Wet and Windy in Cambridge

On Monday, I managed to get out for a meal and a few drinks with my friend Liz in Cambridge.

Running a tad late due to work, the weather (cold and wet) decided my outfit. I wore my new denim leggings tucked into my knee high boots and a black and white patterned tunic on top and my red ¾ length coat over the top to keep warm. I was very pleased with the overall look.

I have recently re-discovered Revlon colourstay foundation and found that now, over a water based Kryolen to neutralise any remnant beard shadow, the Revlon foundation looks very good and neutral. Certainly Liz was quite favourable about the look.

We started at the Pickerel Inn and made ourselves comfortable next to the fire whilst enjoying a glass of wine. Deciding to go to the Rice Bucket, we made our way back to the car but on the way walked past an English Restaurant – The St John’s Chop House. Looking in through the window, the place was busy and inviting so we decided to try there.

Luckily they had a table for two available and we sat down in the midst of throngs of Christmas revellers. The menu was very good and I chose the goose with bacon flavoured mashed potatoes and associated vegetables, Liz choosing a peppered steak with mash rather than hand cut chips.

The food and the service was very good and we enjoyed the warmth and atmosphere of the restaurant, so much so that when I am out again with my wife, this coming Wednesday, we are looking to eat there again. What was good was that there were no surreptitious glances, nudges etc – I felt totally accepted. The owner chatted to us as did the waitress and no one batted an eyelid.

Moving on, we decided not to venture too far due to the weather and so returned to the Pickerel Inn, which by now was very busy and standing room only. There was a good cross section of clientele there and age groups but throughout, did not feel uncomfortable at all as we chatted away sipping our drinks. On closing, we had the crack with the bar staff as they were tidying up, before we left for Liz’s and a nightcap. We sat up for an hour talking about a wide range of topics including the “friend” that had recently caused me so much trouble. Hopefully, this is now behind us as Liz is aware of my fears for her and myself by association.

Manchester Concord Christmas Meal

Having booked myself and Jackie in for the meal on the Saturday evening and travelling on the Friday, we decided that we would go out together as husband and wife on our arrival at the New Union pub where we were staying.

The advantage of this was we could be out in less than 30 minutes from arrival and knowing we were going to be quite late getting there this would relieve me of some of the pressure of getting ready.

After a quick starter at the Union, our first port of call was Eden’s where we enjoyed a couple of quiet drinks musing over my comment that I didn’t know where any of the Gent’s toilets were in the bars we were visiting, this being the very first time out in the village as “Bob!”

Moving on, we had a couple of drinks in Trebica where we were approached by a mildly drunk guy who asking us where we were from. I answered St Helens (originally born and bred) to be met by the usual retort “woolly back!” I responded to his acknowledgement of him coming from Kirby by calling him a “Scouse Tw…t!” which went down well. We then had a bit of a laugh before we continued on our way back up to Canal Street and Taurus only to be turned away from Taurus by a big female bouncer telling us that it was only for regulars!

Not sure if I had have been wearing a dress whether we would have got in but I have as Emma spent quite a bit of money in Taurus this year and was suitably miffed.

One for the road in Eden’s and we made our way back to our hotel all of 100 yards! and got some shut eye.

The next morning, instead of rushing to get ready, we took our time, sharing the bathroom and various mirrors. Unfortunately whilst getting dressed, the zip tag on one of my boots broke and so I resorted to a pair of flats with my jeans and a blouse on top. To keep warm I wore my blue patterned denim jacket.

Walking through the City to the car at Charles Street, I felt really alive – after all we were going shopping at Trafford Centre. What girl wouldn’t be excited!

Leaving the City, we realised that we didn’t really know the way and so we had to travel back towards the M6 until we picked up the signs. On arrival at the car park we struggled to find a space despite the signs telling us that there were xx spaces available. This happened in three separate car parks before we found a spot which wasn’t being contested by another woman driver hell bent on getting to the shops!

On entering the mall, we decided to build up the stamina with a stop outside the food hall at a café where we enjoyed a bacon butty and cuppa tea before joining the hoards of shoppers – good job we are in a recession, who knows how many people there would have been otherwise.

I enjoyed the chance to meander almost invisible amongst lots of people all intent in doing their own thing and with the radar turned right down didn’t notice any strange looks or comments.

Checking out the many dress shops, we flitted in and out amongst the racks not finding anything we liked in our “price bracket” until we ended up at Debenham’s.

We spent a couple of hours checking out the clothes, shoes and cosmetics before purchasing a pair of over the knee boots for Jackie together with a new pair of skinny jeans, a new pair of evening shoes for myself, a new evening bag which as both of us have shoes that match will be shared and after some fun in the changing rooms, a pair of denim stretch leggings – ideal for my boots. In order to try some of the clothes on I had to queue up on several occasions and pass by uninterested boyfriends, husbands and children waiting for their partner / mum trying clothes on in adjacent cubicles.

Before departing, we satisfied our thirst in the café with some cold drinks and then on leaving the Centre stopped to take a picture only to be approached by one of the car park attendants who asked if we ladies would like him to take the picture. Reference to “ladies” still gives me a warm feeling throughout and probably contributed to my smile in the picture.

Getting back to Manchester, we quickly changed and had drink in the bar contacting Dianna in the process. As we were meeting for the meal at 6-30 and it was now 5-30, we repaired to our room to get ready. For once, for me, this was quite easily and quickly accomplished as I slipped into a 3/4 length silver dress, fishnet tights and tweaked my make up allowing Jackie time to get ready unencumbered by me.

Telephoning Dianne at 6-15 that we were ready there was a gasp from the phone, this was probably the very first time I was ready on time, certainly early! And I could tell Dianne was impressed!

Making our way down the corridor I almost came a cropper missing a step and only just recovering. Down in the bar, we bought a round of drinks whilst looking for Dianne. In the short time I was at the bar, Jackie managed to get picked up by a lesbian! – fast worker! until she pointed me out at the bar!

With our eyes on the clock, we finished the wine and made our way over Villagios where we met up with the rest of the girls for the Christmas meal.

As usual, the food was very good and considering there were 39 of us, the service was excellent. Not too sure what the rest of the diners thought – don’t care, we had a good chat and my thanks to Mary for the thankless task of organising the meal and getting the money off everyone – an achievement in it’s own right!

After the meal, we retired to our room to get changed. I was feeling a little sore due to the corset I had been wearing and it was great feeling to unfasten it and throw it in the corner! Bra and knickers under a tight short black skirt and a black and white tunic on top were the order of the day. Sod the mid rift bulge!

Down at the bar we met up with Di again and after a quick drink made our way up to Paddy’s Goose – a place we had not been to before. The place was busy but I enjoyed the down to earth character of the pub and we were not the only girls in the place, meeting up with Elaine and Catherine once more amongst others. My wife was most concerned that considering it was supposed to be a “gay” pub, she managed to get her arse pinched by a guy on the way to the bar. As I told her, she was still jealous of me getting my arse slapped in Canal Street when she didn’t, earlier in the year.

Di was quite popular attracting the attention of a few guys whilst Jackie and I chatted with Catherine.

Moving on from there we went to New York, New York which was wall to wall with bodies in various stages of inebriation. The music was recognisable – so it must have been old; dancing was frantic.

With no chance of holding a conversation we eventually decided it was past midnight and time for Napoleon’s. At this juncture, I walked Jackie back to the hotel as she wasn’t feeling particularly well (she had had a bad cold all week) and then returned to Napoleon’s where I met up with Kate (no sign of Di!) on the dance floor – where else!

Dianne eventually appeared and we stopped for a drink during which Di got chatting to a guy, leaving me and Kate to chat.

Back on the dance floor with Di, she managed, after slipping on some liquid and standing on my toe (open toed shoes!) to perform an intricate series of manoeuvres some of which had never been seen outside a swimming pool! ending star shaped flat on the floor. Luckily only her dignity suffered and as I swore not to tell anyone (lie mode disengaged!) she returned to her drink.

By 3am, Di had disappeared, Kate and I ended the evening downstairs having a quiet chat before leaving together, me returning to my hotel and Kate her car.

Undressing and cleaning off my make up, I reflected that this would be the last time we would be in the village this year and wondered how often we could visit in 2010. It was almost a year to the day that I had first met Kate and Di at the Northern Angels Christmas meal and the first time I had stayed in the village. What a difference a year can make!

Further Adventures in Cambridge

Last week, I received from my friend Liz, an invitation to attend a lecture on Freetrade and in particular, the sugar industry centred in Malawi, organised by the Co Operative Society at The Moller Centre in Cambridge on Wednesday night.

Whilst at first glance, the topic was outside my current interest, the opportunity of attending as Emma was too much to pass by, that and the provision of a pre meeting buffet and some entertainment afterwards.

Arriving at Liz’s later than planned (work getting in the way!), I quickly got changed and ready in a record time of less than 45 minutes from scratch! It helped that I had already decided on my outfit and that I had stripped my make up down to the bare necessities and due to the increased number of times I have been going out, have developed a make up routine which is quick but effective and works for me.

For the evening, I wore a black button through dress with contrasting burgundy fishnet tights with a rose pattern superimposed on them. On my feet, still recovering from an injured knee when I stumbled after catching my heel in a crack whilst out in Manchester over Halloween, I resorted to a pair of bronze coloured kitten heeled pumps.

We drove over to the centre and joined the group attending in the ante room where we were treated to a sumptuous buffet. It was a first for me as I was mingling as a woman with what was generally a fairly older group of couples and scholarly individuals in a completely normal environment. After a few nervous moments having to sign in, I quickly settled down and with Liz, mingled, even chatting to a few of the people there.

On entering the auditorium, we took our places near the front and listened with interest to the various presentations, at the end of which we were treated to a drum and dance group from Ghana to finish the evening. When looking for volunteers to get up and dance, I managed to make my self small and hid behind an elderly couple in front of us. I guess that sort of exposure would have been just too much for me and probably the audience!

Afterwards we repaired to the ante room and took a coffee, joining in a chat with another woman about work, families etc. It felt very normal and I really forgot how I was dressed for a short while whilst talking. We even gave the woman a lift into town on leaving.

Parking the car we made our way to our local – The Pickerel Arms and on entry were warmly greeted by Claire, one of the bar staff who we knew from previous visits. Claire joined us during her break and we caught up with what had been happening. The bar was quite busy, packed with students – obviously a more popular night than our more normal Monday night.

On leaving the Pickerel Arms we went looking for some live music and walked further into the centre past numerous groups of revellers. We eventually found a live band playing at a Jazz bar / club close to the Market Square and purchasing drinks made our way upstairs to catch the last few songs of a two hour set. We got up and danced, joining 4 other girls and a bloke (not many were there which was a shame as they were very good).

On closing time, after chatting for a while with the sax player and the singer – yet another American, we made our way around the corner and found a bar which was still serving. In fact it was a bar that I had first come across when out with Mary earlier in the year. The bar which specialised in cocktails was heaving and it took a while for me to get served, standing at the bar in the midst of a rake of students all paying for their rounds with plastic!

Taking our drinks out, we sipped them outside of Karen Millens and then got chatting to two girls out for a ciggie break from the adjacent Fez nightclub. The girl I was speaking to had amazing eye make up and during our conversation I mentioned how fascinated I was and how had she achieved the effect. In return, she was intrigued by my tights, asking where I had purchased them from.

Whilst talking to the girls, it became obvious that one of the bouncers at Fez’s was somewhat upset by my presence, though to be frank (which clearly I wasn’t!) I didnt give a monkeys! Though it did colour my judgement when the two girls invited us back into the night club as we sadly declined the offer.

Given the time of night and the state of the majority of the people in and around the passage where we were, not surprisingly, one drunken guy cried out “That’s a bloke!” as I retorted No s…t Sherlock! That shut him up and the fact that I was probably half as heavy again as him probably helped silence him.

Again this comment didn’t dampen my enjoyment yet it’s only just over a year ago that a similar situation occurred whilst out late in Towcester, which severely impacted on my confidence, panicked me and left me hiding for over 30 minutes down a back alley before returning back to my car. It just shows how far I have come in the intervening year.

Finishing our drinks we decided to call it a day and walked back through the centre of Cambridge chatting away as two girlfriends, groups and individuals passing us by, we stopped off for the obligatory photograph this time in front of the fountain opposite the Japanese restaurant before continuing to the car and returning to Liz’s.

Long Distance Tranny!

Due to my new job, close to Cambridge, it has proved to be too difficult to make the journey up to Teela’s for Tea at Teela’s but I didn’t want to miss the last time before Christmas to see Teela and my girlfriends. With Teela and Dave spending Christmas in Florida and not knowing whether any of my friends would be out at the Concord Christmas meal on the 5th, I decided to make the effort and leaving work at 3pm, started on the 187 mile journey.

The trip was going really well until I got caught on the A500 by an accident at Alsager which delayed me by 30 minutes. Nevertheless I rolled up outside the door at 6-30 and having met the early visitors and with a cup of tea in my hand went upstairs to get ready.

My outfit for the evening was a new short skirt in aubergine teamed with purple glittery top, black patterned tights and a pair of flats on my feet. I was still struggling with my damaged knee so heels were out for the time being. 75 minutes from start to finish was pretty good in my books as I get more proficient in getting ready; it helps having chosen what I was to wear and refining my make up.

It was great to meet up with the gang, Dianne, Mandy, Tina and Kate and the evening passed all too quickly in good company. It was the best supported evening that I had attended with lots of new (to me) girls attending.

In a moment of blood to the head, I volunteered to have a go on the catwalk of a fashion show Teela was organising for March and that she was going to take to Sparkle! In a way whilst sh….ing bricks I am quite looking forward to having a go! Just need to learn the walk sober and with a couple of bottles of wine down me!

Taking advantage of being at Teela’s I chose and purchased a new wig in a reddy brown which was a lot longer than I had been wearing. I was very pleased with the look.

Come 11pm, I reluctantly stripped away evidence of Emma and returned to the real world, bidding Dave and Teela goodnight and a great holiday, at turned 11-30pm, I climbed into the car for my trip home. 121 miles and 2 hours later I arrived, climbing the stairs to bed for 4 hours sleep before getting up to go to work later that morning.

Was it worth it? – OF COURSE IT WAS! I do miss these monthly gatherings.

Further Adventures out and about in Cambridge

The first Monday in the month at La Raza in Cambridge the resident band – The Chancellors of Vice hold an open mike night where anyone can turn up with an instrument and play or sing a few tracks.

Having discovered this venue and the band the previous month during fresher’s week, I had arranged to go out with Liz and Mary again this Monday, however, Mary was unable to join us.

Liz had previously invited me to stay at her house and to get changed there so saving me the cost of a hotel. My chief concern was how her 16 year old daughter would react. I need not have worried, as she was completely un phased by my presence, though to be fair, by the time she got home, I was dressed, wig on and part way through putting my face on.

Holding a conversation with her as I was doing my eyes was a pretty novel experience. Acceptance at any age is good but at that tender age, is something to treasure.

As the venue is pretty student orientated, I decided to wear my tight jeans tucked into knee high heeled boots and a casual top over basic underwear i.e. no major underpinning! I also reverted back to my more expensive wig for a change, which is shorter and darker in colour.

Overall, I was very pleased with the look and felt completely at ease when we made our way from the car to our first port of call The Pickerel Inn. To keep warm, I wrapped up in my new ¾ length red coat from M&S, purchased when shopping with my wife at Cheshire Oaks earlier in the year.

Whilst sipping on a wine spritzer, we chatted with the bar staff who we know quite well now and checked out a good Indian restaurant to eat at. They as always were so helpful and accepting and treated us as regulars.

Following their advice, we finished our drinks and got back to the car to drive to the restaurant. Parking was a little tight but I managed and made our way to the restaurant passing through a bunch of guys outside the door without any comment / reaction whatsoever other than good manners in letting us through.

The feeling of acceptance continued to keep me on a high as we asked for a table for two. The place was fairly quiet initially and we were put on a table in the window adjacent to one occupied by a bunch of businessmen. Shortly after taking our order, a large mixed group of well dressed students entered, the girls in pretty evening frocks / dresses and the place started to fill up.

The restaurant lived up to its reputation, the food being exemplary in both taste and quantity whilst the service was spot on. At all times we were referred quite correctly as ladies and offered every courtesy that you would expect.

Even in the toilets, I exchanged comments with two beautiful young students about the hit and miss workings of the hand dryer. Not a raised eyebrow, totally laid back , what a feeling.

Finishing our meal, we drove back into town, parked and walked through the centre to La Raza. On descending the stairs into the club, the girl on the door recognised us and greeted us warmly. Again, what a feeling of total acceptance. This is not a GLBT friendly venue, it is just a normal club in Cambridge.

Grabbing a drink, we made our way to the dance floor and managed to secure seats right at the front of the band. The resident band, The Chancelors of Vice were in top form and several guest players got up and contributed to the wide range of music played. The main gendre was jazz/funk soul . the American lead singer, Ann, as well as being very pretty, has an amazing voice and her rendition of a Duffy number knocked spots off the original.

Sitting so close to the band however I seemed to attract the attention of the sax player – not sure exactly what he was thinking though!

During a toilet break, I started chatting to an Australian girl, a scientist working in Cambridge married to a Scottish banker. She was sitting adjacent to us in the main room. It turns out that she was originally from Melbourne. She was so complimentary about my appearance (what girl doesn’t like flattery!!) and we chatted about families, my dressing, my wife children etc whilst fixing my hair and face.

On our return to the main bar, we joined her husband and the two other couples they were out with to enjoy the rest of the performance, after which we continued to chat whilst finishing our drinks. During the course of the conversation, we exchanged contact details and arranged to meet before the next night that The Chancellors of Vice were schedule to perform for a meal at a local Italian Restaurant, this being Monday, November the 30th. I can’t wait.

On leaving the bar at 1230hrs we made our way back through the quiet streets, the noise of our heels echoing between the cloisters of the historic Cambridge Colleges. Wrapped up from the chill we made our way back to the car stopping for a picture to be taken next to the River Cam.

Back at Liz’s, I carefully removed all traces of Emma, re packed my bag and climbed into bed eventually at 2am. The end of an exciting yet ordinary evening in Cambridge, acceptance and tolerance everywhere we went. Can’t wait to do it again!

Halloween in the Village

Who could miss it? As expected, all the affordable hotels were fully booked up and so we resorted to our trusty back up – The Travelodge at Lymm Services.

To go out on the Saturday entailed a pretty hectic schedule starting with the difficulties of packing a case whilst our youngest was in the house, organise my rugby team, play a league rugby match (we won) in Leicester, return home, pick up the wife, drop the daughter, load the car fielding questions from the youngest as o why were we taking two suitcases and a sports bag for one night!

Finally, we managed to get on the road for 6-20pm with Jackie driving allowing me to have a shave thus saving 10 minutes at the other end. Arriving at the hotel at 8-20, Jackie left me to get ready and filled the car up with fuel and grabbed something to eat.

For the night I had chosen to push the boundaries of decency as far as possible choosing a body con LBD from New Look which admittedly, was short – short of material some would say! – but what the hell, you are only young once and I am reliving my youth. Teamed up with diamond patterned opaques (no chance with stockings!) and a pair of snakeskin effect open toed heels in dark pink, the dress fitted great (over the corset that is!) Jackie was wearing an eually tight new body con dress she picked up on our last shopping trip from Karen Millen and on her feet, my favourite thigh high stiletto heeled boots – eat your heart out!

Finally ready, we made our way downstairs past reception eliciting a smile from the receptionist, the same woman who had booked us both in some 90 minutes earlier!, and made our way across the car park to the car.

On arrival at our normal parking spot at the top of Canal Street we unsurprisingly found it to be full as were all the streets in the vicinity so it was back to plan B and leaving the car in Charles Street. Strutting along towards the village, we joined the throngs of party goers all in fancy dress. At Eden’s we met up with our good friends, Kate, Shirley, Tina and Mandy and I was pleasantly surprised to find Jenny was there as well with Marilyn. The girls all looked superb and I was particularly proud of the way my wife looked. The continued weight loss by Kate was evident – good on you.

After a couple of drinks and a chat, the girls left for Spirit accompanied by Marlene who had joined us. We followed on finishing our drinks just as Summer of 69 was blasting out! and joined them on the mezzanine floor of Spirit.

The place was heaving with a huge variety of weird and whacky costumes, lots of Bo Peeps for some reason and quite a few fruits! It is strange that whilst we were in costume, we were the only ones who didn’t look like we had entered into the spirit of the occasion!

Due to the numbers making it difficult to get a drink at the bar, use the toilets and the noise level making it almost impossible to hold a conversation, we decided to move on with Kate and Shirley leaving us to form the advance guard at Napoleons, we followed via a bar that Marlene knew below the pavement level surprisingly called “The Bar Below”

Having negotiated the steps into the cellar, we were treated to some good music that I recognised and quaffed a couple of drinks. The ambiance was good and it is a venue we will return to in the future. However, I did face the ultimate in contortion tricks as I needed to go to the ladies. No lock on the door and no toilet seat made for a very interesting manoeuvre whilst trying to squat one legged, knickers and tights down with the other leg against the door. I seriously pondered on why they were called conveniences at this juncture.

At least I wasn’t alone in my condemnation of the toilets as I chatted to a number of girls in front of the mirror whilst refreshing the lipstick. My wife smiled knowingly when I returned to the group and related my trials and tribulations in the ladies. “Now you know what we have to put up with all the time” she said with a Cheshire grin on her face.

Past the witching hour, we made our way to Napoleon’s but were unable to find Kate or Shirley and with the downstairs area closed off (presumably for a private party) we initially remained adjacent to the dance floor sipping our drinks and chatting.

Moving back down to the ground floor we met up with a nice Welsh couple, the guy though 'T' was in “bob” mode.

Finally after a few more drinks and with my wife visibly flagging we decided to call it a night at 4am and we picked up our jackets and made our way through the still busy streets of the village and back to the car park where we gave Tina and Mandy a lift back to Tina’s before making our way back to Lymm.

We finally made the hotel for 5am absolutely dead on our feet only to find that in our absence, the roof had developed a leak and water was dripping from the ceiling and had caused a soggy wet patch at the foot of the bed!

We couldn’t see the point of trying to get anything done at this time and so I carefully removed my make up and undressed for bed, mindful of the previous occasion when I had upset my wife by collapsing comatose into bed still fully made up, wig on and in my underwear!

The following morning – just!, we woke at 11-45am – only 2 hours later than we had planned and threw everything into our cases, departed for home where we needed to be for 1-30pm – obviously not possible now, our progress was further stymied by traffic hold ups on the M6 Southbound which resulted us in covering 23 miles in 90 minutes!

Luckily, my daughter’s rugby match was called off or we would have been too late to take her, arriving home eventually at a few minutes past three after a pretty eventful 24 hours.

BNO 9th October 2009 - Pink Punters

I had been looking forward to the weekend and a new venue since the idea blossomed some months earlier, a night out with my wife, friends old and new at Pink Punters including an early evening meal at a Thai Restaurant in Milton Keynes.

Having taken a half day off work, I drove over to Bletchley late lunchtime, whilst my wife was driving down separately from Loughborough.

Finding the hotel was a breeze and soon I was booking in behind Saffy and friend.

The receptionist was very friendly and asked if I was there for the BNO and if it was my first time. In actual fact this was my 2nd visit to PPs, my first being almost a year earlier shortly after Emma started to spread her wings and was accompanied then by Alina and Belinda.

In the room, with plenty of time I decided that I would be able to join Gayna shopping in Milton Keynes before returning to meet up with my wife and get ready for the evening.

I chose my new black top from Debenhams with a denim skirt and chequer patterned opaque’s on my legs and my trusty black shoes with 4” heels. My make up was understated for daytime, browns and beige for the eyes and a nice pink lipstick matching my nails to finish the look.

Satisfied with my appearance, I made my way downstairs and past reception into the bar where I met up with Gayna. What I had not realised was that this was to be her first venture out in daytime shopping.

Gayna chose to drive and after a few false starts we managed to navigate our way into central Milton Keynes and parked. With only an hour to spend, we made our way into the mall and meandered in and out of the shops. Unfortunately, we managed to attract the attention of a somewhat disreputable gentlemen who was finally put off when we dived into a ladies shoe shop.

Not being put off, we continued our window shopping, chatting away and enjoying the feeling. Gayna was superb and lapped up the moment. Even being spotted by a group of teenage girls didn’t detract from the experience. Again, no alarm bells rang, everyone was out doing there own thing and we fitted in on a Saturday afternoon in Milton Keynes.

All too soon, it was time to make our way back to the hotel and get ready for the evening.

By now, my wife had arrived and after having a quick drink with Dianne who had also arrived, we went to our room to get ready. I chose my golden mini dress worn as a top over the new animal print skirt I purchased earlier in the week in Cambridge. Refreshing my make up, I darkened everything and chose a doublewear lipstick in raspberry to finish off the look with a slick of lip gloss.

We made the bar just in time for the first mini bus and were dropped off at the restaurant.

Entering, we were cordially greeted by a turbaned doorman resplendid in gold finery and we took the opportunity for some photographs upstairs on the balcony with a magnificent chandelier as a backdrop.

Sitting down in the lounge area whilst waiting for the rest of the party, we enjoyed a glass of chilled white wine taking in the surrounding opulence. After a short wait whilst getting to know some of the other girls (outside our immediate circle of Northern friends) the remaining girls arrived and we were shown into the main dining area having decided on a set menu.

I am not sure what the other diners thought as 16 of us made our way to our table, gold being a theme for the evening.

The food was very good though the quantity was perhaps on the low side – or is it that I am a pig! The company was great, a feeling of belonging being prevalent and of course being out and about dressed in a mainstream environment contributing to the sense of well being.

Toilets! – well, who couldn’t comment on the state of the toilets. Clean, spotless, huge and amazingly finished, the décor matching the overall top class decorations of the restaurant as a whole. My wife and I are already planning a return next month. – No not to the toilets!!!

At the end of the meal, the mini buses were there waiting for us and we returned to the Camponile prior to walking across to PPs. Transport to and from the restaurant was well planned and worked a treat.

Whilst waiting to go across, I took the opportunity to change into my dress for PPs, a short little number I picked up from New Look covered in black sequins and a dark gold jagged lightening flash down the front. Teamed up with my gold peep toed shoes and wearing my rabbit fur jacket, I re-joined my wife downstairs and made our way carefully across the road to PPs. Pretentious! Moi!!

Having paid the entrance fee and handing over our jackets, we climbed the stairs to the lounge area at the top of the building and sat down with our drinks. The place was busy with a lot of girls and once again we soaked up the atmosphere chatting having temporarily lost our friends.

Deciding on finding the others, we were on our way down to one of the dance floors when we bumped into Dianne and together we finally came across the rest of the “dancing queens!” on the dance floor strutting their stuff.

Finally after being out with my wife on a few previous occasions, we ended up dancing together – well dancing as far as I was concerned, the less charitable amongst us may beg to differ!

I guess at this time, I kicked off my shoes and danced in stocking feet braving everyone else’s heels! Taking advantage of not having to drive, I tucked in with gusto to the beer and wine and in no time I was somewhat the worse for wear born out by my inability to take any photos without them being blurred! – they seemed fine to me at the time – honest!

By 3am, my wife (for wife, read me!) was just about done in and we decided to retire to our room. Picking up our jackets we staggered across the car park – up the slope in 5” heels and 3/4” platforms – somewhat of a feat (scuse the pun!) given my state and then we had the bright idea of taking a short cut up a grassy embankment instead of walking around on the road. The brightest amongst you will straight away see the folly of this given the shoes we were both wearing, however several bottles of Budweiser had somewhat affected my thought process! And as a result I made it up the bank only to hold out my hand to my wife and then lose my footing and shoe/s in the process. Luckily I managed to avoid any injuries and damage to my clothes though the soles of my stockings ended up wet and muddy!

Back in the room, I then committed the cardinal sin and fell asleep still partially clothed and with my make up still on. My wife was not a happy bunny the following morning as I had to dash to the bathroom to finish changing!

Packing the next day, we both made our way to our cars for the quick sprint North – I was scheduled to play rugby that afternoon and I still had 75 miles to go when we left at noon, such are the anomalies of being a t-girl!

Monday night in Cambridge - Fresher week

Having re arranged the day off I had booked for Friday’s night out at Pink Punters into two half days, I was able to book into my room at 2pm and get out for some late afternoon shopping in Cambridge before meeting up with Mary for a meal and a few drinks in the evening.

It took me 90 minutes to get ready which was quite good for me. I had at the last minute purchased a new pencil skirt from Tesco’s which matched my jacket which I wore rather than the very tight skirt I had intended.

Dressed as though I was on my way home from a day in the office, I parked at the Grafton Centre and made my way to the shops.


My first port of call was Next and then onto Debenhams where I enjoyed searching through the racks of clothes including a beautiful prom dress in my size at half price – then reality stepped in! I did though try on and purchase two new tops and a skirt without the bat of an eyelid. In fact the girls couldn’t have been friendlier.

At Barrets I found the boots I had been looking for only to discover they had them in most sizes but not an 8 – I was gutted although my purse was somewhat pleased!

I checked out New Look and then picked up some face powder in Boots before sitting down for a coffee and some cake at the coffee shop close to the cinema complex. Sitting there on the mezzanine with my legs crossed sipping my coffee watching the world go by is as real as it gets!

With time running out I checked out a few more clothes shops, including BHS, mingling with the freshers and still not a raised eyebrow before making my way back to the car with my purchases. I felt really liberated and definitely on a high.

I even managed to cause a queue to form behind me when trying to pay for my car park ticket – juggling purse, handbag, purchases and loose change with nails !

Making my way across the city I stopped adjacent to the river and spent a quiet 10 minutes reflecting on where I was, watching the swans and the boats go by as the night descended. Life is good.

Parking in my usual spot I answered a call from my eldest – sitting there in a tight skirt and top speaking about my wife’s birthday later this week – who said they wanted to introduce video phones!

I walked over to the Pickerel Arms – our usual rendevouz where I made myself comfortable, legs crossed on a high stool in the corner of the bar sipping a large house white wine. Mary was on her way back from Norwich and would be there for seven.

Again, I was fully accepted by all those around me and had an entertaining chat with the bar staff whilst waiting – about French wine.

Bang on seven I was joined by Mary and shortly afterwards by our friend Liz. We spent the next hour catching up with the gossip and chatting away in the middle of a pub quickly getting full of freshers and the regulars.


Deciding on Spanish we made our way across the river and ate at the Spanish restaurant enjoying a centre table in a busy restaurant,We chose the Tapas option and had a really great meal. The ambiance was good and frankly we just enjoyed being there in a normal environment getting on with life.

One anecdotal memory of the evening was having been to the toilet, I was washing my hands and tidying my make up when a woman dashed in and into one of the cubicles. I had found to my discomfort that there was only paper in one of the three stalls and so without prompting passed the only roll under the door.

We exchanged pleasantries about how often this happens and then went on our way returning each to our own table.

After the meal, Mary took her leave as she had an early morning train to catch and I accompanied Liz to La Raza – a bar which hosts live music.

This evening it was a live mike night where the resident band – Chancellor of Vice – who were very good in their own right, were joined by singers, musicians etc to jam and play some classics (Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd, Superstition – Stevie Wonder, some tracks from The Commitments) There was some great music played from jazz funk, R&B, soul and blues with guys on sax, trumpet, six string bass and some great singers all doing their thing. Just wanted to get up and join the girls on the dance floor but for once my nerves got the better of me – though to be fair I wasn’t exactly dressed for dancing – I will return dressed appropriately – I already have in mind the dress I will wear.

The place was heaving – packed with a good cross selection of people including a fair number of freshers and other students and one ‘girl’ – me! the girls were brilliant and the dancing made me so jealous! Once again, no problems whatsoever even though the drink was flowing. The atmosphere, company, being out dressed, being accepted, all contributed to making the evening so enjoyable.

We stayed for a couple of hours soaking up the experience before the witching hour struck and we had to make our way back. Outside, we stopped to chat to one of the organisers who’s boyfriend played in the band and one of the bar staff about being out and about in Cambridge and the music and the evenings organised at La Raza. We were invited back to the next one which I definitely want to go to, circumstances permitting. What a great evening’s entertainment.

Making our way back to the car, our heels echoing on the ancient walls, the wind caressing gently our nylon clad legs, the skirt pulling – oops – stop it now!!, avoiding the mess from freshers and bodies staggering back to wherever, I had time to contemplate.

By now, some 10 hours in 4” heels was beginning to take its toll and the 1 mile stroll back to the car finished off my feet! (still aching the following day!)

I dropped off Liz on the way back to my hotel arriving back at turned 1pm. Another great evening (and day) out in the real world – what a blast!

The Gathering - Manchester

Over the weekend, we were pleased to be able to meet up with Karen, down from Scotland and our good friends, Kate, Mrs Kate, Dianne, Tina and Mandy. This time, for the first time, my wife and I had booked in for two nights at The New Union Inn right at the bottom of Canal Street.

Due to work commitments and traffic, it was past 8-30pm when we arrived in Manchester and on booking in at the hotel, I got the distinct impression from the guy that he was wondering whether we knew the area and that the pub/hotel normally had a large gay clientele!

Contacted by Kate who was out already with Di and Karen, I hurriedly got ready mistakenly advising Kate that we would be ready in 10 minutes. Well, 1 hour later! (Tranny time obviously!)

I decided on my LBD over my strapless corset, black tights and heels and made our way downstairs to the bar where we ordered a bottle of Pinot Grigio and contacted the girls.



Having finished the bottle, we joined then over at Edens where we had another bottle of wine (we had a lot of catching up to do!)

It was good to be out and about with friends again in Manchester. The weather was warm enough to forgo a jacket and from there we crossed the street and had a drink upstairs on the balcony of Manto

Finishing the night at Napoleons, we had a reasonably early night after my wife was spooked by a guy whilst I was away at the toilet.

The following day, it was dressed for shopping, white jeans (M&S), white top(charity shop) and brown heels (purchased from Next in the Arndale centre over the weekend of Sparkle), and my new beige corduroy jacket (E-bay).



We picked up our car from Charles Street and drove to Cheshire Oaks where we had a late breakfast at the Brasserie Egss Benedict - we only just got in while the breakfast menu was still on!).

Being Saturday, the Oaks was packed and we did a slow circuit of the shops starting at M&S. I purchased a new jacket (3/4 length bright red! and skirt which matched my light beige corderoy jacket from M&S after trying them on in the changing rooms, and some more lipsticks from Revlon,(I have a thing about lipstick and shoes for that matter!) a new black bra from the Playtex shop, whilst my wife picked up new underwear from Playtex and La Sensa, and a beautiful new dress from Jane Norman.

I picked up a gorgeous dress in Jane Norman's only to find the front showed way too much flesh which I would be unable to do without a great deal of effort – I was gutted. I even successfully entered and left the Kurt Geiger shoe shop without buying anymore shoes! Wandering around shopping dressed with my wife in a bust=y environment was just great. I don't think I ever stopped smiling.

We finished off our trip by visiting Teela’s who was finishing off a 5* makeover session with a local girl who's name I cant remember - sorry! where we enjoyed a coffee and I picked up some bits and pieces including a halter neck backless black dress with silver sparkles! It fit really well but I will need to pick up a new bra before I wear it. My wife helped herself to a beautiful purple nylon nightdress.

Back in to Manchester, we barely made the quick change for the evening – our meal was booked for 6pm at Velvet and so being only 15 minutes late was pretty good for me! We joined Tina and Mandy, Mrs Kate and the others downstairs having descended the spiral stairs (difficult in 5" heels and a tight skirt!) after sampling a cocktail at the bar - Sour Ammaretto for my wife and a Mojito for myself.

I had chosen to wear my gold patterned dress over a tight clingy black skirt, black stockings and gold heels with peep toes (nothing too ostentatious! (trying out my outfit for PP on the 9th)

The meal was good as usual and the “low fat” desert was something to die for!

Moving on, making the most of the early start, we proceeded to visit some of the remaining bars in Canal Street that we normally don’t have time to go to, starting at Churchill’s and then moving onto Spirit.

I must say that in Spirit, other than our own group, there were not many signs of any “girls” there and most of the people we saw were mixed groups including two hen parties.

Both my wife and I enjoyed the place and we stayed there for a few hours during which we met and chatted to a bunch of girls and two couples up from Leeds. Moving on, we again ended up chatting away to another bunch of girls out on the street before making our way to New York, New York. My wife was somewhat peeved on the way as I had my bum smacked by a guy and she didn’t!!!

New York, New York was heaving and whilst I enjoyed the cheesy sort of music and the atmosphere, it didn't appear to be to the others nor my wife’s taste and so we moved on once more, ending the night in our usual haunt, Napoleon’s.

Unfortunately, whilst at Napoleon’s one of our party was subject to the unwelcome attention of a guy which took the gloss off a little. The atmosphere in Napoleon’s seemed a little strange for some reason I couldn’t put a finger on. I think that the more and more I get out in the normal world, the less comfortable I am becoming in places like Napoleon’s.

As we needed to be away early on the Sunday, and I was flagging somewhat, we retired at 3am back to our hotel having spent an enjoyable two days in Manchester with our Angel friends.

I am next out on the 5th with Mary in Cambridge which I am looking forward to. We are thinking of visiting a country pub for a meal and a few drinks this time or failing that I quite fancy going to the cinema followed by a late evening meal.

Last night, while my youngest was out I tried out a few combinations for my evening in Cambridge and packed an overnight bag.

We will be meeting up with a number of you at PPs on Friday and am looking forward to the meal beforehand in Milton Keynes. My wife has just received her gold dress and what a picture she looks - I am so proud to be married to her.

It's amazing really. Since introducing her to Emma in April, her confidence has increased and she has taken to going out in more and more prettier clothes and making more effort with her appearance. We have great fun choosing clothes together and when out shopping either as me or Emma we bounce ideas off each other and have the confidence to try clothes she would never have considered before.

Some of the day to day conversations we have are pretty surreal and on more than one occasion in company she has raised her eyebrows to me when our friends are talking about something relevant. For instance, at our friends the other evening, my mates wife and her friend were talking about high heeled shoes, comments I could really relate to and to which my wife smiled that knowing smile whilst I continued chatting to my mate about rugby.

A Rainy Night in Cambridge

Once more I arranged to go out in Cambridge with Mary who this time had arranged to also meet up with a woman friend she knew.

All week the question was – what will the weather be? And so I tried to cover all eventualities with what I packed.

In the end, it turned out to be a wet and windy evening and so as I booked into the Days Inn, I had already narrowed down my choices to trousers / jeans, top and jacket with umbrella for the rain.

I wore a new pair of chinos in a light brown with my favourite top over a spanx cami (I know its the same top I wore last time out in Manchester!) and a woolen jacket from Roman Originals. On my feet I wore a pair of caramel brown heels (purchased from Next in the Arndale Centre whilst at Sparkle) and finished off with a brown shoulder bag.

I picked up Mary on the way into Cambridge and having parked the car, near the Punters walked to the Pickerel Inn where we were meeting her friend.

Walking into the pub from the light rain outside, we found the place quite busy and whilst Mary looked for her friend I struck up conversation with the barmaid who we had spoken to on our last visit as she was finishing her break.

Once again, no one gave us a second glance as we sat down accompanied by Mary’s friend chatting about a wide range of subjects. Not once was the way Mary and I were dressed mentioned or raised in conversation. Shortly afterwards we were joined by a bloke who was helping Mary’s friend with her web site – she is a singer and song writer and sells her own work on the internet. Again, the guy took us both in his stride and we had an interesting discussion about travel.

As time was marching on and we had missed last food orders at the Pickerel, we left looking for somewhere to eat. This time we decided on Italian and the three of us (the guy had left by now) sat down to a very tasty meal and a bottle of wine at the Italian Restaurant over the road. There were a couple of families and a large mixed group eating around us and not a raised eyebrow between them. It was a good feeling.

Despite the weather which was now quite blustery and raining, we decided to have a drink in the Eagle and made our way there along quiet deserted streets. The Eagle itself was very busy and as we took our seats we were struck by the looks of a pretty girl on the next table. Striking up a conversation with her, she turned out to be Portuguese and we asked her about the clothes she was wearing (sounds strange now but at the time it seemed pretty natural as they were very pretty and original)

Unfortunately, The Eagle still has pretty strict closing hours and at 11pm we made our way back to The Pickerel for last orders. On closing, we made our way back to my car and I gave Mary and her friend a lift home before heading back to my hotel.

I was up early next morning and dressed in a skirt business suit, I walked out to the services next door and sat in the cafe with a coffee and some toast and read the newspaper. I did feel a little vulnerable at one stage as a gang of workmen came in and ordered drinks just across from me and I certainly was eyeballed! but not sure exactly for what reason!

Back to the hotel I put Emma away once more and making sure all vestiges of my make up and perfume had been removed, reverted to Bob mode and drove the 6 miles to work.

Looking forward to meeting up with Karen and the rest of the gang on Saturday the 19th – have booked into The New Union Inn. If I can persuade my wife, I am hoping to get across for an extra night on the Friday which will give me a chance to do some shopping at the Arndale Centre on the Saturday.

The following Saturday we are going to Suzanne’s birthday party at Pink Punters (after our 1st league game) and then on the 9th October we will be at the BNO at PP with some of our Northern friends.

Just need to know when the Christmas meal is planned for Kate.

19th August - My last Wednesday for a while

As it was to be our 26th wedding anniversary the following day, we took the Wednesday and Thursday off work and made our way North for a night out with our friends in Manchester.

We had originally planned to visit Teela’s but as I usual we were running late and instead went directly to M&S at Gemini Park where we had arranged to meet up with new girl Nikki (in drab) for a coffee.

As usual in these sort of situations neither party knew what each other looked like, however, we did manage to meet. Nikki is just at the point of going out for the first time and since our meeting has had a pleasurable time over at Teelas, some of the pictures I have seen are very good and despite her misgivings, she would fit in fine especially out with us for one of the Wednesday meals run by Kate.

On our way out of M&S I couldn’t resist the temptation and bought myself a new top in black and white – very clingy and a heavy material.

Booking in at the Travelodge, my wife disappeared to the café with a magazine whilst I got ready soon joined by Tina. Once more I changed my intended outfit and ended up wearing one of my favourite net style cream top over a spanx cami and a summery pink and white skirt. With summer quickly running out I took the opportunity to go with bare legs after having applied fake tan etc and finished if off with a pretty pair of bright multicoloured ballet flats.

This was the first outing wearing my new forms and I was very pleased with the look and feel of them. For later, I took a top (the new one purchased earlier in the day) and a short black stretch skirt and black heels.

Tina was ready before me and so proceeded into Manchester followed by my wife and I some 20 minutes later.

Parking up at the top of Canal Street, we made our way down to Eden’s where we met Tina. As my wife volunteered to drive back I was able to enjoy a bottle of cool white wine to start the evening sitting on the “boat” outside Eden’s people watching.

We saw a number of T girls before one of them came over and presented herself to us – Susan C from London. At the set time, we up anchored and made our way to Velvet where we met up with the rest of the party for our evening meal.

Once again the meal was very good and the company exemplary including as it did our own Irish “dancing queen” June.

Running quite late we snatched a few minutes at the Rembrandt where I took advantage of the changing facilities to change into my “clubbing “ gear!

Joining up with Kate and Mrs Kate we made our way to Napoleon’s and with Tina, Claire passed the time upstairs adjacent to the dance floor where we were later joined by Dianne. I actually recognised a couple of songs but failed miserably in getting my wife up on the dance floor.

All to soon our evening came to an end, fatigue, drink and the late hour all contributing. Walking back to the car in the cool evening air I was feeling somewhat sorry due to the knowledge that now I was working in Cambridge, these mid week meals out in Manchester were no longer practical.

Back at the car, we were the subject of unwanted attention from an Asian guy in what may have been a taxi. The guy drove round twice before stopping next to our car before we had opened the door and asked our names. My wife responded and he drove off out of the car park.

I understand from my wife that I managed to guide her out of the City before falling asleep for the rest of the trip, waking only as we came off the M6 at the services. With Emma stripped off and back in her suitcase, I crawled into bed sometime after 3am, the following day being our anniversary.

An "ordinary" night in Cambridge

Following on from my meeting with Mary the previous Wednesday we organised another evening out and about in Cambridge and agreed to meet in a tourist pub at the edge of what can be considered the main attractions. This time I booked into The Days Inn at Cambridge Services.

As usual despite my best endeavours, I was late arriving at the Pickerel Pub – close to the river in Magdelene Street and much to Mary’s chagrin, when she arrived there some 15 minutes before myself, she found herself in the midst of a gang of football supporters who were watching the footy on a big screen in the backroom.

Dressed in a white flowing skirt, orange top and white jacket, white shoes and bag, I certainly looked summery enough! I parked the car on the street some 600m away and walked confidently through throngs of tourists and entered the pub. Having greeted Mary much to her relief I went to the bar and order a couple of glasses of wine from a very pleasant and accepting girl behind the bar who I entered into conversation with whilst she was opening a new bottle of wine. No raised eyebrows, the world didn’t stop, we were accepted as we presented without a murmur from any of the other clientele and the place was busy (as were all the pubs we visited through the night)

Sitting in the snug chatting away sipping on a glass of wine I quietly reflected on how far I had come in less than a year.

As we wanted to fit in quite a lot, we moved on and after a short debate, chose to eat at the Japanese restaurant adjacent to the river. This was the first time I had eaten Japanese although Mary was very au fait re the menu even speaking Japanese to the girl who took our order. We were lucky enough with the weather to be able to eat outside in the courtyard and watch the world go by as we shared a bottle of wine and I sampled the fare. Again, we were in the middle of other diners without comment or visible signs that we were unwelcome. It just felt normal and as such after a short while it never even crossed my mind even after having to use the ladies.

After eating, we took a couple of piccies by the fountain in the square before continuing on my guided tour of the sites of Cambridge, next stop the famous grasshopper clock opposite one of the famous Universities. Once again we took advantage of the location for a few photographs as the light now had faded.

From the clock, my host took us to The Eagle pub, famous as one of the oldest coaching inns in Cambridge and during World War 2 as the base for American airmen from nearby airbases used for R & R. As we threaded our way through the packed pub, Mary showed me each of the rooms and explained a little of the history including one room where US airmen used to sign their names on the ceiling before leaving for missions over Europe, still evident after so many years. It was the sacrifices of so many men and women so long ago that allows us to enjoy the freedoms that too many take for granted.

By now due to me having to drive, I was on the sparkling mineral water whilst Mary was able to enjoy the wine. The pub was packed with a wide range of nationalities and ages and again we were fully accepted as we presented – you may have noticed a trend in my comments by now.

By now with the clock striking 11, we tried a club round the corner and had another drink in the midst of a group of much younger clientele. More due to our age, I found the atmosphere slightly daunting as was the music (well I am 51!) and so was pleased too move on.

Finally we came across another crowded busy lively bar in a covered precinct beyond the Guildhall where we had another drink whilst being surrounded by lots of young people. I guess I was probably 25 years older than the next oldest there and whilst again we were comfortable, it may have looked a little strange for two middle aged women to be standing there chatting sipping drinks.

With the midnight bell striking, I decided that enough was enough and turned back to walk to my car accompanied by Mary. On passing the Pickerel once more, we noted that they were still open and catching the eye of the young girl behind the bar, who had served me earlier we entered and managed to get the last orders.

Sitting down on my own whilst Mary had gone to the ladies, I was aware of a guy behind me staring at the back of my head. He was on a table with another guy and a girl. I must admit I thought it quite intimidating and so turned around in my seat and with only a few feet between us asked him if there was anything wrong. At this he blushed, stammered something and turned away. Shortly afterwards he left on his own.

On Mary’s return, the girl got up and asked if she could join us, introducing herself with the words “I have been on a blind date with a boring moron, you two look far more interesting”

Drawing up a chair, she explained that she had been in Cambridge for 6 months and was from Leeds. At this moment the other guy (not the one I exchanged pleasantries with) returned and joined us. He was from Chesterfield and we enjoyed a chat whilst Mary engaged the girl in conversation. It was quite a strange feeling for me (sober as a judge) chatting to a bloke I had never met before about all sorts of things whilst dressed.

As 1am approached, we were asked to leave as the pub was shutting and I managed to leave the three of them looking for another pub which might still be serving despite Mary’s power of persuasion.

Walking back to my car at turned 1am on my own I was able to reflect on how I had passed an ordinary night out in full view as Emma and thoroughly enjoying just being accepted.

10 months ago I would wait unto sometimes 2 in the morning before leaving the safety of my hotel room for a quick dash around a deserted street. How times have changed!

Back at the hotel I cleaned off my make up, got undressed and then slipped into my new nighty - virgin white of course! and dropped off pretty quickly.

Always one to push it to the limit, I set my alarm for 6am and getting up, got dressed casually - jeans, pink vest style top, new ballerina style pumps and slipping my jacket on left my room, past the receptionist with a good morning and outside into the car park. I then made my way next door to the services and ordered a sausage and egg mc muffin and a coffee at the MacDonald i the food area. Sitting there sipping my coffee, I realised that no one including the girl who served me , gave a toss a sto how I was dressed. All those tears of self inflicted torment and imposed exile finally were swept away. As they say, us against the world - when do we attack!

Back in my room, time to revert back to me and a short 6 mile drive to work. New shoes don't grow on trees you know!

Roll on next Wednesday and a chance to meet up with all my friends again.

Cambridge with Mary

Cambridge on Wednesday - well, where do I start.

I had arranged to meet up with Mary at 7pm originally at what I thought was a Bistro called CB1 just past the University. I did a quick recce the previous day for parking and had checked it out on google and the route from there to where the Diamonds meet.

Leaving work late I had to delay the meeting to 7-30. Getting ready I realised I had not packed my brushes, my purse and wipes and watch and most of my jewelry! Was ready by 7-28 walked out to the car past 3-4 businessmen on phones and having a ciggy etc and promptly just avoided some arseole running me over. Got in the car and realised I had left my phone behind and so retraced my steps in through what appeared now to be a crowd and picked up the phone and back to the car. It was bloody warm and I was perspiring.

On the road I received a phonecall from Mary telling me she was at the Bistro and sat just inside the door.


I arrived at my designated car park - a multi storey by the swimming pool and strode confidently in my 4" heels, denim skirt and orange top (just bra, knickers and 7 denier natural tights underneath) Here I was in the middle of Cambridge, walking up a main road with loads of students around. I arrived at the Bistro to find no Mary! Checking out the place I was then told it was closing and so I left and rang Mary who was still waiting for me!

It seems that she was waiting for me at CB2 - someway across town and so I trotted off back the way I had come, perspiring and somewhat nervous about finding the new place without any pre knowledge. A number of phone calls between Mary and myself established my directions and also that I may not be what I was presenting - you try speaking to someone on a mobile in the main street dressed in a skirt etc and maintaining the illusion! - no probs really just from a bunch of young Japs who I blew a kiss to!!

Finally, hot and sweaty I arrived at the CB2 which was full to the brim both inside and out and met Mary.
What a wonderful woman she is. We got on really well and had a few glasses of wine and a very tasty meal surrounded by "normal " couples and groups.

Rather than rush off to the meeting, we just chatted away and at 10, Mary and I walked back to my car and she showed me the way to the Bird in Hand - the venue for the Diamonds. She came in briefly to introduce me before leaving as it wasn't really her scene - I know why now and guess what- its not really my scene either.

I stayed for a few bottles of water out of courtesy but was somewhat disappointed to be bringing the evening to a premature halt. It is unfair to form an opinion just on the back of an hour or so, so I will visit again as I am sure the girls will be ok once I get to know them.

Just shows you how special Manchester is and what we have in Manchester.

I was hoping to continue to meet up with my friends in Manchester but logistics means it will probably only be occasional Fridays and Saturdays for Bevs monthly meals

I am hoping to try and get up to the Nottingham group which Emma attended last week but its getting quite near home and I am still faced with a hotel to get changed in etc

Friday the 30th October with Bea is definitely a goer! I am hoping to get over to Suzie's birthday party at PP on the 26th September after rugby as well

Sparkle - The Finale

Having crawled into bed at turned 6am, I was obviously up and about bright eyed and bushy tailed by 10am! – NOT

Midday came and went and poking my eye out with the mascara brush, reminded me to be more careful where I stuck things!

Catching up with Di, we got ready and walked up to outside Taurus and joined June and Di for brunch. The weather was kind and quite muggy, I was wearing my grey denim distressed skirt and white top and my KGs on my feet, bare legs still.

Having finished our club sandwich, the four of us walked over to The Arndale Centre via Peacocks where I purchased 2 new tops. One was all gold glittery – guaranteed to give Kate a run for her money, the other on oversize red t-shirt with big holes down the side- big mistake (returned the following week when out in Leicester!)

June and Di went on their way leaving Jackie and me to wander the shopping precinct. We stopped and sat down in one of the squares eating an ice cream watching the world go by with not a care in the world – acceptance – what a great feeling. Shame the picture we took came out blurred – no excuse will have to do it again!

In and out of the shops we shopped, shopped and shopped. Not sure who was going to give up first but it wasn’t going to be me! Because I don’t have enough shoes, I managed to try on and purchase a new pair of heels from Next in a caramel shade which obviously meant I then needed to buy an outfit to go with my new shoes! I also managed to try on and buy a pair of low heeled sandals from Debenhams which I swapped with my KGs for the remained of our shopping. 4” heels looked good but as we have all found out, after an hour or so of intense shopping, the ankles and toes start screaming!

Not a single adverse comment throughout the afternoon, plenty of interface with shop assistants and the general public. Great feeling!

On the way back to the apartment we stopped at Taurus for a drink or two or three. In accessing the bar we ran the gauntlet of a load of kilt wearing Scotsmen teaching / demonstrating Scottish dancing outside on the pavement – I believe they call themselves The Gay Gordons! – enough said!

With an evening out beckoning – we had tickets for The Lady Boys of Bangkok, we got back to the apartment and opened another bottle of wine whilst chilling out and getting ready. Meeting Di and June at The Union pub for 7-15, we had plenty of time until suddenly its 7pm and I am still not ready!!!

Rushing, we made the pub for 7-20 to find no one. Ringing Di ascertained that they were already at the Marquis and so we trotted over to them – NOT (in these shoes – you must be bloody joking!!)

We made it with 5 minutes to spare although in the rush, I had not managed to rob the hole in the wall and so Di had to bail us out. At £14 a round, it was far from cheap (June was only drinking coke!)

We made our way to our table – close to the front and centre and joined 6 women (from Stockport) at the table. Soon afterwards thanks to June’s gift of the gab, we were all getting on fabulously just in time for the show to start.

Not really knowing what to expect, I can safely say I was gobsmacked. The show was very professional, firmly tongue in cheek humour.

We were all overwhelmed by the show and I can wholeheartedly recommend the show for an evening of entertainment.

At the interval, they invited members of the audience onto the stage for a photograph. Well as you all know, I am shy and reserved and struggled with my conscience before finding the £5 fee and joining my wife and June on stage in front of 300 strangers with three of the stars of the show for a group picture.

There is something unreal about, having climbed up the steps onto the stage wearing my “glittery” short dress, having to pull it down from where it had ridden up! in front of so many people.

After the show we were standing in the street chatting with a couple of the girls from Rose’s when the Cast all walked by on their way to ?

Having not eaten yet, we made our way to Villagios where we enjoyed a pleasant meal and a couple more glasses of wine before moving on.

Jackie and I left Di and June to return to the apartment or Jackie to get changed whilst June freshened up. It was at this time that we had our only negative experience when we (Jackie and I) were heckled by a pair of gays outside The Union pub. Personally I felt sorry for the two guys as my wife decided to round on them – verbally that is. I’m sure that what she threatened them with is physically impossible outside an operating theatre!

Anyway, as I was feeling ok, I decided to wait outside th Atrium whilst my wife changed. Whilst hanging around on the street (you can see whats coming!) at midnight, a car pulled over (Volvo S40) and I naively bending over to speak to the driver – assuming he was lost!, was somewhat shocked to be propositioned! My answer was short succinct and to the point.

Jackie p…..ed herself when eventually she rejoined me!

Re joining June and Di in The Union where there was some sort of talent show ongoing, we had a few more drinks before getting a little fed up and strolled up the street looking for somewhere else. Unfortunately at 1am on Canal street on a Sunday there was little option but to return to the Union and have a nightcap before retiring for the night.

Monday morning dawned – allegedly because I for one didn’t see this momentous event! – made a change! We packed our cases and then got ready for a day’s shopping at Cheshire Oaks. Wearing a white vest top, tight jeans and my brown black shoes with a chunkier heel – still 4” we made our way back to the car over at Charles Street and on passing reception I paid for a late check out (4pm) exchanging pleasantries with the receptionist.

Driving over to Cheshire Oaks, I was mindful that the last time we did this Jackie was pretty stressed out(and I failed to recognise the fact) – well it was only the 2nd time she had been out with Emma and so this time I kept a careful eye on her. However I must admit after three days of Emma at Sparkle, she was far more at ease than before and we enjoyed a pleasant 4 hours shopping as two women.

Stopping for breakfast at the Brasserie we both enjoyed Egg Benedictine and a nice cup of tea before walking eth length and breadth of the mall.

Jackie purchased some new leather boots, underwear from La Sensa, and a pair of metallic leggings, whilst I stocked up on eye make up from Revlon, new knickers from La Sensa, bra and knickers from M&S.

All too soon, we had to make our way back having stopped for some liquid refreshments which we enjoyed in the afternoon sunshine. Back at the apartment, Jackie finished packing whilst I stripped off all vestiges of Emma knowing that with my new job in Cambridge, my regular trips out and about in Manchester and tea at Teelas were going to be seriously curtailed.

Writing about the weekend now some 3 weeks after Sparkle, I can’t really emphasise just how far I have come since speaking to some one about Emma for the very first time in early September! What great memories I share with my good friends. This long weekend will help sustain me in the coming months as I have to readjust to a different work life pattern.

Finally, I would just like to publicly thank my wonderful wife for the way she has handled my revelation – it has not been as easy for her as people may think.

Well two weeks to Manchester probably for the last time mid week and the day after we celebrate our 26th Wedding Anniversary – I have booked the Thai Restaurant in Melton and Emma will be nowhere in sight! Good Night, God Bless. See you all soon.

Sparkle 2 – The Saturday

Having crawled into bed sometime after 3am, I somehow managed to remember to remove my make up and revert back to Bob before joining my wife.

With nothing in particular planned, we slept in and on getting up, enjoyed getting dressed without being in any particular hurry. Several change of outfits later, I was satisfied to go with jeans and my green top and a pair of shoes with chunkier heels to try and cope with walking in the Gardens.

Shortly after noon, we joined some of the girls out at Teela’s stall in Sackville Gardens and donned the complimentary t-shirt adorned with a group picture of us all at Teela’s earlier in the year.

Having been given a handful of pamphlets I was then treated to a display of salesmanship or should there be woman in there, second to none as I could only helplessly watch Kate dispose of her allotted pamphlets effortlessly.

My wife took the opportunity to dash into town to pick up a pair of leggings for her planned evening outfit as she had left hers at home.

Despite our best endeavours, we failed to secure any bacon butties for lunch and so with Teela’s blessing, Kate, Mrs Kate, Tina, Mandy and myself walked over to Taurus and taking over a window table enjoyed a bottle of wine and a round of club sandwiches whilst watching the world go by.

It had tried to rain on and off all day but we had been lucky so far and so I worked up the courage to return to our apartment and despite the pleas from my friends, change into my denim shorts. On the way back, Di and I popped by the Marquee for the Lady Boys of Bangkok and purchase tickets for the Sunday evening performance.

Once back in the apartment, to disguise the scarring on my legs due to 35 years of rugby including an area of discolouration due to a previous case of blood poisoning, I topped up the colour on my legs (spray on tights in bronze) and experimented with a dry spray on oil from Avon which I had won in the raffle at Teela’s which gave me a streak free glistening healthy finish to my legs.

I think the pictures do justice to my “painting” skills!

Whilst I was getting changed, my wife had returned and we opened another bottle of red wine as we continued to enjoy the occasion. Walking out in my shorts and my purple top, peep toes heels with bright red toe nails, and the best part of two bottles of wine in me!, I felt on top of the world.

I certainly caused a stir or two as I strutted up Canal Street back to Sackville Gardens and a rendevouz with my “friends”

My wife dutifully walked 10 yards behind me not wanting to be associated with my “new look” – not – only joking – honest!

I can safely say that Mandy and Tina were struck dumb when they saw me in my shorts. I can’t help it if they were jealous of my legs! If nothing else, I put a smile on my friends faces although it might have been wind now I come to think about it!

Late afternoon we made our way over to Taurus once more for a few pre getting ready drinks – do you see a trend about the weekend yet!

With time drawing on, we made our way back to the apartment via the bottom lock gates where I took the opportunity to have a few photos taken in my shorts.

Back in the apartment, we freshened up and touched up the make up opting for darker evening colours and I changed into a gorgeous full length silver clingy velour dress with matching shoes, no tights.

As the organiser of the meal at the Shang Hi I managed to be fashionably late – some greedy buggers had started the first course before we arrived after dashing across the junction in the rain.

The meal was good, company excellent and we had been joined by Tina’s wife and her sister and her partner! I thought Nicky was fairly unique until I met her sister. Wow, what great girls and superb company.

After the meal, a we made quick dash through the rain back to the apartment on the way stepping into a bloody deep puddle at the lights. Changing into my glitter dress for the rest of the evening, we rejoined the girls at Eden’s where we settled in listening to some decent music.

Whilst at the bar ordering a drink, I bumped into a girl who was out with her sisters having returned for a holiday from Australia. We had a good laugh and took a few photos and then I invited them round to meet the gang which they did. Not sure what my friends thought when I brought a gang of them back to meet them but we all seemed to get on well especially Mandy before we decided to move onto Napoleon’s.

At Napoleon’s I finally got to dance with my wife joining Kate and Mrs Kate on the dance floor. The music was ok for a change with even I managing to recognise most of the tunes even if they were the 20” mega mix versions!

By 3am my wife decided enough was enough and feeling pretty tired retired for the night. The remainder of us sat around the tall tables down in the basement chatting etc until Nicky, he sister and partner had to leave. I think Kate and Mrs Kate must have left around this time but alcohol has affected my memory.

As the light of a new day was dawning, Tina, Mandy Di and myself made our way back to the apartments stopping off shortly before 5am to take a series of pictures at the lock gates.

Climbing into bed I remembered to remove most of my make up and clothes and slipped under the sheets absolutely b…….ed!

Disclaimer - due to copious quantities of alcohol consumed over the weekend, whilst the events I have related are all true, the order and what day they occurred on may not be quite so accurate - sorry!

Close Encounters of the Bus Kind!!

Part one of my Sparkle blog is complete and what happens?

On my way to work on the Wednesday, a bus decided not to stop and ran into the back of me whilst I was stationary awaiting some bloody idiot driving a gully sucker to move on from where he stopped – on a blind bend with double white lines whilst he asked (presumably) for directions from a passing jogger.

The bus drove me forward a few metres and in the process I cut open the back of my head and suffered whiplash. The driver of the bus almost suffered considerably more as I contemplated dragging him off the bus and explaining to him my displeasure!

However, common sense prevailed. In the meanwhile the driver of the gully sucker moved on oblivious to what he had caused.

The bus driver claimed that he had braked but skidded. That would of course account for the fact that there were no marks on the road and that I hadn’t heard the bus approach!

Suffice to say, I ended up not getting to work on my second official day in my new job and writing off a hire car provided for me. This was my first accident since 1985 and I have driven in excess of one million accident free miles!

Here I sit typing the latest blog with a sore aching neck and shoulders. Hopefully it will improve quickly and I am looking forward to taking my wife out a couple of times soon as a thank you for accompanying me to Sparkle.

Part 2 of Sparkle to follow soon – when I can remember what we did!

My first Sparkle - Friday

(I apologise if some of the facts and events have been changed but this is due to the fact that I can’t bloody remember!)
Having packed for all eventualities in respect of the weather, some would say including my wife that I had packed for a month and not the 4 days we would be over in Manchester and after the event I would have to agree, we set off late morning for Manchester on a high and looking for some quality time away from the kids and spent with our good friends.

Only the previous day I had succeeded in securing employment after a 2 month lay off and hand in hand with the job, I had a new rented family size car – a Mazda, which swallowed up effortlessly our two full sized cases and two sports bags.

First port of call was Tina’s house where we met up with Tina, Mandy and Nicky. With all their bags packed, myself and Mandy both still in “Bob” mode, drove into Manchester and parked on double yellow lines outside The Atrium proceeded to off load the bags and I checked in, meeting Dianne who was already in the process of checking in. Dianne was good enough to help me carry up the bags to our 3rd floor apartment, whilst Mandy stood watch over the illegally parked car and the remaining bags.

I then left Mandy to check in and start getting ready whilst I returned to Tina’s to pick up Tina and my wife. It was at this time that I realised that the key I had was Dianne’s spare and that Dianne and Mandy each had our two keys! – doh

Instead of getting a taxi, we decided that we would split the Friday cost of parking at Charles Street - £16 – probably still cheaper than a taxi from Stockport and would leave the car in Manchester for the 4 days – it would also mean it would be easier for us on the Monday morning when we were planning to go shopping at Cheshire Oaks.

Once safely back at the Atrium, I quickly got changed whilst we opened and enjoyed a cold bottle of white wine. Shortly afterwards we were joined by Tina and Mandy and Kate and Mrs Kate for a pre Sparkle drink.

Wearing cotton drill trousers in beige, a black top and wedges, we then walked into the village which we could see from our apartment and sat down with another bottle of wine outside Eden’s on the decking adjacent to the canal.
With time running short we then made our way back to get changed, my orange and brown skirt this time teamed with a new orange top and new chocolate brown peep toed shoes making another appearance.

As we were sat down, Bea made her appearance having missed each other at Edens due to her being delayed by the traffic and a new girl who Bea was chaperoning. I realised that we somehow had one additional diner than I had booked so many months ago! and so we bolted on a 13th chair and table setting for Dianne who was the last to arrive.

The food and service was very good helped by the fact that at 8pm, the place was quite empty! We even managed to split the bill and get out on the street for shortly after 10pm.

My wife and I returned to our apartment and got changed and repaired the make up before re joining the others. My infamous glitter dress made another appearance teamed with my silver and black laced overlay heels.

Mandy and Tina we found outside Eden’s and we stopped long enough for a couple of nice piccies on the stairs leading down to the entrance. On then to Taurus with Kate and Mrs Kate where we sampled the drinks before heading to Napoleon’s, where for once hey were playing songs that I recognised – albeit the 20 minute disco versions!! And as a result managed to have a few dances with my wife joined by Kate and Mrs Kate. We bumped into Penelope and June who we were not expecting and so had a good chat before we all went on our way again.

We got back to the apartment for 3ish and scrubbed clean climbed into bed absolutely b.......ed!!

A Quiet Night Out with my Girlfriends

Due to me having made a mistake with my dates for Teela’s, I arranged with Tina and Mandy to go out in Manchester the following Monday.

Plans almost were upset for a 2nd time when I was invited for interview that afternoon, however, I was able to get up to my usual hotel for 4-30pm and was well on the way to being ready when Tina arrived followed by Mandy.

As it was a nice summers evening, I dressed appropriately in a summery flared short skirt in orange and brown and a fitted orange blouse, black peep toed heels with natural 7 denier toeless tights. As it was so warm, I didn’t bother with a jacket.

Myself and Mandy drove over to the village parking in our usual place at the top of Canal Street and were joined there by Tina.

We decided to eat at Taurus and accompanied by a nice bottle of white wine, we enjoyed a very nice meal - just the three of us overlooking the street and chatting.

After the meal we strolled down Canal Street to Edens where we sat outside on the decking at the side of the Canal where we continued chatting as the world passed by, although due to all of us driving, it was bottled mineral water we were now drinking.

It was while we were sitting chilling out that we witnessed a particularly bad incident. On the street above us, a mixed gang of youths had an altercation involving a bloke and a particularly loud girl which after unpleasant verbal exchanges between a number of the individuals in the group, a coloured lad slapped the girl and then suggested in front of the rest of them that he could take her!

Frankly having seen her and heard her, I don’t think I would have wanted to tackle her! Notwithstanding that it’s not on threatening a girl and certainly not hitting her. In some respects I was glad it was Emma sitting there as I am sure I would have ended up getting involved.

It seemed that the 12 of them had been thrown out of Edens earlier in the evening after having purchased 12 cokes!

With them having finally moved on, we finished our drinks in the tranquil surroundings and quietly reflected on the world the universe and everything in it! On the way back to our cars, we popped into Velvet to finish the night off in the snug and ended up chatting to two foreign lads.

Back at the hotel we were treated to a pleasant smile from the receptionist such that after Mandy had changed and left for home, I, under the pretence of buying a coke from the vending machine in the foyer got talking to her. She asked me what perfume I was wearing as she had smelt it the last two times I had passed her. – Elle by YSL. We spent a pleasant hour chatting about a wide range of topics, whilst various guests returned – including how she did her eyes (lots of eyeliner). She had been out in the village before with a gay friend and so I asked her to join us one evening when she was free and told her about the forthcoming Sparkle. I believe she will once she has been away for her hols.

Back in the room, I decided to experiment and glued my forms on and taking advantage was able to wear my nighty as it was designed.

Setting the alarm for 7, I awoke and shaved and re applied my make up and then dressed to go shopping. I decided for the first time ever to forsake my heavy duty underwear and went braless under a t-shirt and just my knickers under my jeans, finishing off with a pair of heels.

Walking out so dressed was such a liberated feeling. I felt I could walk on water – confidence was at an all time high! The feel and look was so right!

I drove over to Cheshire Oaks for 10am and parked up. Walking around the shops I found that I seemed to attract no out of the ordinary attention but did notice that a lot of the guys I walked past, even those accompanied by women didn’t bother looking at my face!

I bought a new bra and knickers in M&S as well as a couple of pairs of toeless tights and then in the Playtex shop as I was perusing the bras, the shop assistant came up to me and asked if I needed any help. In the split second it took, I made up my mind and explaining my situation asked if she would not be too embarrassed to give me a bra fitting. She was fine about it and we discussed the merits of the wide range of bras available, trying on a number of different styles and checking the fit. The added complication for me was that I wear two different sizes depending on whether I have my forms on or I am using fillets with my own flesh. Anyway, I came away with 4 new bras in a variety of colours which I was intending to wear over the long weekend at Sparkle. As I said my confidence knew no bounds!

Finally, I picked up a couple of lipsticks and a new eye shadow palette at Revlon and made my way back to the car.

I realised that I needed to shift as the room needed to be vacated by noon and I was running a little late!

Entering the hotel with 10 minutes to go I decided to seek out the cleaners and ask them if they could give me an extra 20 minutes. They were ok and un phased by my request and how I was dressed and so I repaired to my room without further delay and returned to Bob mode.

On leaving the hotel, I again found the cleaners and thanked them for accommodating my request and in the process had a 20 minute chat with them about my dressing amongst other things. You all know how I can talk the hind leg off a donkey!!

Back home later that afternoon, I reflected on the next adventure – Sparkle.

Wednesday Northern Angels Meal – June 17th

Once again, my wife was unable to make it due to work and so with her blessing, I departed for my usual hotel – The Travelodge at Lymm Services on the M6.

This evening was slightly different due to Tina and Mandy not being able to join us, however, Claire – aka Tiggr did as did June our long distance dance instructor from Ireland and Emma who we weren’t expecting.

Having taken my time getting to the hotel, I decided that as I was going shopping in the morning, I could take my time in getting ready rather than rushing the experience. I also managed to change my outfit several times before leaving for the meal.

Arriving at Trebica, I thought I was the first there followed closely by Kate and Shirley only to find that Lisa, Claire and Emma were already sat down on the far side of the bar.

Joined by the remaining girls, we made our way to Velvet for the meal. The meal was as usual very good and the service until the shift turnover, excellent. We then spent the customary ages waiting for the bill and as such were then too late to meet up with the rest of the Manchester Concord girls. Lisa, Emma and June then went on for a quiet drink whilst I joined Kate and Mrs Kate at Napoleon’s.

Arriving much earlier than normal, the dance floor was not open and we had a “quiet” drink until it did. We all three then had a dance – and guess what – I recognised several of the songs for a change! With a grim determination neither of us would give up first and sit down!! Finally we needed another drink and shortly afterwards, Kate and Shirley left and I was all on my own in Naps!!! Not wanting the evening to come to an end quite yet, I sat downstairs for a while people watching and then had a trawl upstairs once more. Luckily I spied Jane and we spent a pleasant hour catching up, with our lives, had a few piccies taken before making our way to my car and me driving back to my room.

Once back at my room, having bade the receptionist good night, I changed into a nightdress and applied adhesive to my forms, was able for the very first time to enjoy the sensation of the nightdress without being encumbered with a bra.

The following day, I got up early and after a quick shave, applied my face and dressed as if for an office. I then drove over to Gemini Park and had a wander around Marks and Spencers, stopping off for a pot of tea in the café.

All too soon I had to leave having splashed out on a new pair of shades and a pair of natural toeless tights.

Heading back South, I got home in time to sign on for my fortnightly generous handout!!

Its Monday, it must be Teela's

Due to me having cocked up my dates I was left with no hotel for the monthly tea with Teela and so decided to take advantage of the changing facilities at Teela’s

I was late (am I ever early I hear you say!!!) leaving and the traffic especially through Stoke was pretty horrific, resulting in me arriving at 6-30pm.

Tina was already there getting ready and I joined her. Tina usually does her face first whilst I always get dressed first. Having struggled into my corset, I chose a long heavy pencil skirt from Roman originals with leopard skin patterned belt which matched my jacket. I am afraid I struggled fastening the hook and eye and had to resort to Tina to help. As a result I managed to pop the fastener early in the evening and will now have to have it repaired. – must lose some more weight!

As I was finishing my face, Catherine Anne turned up and we left her getting ready.

Downstairs we joined the other girls for tea and refreshments. Once again due to the tight corset I declined the kind offer of a seat on the settee (I would have needed a winch to get up!) and sat on the arm of the settee.

Once more Dave turned up wearing shorts and again was threatened to a waxing if he persists.

We spent a pleasant evening as usual with our friends both old and new including an impromptu fashion show by Kate as she tried on a number of wigs. We were joined towards the end by Lisa in Bob mode to help clear the remnants of the food.
As the clock chimed 11, it was time for Cinderella to leave the ball and I joined Tina upstairs once more to revert back to Bob mode. On the road by 11-40 I arrived home absolutely knackered by 1-25.

It's Saturday - It must be Manchester!

Saturday the 13th June saw my wife and making what seems to be a more and more frequent pilgrimage North to Manchester and a weekend of Emma.

I had with some degree of difficulty managed to put together a few options of outfits for the weekend despite the presence of two of our daughters although I failed miserably in trying to choose what shoes, taking 10 pairs away with me – definitely over the top!

Arriving at The Atrium, we parked at Charles Street this time and in so doing saved over £10. This time, instead of being banished to the bathroom whilst getting ready, Jackie was more comfortable this time to see me in various stages of undress!

We were meeting up with Justine and his wife and intended walking over to the meal venue together later in the day.

I am getting much quicker now getting ready and have a routine for my face in particular daytime eye make up which seems to work for me. I was also giving my new blonde wig purchased from Teela’s the previous Thursday it’s first airing. We cracked open a bottle of red wine whilst getting ready

Dressed in a red top and wearing a lightweight flared denim skirt with my new black wedge sandals from Next on my feet, we left the apartment and made our way up Canal Street to our usual haunt of The Taurus bar. As we made our way into the darkened bar, we were beckoned over to a table by a couple sitting near the bar. These turned out to be Donna and her wife, from Leeds and were in Manchester on spec having spent the day shopping together.

We spent a pleasant hour chatting and exchanged contact details before leaving to get changed for the meal and the rest of the night.

For the evening meal, I wore a new silver cowl dress from Roman Originals teamed with my black lace over silver peep toed heels which currently are one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes in my wardrobe – and they look good!

Once ready, Justine and his wife joined us and we opened another bottle of wine this time a nice chilled white. Whilst I was aware through contact with Justine that this was his wife’s first time out with Justine, what I didn’t know was that it was the first time that she had met Justine in the flesh since being told about her 6 months ago. Justine seemed far more nervous than his wife. Every credit to her.

Suitably refreshed, we made our way down to the foyer and out into the street strolling up to Eden in the cooling remnants of the day, threading our way through the early evening revellers where we met up with the other girls, 22 in all including many partners.

Due to the numbers, we had pre booked our meals with my wife and I plumping for duck and pancakes as a starter and a salmon pizza for Jackie and a hot and spicy Calzone for myself.

The food was excellent and the company superb. Sitting next to Justine and his wife, the time flew by. After the meal, the tables were cleared away and a dance floor uncovered accompanied by a great selection of music mainly from the 80’s.

By now, most of the clientele were “normal” including a gang of girls from Middlesborough who insisted on having their photos taken with our group. – Not too sure why!

As the evening wound on, some of the girls left for Napoleon’s whilst Jackie and I stayed on for another hour with Justine and Denise. Bidding our friends farewell, we made our way to Napoleon’s where we met up with the rest of the gang downstairs and joined them for a few more drinks before we called it a night leaving Dianne to boogie on into the night.

Back at the apartment sometime after 3am, I managed to pass out on the settee, waking up at 6am, a cold cup of tea on the coffee table, I crawled into bed to join my wife still fully made up and down to my underwear.

I managed to wake up a short while later before my wife and removed the last vestiges of Emma before she woke up (apart from my bright red nails!)

We spent the Sunday morning leisurely getting ready and at noon, descended in the lift to the foyer. On the way down we were joined by two old ladies who we exchanged pleasantries with. We walked up to Velvet where we joined Mary and Dianne for lunch. Once more, it was a nice feeling sitting outside in the sunshine grazing and chatting as the world went by. We were joined by Justine in “Bob” mode and Denise.

We then took advantage of a lift from Mary to visit the open day at Transfixed. Sipping a complimentary strawberry cocktail we were shown around the premises and what services were offered. All to soon, we had to depart as we had a late check out at 4pm. We made it with minutes to spare and as we left the lift who did we meet but the two old ladies we had shared the lift with earlier. I was however in Bob mode wearing a Lion’s shirt and jeans this time and not the denim flared skirt and a red top and black wedge sandals. Tongue firmly in cheek I bade the ladies farewell as we left the lift and made our way to the foyer. It was obvious as my wife was wearing the same distinctive top that we were the same couple who had shared the lift with them earlier as I could hear the cogs whirring and the look on their faces as the penny dropped. Oh to have been a fly on the wall of the lift as they ascended to their floor.

We were still chuckling to ourselves as we arrived back at the car.