnshire Steam and Vintage Rally
My friend Alice was displaying her tractors at a rally just up the road on the same weekend - which was why she wasn't with us. So myself and Lexi had said we would pop over and visit on the Sunday.
The drive there was fairly uneventful, but the gearbox seemed more crunchy. We got to the show and wandered around and had a bacon sarnie and looked a few things while we waited for Alice to join us.
We met her by her tractors, and I got a photo on one :) , then an ice-cream - perhaps my first En femme public ice-cream #milestone
Then we did the inside bit with the modelling section, some nice Mechano in there.
Alice fancied a beer, and I had a 0% beer one from the tent and we sat on a table for a bit. It was sunny but not too warm as there was a bit of a breeze
There were quite a few Morris Minors for me to look at, but they were all mostly newer than mine and not of much interest to me. We watched them parade the miniature steam engines.
It was getting towards 1pm and both myself and Lexi wanted to head home, so we wandered towards the exit looking at a few things on the way.
I said my goodbyes and prepared to get on my way.
Then my troubles started - she didn't start that well, and there was a metallic noise while running that shouldn't have been there. So I just moved her to a different car parking row and put the bonnet up to check. Lexi drove past and asked if I was OK, and I foolishly said I was.
Turns out I wasn't - I thought it was coming from the starter motor, so I turned her off, whacked it a few times with a big wrench as I though it was stuck on. But when I came to restart it just span and didn't engage at all. So I ended up crawling under the car in my dress to take the starter off.
A chap offered assistance, but I thought I had solved it - but then realised I hadn't.
Messaged Alice to see if she could come and assist, and decided it was best to leave it off , get her running and pray it didn't stall on the way home. We did try the starting handle, but it wasn't easy. We also tried a push start, with me jumping in at the last minute, but it was a rutted gravel track, and didn't work. Some chap took pity on us and offered a tow start, which did work thankfully.
I got most of the way home, then it died at a junction 1.8 miles away. Luckily there was a Irish , possibly traveller couple in a motorhome in a layby just by it.
They were a bit scary, but helpful and gave me a push start - it was on tarmac and with two of them it worked much better.
I had booked the Monday off work after Sparkle, so I could have a nice day to myself. I had planned to perhaps go to the Supercuts in Wakefield for an en-femme haircut. I had been there previously many months ago in man mode, but explained I was aiming for a female cut. It was left that I needed to grow it a lot longer before much could be done, but they tidied it a bit.
When I check the online booking portal for Wakefield it seemed they were quite busy, so I decided to head into Leeds instead.
I washed my hair and got dressed, and did my makeup. I didn't think I should put any hairspray on, so I just used one of my hair bands to try and keep it under control. It didn't feel that I looked that great and I felt a bit self conscious really.
I got there just before lunch, and was the only person in the queue. They were just finishing with someone else so I didn't have to wait too long.
After
The lady I got was called Jade, it was her first day there - but clearly not her first day as a hairdresser. I went for a Level 4 'supercut' which is a shampoo, condition, cut & blow dry. I had never had anyone wash my hair sinc e I was a child, so it was all a bit new !
After the wash and condition we moved from the sink to the chair to d o the cut. Then she got the straighteners out and got it under control.
She was asking questions about what I wanted, I ended up going for a single length bob. She took some weight out of the sides, but without taking any length off, and also tidied up the back a bit, got rid of some of the curls.
There was a bit of chit chat, but I suspect she didn't really know what to say - but she was still very nice. It cost £38.50 all in, which is the most I've ever paid - but still not that much for a female cut.
Different angle
I was very happy with the result, I do still need to grow it a bit longer, but with the parting further towards the middle it does look quite feminine now.
For boy mode I can still part it further over to the side, and it seems vaguely plausible - although I have no sideburns at the moment. More about that later !
I also went to the MAC counter at John Lewis and had a foundation colour match, and spent some money in there, I won't say how much, but more that I should have. I still haven't tried any of it on yet, perhaps at the weekend I will.
I had a coffee and bagel in Flamingo's and also looked around the Corn Exchange then headed home before the traffic got too bad. There was a bit of rain so I got more brolly practise, but it was a fun day !
Wednesday - The work do - Alton towers
I didn't go en-femme, but I will, one day , I'm sure.
Anyway, there was minimal notice of my appearance, which I always get stressed about.
One of the speakers did use an example of a gay man asking about a companies inclusivity in an interview - she was making the point that in many ways the interview process is a two way thing these days. People will often choose to work for a company that offers the best work life balance and culture, not just the biggest salary.
It was the first time I had heard anyone mention anything at all to do with LGBTQ at all in the 4 years I think I've been here.
I had decided not to stay the night, and partake in the evening drinking, and headed off as soon as I was allowed.
On the way back I stopped in at a friends for a cup of tea, I hadn't realised they were 3 mins away from the A38 on my route home ! That was nice, broke the journey up a bit.
Thursday - Nottingham
Andie and Sasha were planning on heading to Nottingham before Chameleons to have a bite to eat, and had kindly invited a few of us along. In the end only Joanna, Ann and myself could join.
I had sneaked off work early - most of the company was offline due to over indulging at the work do, plus they were travelling back during office time, so I didn't feel too guilty.
I had laser in the afternoon at 3pm, my face then torso. It went OK, but I think there was a problem with the cooling tip on the machine, it was a bit warmer than normal. They rang me a few days later to check on me as they had discovered the issue. I was finished by about 4pm and headed straight to Nottingham afterwards.
I met Ann at the community centre that hosts Chameleons at a bit after 5pm, and I gave her a lift into the centre, saved on parking. I like to park at the Victoria Centre North so I can charge my car. I got that going, then we walked to Revolucion de Cuba on Market Street.
Andie, Sasha and Joanna were already there, it was nice inside, loved the décor. I was the only one in boy-mode (due to the laser) , so it was bit odd from that perspective, but still nice. Andie was in a very fetching dress, I can't remember the brand but she did tell me.
We had some mocktails, and ordered our food. Service was a tad slow, and we had to be proactive to get extra drinks.
The food was really tasty though, I loved it - I had a deal 3 dishes for £15. A few of us had coffee's for desert, and they were so slow making them, that they gave us them for free.
It was a very nice few hours, good conversation, really enjoyed it. I felt a bit left out that I had to use the gents though :) - there was a couch in the ladies !!
We headed back to the community centre to join the rest of the group, and the pleasant evening continued. Turns out Lynn was also not able to dress, so the two EV owners were letting the side down on that front 😆
Someone had brought coconut macaroon biscuits, they need to come more often, I loved them.
I got some nice comments on my hair - which wasn't as fully femme as it can be, I hadn't moved the parting, so that is encouraging !
I caught up with a few people, it was great to be in the company of other trans folk again, I left very happy. I didn't stay too long as I was working the next day, so I was back around midnight.
Saturday - Pub time
I was not quite like a caged tiger, but I was certainly suffering from a bit of FOMO (fear of missing out) on Friday, Ann and Gemma had gone out drinking, Benni was out in Birmingham, and I was trapped at home as my wife had a work do.
So on Saturday I decided to go for a long walk, and pop into some pubs I had been meaning to scope out for a future en femme visit. I still couldn't shave due to the laser, so en-femme was out of the question anyway.
It was a bit windy, so I had my hair pulled back with a metal band. I do feel a little self conscious with it like that, but it's brilliant from a practical perspective. I think I look a bit ambiguous though.
The pubs I visited were both by Newmillerdam which is a lake with a park around it.
The first one was 'The Dam Inn' , it was pretty nice inside, only seemed to have one real ale in there. I ended up with an IPA from a pump though. It didn't seem anything special as a pub, but good to try it.
While I was drinking my beer I was on Facebook and added someone I had met a few times before, but didn't know that well. Turns out they must have been in a mood to chat as they messaged nearly straight away, and we ended up messaging for a bit until I was ready to go to the next bar.
Then I somehow butt dialled her on the short walk to the next pub, and we have a lovely video chat in the pub car park too.
The next pub was the 'Fox and hounds' , I had 3 pints of Propper Job in there, and ordered some chips to nibble on too. It seemed like a nice place, I think there were some gay guys in, and the atmosphere seemed quite friendly. The beer was better too, more real ale.
The only odd thing is that one of the serving girls seemed to emphasise 'sir' when handing the chips over, it was a bit odd, as I wasn't trying to look femme as such. I wondered if perhaps the hairband and long hair, and lack of sideburns had made her think I was attempting to present female. I hadn't shaved so I had a load of stubble too.
I had consumed a few pints, and could well have been a bit paranoid, I don't know.
I am tempted to go back en femme, see what reception I get. I like the idea of trying to make local non-trans friends, I don't know anyone locally at all. I hardly speak to the neighbours.
Aside from a potentially over emphasised pro-noun it was a nice afternoon, and great to be out of the house.
Work Week
It's been a busy one, no major news.
I've had the 3D printer out to make an LED heart for my handbag so I can perhaps join in with Gemma when we go out around a beer festival or clubs. I want a little taste of attention myself, but not so much I am competing - more to join in really.
It was also fun to play with the printer again, it's not been out for ages. I have some cool ideas for improvements already, but hope will be able to use it a pride.
