Hey Janis,

I have a couple of old friends who are in a similar situation as yours. They're the same as they always were and so are you. You sound very happy now, and that's what matters!

I'll still remember the "you" in New Orleans in 2000 though. We sure had a blast at the "Funky Pirate" every night. And those huge margaritas! I thought I'd never get through even one! ;0)

~~Bonnie




>Hey folks, It's me. I look different now but underneath its still me.
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>First I want to reach out and say a great big thank you to Tore for getting the word to you all for me. Thanks Tore!
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>I have had a few changes in my life since I was last here. I am a bit healthier today than I have been for a long time. I've lost a bunch of weight. Last, but absolutely not least, I am a lot happier today than I have ever been.
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>That's what's changed in my life. In your lives you will see me differently than you have, I don't see myself any differently. Reason is, I am the exact same person as I have always been, it s just that I have decided not to hide from you all anymore. I've decided not to keep showing you all what you are expecting to see and instead to be the real me that I have always been.
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>As for the questions I saw in the other thread well, my wife is not happy at all, she and I are living seperate lives under the same roof right now. My three sons are OK and they are on board. As a matter of fact last spring my oldest son, Vincent, was my escort to a banquet dinner for a transgender support group that I attend. Oh and in case you were wondering he was a perfect gentleman.
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>In reading through the other thread I am very happy to see the same committment to debating and exploring the details that has always been what made the UT such an amazing resource.
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>I especially want to reach out to Martina. She is a very brave woman and had an effect on me that she never knew. For a number of years I carried my secret inside but I watched Martina's every move. Her amazing bravery and committment to her true self inspired me and showed me that it was possible to truly be one's self even if the world didn't see you as you are. Thanks Martina!
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>Oh and as for the procreation question, at 62 years old if am straddled with a child I will not be happy, so I never looked into it. My sisters (other transwomen) have banked their sperm for future use if they should so choose.
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>I do know that this particular life's experience touches some people in places that are threatening and fear provoking. Some people choose not to acknowledge the legitimacy of the experience. To that group of people I say, I understand your feelings and I respect your decisions in your lives so please respect mine. If you chose to not associate then feel free to do so, no hard feelings.
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>It is great to be back and say hi to you all.
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>Janis