ReckNBall's page

Howdy folks. It has been a minute. Maybe three. Ok ok ok really 3yrs since I last posted and quite frankly even longer since I last played.

I see Cindy is living the dream. Yay! You go girl! I am on a similar path.
Some changes, fulltime MtF and actively transitioning. I am in a better spot than I have been in a long long time.

[Blows dust off dicebag]

Anything new happen while I was gone?
Are gnomes still at the #1 spot of all-time greatest character race to play?

Been a while since I last posted.
Lots of fun/happy/stressful/paradigm shifting stuff happening in my life, for the most part, uphill yet productive.

To stay on topic of this forum: So I attend on a semi-regular basis (starting back 2006ish), until recently, a weekly TransSupport mtg. It was crucial to my self-realization and confidence. It remains an inclusive positive get-together for MtF, FtM and Genderfluid. Everyone there is at different stages in transitioning, which is rather nice seeing the mentoring and sharing of lessons learned, references etc.
(Foreshadowing: can ya hear the but?)

But, we had a couple of crossdressers show up (still under Trans umbrella in my book) and while welcomed could not help but notice a subtle disapproval. Could not understand why as we all started somewhere. That is when I noticed a subtle shift, the pressure across the board to seek out and start HRT with end goal of SRS.

So I started my process, not quite a good match, legit health concerns of my own plus my relationship with fiance (fully disclosed and supportive). She does have certain expectations and HRT would impact those expectations and of course concerns regarding my safety and potential employablity( I currently keep work and social very separate) Put it all on backburner, will revisit at my discretion.

SO in the meantime, dealing with inner turmoil, I know my transmtg will inquire into my HRT status in a nice polite cheerleader way. Not gonna deflect, but would like to squash the expectation that SRS and fulltime is not the endgoal of all who attend.

Thank you for letting me vent.
hugs for all.

Just a posting of happiness.

I regularly attend a transsupport group. It was nice, with the usual suspects and a couple of newcomers. Every stage of transition represented on both MtF and FtM. Amazing what HRT can do regardless of starting age. Anyhoos...

So after the meeting, one of the girls and I (both MtF), spontaneously want out afterwards for drinks to touch upon subject matter verboten within the group (hotbutton topics like politics and/or religion etc which tend to derail and override the message of support). Needless to say, my gender rebel co-conspirator was on fire as I see her becoming more active as she transitions. While she blends easily and even passes, when she is beside me it aint possible. Regardless, going out amongst the muggles, we weren't spared more than a second glance during the dinner/happy hour crush.

Relaxing and normal.

Finished training to be an official volunteer at my FL(LGBT)Center. Waiting for background check to clear. Another step out as well as stepping up to be a facilitator/speaker in the public eye. I just wish these resources and support were there way back when I was a child/teenager.

Thank you for all your myriad opinions, views and experiences. I, we are, no longer am alone. Never thought I'd be here much less this far along. Being part of the solution feels good.

I got an unexpected request last night. I was speaking to my daughter who is majoring in Psychology (soon to Grad! Woohoo!). She is putting together a speaker panel for the Freshman classes. She asked if I'd be willing to be part of it (I am the first and default T she knows personally). Not sure if the panel will be covering all LGBT or pulling from a spectrum of T, still in drafting stage. I am honored, pleased and anxious. I used to lecture and train in the Military but for slightly different subject. So stagefright is not the issue. I am anxious regarding whether I am worthy enough of representing us.

So started doing my homework regarding LGBT FAQ as well as lessons learned on what not to do/say. As this is a freshmen class(es), I do not need in-depth transition med/policy/politics. It is more of putting a face to LGBT and humanizing my experiences with a willingness to answer or address awkward questions.

Reached out to my local Trans and LGBT resources but I wanted to ask the Paizo LGBT collective for their input. Putting my speaking points together and will refine accordingly both for clear concise communication and time. I have about three months to get my act together.

Excited. Another way to out myself and step proudly. My daughter is so supportive too. Love her.

A small update and subtle step for me.

Went to see a counselor for some issues I was dealing with. Got them resolved or perhaps managed is a better term. Yay me. But we touched upon my gender identity as part of the solution, and she was right. She encouraged and "assigned me homework" to practice being visible and confident. So I have stepped out with support, expressed myself a little more openly. I normally keep my alter ego distinct and limited to certain venues away from the homefront for reasons I am sure all of you can relate.

Discussed it with my high school daughter to alert her for potential pushback from friend's parents. I was already treating it as an open secret since my divorce outing. Gradually being more visible, not adhering to a gender that I was born with. Her friends know, have seen me and accept but now parents are starting to note visible signs of gender non-compliance. Nothing said, double-takes sure. More color in wardrobe, polish on nails and andro but pretty earrings, I am the only male without hair on legs etc Highschool functions, College classes, local chores. No impact as yet. Assumptions are made, I am a LGBT member but which kind? Who will inquire first? The world continues to turn.

Not sure about presenting Femme or androfemme on campus yet. Work is a no go, so this remains separated. Keeping an eye out for jobs where this is not an issue.

And slowly it is Depression that recedes into the closet, not me. Guess my therapist knows her stuff.

Those are Coastie Stations!

And yeah, CG stations are rarely put in "good" locations. One of "nicer" locations that comes to mind: there was a CG auxilarist (volunteer civilian USCG groupie) that owned a house adjacent to/nearby a station. He rented it out to the crew so they could 1) afford to live nearby, especially for those without cars 2) not worry about parking/commuting (extremely developed tourist area) for those that did have have cars, 3) trustworthy/accountable renters 4) Owner got his in-depth Coastie experience.

This was an outlier.

Okay...maybe people here can help me with my social anxiety I am having over the LGBT minger/mixer. I would have to go presenting as a guy...but calling myself a Trans woman. I feel...like people might not believe me...or even get hostile. I hope I will be able to present as woman for it...but right now that will be a long shot.

Ahhhhh I remember my first... arrived as a male, changed out, got so nonchalant about it I didn't change back (public parking mall, long commute and walking through neighborhood to my door) until home. I was supercharged that evening and no way was she going back in the closet.

I am willing to bet that there is a space available for quick change artists who remain stealth or are uncomfortable "traveling while trans". Ask the organizers if there will be a designated room of sorts.

On a related note, those same organizers are your best bet to line up "Big Sister mentoring", let them know your situ and need for a trans starter kit. So many of us have clothes that are beautiful yet no longer fit/style or have sentimental value cluttering our closets. I hate throwing away good stuff but more than willing to donate or charge minimal fee to a needy soul.

So even if you show up not dressed for event, you might end up in a mismatched skirt/blouse and tennis shoes looking like a fashionista trainwreck. But you'll be comfortable and a whole lotta sisters hooking you up with cast-offs.

I have been there. A lot of us have. You are in good company.

In regards to the Corsetry, I recommend outreaching to a professional corset maker/shop. Once again, you get what you pay for. VS (Victoria Secret) and other main stream offers are for the bedroom and only worn long enough to be stripped off... But will not shape your body per se not hold up to extended wear. The one I have worked with does so out of her house (converted room to a frick'n tailor/wedding/RenFaire/exotic wear business. Wow! So many things I wanted to try) and a large part of her clientele are in the fetish scene in some degree or another. She makes a decent living if that tells you anything, with a not-insignificant male customer base.

If you want to experience the lingerie effect, anything will do. Want to shape-train or daywear, you really really need to see a professional to schedule a fitting and buy a quality corset that will hold up.

Check out your local offerings.

Huh, after so many years, I guess I do have something more than an opinion to contribute to this thread.

This is a wide-ranging and subjective issue.
Having done both mail order and brick&mortar places, I strongly favor the latter. But this is not about me.

1) Learn from other folk who have already walked that path, Google Transgender/crossdressers + wigs. Many blogs/websites describing lessons learned with pros&cons. Once you are getting a foundation of basic terminology, things to consider and obvious pitfalls to avoid,

2) Draw up a list of wig stores nearby and some a little further if you desire a bit more privacy from hometown. Phone calls are anonymous. Call them with a simple list of questions garnered from #1. Get a feel for how they treat you as a customer. Do they sound competent? Are they making you comfortable in what is (to you) an awkward situation?

2.5) Some questions: Will you be going DRAB or presenting as female? Will they allow you to change there? Trying on female-styled wigs presenting as female feels more authentic than male. YMMV

3) Bring a trusted friend whose sole purpose is to be an objective consumer on your behalf, keep you grounded and look for your best interest. I'd recommend that one supportive girl who offered a coming-out party for you. This is a big step and you might be overwhelmed. In fact, I would start a betting pool if I could.

4) Leave your purse in your car. The first visit is an experience. Enjoy it. Go without a sense of obligation to buy or succumbing to sales pitch.

5) Feeling educated? Go back to step 1. Stuff should be making better sense now and you can adjust your process accordingly.

6) When you do return or if you go online: Aim for quality, you will not regret the money spent; whereas buying cheap will only undermine your efforts to blend in and self-confidence. It will set you back emotionally and willingness to go out. You'll end up dropping more bucks on another wig anyway. Ask me how I know...

Good Luck

Edit: PS buy a styrofoam head for proper storage of wig. Pain in the ass to restyle if it gets put away wrong.

On a related subject...
I have a few friends on facebook that believe and/or perpetuate the lies, myths and rumors regarding LGBT (and a few other divisive) subjects. IRL, we agree and disagree on a variety of subjects and they are, for the most part, polite folk.

On Facebook, their colors clearly run deeper.

Yet with the exception of a few trolling firebrands (haters gonna hate), I have kept them friended. While it is like pissing against the wind, I have learned to avoid the trolling and not responded with like accusations and name calling to dispute their hypercritical positions. I acknowledge the few points they have and focus on refuting and/or refining the argument they posit. I post different views with citations. My goal: refuse to allow their page be a huge echo chamber. Since it is their page, I pick my battles on subject matter I can easily dispute with citations.

It is an exercise running through the list of argument fallacies. Constantly. However, since I have started this, the echo chambers are a wee bit less inflammatory. I know I have not changed any minds, but their feeds have toned down. I try to humanize these issues.

But damn. Haven't they ever heard of moderation? Life is not a zero-sum game. Also please allow me this indulgence: They are frigg'n hateful paranoid idiots!

I now return you to regular forum.

So a while back I came out to my brother. I knew he'd have my back but it needed to be done on my terms as my now ex-wife was outing me.

He replied beautifully. He also finally admitted there was always something off that he just could not figure out about me for the last 4 decades or so. He made assumptions and put it aside. My coming out allowed him to finally connect all the dots for the "Ahaa!" moment. Then he told me of his prior guesses in statistical order coming close but missing. Anyway, non-issue. Pretty cool huh?

So why am I posting?

Today, he starts off texting me as his "Brister".

Brister.

As our convo continued, it devolved into ritualistic bravado and derogatory commentary regarding the other's lack of masculinity. Although he was obviously and always has been the better looking brother, he was willing to cede the title for better looking sister without contest. Which took on added meaning with my transness since the so-called zingers really weren't hurtful. "Who frick'n wears the dress in your house? OOOH OOOH I DO!"

Oh the snark that only a sibling can get away. ;-)

I ran across a phrase that rings true for me. Not all MTF's wear dresses, but it is nice having that option.

I ordered a textbook online for college course. Still hasn't arrived and class started a week ago. Any bets that it arrives today/tomorrow after breaking down and buying it local at 3x cost.
Anyone?

I blame Cosmo for interfering with USPS delivery.
I blame Cosmo for the irony of owning two of the same book I do not want but obligated to buy.

I blame Cosmo that I only have one class towards my major this semester; filled up the rest with curiously interesting but essentially non-core alternates. Two or three Evil Corp(s) purchased blocks of seats in several needed classes to grow their employees before I could register.

Is Cosmo an evil CEO or Overlord blocking my paltry attempts for retraining and employablity? My paranoid conspiracy theory is totally justified.

I blame Cosmo.

I was in a bakng mood this past weekend. Snickerdoodles, oreo-stuffed chocchip cookies, ricekrispie treats(x2). A plethora of snackage for weeks if rationed properly.

Notsofast says Cosmo, twirling his evil mustash.

Daughter had homecoming and a GNO(girls night out). With a peck on the cheek and big smile she said this was perfect tribute for her and her gang of princess tazmanian deviltty voraciousness..

I curse Cosmo instructing the young'ns the non-chalant thuggery trait and guiltless appetite.

Posting another part of my journey, confidence booster and owning it. I am out to my girlfriend, have been ever since we started getting serious. She doesn't care, fully supportive and affirming. Wow. So much unsaid here, but it truly feels like I have hit the jackpot.
Went to pick her up at airport presenting MTF as well as possible. No fashion police, no angry pitchforked mobs, no snide commentary that I heard from the crowd awaiting loved ones disembarking. She got off plane, picked me out of crowd, (already above avg size as a male, much moreso as female), didn't blink an eye and greeted me accordingly. She loved my skirt, threatening to steal it later. (Rogue level 1, non-chalant thuggery trait)

While I have been out and about previous, first in a such a large interactive crowd through many public spaces. First time my GF encountered me as me in a public arena with others watching. Litmus test of sorts. She didnt run off screaming into the horizon...

Guess I should keep her around, huh?

Hah! Speaking customer service rep discussing important financial stuff, near the end instead of shunting me to a typical automated survey, she had to do it manually. Eventually we get to population identity: hispanic, latino, native, etc, no problem. She asked about my gender, male or female. I paused. Hemmed and hawed. Then decided yeah, "is there a third option of Trans?" Then she paused. Then made the notation. Not sure if she just put male or female regardless of my statement. But we have to get counted one way or another. No longer invisible and ignored.

Yeah yeah I know. Choose a side some will say. Eh.
I chuckled about their survey. Standing up for the middle! Yay us!

On a different topic. The new policy for active duty members that identify as trans has come out. Snip...

Reading through the new policy...Any trans military members willing to express an opinion?

Here's the new reg. DOD1300.28

Well that is an interesting read. First off: 1) retired military. 2) trans-nontransitioning. 3) Prior to DADT, I had a gay roommate in the barracks. He could not suppress it enough and processed out; I was not, although "interviewd" cuz there were questions and doubts raised regarding my own status. Room tossed for evidence etc. [amazing how well panties/nylons compress and blend in with other clothes, but suspect the underage alcohol threw them off... ;-)]. 4) during DADT, I was not outed per se but people knew and others strongly suspected.

Reading the policy, big step in right direction. Trans members can present as their preferred gender off-base without ramifications. I would've loved that opportunity. Certainly, for those whose dysphoria is not so bad that medical transition is not required, the gender can be treated just the uniform. Put it on for military duty, shuck both of them off at end of shift without worry. "What happens off-base, stays off base."

No longer are gender nonbinary affectations (i.e. Sexual deviations) cause for discharge. Still waiting for retired/dependent medical Tr-care insurance to step up to plate. There is much delay and no coverage for any transgender issues mental, counseling or medical. So if member does not transition while in Military, the process will be self- financed in retirement or after separated. But that may change come 2017.

Still a big step. Glad to see progress. That is my take.

[edited to reflect TRI-Care insurance update]

Well, had the weekend off. But daughter needs my vehicle for college move-in this weekend. Cosmo telepathically suggested reaching out to my company to see if I could use company vehicle. Did so but at what cost?
Congrats Cosmo, I now am working Frid-Sun, 60 hour coverage. During my FLGS gaming weekend. I am sure that I won't get called in at all. /s.

But at least I have use of a vehicle. Right?!

Cosmo. I blame Cosmo.

Well. My tankless waterheater refused to heat. One disassembly later come to find out the installing "Authorized"/"Certified"/"Licensed" plumber mixed steel and copper fittings. Pipes are clogged with corrosion, surprised it worked as long as it did. Warranty does not cover piss-poor installation

Come to think of it, the plumber did bear a certain resemblance to certain Paizo employee...Cosmo.

COSMO!!!!

I covered a co-worker's shift for an estimated 6 hours(after I finished my 12), so she could compete in a local triathlon. Naturally I was tasked with most of it running one event involving 4 hours of commuting to one location. My stomach sank when the call came in.

I blame Cosmo: It couldn't have been a quiet shift or an easy localized event. Cosmo knows no good deeds should go unpunished.

Co-worker promised a beer as consolation and appreciation. I shall inform her of about Cosmo's Law.

Hmmmmm, my last attempt for counseling therapy wasn't covered if "trans" was one of the reasons. Retired military. I wonder if my military health insurance will cover it now?

Visiting the Canadian badlands. Named, I suspect, purely for the engulfing mosquito swarms. I blame Cosmo for his excessive malignant mosquito breeding program.

Sometimes it is the little things...

So I went through a divorce(prior to Jenner), the (now-ex) wife in her infinite wisdom decided to play her martyr card and out me. Realizing she was doing me a favor, I took ownership of it and came out on my terms to my children.
They accepted me. I no longer maintain the strict male facade of the last few decades.

Today, my oldest daughter surprised me with an early Father's Day event. She took me out for a pedicure. Truly the first actual Father's Day gift I honestly appreciated. Didn't get a Manicure cuz job. sadface.

FYI: Sparkly blue tourquise for those who want to know.

too late for hugs?[awkwardly reinitiates hug pile]

[i look stereotypically a cisgender pro white anti-whatever guy, a big'n to boot.]
I tend to be a quietly dissenting voice, asking for references and citations to counter the echo chamber. It (the echo chamber) has slowly quieted down when I am around. Of course, other observations have been noted by those with LGBT-radar and they are trying to figure out what box to put me in... I do not feel the need to to clarify.

Good enough. Let us begin...

1) Who was it that started this thread and when?
2) Who is the most prolific poster on this thread?
3) What colored socks is Don Juan de Doodlebug wearing right now?

I think I will post this here. It seems relevant.

100 books in strange library

Don't you dar...[snip] YOU SUNAVA...

Go Bob! Looks like Cindy is starting to network!

Out of respect for the other movie goers, I declined to see it until my head cold and hacking cough subsides.

I blame Cosmo for this virus that has stricken me.

Round 6, Hippa enters the dragon, unwillingly, reluctantly until a push by one of the lemur actors pushes her in.

Hippa's fall is blunted a bit the others.
Reflex 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18 vs DC15
Fort 1d20 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 - 2 = 16vs dc 12
dmg 1d4 ⇒ 4

Round 7
Helped by the others, she finds herself just as forcefully shunted back upwards by the joint lift of the tall-folk. She lets out a string of

Trial by Pleasure: Hippa
Round 2
Feeling the blood loss so soon, she screams out in a multitude of tongues, naming gods and goddesses, Tis not the Grub I hold aloft! OH Sweet Sweet ecstasy! She once again plunges the knife within, this time to cut ahead of the grub.
Fort damage -2 round one, Con12-2
-6hp
Dmg 2d6 ⇒ (2, 1) = 3
Heal check1d20 + 8 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 8 + 6 = 34 vs DC20

Trial by Pleasure: Hippa
Round 1
At what point do I say No? This is dangerously decadent. But, OH! So delicious! Pulling up her garish sleeve she dangles the rot grub from the two-tined fork, smiles enticingly at the others… Then changes her mind as she instead hikes up her skirt showing quite a bit of thigh as drops the grub onto her brown flesh.
Perform 1d20 + 2 + 3 + 5 ⇒ (18) + 2 + 3 + 5 = 28
Dropping to the floor in the heat of the moment, OOOOOOooooo Yes! She brandishes her own blade and chases the little booger, slicing away until she finds it, pierces it and holds the bloody reward for the audience’s voyeurism.
Fort save 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 2 = 16 vs DC17
Dmg 1d6 ⇒ 6
Heal check1d20 + 8 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 8 + 6 = 19 vs DC20

ACT 1 Condemnation
Into the Trial of Combat and Love
Hippa knowing actual combat with monsters were coming up believes in a bit of prevention. She would brewed up some anti-toxin (+5 vs poison) for all her folk. After the Director comes back blanched with fear, Hippa changes her mind and makes them quaff it during a final toast before curtain rise. ”Don’t mind the taste, it has a good kick. I’ve done what I’ve can. Hope you don’t need it.
With that, Hippa as Farus, the riddle-speaking gypsy king shuffles into position. Her colorful couture as she moves props in the background getting in the way of the other actors, just long enough to interrupt their solo’s with head-scratching words of wisdom.

Audi, as Lazarod, takes to the stage. He takes on an appropriately contrite manner, listening to the accusations against him and then responding, "Ladies and gentlemen, I stand accused before you but I tell you that tonight I will prove my innocence of these terrible crimes and with good fortune, we will unmask the true villain instead." He cannot resist gesturing toward Thesing as he emphasizes 'true villain.'

Hippa/Farus: Poking Lazarod with a partially devoured greasy turkey drumstick as large her forearm, follows his gesture, “Man will occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of the time he will pick himself up and continue on." She moves to wipe the grease stain from Lazarod only to obviously make it worse. She pursues Lazerod in her efforts making time for Tramtris to speak his lines.

Hear him out, a young fool he may be at times, but let wiser heads prevail.

He called out a bit nervously casting his glances to Audi in his role as Lazarod.
Only a jack napped dullard with fecal matter for brains could think he could do such wrong!
He continued motioning to Audi at the appropriate part and following Audi's lead doing his best to give a piercing glare at Thesing.

Hippa/Farus as currently down on his luck peddler speaks from obscure corner, jingling a few coins in a hat,"Bear in mind that those who are finer and nobler are always alone-and necessarily so-and that because of this they can enjoy the purity of their own atmosphere." Hippa/Farus says nothing else but moves offstage, alone.

"Magistrate Maleficarum, your judgments are always beyond reproach. I am sure your summation of this man's... character... is accurate. However if you desire me to render my own judgment to lend support, you know I have many means available to me to ferret out the truth." With this last statement, Brannock pans the audience with an especially sinister grin.

Hippa is pushing a cabbage cart about onstage, attempting to sell to various background actors with little luck, that is until she passes Brannock. Her eye alight with hope of potential customer when he grabs a few heads of cabbage only to be shocked into dismay with the resulting vegetable carnage. ”My cabbages!!

"The truth! Yes, the truth shall be revealed for no evil shall hide from the eyes of Aroden! No darkness shall obscure the purity of heart and faith. And I assure you of this, that the truth shall be revealed and shall suffer upon the mighty blade of Adroden! Exxor thrusts his dagger upwards with the last sentence for emphasis.

"To see that which is not there, gaze upon what is." From somewhere upon her person/prop, she pulls out an oversized blade clearly not meant for one of her stature but putting The mighty blade of Adroden to shame

I blame Cosmo for NorthKoreaInsultGenerator not updating with the current regime insults.

Interesting overheard convo at work last night. Normally certain topics are verboten, and in this case, this was brought up by one of our more religious employees. Discussion of the rising atheism survey, tragic signs, the devil yadda yadda. When initially mentioned, it apparently didn't garner much or perhaps more likely the appropriate pearl clutching reaction. She moved it to a more receptive audience and repeated her efforts.
In the meantime, the others left behind quietly talked below their hearing threshold and confirmed a few things: We were atheists or kept our faith to ourselves. We were GLBT allies/membership or had no issue with it. We noted the hypocrisy in the overheard convo: proclamations of morals and faith followed by threats.

End result? We know who has our back, who doesn't. And acknowledgment that religion should remain a verboten subject at work.

My daughter's "clique" at high school has a member who is gay. This is an open secret among the group and several circles out. Shoot, I even knew and he has been to our house only a couple of times. (No he didn't have stereotypical mannerisms, just an average boy) He had plans to out himself to his parents in a few months. Well, apparently his mom last night broke the ice first by asking him if he was ever gonna tell her. I am sure that was an interesting convo because he is formally out and fully supported. Right now my daughter is making cookies for a lunch time celebration tomorrow. Apparently it is a big load off his shoulders. :-)

Needless to say but I will, his mom knew for a while yet waited for him disclose on his terms. She finally dismissed the elephant in the room so everyone could move forward openly and lovingly.

Damn proud of daughter and happy for him.

Congrats!

Gotta go. But before I do...
Hippa sings the third verse of a very dirty ditty. Casts CLW for Brannock 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9 Her faces puckers up into a scowl and spits up a bit. Gripping the tankard charm, Hippa looks up, "Caydean, you are just soooo funny." Brannock understands why Hippa did not appreciate the third verse, as she now swishes out her mouth with water from the waterskin.

I'll post near midnight. Gotta an opp to play PFS tonight. Hope I don't die.

Checks in with the group the next evening after a jubilant celebratory "success". Apparently, her gnome-like cheerfulness was infectious during her day-job was affecting sales. She walks to the inn, whistling a tune reminiscent from previous night and oddly enough she is accompanied by an unseen chorus of whistlers for the refrain.

*whistling refrain stops as she speaks* Ghostsound expired.
"Top O'the evening! Mywhistlingimprovedovernightitseems. Drivingmybossupthewall." *giggle*

Passing along an experience from my former life in the military. The DADT was repealed or dying BUT I've had personal past experience with surviving one overt hunt/purge due to a former barrack and roommate who was outed, discharged and I got along with, plus my own closeted but suspected issues. And more subtle questioning even years later on. Yes I knew, confirmed and kept that knowledge to myself before, during and after which probably added suspicion as to my status. Those were some fun times. [/sarcasm]
Sums up the paranoid background, without going into detail.

So near the endtimes of DADT, I was providing and supervising a week long training for one of our field units and observed a female enlisted with masculine traits. Didn't say anything just noted it quietly to myself, figured I'd write their certificate of completion/qualification in gender neutral phrasing and initialed name vs full name. Not only am I an LGBT ally, but I am also a member. :-)

What pleasantly surprised me was the grassroots support for him. Throughout the week, several folks (his peers) quietly and individually took me aside (unbeknownst to each other) stating the person's desire to avoid female designators or preferred gender neutral nomenclature. It was heartening to see the change in attitude and support for a crewmate trying to do his job regardless of gender expression.

On the other hand, I was a little discouraged by my own status and experiences. Plus my current command supervising the field unit was hostile/toxic environment, intolerant of anyone who was not a sycophant, much less room for self-expression. I kept him under the radar. I was envious but happy for him. I occasionally wonder where he is now.

RecknBall

This may not seem like a big deal to some but I went for a walk dressed up all by my lonesome. Sure it was 1 am but it was a mile walk along a road that was busier than I expected. There were no pedestrians but there were plenty of cars. One circled by twice. I got a little nervous but they never stopped. The point is that I did it without anyone there to support me in person. For me, that's a big deal.

It is always a big deal. Every single time. Even when it isn't, upon self-reflection later the angry mob never showed up, it is a wonderful sense of freedom. Big deal.

"Shouldvegottenacart" Obliviously examining the shadowcreature up close, Hippa slips into gnomespeak, Oooooing and Aaaahhhhhing as she lifts one appendage after another and "Mywhatbigteethwehave... Nouseforroughagehere."

Of course we can ask my "Just graduated from High School" daughter how many continents there are, which recently came up in discussion. She piped up with utmost sincerity that there were 12 continents but only 52 countries. <--She has discovered the conspiracy.

I was reluctant to inquire about any further details. OTOH: My 14yo laid into her sister's ignorance on my behalf.

105. "Yer dawg bit me."
"That's not my dog."
"I don't think ya unnerstand. YER.DAWG.BIT.ME."
"Listen buddy, I don't own a ..." {kapow}

303. Annual Carpendem Roof Runner Race. Initially this was about bragging rights among a few close but competitive rogues and passed via word of mouth. Now has grown to an annual event. Although unsanctioned and prohibited by the govt and anyone caught serves a week in a cell or a hefty fine serves only as yet another obstacle for all the contestants. The objective is run from the former Moon Melon HQ building to the current HQ. Typically occurring sometime in the week prior to the moon melon fest. Simple right? Rules are simple but not enforced. Competitors wear numbered scarves. Running on ground to cross a street is permitted but expect mocking if you do so. Purists will disavow magic assist.

This race has its critics as well as cheerleaders.

302. A horrific shriek fills the early morning hours coming from the bakery. Much thumping and banging behind the doors, then two thugs bust out into the dimly lit street, faces white as the moon. They run as fast as their feet can take them as a bread golem follows them out to give chase.

Inside, the baker holds a bloody apron to his head and starts to pick up the mess. He is grinning and chuckling. "That should give'em pause. Who needs protectin' now?"

Congrats Doug!
Two fond memories of playing at Doug's table I'd like to relay.
1st story: It was my first tabletop RPG in a 15+ year drought. I heard about Pathfinder and just moved to Michigan. New guy all around. Googled gamers and RIW came up. Unannounced, I arrived. Kyle Baird interpreted my dazed look correctly and greeted me with an Obi-Wan wave "These are the geeks you are looking for." Doug introduced himself as lead conspirator, was shocked that I drove an hour for a chance to play. He made room. Thusly I was a born-again RPGer. [insert draconic chant here]

2nd story: Same FLGS, RIW, there was a call out for anyone willing to play a cleric. Good news! I had one that fit the bill. Unfortunately, she gave her life to save the rest of the table. Good news! In gratitude, everyone pitched in to rez her. Unfortunately, Doug decides to leave his mark.
Upon waking from the shorted cold deep sleep, it was noted on her PFS sheet she rec'd a free nipple piercing and a discrete tattoo compliments of the sole Lamashtu cleric the players located to perform the rez.

Thank you Doug. :-)