more earth than sea

2011-09-15T16:14:00.000-07:00

I came across two extreme examples of acceptance or otherwise whilst out in Leicester last Saturday.
I had late on decided to pick up a replacement foundation from MAC in Leicester as Emma rather than in boring Bob mode and so, casually dressed, photo showing how I was dressed

drove into Leicester intending to park at High Cross car park. This was the first time I had ever visited the centre of Leicester as Emma.

Having left the car, I quickly made my way to the MAC counter and had a nice conversation with the girl there during which I asked her show me how to draw in my eyebrows having taken to shaving them and purchased a pencil as well as my NW30 foundation. Taking advantage of her, I asked her to repair my top lip as it was showing some signs of distress in the heat of the store which she was ok to do. She complemented me on my make up confirming that I was indeed using the correct shade of foundation but did give me a sample of another more longer lasting foundation to try.

As Debenhams was open late, I had a wander around the ladies wear and tried a couple of dresses on and a leopard print ¾ length belted mackintosh but at £80 just couldn’t justify the purchase.

Moving on, I decided to try and find the Dover Castle – a friendly pub in Dover Street. Getting lost, I wandered around for 30 minutes before ending up opposite the entrance to High Cross when I encountered a drunken beggar who asked me for money. I waved him no as I walked past thinking no more of the incident. Further up the street I came across one of those “you are here” maps and found out where I needed to go. Unfortunately this meant passing the drunk again and this time when I refused his kind offer! He suddenly twigged that I was not quite “the real thing” and suddenly started shouting out to all and sundry “Hey that’s a geezer!!” – somewhat disappointed, I recalled an amusing incident related by a girl on the forum and responded with a shocked expression and looking around shouted where, who! Whilst looking a mixed group in the eyes who were passing by at the time. No comment was made by this group as I walked slowly away and around the corner.

Finding the pub in question I sat down on a high stool at the bar and ordered a beer to cool off with. Earlier in the evening I had contacted a Leicester girl Amanda I had met at Sparkle and had arranged to meet for a quick drink before I had to make my way home. Sitting at the bar in the meanwhile, I got to meet a few different guys and girls and enjoyed socialising before the drag DJ started at 10pm. Running out of time, Amanda finally got there and we had a quick drink together before I called a taxi to take me back to the car park.

Back at the car park, after paying for my stay at the machine, I then found out that inadvertently I had parked in the roof top car park which shut at 7pm! It took me over 40 minutes and some frantic walking around the building to discover this momentous problem, during which I walked past two couples only to hear one of the guys say “That’s a guy”, one of the girls however said “No way! She's a woman!” I will take that as a 50:50!

Now as time was approaching midnight I had to ring my wife to come and pick me up (17 miles). To say she was not happy would be an understatement as she had had a couple of glasses of Baileys and was just getting ready for bed! Having arranged a suitable pick up point, I had a more pressing problem, my bladder! Luckily I came across a Spanish bar on my wanderings which was still just about open and so slipping onto a high stool at the bar, I quickly ordered a Blue Becks before making my way to the toilets for a much needed relief and a chance to brush my hair and touch up my face.

Back at the bar I started chatting to one of the Spanish girls as she was tidying up and asked her about the car park, explaining that I was waiting for my partner to pick me up (I normally refer to my wife as my wife but in this instance didn’t). Finishing off my drink it was time for my rendevouz with my wife and as I bade the girls goodnight, she asked me if my husband had arrived! Smiling I left the restaurant/bar and made my way across to the High Cross car park entrance and sat down on a bench at midnight waiting for her arrival.

During my wait, I was propositioned once and received several in depth stares by guys in cars entering the car park until the welcome arrival of my wife. I recovered my car the following day but will look at changing from a blonde to another hair colour in future!

Cambridge Nights

2011-08-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

With my departure from these green and pleasant lands getting closer and necessitating the leaving Emma behind, I decided to make the most of the remaining days for a day out in Cambridge and the chance to meet one of my facebook friends and fellow angel, Holly Johns.

Over the last few months I have become quite adept at my Bob to Emma tran$formation whilst on the road rather than incurring the far greater expense of a hotel and yesterday was no exception. I wore my underwear (apart from my bra) under my suit for work (a first for me) and at lunchtime, having taken a half day off got on the road.

The A1 was absolutely hell, between Grantham and Stanford and past RAF Wittering, with speeds hardly exceeding 25 – 30 mph and traffic toe to tail. Finally I pulled off into Peterborough Services for the next stage. Changing in the gents, I put on my bra and top, changed trousers for girly jeans and with a jerkin over the top, got back in the car heading south.

Traffic was somewhat easier now and I pulled into Cambridge Services to complete the change over into Emma. Parking away from the main area, I had no sooner started (wig on, forms in place) when first a van pulled up alongside me on one side, the guy remaining in his seat on the phone and then a bloody car on the other side! WTF, there were at least 10 empty spaces either side of me! Again the driver remained in his seat!

Sod it, I pulled out of my space and took up another spot across the car park only to find almost the same thing happen again. In disgust I finally drove around to the car park for the Day’s Inn and despite various people walking past, managed to put my face on and then do my nails before dashing in the rain to the services and the toilet.

Satisfied with my presentation and rid of that last coffee I had had in the office, I rejoined the traffic and made my way to Cambridge and the Grafton Centre where I parked up and joined the other shoppers inside. Wearing a vest type top, tight jeans and kitten heels, (I carried a nice pair of heels with me in my bag) I certainly did not stand out and once again enjoyed the fact that no one whatsoever paid me any attention other than the various shop assistants whilst perusing the goods.

However, memo to self – when wearing a ¾ cup bra with full forms and a low cut top, ensure that the top remains in place and doesn’t head south when you are not watching!

I started with some new make up from Boots including a long lasting eyeliner gel from Maybelline which comes in a little pot with a separate applicator brush. Well I can report that this does exactly what it says on the package and was so easy to apply. I certainly recommend this product.

I then had a good luck around a few clothes shops including Next before picking up a narrow leather belt fabric covered in a leopard skin pattern. As I said to the girl serving me when she commented that she was going to buy the same on payday, “I have a pair of shoes that match” I decided that admitting to owning a matching jacket and skirt was just a tad too much and refrained.

I finally moved onto Debenhams where they were having a sale “buy one and get a 2nd for free” off the racks. I loved working my way through the racks and found a great pair of jeans in my size only to discover they were maternity – oh well, back to the drawing board! I eventually ended up with Julian McDonald bodycon dress for £35 and a lovely cropped linen jacket in purple for free.

No trip out would be complete without trying on numerous shoes both in Debenhams and my favourite store New Look but I was a good girl this time and managed to leave without adding to my large collection.

With the stores closing, I had a mooch around Accessorise and Claires for some new earrings for my pierced ears, but whilst interested in a number of pieces, I have enough for the moment given the enforced absence of Emma in the months to come.

By now and in need of a drink, I went upstairs to the food hall next to the cinema complex and sat down on a high stool in the Italian Restaurant purchasing cold glass of Peroni. Sitting omn my stool, I got talking to the girls working there and having had a 2nd Peroni decided to have a starter having been tempted by the great smells and the look of food as it was being served around me. Settling for the meatballs with mozerella and bread, I tucked in as the world went by not a care as everyone was busy getting on with their lives.

The great feeling of everything being normal is so hard to get across and the very normality is what gives me such a buzz.

With time moving on, I had arranged to meet Holly at 7-30 and we were going to eat at CB2 – a bistro further into town, so off the stool, gather up my shopping, bag on shoulder and back to the car. No stares, no comments I might as well have been invisible – good feeling and very satisfying.

Plugging in the post code for the Bistro, I joined the evening traffic before recognising where I was and leaving my car in a car park close to the Magistrates Court (I was last there when accompanying my friend Liz during her court case some 18 months earlier). Umbrella up, I dashed across the road past a couple of pubs where the smokers were congregating under awnings and made my way to the Bistro again no adverse comments or reaction whatsoever, however I did note a number of sets of eyes follow me as I walked past!

Taking a proffered table upstairs in the Bistro, I waited for Holly to join me. Whilst we had been at the same meal at Villagios on the Saturday of Sparkle, we had somehow managed to miss each other and so I was looking forward to finally meeting Holly.

Recognising her as she came through the door, I quickly had to excuse myself as I realised I had left my phone in plain view in my car and so I quickly made my way back to the car. Taking a short cut through one of the pubs, I expected the worst but no, nothing! As I retrieved my phone and retraced my steps, I smiled at those who caught my eye. Smiling is one way to defuse any situation, make more use of it girls!

The meal and company was everything I expected, we discussed far ranging topics and to all and sundry were just two women having a quiet meal in a trendy bistro.

I was amazed to hear that Holly had only gone out for the first time last November as she came across very self assured and confident. Holly proved to be great company.

As it approached 10pm, we decided to return to our cars and drive across town and we would finish the evening at a pub where I am only known as Emma, The Pickerel Inn, close to the river.

Leaving the cars at Pound Hill, we walked to the pub which despite the poor weather was quite full. Ordering our drinks, we sat down and continued to chat. The only time we drew ant attention was from a group of French guys next to us and this was due to them overhearing our conversation, perhaps its time for me to learn how to change my voice as it is one aspect I have so far been singularly unsuccessful in when presenting as Emma.

All too soon, it was midnight and we made reluctantly made our way back to the cars and bade each other a good night. Holly was about 20 minutes away and myself just over an hour.

Driving back, I stopped at Cambridge Services for a wee stop and then a coffee at McDonalds at Peterborough before getting home at 2-30am after changing and cleaning off in my usual layby 4-5 miles from home.

Good job I made the necessary changes and cleaned my face as our three daughters were still up when I got home and insisted on trying to engage me in conversation whilst I had my jerkin over my top but still wearing my girly jeans!

A lovely day out and one I will cherish in the months to come when Emma remains packed up back in England.

The Delights of Shopping

2011-08-22T13:50:00.000-07:00

Taking advantage of the family being elsewhere, I decided to spend the day shopping at our local centre – Fosse Park, near Leicester. I took my wife’s Peugeot 207 as the family was using the Mondeo.

Due to not being able to leave the house dressed, it was once more, underwear, girly jeans on and top with a long tracksuit top covering up the embroidery on my jeans and my dark pink top.

Stopping off at my usual layby, I quickly added my fillets (wearing a suitable push up padded bra) and with my wig secure, swapped shoes and then applied my make up finishing off with my glue on nails. I had painted them a beautiful shade – soft toffee by Maybelline which we had purchased after having seen a young woman on the tube the day before wearing this shade.

Driving down to Fosse Park I stopped off at the services to check my overall presentation and endured the queuing that seems to be common during the holiday season for the toilets.

Happy with the overall look and my make up, I had a wander around the shop and picked up a bottle of water before back in the car rejoining the motorway for the short hop to Fosse Park

I parked up at the Marks and Spencer’s end of the car park and checking everything was in place made my way to my first port of call the “temple” of Marks and Spencers. I must admit to having an ulterior purpose as on the way I felt the under wire of my bra star digging into my side and realised that the fabric had given way.

Working my way through the lingerie section, I enjoyed the freedom of touching, looking picking up underwear without the guilty feeling of so doing as a guy. Not a sideways glance or nudge from any of the other women there including the bored guys watching whilst their partners were checking out the huge variety on offer. I even was lucky enough to overhear the comments of a young girl experiencing the delights of looking for her first bra in an adjacent aisle whilst looking for a replacement bra for myself. Again the father was singularly disinterested.

Having selected 4 bras I then joined the queue waiting outside the fitting rooms. I must admit that I did have a momentary worry that I may be asked to go elsewhere and the fact that a couple of guys were sat outside waiting for their partners to finish trying on their underwear was slightly daunting, however, my worry was unfounded as I was given a tag for 4 items and escorted to a cubicle and reminded that if I needed anything, to press the button for attention.

Top carefully off over my head, I tried the bras on, all 38Bs of various design configurations, one of which was not for me and whilst trying the 2nd one on I called for the woman to help. I showed her the one I thought seemed to be working and asked her opinion, at the same time as asking her to measure me. This resulted in her fetching a 40B from off the shop floor, which fitted better, but didn’t quite push my breast tissue into the right places. I explained the unique problem I had and we checked out the other two bras, one of which did what I wanted and the original one I had asked for her opinion on, also worked.

Just to make it more complicated, I kept the new bra on and went back to the counter to explain (in front of what felt like a crowd, including men) resulted in being escorted to the pay desk to purchase the two bras.

Now that I was comfortable again, I began checking out the clothes in earnest and soon had 2 skirts, a blouse and a red dress to try on. Once again, no problem as I was shown a cubicle and left to my own devices. The red dress was a beautiful fit in jersey material, but at £65 was not on my short list of wants. I finished by purchasing a black stretch fit skirt and a multicoloured blouse in a lovely satin type material.

Now, suitably thirsty – no air conditioning in the store and very warm in the changing cubicles, I stopped for a bite to eat and a drink. Chatting to the two women in the queue behind me we discussed the temptations of the cakes on the counter! on our way to the till and how warm the shop was.

As I sat at my table, people watching whilst nibbling at my sandwich, an older lady on the next stable struck up a conversation and we had a long chat whilst she was waiting for her niece to return. Once again, just normal social intercourse, it was almost too easy to forget how I was dressed and I remembered fondly that 1st time I had been shopping in daylight some 36 months previous in this very shopping centre and how my attitude and confidence had changed. That day in September, I had spent 7 hours in a skirt suit and 4” heels trying very hard not to have to talk to anyone whilst enjoying the thrill of shopping as Emma. Now here I was dressed in jeans, t-shirt, flats and chatting to just about anyone who struck up contact. How things change.

Having satisfied my hunger and thirst, I made one last sortie around the store until my eyes beheld a vision! – leopard print slip on shoe/boots with a 2” stiletto heel. With the blood rushing to my head I feverously looked on the shelves for a pair in size 8s and was rewarded when right at the back on the bottom shelf, I found them.

Rushing over to the nearby stool to try them on, I almost pushed a woman off as I sat down and yes, they fit! Trotting off to the cash desk, once more my card took the brunt.

Bags in each hand, I made my way back to the car and swapped my shoes for the new shoe/boots and re-fixed my make up before making my way back to the other shops for a more leisurely look in New Look, Dorothy Perkins and Next. No further purchases were made as I felt I had already been extravagant given that soon I would be leaving Emma behind for quite a while due to my new job.

In Boots, I picked up a replacement translucent face compact from Max Factor and two packs of working oval glue on nails from Kiss. Paying for them, the woman on the till commented on the nails and asked me how I found using them. As I explained; for the £6, I get 5 sets of complete nails which I can use twice, the nail glue if properly applied to the whole of the natural nail ensures that the nails stay in place and I cheat by painting them the night before whilst blutacked onto the heads of 6” nails fastened into a strip of wood. She then enquired whether my nails were the stick on variety and took a good look at them, complementing me.

Whilst strolling between shops, I took a call from my youngest who asked if I had any plans for dinner. Replying no, I was asked where I was and explaining that I was at Fosse Park, was asked to pick up something for dinner. No problem, back to the car, I re-parked by the large Asda and checking my face once more, left the car and walked into the maelstrom. The place was heaving as I picked up a basket and made my way around the aisles looking for inspiration. Finally, it clicked, thin crust cheese extravaganza and double pepperoni pizzas as a starter with fresh chicken and bacon and spicy sausage stuffed pasta with mascarpone sauce as a main meal.

I guess this was a first for me as I had never really been food shopping before, however, no problems, but whilst queuing at the till, the girl in front of me clocked me and nudged her friend who stole a glance over his shoulder. I smiled at them both and that was that.

Paying for my food, I exchanged pleasantries with the girl on the till and then made my way back to the car to finish off what most women would find a normal day but for me will remain a wonderful memory and also a reminder of what you are able to do, given the confidence and self belief.

Day 3 - Brighton - Sparkle D-2

2011-08-07T14:29:00.000-07:00

Waking at Sue’s on my 3rd day as Emma, I once again got ready early this time in a tight caramel coloured pencil skirt and white blouse, matching heels and whilst Sue got ready, I stepped out and visited the cash point for some more money, called in at Superdrug for a face compact and then called at the Italian café for a coffee – all very normal and not an untoward glance even though the high street was busy with commuters. Lovely feeling sitting there amongst others enjoying a strong coffee, tight skirt caressing my nylon clad legs, the taste of lipstick and the coloured smudge left on the white porcelain cup, all reinforcing the image.

On my return, checking the weather forecast I changed into a slightly flared blue denim mini skirt and a vest, leaving my aloe vera impregnated natural tights on and wearing a pair of flats.

We arrived in Brighton mid morning and leaving the car on the prom, decided to start our visit with a coffee and breakfast snacks. Behind us on the nearest table were three old women one of whom on their departure wished us a good day. Not that we knew it at that time but we bumped into her three more times during the day leading me to suggest that they were stalking us!

Suitably refreshed, we made our way to the pier and explored the historic structure. It was quite windy but sunny and I had to concentrate on keeping my skirt held down at times. For lunch we stopped off at a bar half way down the pier and enjoyed a couple of bottles of Crabbies. Before leaving whilst washing my hands after a visit to the ladies, I had an interesting conversation with an old lady who had retired to Brighton many years earlier but who had originally lived near where I was born. Absolutely no issue whatsoever as we discussed many topics drying our hands.

Having satisfied our thirst, we decided to eat at Harry Ramsdens and enjoyed their speciality fish supper. The place was packed and we enjoyed fitting in just like any other customer.

Back at the pier, we enjoyed an ice cream cone whilst trying to keep our hair out of the way in the wind. Whilst wandering back down the sea front we came across a crazy golf course and decided to have a go! The guy dealing with the payment and handing over the balls and irons was a bit stand offish but sod him, we joined the others, mainly families, on the 18 hole course.
I got off to a good start winning the 1st hole but gradually Sue took a commanding lead and finished a convincing winner though I did claim two hole in ones! Quite a few passing pedestrians stopped to watch us play. One problem I quickly learned how to deal with was bending down to retrieve my ball from the hole whilst wearing a short skirt – the answer was to perform almost a curtsey when bobbing down to pick the ball up.

Having had our fill of golf, we decided to try our hand at another sport that of shopping!

We went looking for the myriad of back streets full of quaint shops further inland. Finding them was harder than we thought but we finally ended up where we wanted just as the shops were closing. I managed to pick up some jewellery as did Sue and we both managed to resist the home made fudge though it was a close call!
Shops shut we decided to stop for a beer at The Victory sitting outside on the pavement in the dying sunshine before making our way back to the car and our return to Sue’s where once more we enjoyed a lovely meal accompanied by wine, bottled beers and a couple of stiff G&Ts reflecting on another wonderfully normal day out and about as two women.

Day 2 It must be Portsmouth or Sparkle D-3

2011-08-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

The continuing account of 7 days 24/7 as Emma

Waking up early on the Tuesday as Emma at Sue’s house in London, wearing my Janet Reger chemise and looking down at my bright red nails, I smiled and quickly made use of the bathroom before Sue got up.

For breakfast I slipped into a pair of shorts and t-shirt over my bra which again I chose to wear without any forms making use of a pair of fillets. Sipping a cup of tea in the kitchen, I waited for Sue as she got ready for our trip over to Portsmouth to visit Taz, Gemma and Angela.

Looking at the weather, I decided to wear a long beige A line skirt with green top, nude, bare legs to show off the spray tan and brown sandals to show off my pedicure.

Once ready, I grabbed my River Island bag, shades on the top of my head (one can be hopeful) and walked out to the car and programming the sat nav, we got on the road for Portsmouth.

The weather forecast said it would be sunny until 2pm and then rain – yeah who believes the weather forecasters?

We decided to go the scenic route and kept to the A3 on the way there and noted some lovely pubs we may try out on our return.

Arriving in Portsmouth, we found a car park behind the M&S near Commercial Road and having found a machine which would take our money! made our way to the agreed rendezvous with the others.

Strolling through the shopping centre that Tuesday morning, we received no second glances no nudge nudge etc, it was just a normal experience albeit one which gave me a nice glowing feeling within. Walking with a calf length skirt flapping against bare legs, looking down to see bright red toenails peeking out of my sandals and the feel of my earrings brushing against my neck, all contributing to the overall sense of achievement and contentment.

Back in the sunshine, we sat down by the fountain in front of Debenhams and contacted the others. A short while later, Angela arrived straight off the ferry, closely followed by Taz and Gemma from Gosport.

With a full compliment, and a requirement for a comfort break, we made our way to the café upstairs in Debenhams where we enjoyed some liquid refreshments and got up to speed with what was happening.
Gemma and Taz

First priority was some food and to this end we found a cheap little café just off the main shopping area where we ate. Just as we entered the establishment, we felt the first drops of rain – checking my watch – 2-15pm – so much for weather forecasting!

Suitably filled, we decided that we would check out Primark and all split up within the shop. It was a lovely feeling just wandering around, picking up clothes, feeling the material and checking out jewellery, shoes and bags without the usual fear when so doing as a guy. I was a good girl and didn’t buy anything – even off the sales rack though I was sorely tempted by a very short skirt in my size and some more jewellery.

Meeting up with Sue and with a while to go before we were to meet up with the others, we had a saunter around Debenhams where I fell in love with a gorgeous red cross fronted evening dress but again at £60 was beyond my budget. Whilst there I got a text from Taz to say they had to leave and so “Then There Were Three”.

I was on a mission that being to find a set of eyebrow templates to draw on new eyebrows. I had previously shaved off my existing eyebrows which because of the colour, no-one, even my wife had noticed! But I now needed some help in drawing new ones on each time I went out as Emma.

A couple of the women at the Boots store helped me find what I was looking for and I took advantage of a couple of offers they had on that time for cosmetics to replace my current favourite lipstick – Revlon 724 – a lovely shade of pink. This is my 3rd tube of this shade now. I guess this shows that I have become more set in my ways and found what suits me after all this experimenting as well as getting out as Emma more.

With Angela in tow, we decided to up anchor and make our way to the sea front where there was another set of shops and restaurants/bars to explore.

Parking up near the seafront, we became the source of attention of a group of teenage school girls passing by. The usual giggles were replaced by one of the girls approaching me and asking me for the time. Smiling I answered that she knew very well what the time was and if she was so interested in us why not just ask? At this she smiled as if in confirmation to her companions and I finished with a parting shot as they walked away “I love your uniform!” (Bottle green!) at which they quickened their step and disappeared around the corner.

Making our way down to the shopping centre, avoiding the puddles, I was lagging behind a touch as we were spotted and a guy turned to his girlfriend pointing out the fact but with a “I think” rather than a definite. I take that as a result, given three of us increases the odds of being spotted tremendously.

Close to the seafront we came across The Old Customs House which was now a pub and to get out of the rain we decided to stop there for a drink – not that we needed any excuse mind you.

It was very pleasant to sit there chatting away sipping our drinks surrounded by others young and old, eating and drinking. No side long glances etc. – it was just as it should be and reinforced my belief of greater acceptance within the “real world” and that we should all make that effort to overcome our inner doubts to go where you want to and when you want to presenting as you want to.

Finishing our drinks, we decided that having seen other customers eat, we should stop for a bite as well and so ordered a meal. It was very tasty and filled a hole in our bellys, washed down by another non alcoholic drink (I was driving). We then spent a pleasant hour wandering around the shops and Sue and Angela both came away with a few goodies, I was good and refrained from any purchase this time.

Finishing off our trip to Portsmouth, we stopped at a bar on the seafront for a coffee before bidding Angela farewell as she proceeded to catch her ferry. Back at the car, Sue and I made our way back to London, where because of a lack of spaces I had to leave my car on the main road in a metered area (needed to get up early the following day to put money in).

We finished the evening having a chat over a bottle of wine and some food whilst reflecting on another day out in the “real world” doing what we wanted to do, before retiring to bed.

Day 1 of 7 days 24/7 or Sparkle d-5

2011-08-07T14:25:00.000-07:00

Once again, I had taken a week’s holiday to spend quality time 24/7 as Emma. I chose the week beginning the 4th July culminating in Sparkle.

On the Monday morning I left home as a guy and arriving in Milton Keynes, made my first appointment for eyelash extensions with Sue Winters. The experience was pretty strange, lying on my back as the woman glued bunches of eyelashes to my existing lashes. After 25 minutes, she had finished and they looked pretty awesome. I then stripped off to my gaff and had a full body spray tan applied.

As I had to wear loose clothing afterwards, I quickly dressed as Emma, a black padded bra with fillets and my own flesh up top, gaff, long olive skirt and an orange stretch top completing the picture. With flats on my feet and wig in place, I paid the bill and bid Sue goodbye, leaving her salon as Emma and in the comfort of my car, quickly applied my make up and jewellery before joining the traffic on my way to London.

I had arranged during my last visit with Sue Richmond, to stay with her for a few days before driving North to Manchester and so it was that I arrived at Sue’s house in London, parking up and joining her for lunch just after 1230. Unloading my luggage, we enjoyed a quiet beer accompanied by a pork pie I had brought with me, discussing our plans and whom we had arranged to meet up with, before leaving for our appointment at a local saloon for pedicure and manicure.

Walking through the busy suburban streets on our way to the salon, I quietly savoured the feel of my ¾ length skirt flapping against my bare legs, the tap of my heels on the pavement and the slight breeze moving my earrings and hair against my neck. The sun was not too hot and we enjoyed the pleasant 20 minute stroll arriving for our appointments at 3-30pm.

Sue was having a manicure and her appointment was first so I sat legs crossed in the waiting area reading the magazines waiting for my later appointment. Sue had originally made the appointment for both of us in guy mode and after an initial pause the woman on the desk had booked us in. It was obvious that she was slightly apprehensive initially as we arrived but soon warmed to us and whilst Sue disappeared for her nails to be done, I enjoyed chatting to her whilst sipping a cup of tea and interacting with a number of women customers as they came and went.

In no time at all, the girl was ready for me and I enjoyed an hour of pampering as my feet were given the royal treatment and nails finished in a Revlon red. The girl it transpires was from Poland and had been living in London for 6 years and we got on really well discussing a wide range of topics from girly through travel and work.

After a good 90 minutes, my finger nails had been shape, cleansed and were now resplendid in a matching Revlon red though I was told that it was more fashionable to have them a different colour than my toe nails!

Bidding the ladies of the Salon goodbye we made our way back the scenic route taking in the river bank and some beautiful gardens on our way back to Sue’s, stopping for the obligatory photos.

It was a beautiful feeling, my long skirt wrapping around my bare legs, the occasional breeze caressing me and the warm afternoon sun beating down on my thin top, the taste of lipstick on my lips, the smell of my perfume, the heavy feel of my lash extensions and the weight of my earrings dangling against my neck as we slowly strolled alongside the river chatting away as two girlfriends. We finished our river bank stroll with a glass of cool Pinot Grigio whilst watching the world go by on the terrace of a riverside pub. Finally we joined the increasing number of commuters on their way home as we returned to Sue's.

Back at Sue’s, a beautiful dinner was prepared by my hostess and as we sat down to enjoy, I opened a bottle of grand Cru 2004 St. Emilion that I had brought from my cellar (the garage really) to accompany the meal and to celebrate our first day of the week as Emma and Sue.

The remainder of the evening, we sat sipping wine chatting away, shoes having been kicked off, legs tucked up under us, catching up on our lives since our last meeting in April when we went to see Warhorse at the Theatre. As it got late, time for bed, undressed, make up off, moisturiser on and slipping into bed wearing a Janet Reger chemise, the end of my first day as Emma.

2011-08-07T12:24:00.000-07:00

I had originally planned to join some of my fiends for the Friday night in Leeds but due to a shortage of funds, had to cancel. However, I was able to attend Claire’s birthday celebrations for one year since going fulltime. Combined with this, I planned to join friends attending the Walk along Blackpool prom in aid of diversity and in memory of Sophie Lancaster , a goth girl tragically murdered in Bacup in 2007.

The Saturday dawned brightly, small bag packed and dressed as far as I could for leaving he house at 8am. First snag, the youngest who is never seen before midday usually, was up and sitting reading the paper whilst tucking into her breakfast! So off came the girly jeans and top whilst I waited impatiently for her to leave (it seems she was working at 9am - this usually means 10 minutes before – getting out of pit and dashing to work) but no not this time!

Finally she leaves at 9am and I redress, put my bag in the car and leave only to discover I had left my mobile at home and had to return to pick it up after 6 miles.

On the road now 90 minutes later than planned, I ended up behind the slowest cars, horse boxes, tractors and just about everything else you could find on the way to the A50. Stopping off at my usual layby I put my face on, wig and forms and changed shoes in under 15 minutes and continued on my way.

It was obvious that I was now unable to make the meet for the march and so I made as good a time as possible, stopping off at Sandbach services to use the facilities and to phone my friend Michelle in Blackpool. I must have arrived at the services during a busy period as I ended up having to queue to use the toilets but with no problems/comments despite waiting almost 10 minutes.

I finally got into Blackpool an hour late and leaving the car some distance from the shore, proceeded to walk to join the girls I was meeting. On the way, I had a wardrobe malfunction with my bra strap undoing and I spent 10 minutes trying to stop everything hading south before coming across a pub – The Waterloo. Walking in I felt distinctly uncomfortable as 10 pairs of eyes drilled into me from the guys having a lunchtime drink. Purchasing a half of lager, I sat down and after quenching my thirst, paid a visit to the ladies to sort out my bra. The pub I found out from my friends is renown for being pretty rough, however other thn feeling somewhat under close scrutiny as the only woman in there, I escaped unharmed!

Finally hitting the sea front I turned North and joined the throngs of holiday makers as I headed for the Central Pier and the Tower in the distance. Luckily wearing jeans and t shirt and flats on my feet, I was comfortable as I covered the best part of 3 miles from my car before I finally saw the chance to catch a tram.

Crossing the promenade I burst into a girly run and just made the tram. Taking my seat, the conductor asked me where I was going love? It made my day as I asked for the North Pier where the girls I was going to meet were now enjoying a drink after the walk.

I asked a young girl opposite me to take a photo as Emma had never been on a tram before.

Getting off the tram, I asked for directions to Revolution Bar – over there mate! Did not go down well as I said in no uncertain terms I was not his mate!

On entering, I initially was unable to see my friends and wandered around looking. In so doing I attracted the unwanted attention of a group of young guys who wanted me to join them and made certain gestures of a sexual nature, smiling I kindly declined their kind offer, telling them I wasn’t that kind of girl! and taking one more look around I finally found my friends tucked out of site at the other side of the bar, where I joined them.

We spent an hour chatting and enjoying a drink before two of the girls had to leave and the four of us continued to Ma Kellys for another drink before ending up at The Litton Tree. Finding a table outside we enjoyed another drink or two (I was driving so was drinking Blue Becks) and enjoyed chatting about just everything including making plans for another night out and the offer of staying over sometime including a night in for a makeup, perfume and wine party.

Unfortunately, time ran it’s course and despite the invite to stay the night and go out with the girls, I needed to be back in Manchester at The Trafford Centre for 6-30pm for Claire’s meal. And so bidding Joanna and Vicki a fond farewell, I shared a taxi back with Michelle.

Back in the car, I made good time from Blackpool but ended up running on thin air as I had little fuel in the tank before finally pulling up at The Centre with the fuel gauge showing zero!

Grabbing a change of clothes I quickly made my way to Pestos to join the others who had been waiting for me. With the food ordered I quickly made use of the ladies to swap my jeans and t-shirt for a caramel pencil skirt and brown top and my flats for a pair of high heeled brown pumps, make up refreshed I rejoined the other guests and Claire and her husband John for a very nice selection of Italian food.
After the meal we made our way downstairs and found an establishment selling ice cream and finished off the meal with a coffee before we all made our own way home.

Myself, I stopped for diesel outside the Centre and drove over to the village where I parked up and grabbing a change of clothes,popped into Taurus where after a quick Beck’s changed into my LBD and black heels. Assuming that I would find some friends out and about I wandered down Canal Street to the New Union where I had a coke before visiting Eden’s. After sitting on my own for a short while, a woman came over to me and we got chatting and she invited me to join her friends out on the piss from work. Over a few more Blue Becks, I had a great time with these girls, dancing, educating them and chatting away over all sorts of topics from make up, through clothes, shoes relationships and sex. I showed them some photos of me and they were pretty amazed as in their words “I wore clothes that they would wear!” Again their perception of crossdressers was more “drag queen” i.e. over the top and inappropriate clothing.

We ended up having a laugh with a guy from Bristol and then a couple of guys on a stag do where the stag had fallen over and had gone to bed with a cut head! before I called time and made my way back to the car and the long drive home.

Stopping off at Sandbach services to empty the bladder, I changed from my LBD back to my jeans and a woolly top before enjoying a black coffee and muffin at the Café. I then had a blonde moment, on returning back to my car, it wasn’t there! All sorts of things passed through my mind – all of them not good as I double checked the car park and ran over my route in my mind again. I then returned to the shop and asked the woman if the car park was on CCTV as my car had been stolen – she calmly asked me if I was heading North or South , replying South she pointed out that I was in fact on the North side and the bulb came on in my head – yes! Inadvertently I had taken a wrong turn after leaving the café! Sure enough my car was where I had left it some 40 minutes earlier – phew!

Stopping off at my usual layby at just before 5am I reverted back to guy mode, and got home as the dawn was breaking, after a great day out in the real world!

Looking forward to my next day/night out in Blackpool especially a girls night in!

Back to London for the Theatre

2011-05-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

Several months ago I managed to secure tickets to see Warhorse in London. It had been my intention with my wife’s agreement to go as Emma.

My good friend Sue agreed to put us up and on Easter Monday drove down to London, meeting Sue for a bite to eat and quick drink before retiring to bed.

Given the uncertainty of the weather, I faced a quandary as to what to wear and in addition as we decided that to return and get changed for the theatre early evening would take too long, what to wear that would be ok for walking around London and be ok for the theatre.

I settled on a cotton drill skirt in salmon pink with a dark pink t-shirt over which I layered a crochet sleeveless top. On my feet I wore my new Jane Norman shoes in taupe which matched my large handbag in which I carried a pair of flats.

We took the overland train into London and made our way by tube to Oxford Street where we had a coffee and some cake in House of Fraser before making our way to meet friends for lunch.

Over a pleasant lunch we put the world to rights and then made our way towards the theatre via Covent Garden, moving onto Trafalgar Square stopping off for a beer on the way at Chandos upstairs in the Opera Room.

For once, we decided that it would be better to arrive early rather than just in time and so we were able to have a quiet drink and order interval drinks in the theatre before taking our seats for the production of Warhorse

The play was very good and as I had chosen not to read the book or anything about the play beforehand, it made a huge impression on me. After leaving the theatre, we made our way to Sarastro’s in Drury Lane where we had reserved a table. The décor for those who have never had the pleasure of eating there is something to behold. The inside is laid out as a turn of the century theatre complete with individual boxes and the whole effect is one of clutter. The murals in the ladies are pretty special and quite risqué. The food was good and we enjoyed the company and ambiance before leaving for the train station and enjoying night time views from Waterloo Bridge.

It was interesting sitting in the station concourse people watching as we waited for our midnight train.

The following day, the temperature was supposed to be lower but I decided that instead of my planned white stretch jeans, to go with a shortish flared beige skirt teamed with brown t-shirt and brown tights, finished off with leopard print pumps, matching sunglasses and a brown leather handbag from River Island.

Once more we joined other commuters on the trip into London, and started the day with a spot of retail therapy. At the Benefit stand in Debenhams, I purchased a new mascara and “browsing”, which is a wax and powder complete with brushes to fill in your brows which my good friend Mandy introduced me to when out in Blackpool recently. The girl on the counter was happy to demonstrate the cosmetics on me including a matting powder and bronzer before I made my purchase. Sue also bought the “browzing” in an appropriate shade again after having the girl demonstrate on Sue.

After enjoying a coffee in the cafe on the ground floor, we continued with the retail therapy and I picked up a flexie waist cincher upstairs in John Lewis’s. My wife was looking for something for her cross stitching but was unsuccessful. I must admit to having a strange and thought provoking moment as I made my way back from the toilet to rejoin my wife whilst walking through the baby section and young childrens clothing, mixing with “new” mums and mums to be.

For lunch we returned to a favourite haunt of Sue’s, the Bistro in Soho where we had a lovely 3 course meal with wine over which we discussed the itinerary for the rest of the day.

We decided to walk towards the Abbey via Regent Street which was very busy and on into The Mall and across to St James Park, where we joined the many tourists enjoying the beautiful weather and the preparations in advance of the Wedding. We made our way across the park stopping for a few photos and then onto Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament passing the Abbey on our way to Westminster Bridge. As we needed to be elsewhere for 8 that evening we decided to walk back to Waterloo Station stopping off for a refreshing fruit cocktail at the Archduke.
Suitably refreshed we just made our train but had to run, having to hold down my skirt in the process. Back at Sue’s, it took me 20 minutes to revert back to “bob” mode and pack our cases in the car for our trip north, reflecting on another two wonderful days in London.

Day out in London with Jackie

2011-04-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

Having missed the last planned lunchtime meet in London, I decided that this time, I would endeavour to join in and suggested to my wife that we could go down to London for the day and combine the lunchtime meal with a day wandering around London.

My wife agreed to the proposal and we decided that we would drive down to Hatfield, leave the car there and get the train into Kings Cross.

I left the house dressed wearing a baggy tracksuit jacket over my top and covering the fancy stitching to the top of my stretchy jeans, no wig, shoes or forms and finished getting ready whilst my wife drove. Other than eye make up, it was fairly straight forward applying my make up and finishing off with my glue on nails.

Whilst stopped for fuel at Biggleswade on the A1, I quickly did my eyes.

Leaving the car for £2 for the day, we bought our day tickets and joined other travellers on the platform for our 25 minute ride into London.

Once in London, rather than attempt to keep to our planned touristy itinerary, we decided to make our way to St Katherine’s Dock and have a leisurely breakfast and drink. We were blessed with sunshine and so took a table outside the Café Rouge where we took in the atmosphere, had a good chat over eggs Benedict and a cup of tea – all very civilised, surrounded by other customers. Before leaving I needed to take care of business and purposefully strode through the busy café, the waiter guiding me to the ladies. Washing my hands I exchanged pleasantries with another woman as we juggled for position for the hand dryer – all very normal and wonderful for that very reason.

Moving on, we had a pleasant amble around the dock and then made our way to our rendezvous with Sue Richmond and a number of other girls at Salieri’s an Italian Restaurant opposite The Savoy Hotel.

The lunch was everything I had expected and Jackie and I enjoyed the chance to meet up with old friends and new alike. The food was good and the bottle of wine and a couple of beers certainly hit the spot.

At 4 pm, the party broke up and Jackie and we made our way to Primark where Jackie wanted to pick up a few things. Bad mistake. The shop was heaving and even I took a few hits I didn’t expect – more like on the rugby field and queues! – wow, I reckon they should have those signs you get at tourist attractions – 1 hour from here! Trying to try on shoes was fraught with difficulty as all the seats were occupied by women waiting for friends/relatives and having found one seat, I was almost pushed off it by another woman when I reached up to try a different sized shoe!
Giving up in disgust, we decide that we need a drink and so worked our way up Oxford Street and then branched off by Debenhams finally arriving at The Marylebone having passed two pubs which were full of football supporters.

Finding a spare couple of seats on a table we joined a couple of French girls whilst sipping our beers and chilling. The pub was very busy but importantly – no football supporters! It was great to be able to sit there without attracting undue attention.

Before leaving I paid a call and whilst in the cubicle, a group of American girls entered the toilets and continued their discussions about a couple of guys who had been trying to chat them up. I won’t go into detail but it was kind of graphic with no holds barred. On leaving the cubicle, the girls were posing for photos on the sink and just smiled at me as I washed my hands, brushed my hair and touched up my face they continued with their appraisal of the guys.

Leaving the pub, we decide that it was time to make our way back to King’s Cross and we walked to Baker Street tube only to find the station closed. During the day we had found a number of the stations closed which did cause a few hiccups as we made our way across London. As there was a replacement bus service we made use of it and took the scenic route back to King’s Cross where due to the absence of a bar, we decided to take the first available train back to Hatfield.

Tired but satisfied, we headed North and reunited with the car, I drove the first leg home. We decided to take a “small” detour off the A1 halfway home to stop for a break and a quick drink at a country pub. Well that was the idea however having chosen to come off at the exit for a place called Woolley we found ourselves on narrower and narrower country roads and not a sign of any village. We blinked and missed the two houses – no pub!! As we wended our way deeper and deeper into the “sticks”, we jokingly commented that if we see a big house on a hill with a light on to keep on driving! Finally we found what we were looking for, a quiet pub in the village of Greetham (wherever that is!), called The Mermaid.

Walking into the pub, we noted that the ongoing conversation between the 6 oldish men about football at the bar didn’t stop on our entrance and we were promptly served by the woman behind the bar who commented on how it was slightly warmer inside than out. Taking our drinks, we made our way past the standing customers into what one could describe as a living room and took our seats by the fire. In the 30 minutes we were there, we might as well have not been there, even the one other woman customer (one of the guy’s wife?) sitting on a barstool facing us seemed to accept us- again a very welcome feeling. Gathering up our glasses we thanked the barmaid commenting on the fact we still had 50 miles to go and bade her good night.

I wonder if they continued talking about the football and cricket after we left!

We finally crawled through the door before midnight having made sure our youngest had indeed stayed out at her friends before collapsing in front of the television exhausted having had a wonderful day out in London.

Sales Shopping In London

2011-01-01T07:56:00.000-08:00

Finally managed to organise a day out shopping with Sue in London. It had been touch and go due to members of my family over the Christmas period succumbing to viral infections etc including my wife. However, on Tuesday evening I got in the car, bag packed and proceeded to make my way South through fog and an amazing amount of traffic, turning a two hour leisurely trip into almost 3 ½ hours of torture.

Arriving at Sue’s I dumped my bags and we went to the pub for a couple of beers and planned the following day in London.

Up early, I got ready taking only 30 minutes to put my face on and get dressed. This is due to knowing what I was going to wear, doing my nails the previous evening and having a fixed routine for my make up (practice, practice and more practice)

Sitting there nursing a cup of tea whilst waiting for Sue, I reflected on how far I had come in the previous two years. I was totally at ease and excited at the forthcoming adventure and comfortable as Emma in a way that I had never felt was likely in those early days. As usual the weather had turned unpredictable and I was faced with being too warm in the shops but warm between the shops. I chose my favourite woollen pencil skirt, blouse and matching jacket. Opaque tights on the legs and kitten heeled courts with a ¾ length woollen coat over the top. For the first time, I went without my usual forms and instead wore my new bra from Asda with a pair of fillets. The bra worked in squeezing and pushing up my own flesh to give me a smaller than usual silhouette but not out of place. Overall I was very pleased with the result and with summer not far off!! I will be able to show a reasonable cleavage with the right tops.

Leaving the “sanctuary” of Sue’s we made our way to the train station and tickets purchased, just missed the train, having to wait for the next one to take us into London. The train ride was “ordinary” and we chatted all the way into town.

On arriving in the City, our first port of call was an excellent coffee shop where we sampled some Belgian chocolate and cookies (well they screamed at us – eat me eat me!). Our plan of attack was to head towards the centre of Oxford Street and work our way back from the Soho end. We didn’t have any priorities, so we explored the shops as and where we found them, too numerous to name them all here but including the main culprits.

A common denominator was the sheer frustration I felt in finding a dress or top I liked, only to find 6 of them in a size 8 only. The other problem was the random spread of the sales goods and that was without facing up to the odd elbow in the ribs from other women looking for that perfect buy!

Before stopping for lunch, Sue had managed to find a new bag and a couple of skirts and a pair of leggings whilst I made do with a pair of shoes (no surprises there then!) from Zara. We decided to lunch at Bistro 1 in Soho, a restaurant we had eaten at before and very affordable. On entering, Sue was greeted by the waiter recognising her from previous visits! No comment!

We both ordered the 3 course meal (£9.95) and a bottle of Pinot Grigio to wash it down with. Whilst there, we were joined by Helen Love and ended up having a lazy 2 hour lunch with a couple of bottles of wine! I could get used to this, sitting there in good company, dressed and accepted as a woman, chatting about clothes, make up, venues, music and the state of the EEC ‘s agricultural policy! Not!

On paying the bill, we first explored the nearby MAC shop before Helen left us and we continued back to Oxford Street. By now, the streets and shops were heaving and after another hours shopping we decided to have a tea in House of Frasers café on the 5th floor.

During our break, I ended up having a bit of fun with a young child on the next table to us who was there with his parents. It’s amazing where it can lead to when you stick your tongue out. As it turned out the mother and I then exchanged thoughts on taking a baby buggy complete with all the paraphernalia associated with young children through the crowded London streets and on the Tube. She then confided that she was 23 weeks gone with another baby at which I raised my eyebrows. Wishing them both good luck, we parted ways.

Before leaving the store, I decided I needed to go and so found the toilets only to end up in a queue of 7 women. I decided that it was not fair for the others there and so rejoined Sue, moving on.

Our penultimate stop was in Debenhams where we took our lives into our hands and joined the throngs of shoppers. I managed to find an evening bag I quite liked which was still big enough to carry what I need. As to trying anything on, forget it, there were queues right round the floor. We did receive a nice compliment from one of the women on a stand in the beauty hall. She asked us if we used tinted moisturiser and would we like to try some. I pointed out that I needed something a touch heavier than that and we started to chat. She asked me what I used and I explained that I was a MAC girl. She said we both looked very good (it may have been a cynical statement to try and entice us to buy – but I took it as the compliment offered). What girl doesn’t like a compliment?

Finally we decided that as it was now rush hour, we would find somewhere to have a quiet drink whilst waiting for the crowds to die down. Using Sue’s excellent knowledge of the streets of London and the fact that we had already had a quiet drink there earlier in the year (in Bob mode and accompanied by my wife) we made our way to The Mason’s Arms in Maddox Street. Walking down Bond Street, skirt caressing my nylon clad legs, the sound of my heels on the pavement, the taste of lipstick on my lips, earrings dangling from pierced ears – it could have been taken from a fiction site and certainly 3 years ago would have been only a figment of my imagination.

Entering the pub, we found it to be quite full with no apparent places to sit. Ordering the drinks we looked around and were pleasantly surprised to find a couple moving over and inviting us to sit on their table. Sitting down, we thanked them and without much ado entered into conversation with them. The guy was Scottish and a classical musician whilst the woman was freshly divorced and had just lost her job. We talked about all the regular topics such as unemployment, VAT work etc and of course fielded a few questions about our dressing. Debbie was amazed at our antics and I explained how I was happily married (27 years) with three daughters. She expressed great interest in joining us for a shopping trip the next time we were out in London and we exchanged contact details.

Sitting there cross legged with my hands around a half glass of Speckled Hen, the light reflecting off my long dark red painted nails , chatting away to “complete strangers” in a busy pub in the middle of London, I reflected on life and my decision some 30 months earlier to join the Angels and to come to terms with my dressing.

Eventually some two hours later and having consumed a few more beers, it came time to depart and we wished our new friends all the best and with a promise to try and meet up the next time we are in London.

Given the time we decided to eat in town and having passed by a few establishments which had queues outside, we ended up at a Spanish restaurant where we took a table for two. Meat Tapas and a carafe of wine later, it was finally time to gather our bags and make our way to Bond Street tube station and onward to the main station for our return trip to the suburbs.

We made the 10-15pm train with seconds to spare which involved running from platform 6 to 15 in heels and a tight skirt carrying our shopping! Probably should be in the next Olympics!

Taking our seats in the carriage, we just chilled out as the train wended its way out of the City with passengers changing at each of the stops. Finally we joined the other passengers getting off at our stop and made our way down the main street past the pubs and closed shops back to Sue’s. Kicking off our shoes, jackets hung up and with a welcome cup of tea we chilled out after a brilliant day shopping as Emma and Sue.

My thanks to Sue for her friendship and putting me up, to Helen who I met for the first time and who I would like to get to know better and to all of the Angels whether I have met you in the flesh or just on the forum for the encouragement, enthusiasm and support offered to myself since joining. May I wish you all a healthy and prosperous New Year and that you achieve all your wishes and dreams.

2010-11-26T12:09:00.001-08:00

Having booked the day off work, I made my way to Manchester finding just how frustrating it can be on our road network in the process. A journey that I regularly make in less than 2 hours took almost 3 ½ hours.

Nevertheless, with no fixed agenda, or critical times I just chilled out and watched the scenery and the drivers around me as we slowly wended our way.

The New Union where I was staying organised my room so that it was vacant which gave me the opportunity to book in at 1030am and gave me the chance to be changed and out for 1130ish. As I was intending to go shopping in the Arndale Centre, I decided on a skirt suit and blouse, black opaques and black kitten heels. Over the top I wore my ¾ length woollen coat which protected me from the cold but was a touch too warm in the shops and the Centre. You just can’t win!
Making my way from the hotel up into town, I felt totally at ease and relaxed. I noted that my choice of clothing was one shared by a lot of the women I was walking with and reduced me to just another woman in the lunchtime pedestrian traffic.

My first port of call was Superdrug where I picked up a new mascara and whilst there tried a few different lip colours. One which I tried was a lip stain from Max Factor. Even now some 24 hours after trying it on the back of my hand, the colour remains. I think I will have to be particularly careful when I use it for real! It is a nice experience being able to pick up, examine and try out make up without attracting strange looks when you try it as a guy.

Out of the shop and making my way to Primark, I received a text message from Karen that she had just arrived at Piccadilly, I sat down on one of the benches outside Primark to reply. Suddenly this woman came over and asked me for directions to the station. I got up and told her indicating the way and that was that, not a single sign of concern just a pleasant thanks and she was on her way. I know it’s not exciting but it is such a nice feeling of acceptance in a busy city centre.

Having contacted Karen, we agreed to meet back at Taurus and I made my way back there. It was the first time I had met Karen in guy mode and we spent a short time sipping our drinks and catching up on the gossip before walking back to my hotel where she made use of my room to get ready (her hotel room would not be ready for a couple of hour yet). Sitting at the bar, I made friends with a couple of guys and spent a pleasant half hour in their company before the call of the shops became too loud and off I went again.

I made my way to Debenhams looking for a nice necklace, possibly new flats and a pair of fancy tights. Whilst making my way through the beauty hall I was accosted by a young saleswoman and I ended up buying a couple of make up presentation boxes which will be nice Christmas presents for our daughters.

Upstairs, I found the tights I wanted only to find they didn’t have any on the shop floor in my size. Having asked one of the assistants, we ended up in conversation about a wide range of topics as I also was interested in replacing my Spanx full slip with the next size down. I did manage to pick up a nice chunky bracelet in red which I was pleased with. At the Faith franchise I managed to miss the seat when sitting down to try on a lovely pair of ankle high boots! Other than my dignity I was ok and the girl and I had a laugh over the incident – just hope it doesn’t feature on u-tube!

Before leaving the store, I needed to use the toilets and followed a couple of women into the ladies, grabbing the last free cubicle I did what I needed and then discovered at the same time as the woman in the adjacent cubicle that there was no toilet paper! Luckily I had a couple of packets of tissues in my bag and was able to help her by passing one of the packs to her which she was grateful for as we afterwards stood next to each other washing our hands.

From Debenhams, I decided to seek out a jeweller’s to look at buying a silver necklace. I have till now always made do with cheap costume jewellery but was fed up of my neck turning green! Passing by Beaverbrookes I decided to risk it and popped in. I asked one of the assistants to show me their necklaces and that I needed a 20” chain. We found one I liked and I added the letter E to it. I was then offered a coffee while she then produced a pair of matching silver hoped earrings which I also decided to buy – hard sell or what! During our conversation she casually asked me if I was on my way home from work!

Paying for my jewellery, she asked me for my details starting with Miss, Ms or Mrs. At this point I realised that with my address, I may end up having catalogues addressed to Emma Walkey arriving at our home and trying to explain that to our youngest so I hurriedly asked her to change the name to that of my wife. She just looked at me blankly at this as if not understanding. Either she was a very good actress and saleswoman to boot or I was passing better than I thought. I assumed the former but she certainly had me going for a while. Who knows! She soon recovered and I left the shop feeling good about myself.

Meeting up with Karen again we strolled through the Centre, window shopping and in one shop whilst Karen was picking a top, I got chatting to the sales woman. I was admiring the white roll necked pullovers and mentioned to her that trying to stop them getting make up on them was near impossible and so for me the jumper was remaining on the rack. We then chatted about how the sizes varied shop to shop before moving on, Karen having finished her purchase.
Approaching 4pm, we entered the Mac shop and I asked one of the girls to help me. Guiding me to a stool in the middle of the shop, I removed my coat and sat whilst explaining what I wanted. Basically, I was looking for a base/concealer for under my foundation to neutralise any shadow, a replacement foundation and fixing powder, some ideas for my eyes for daytime, evening and party and a suitable red lipstick which would suit my colouring.

Setting to with gusto, the scary bit – I had to remove my current make up! She was very complimentary about my make up before we started, which made me feel good. (The more cynical of you out there may note that this could have been part of a sales pitch – I also thought that briefly and then decided no – I would go with the flow, we all need compliments don’t we) For the next 2 hours Holly showed me how to achieve the various looks I wanted and we tried all sorts of colours. It is a wonderful feeling having a professional applying your make up and one I would recommend wholeheartedly. I finished the session with the evening / party eyes including a pair of false lashes added. It was funny whilst sitting there in full conversation with Holly that none of the woman around me even bothered to check me out! The only funny looks I did get was from a mother who in between giving her student daughter some grief over choosing a suitable foundation and lipstick, looked me over a few times.

Having parted with a substantial sum (this being a woman can damage your wealth!) I walked back to Taurus where I met up with the rest of our party for the evening meal. Sharing a bottle of wine during happy hour we caught up with news before moving onto Eden’s and then making our way over to Villagio’s for our meal. We were to have been joined by two “new” girls but they didn’t show. We decided on only a main course this time to allow us to visit the Manchester Concorde girls over at New York New York.

As I wasn’t dressed for the evening, I quickly departed for my room and changed into a short dress, (and I do mean short!) fancy tights and new shoes before rejoining the girls around the corner. Passing Via I elicited some complimentary comments about my legs from a couple of business guys leaving the bar as well as some voiced suggestions which even made me blush under my make up, though it did make me smile.

At New York, New York we caught the end of the quiz and then stayed for the music, meeting up with Claire, Mary and Bev amongst others before moving on again. The others then decided to go direct to Napoleon’s but I wanted to go elsewhere, so we parted company and I walked down on my own to Tribeca and sat down with a bottle of wine. Surprisingly the place was really quiet and I ended up chatting to one of the bouncers until leaving.

I finished the night at Napoleon’s and got back to my hotel late, waking up the next morning having missed my 5-15am alarm call by a few hours! Never mind, I made up the time at work in the evening finally getting home at turned 9-30pm that night, absolutely tired!

Looking back on the day, I believe as I get out more and more as Emma, my increased confidence, experience and better presentation skills all seem to reduce the incidence of adverse reactions from those around you. I certainly no longer have any problem interacting with anyone when out these days (call me gobby if you like!). For those who still have doubts, try relating to me – a 5ft 9”, 16stone rugby player in a dress! If I can do it, so can anyone of you.

Birthday Celebrations in Manchester

2010-11-22T11:21:00.000-08:00

My wife and I had been invited to join our good friend "Mrs Kate" to celebrate a significant birthday in Manchester on the Saturday.

Whilst my wife continues to be very supportive of Emma, she has reduced the number of times we go out together as she still feels uncomfortable. However, this occasion was one which she wholehearted wanted to join me in and so with our “story” established we left our youngest mid morning on the Saturday to drive up to Manchester.

The idea was to drop some stuff I was selling at a friend’s in St. Helens on the way and book into The New Union mid afternoon. On arrival, the room was not quite ready and so as we were enjoying a quiet drink at the bar, when who should join us but Di who was also staying at The New Union.

When given access to the room, we unpacked and my wife made her way into town for some shopping whilst I got ready. The weather was warmer than I had expected but I decided to go with a long t-shirt top over my stone washed jeggings and favourite mid height heeled shoes. On top I had my black ¾ length coat which is very warm. Ready, I made my way up to the café in Debenhams where we had agreed to meet, just another woman amongst the throngs of shoppers.

Meeting up with my wife, I sat down and we enjoyed a cuppa and some fruit cake whilst organising where we wanted to go and what we needed. My immediate requirements were a new pair of glossy patterned tights for the evening whilst my wife was looking for some replacement needles for her cross stitching hobby and some gel inserts for her heels. Ideally I had wanted to visit the Mac store but as money was tight I knew I would spend too much there so refrained. We did however spend an pleasant hour wandering through the clothes section at Debenhams, examining dresses, tops, coats and skirts for both of us. We find it very useful to be open and truthful about clothes and we both take great delight in picking out clothes for each other and respect each others comments.

However, as time was moving on, and money was tight, we both found what we wanted and then made our way back to the hotel through the crowds of workers and shoppers on their way home. Again, no issues with the rest of the world, I was taken as I presented.

Back at the hotel, whilst Jackie went up to get ready, I sat and had a beer during which Dianne came down ready for the evening and introduced me to Katherine, another friend of hers.

I then joined my wife to get ready whilst Dianne ad Katherine made their way up to Taurus where we were to join them later.

For the evening, despite having brought three different alternative dresses, matching shoes and bags, I resorted to an old favourite a sparkly LBD and matching heels over which I wore my genuine rabbit fur coat (E-bay bargain last year)

Make up refreshed and darkened for the evening, a slick of lip gloss and squirt of perfume, we gingerly made our way down into the bar and then up Canal Street to find our friends. My wife looked stunning as we popped into Taurus but didn’t see them (we later found out they were in the alcove), followed by Velvet where my wife got chatted up by a guy as we were looking for Di and Katherine. It was quite funny listening to the conversation whilst standing there next to Jackie in my heels etc!

Moving on we finally came across Mandy and Tina as they were walking up the street and we decided in the absence of any agreed meeting place to drop into Churchill’s where we enjoyed a bottle of wine between us.

It was good to have the opportunity to chat as it had been a while since Jackie had been out with me as Emma and all too soon we had to up sticks and make our way to the venue where we were eating – Velvet.

On arrival we found Di, Katherine and Bev and her wife there already and so with fresh drinks awaited the arrival of birthday girl and Kate which duly happened.

The bar was very busy and standing in 3” heels not quite so much fun as its’ made out so when seats became available, we made a beeline for them. Shirley and Kate both looked stunning and with all of us in a party mood, the rest of the evening looked like it was going to be good.

Making our way carefully down the steel spiral staircase to the restaurant was, as usual, fun, wearing a tight dress and heels adding to the “excitement”

Taking our seats, cards and pressies having been handed over, "Mrs K" handed out little badges and masks to get us in the party spirit, mine was Miss Boozy! – is someone trying to tell me something!

The food as usual was very good and the “low fat deserts!” something to die for.

As the night was young we decided to visit Spirit first where we met up with the girls again after I had revisited my room to change my shoes and leave my fur coat behind.

For some reason the atmosphere in the village early on appeared quite threatening with lots of groups of guys wandering around the “village” and there was quite a lot of verbal comment. Probably Man United having been at home didn’t help. Nevertheless, we didn’t let this detract from our enjoyment, we just were somewhat more careful than usual.

Gradually our friends made their way from Spirit until myself and Jackie were left sitting on one of the beds on the mezzanine floor. We took time to have a great chat about just about everything. My wife and I for the first time since the night I was attacked, actually held hands and cuddled. This was a massive step for my wife in accepting me as Emma out and about and both of us felt really comfortable.

(The night I was attacked, my wife had for the first time since going out with me as Emma held hands – I know it doesn’t sound that great but believe me this was a massive step for my wife and I, and she thought (wrongly in my opinion) that this lead directly to me being assaulted that night.)

From Spirit, we sauntered across to Eden’s where we continued cuddling and chatting until a young girl on an adjacent table beckoned us over to join her and her friends. She was an 18 year old hairdresser from Manchester and we passed an enjoyable hour answering questions, chatting and generally getting on really well with no unease whatsoever. Her young friends and herself were totally accepting and showed a genuine interest in us. When you think she is only a year older than our youngest daughter! We took advantage of educating them which I believe they were largely ignorant of in the first place. Jackie and I smiled as we fielded some of the standard first time questions and the fact that we were happily married with three daughters didn’t fail to impress on them that any preconceived perceptions they may have had were not necessarily correct.

Before moving on finally to Napoleon’s, I needed the loo and entering in front of another girl grabbed the one available toilet much to her “disgust”. Having finished my business, I washed my hands, repaired my make up and brushed my hair at the mirror before being joined by the girl who had followed me in. She smiled and laughingly commented that following me in she thought I was a woman but was cool about it and asked me if she could borrow some lip gloss. She was a 21 year old who confessed that, whilst she touched up her lips and I refreshed my perfume, she was trying to ditch the guy she was with.

Rejoining my wife, we briefly had a chat before we parted company and walked over to Napoleon’s. By now it was well past 2am and my wife was buzzing. We rejoined our friends downstairs for a chat and final drink or two.

Getting up to buy a round of drinks I bumped into Justine at the bar and we caught up with life etc (we last met at Sparkle though we keep in touch via facebook) and the fact that she and her wife now had a baby to look after.

Finally as the clock was approaching 4am we bade our farewells and made our way back to our hotel and sleep.

Jackie has since then reiterated how she had a really wonderful time out and about with Emma and all our friends and we have penciled in further dates for us to both go out. The fact that Jackie has been able to embrace me and allow me to engage in normal physical signs of affection whilst out as Emma is a massive step forward in acceptance and one I really appreciate.

Sunny day in Cambridge

2010-10-30T02:59:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, I took a day off work and drove down to my friend Liz’s house in Cambridge with the intention of spending a day site seeing and shopping in the University City.

On arrival, I quickly got ready, my favourite woolly top from Primark in off white, purple and pink stripes teamed up with a short woollen pencil skirt worn over black opaque tights and my favourite comfortable shoes with a 3” heel from New Look.

Allowing for the cold weather, (first mistake assuming the forecast was going to be right!) I wore my new black ¾ length coat from M&S over the top. My makeup was understated to suit the day and I took advantage of my pierced ears to wear my new large hooped earrings.

Driving into the City, we parked in our usual spot at Pounds Hill and I joined a woman at the pay and display machine. Turning to me she asked me to confirm the instructions i.e. at 20p per 15 minutes “is that £1.60 for the maximum of 2 hours?”

I confirmed that she was indeed correct and ended up exchanging views on the “no change given” issue with these sort of machines. No raised eyebrows – just normal social intercourse.

Walking into town, I noticed that everywhere was very busy. There were large numbers of tourists in addition to families taking in the unseasonably warm temperatures. In the process, Liz showed me around a number of the gardens behind the college facades and we spent sometime watching the activities on the river, politely declining the invitation to go for a punt ride. “Ladies would you be interested in …….” – a nice welcome feeling.

Having walked past a number of the attractions including the grasshopper clock and taken a few touristy pictures, we ended up at the Castle pub and sat down enjoying some refreshments, watching the rest of the world go by. It was fairly quiet in the pub and the lad behind the bar joined us and chatted for a while. Once again total acceptance.

Running out of time on the car park we returned to the car and drove further across town this time parking at the Grafton Centre to indulge in some shopping. Reverse parking my Mondeo into a tight space whilst wearing heels and a tight skirt whilst a number of cars and people were watching – different sort of stress!

Entering into the precinct via Next, I spent 20 minutes trying shoes on, in particular looking for a suitable pair of flats but nothing either fit or caught my attention. Further into the shop, I came across and fell in love with a jacket. Trying it on I felt that longing – but reality stepped in, I just could not justify £75 given our current financial state.

Moving on, Liz spent some time in a new wig shop and entering into the spirit, we spent a long while she tried just about every wig on in the shop. I decided to leave her to it and sat down at the café over the aisle with a pot of tea only from time to time, much to the amusement of the adjacent customers, being beckoned over to comment on the different styles and colours Liz was trying on. Finally she decided and to celebrate the close of the sale, we had a photo taken with the women in the shop, Liz and myself.

As Liz had an appointment at the other side of town, we agreed to split, meeting up later and we went our separate ways with me ending in Debenhams.

In the beauty hall I got talking to a French guy on the Smashbox stand and arranged a makeover on my eyes. He was very good and we got on well as he firstly cleaned off my existing makeup before applying new. Sitting on a high stool at the entrance to Debenham’s being made up by a guy certainly turned a few heads and was most definitely not for any shrinking violets.

I must admit to thoroughly enjoying the experience and to learning a lot including how to deal with my deep set eyes and of course ending up with a new set of eye make up, blusher and bronzer. On finishing the makeover, I had a few photos taken as a momento.

The remainder of my time, I spent looking for that ideal party dress but this time despite trying on a couple of possibles, my limited money remained in my purse.

Before rejoining Liz, I took another break and had a coffee at Costa, sitting watching everyone go by. Throughout my wanderings, it was evident that I had been noticed and just sitting there adjacent to a busy corridor was no exception, however, no adverse comments or reactions were forthcoming and indeed I entered into conversations with a number of fellow customers, one couple in particular with a very young baby.

Re joining Liz, we had a bite to eat at a Chinese Restaurant washed down by a bottle of beer before returning to her house, the intention being for her to sort out a new prospective lodger and then for us to join the Cambridge Gems on the river boat Georgina for an hour cruise. That was the plan, reality was that we ran out of time and sadly missed the opportunity to meet up with the regular girls from Cambridge as it took much longer than we had envisaged.

As it was becoming too late to really do much else, I decided to get changed, foregoing a drink in our regular pub and surprise my wife by getting back early. Make up, removed, clothes changed, I was on the road for 10 and home for 11pm, the end of another ordinary but enjoyable day in Cambridge.

In summary, various people including Liz and Johnny (the French guy in Debenhams) comment that they felt that Cambridge is not as enlightened as my own perceptions indicate. Certainly, other than a few verbal exchanges with drunks late at night, I have never had any feeling of being threatened though a number of encounters result in stares to which I respond by staring back. No one faced with that sort of response has continued to meet my stare nor taken it further. Certainly I have learned over the two years I have been out and about to turn right down my radar and as a consequence very rarely pick up adverse reactions to my presence that my wife or say Liz picks up on. As a consequence, I continue to find myself very comfortable as I carry out my business as Emma and as stated in my previous post, find it almost a non event these days. This frightens me somewhat as I do not want my outings as Emma to be “ordinary” and an everyday event. I love going out as Emma and would hate it if I lost that excitement.

24/6 - almost a week as Emma including Sparkle

2010-07-17T03:44:00.000-07:00

Taking an opportunity, probably not going to repeat itself, I have spent the last week as Emma and just about pushed all the boundaries as far as possible including a number of firsts.

Monday 5th July – travelled up to Manchester in Bob mode, booked into New Union for the week, had my ears pierced at Claires, 3mm gold studs. Got changed, Bob’s clothes went back to car. Stayed in the vicinity of the village for the evening consuming far too much wine and feeling the consequences much later.

Tuesday 6th July - up at 9am, dressed and walked into town to do some shopping. Then at noon had an appointment at Transfixed for the application of a set of acrylic nails and a pedicure. Back at the hotel, I took my car and drove over to visit my friend Chrissie in Warrington where we shared a pizza and had a good chat before I made my way back to the New Union for midnight. Disco at the New Union on until 2am, chatted up several times and then to bed.

Wednesday 7th July – up early decided to wear longish floaty Per Una strappy dress with a lightweight blazer and strappy heels for my day out in London. Walked up to Piccadilly Station and into the concourse, feeling a million dollars and attracting no adverse stares etc. Boarded the 9-35am train to Euston and sat down next to a young woman in my reserved seat. The train was 100% full and certainly no place for anyone who had doubts about themselves. Some two hours into the journey I touched up my make up as we were approaching Euston only to see the young woman do the same. A nice shared moment.

At Euston, Sue met me and we sat down for a quick coffee and cake whilst agreeing the itinerary. You may recall from recent posts that until 3 weeks earlier when she joined me out in London she had not been out in daylight before. Now she was almost a “veteran”

We took the tube which was an experience in itself, hot, sweaty and whilst standing in a crowded car, subject to all sorts of close contacts! and made our way to South Kensington to visit the V&A and in particular the Grace Kelly exhibition. As a size 16, I felt somewhat overawed at the size of the dresses she had worn and quite envious. Whilst strolling around or sitting, several girls surreptitiously included ourselves in their photos of the exhibits! Why not ask us, it would have been simpler for them – as if we would have minded! Sitting in the courtyard enjoying an ice cream cone without any sideway looks, comments etc was pretty cool. Not really about passing but one of being accepted.

From the museum we had a stroll around Harrods, some refreshments before finishing the afternoon with a tasty meal in a Bistro, just in Soho before getting a taxi back to Euston for the 9pm return train.

The train was busy but not packed and I relaxed and enjoyed the return journey. Back in Manchester for just after 11pm, I met up with Kate in Napoleons for a night cap or two, before returning to my hotel somewhat tired out but still on a high.

Thursday 8th July – up late, organised a few things, dressed and then walked over to the car park for my car. On the way, a guy stopped in his blue Mondeo and asked me if I wanted a ride! – 10-45am in the morning outside the village! My response was succinct to say the least.

I then drove over to York for the day having arranged to meet up with Amanda, this being her 2nd trip out, albeit close to home. I stopped off at Hartshead Services to freshen up and have a coffee before arriving at York and taking advantage of the park and ride scheme, boarded the no 7 bus into York.

I met up with Amanda at the railway station and we proceeded to the National Railway Museum where, after having refreshments, we spent a pleasant and informative afternoon wandering around. As we were making our way back up to the railway station, a woman behind me commented to her young daughter “aren’t the lady’s stripey shoes nice!” I can’t begin to describe my feelings as I ascended the steps into the station, nor the broad grin across my face.

Unfortunately, Amanda needed to get away at 5pm and so, after her departure, I proceeded to walk into York where I took a stroll along the walls and up to The Shambles and did a bit of shopping before catching the bus back to my car and driving back to Manchester arriving back at the hotel for 9ish. Got changed into an LBD and then had a few drinks up Canal Street, an hour in Via where I was chatted up by a girl who insisted on calling me gorgeous and wanting to dance with me – how could I not be flattered! Luckily I was rescued by my good friend Jayne before repairing to Napoleon’s where I met up with two of the guys I had been chatting to earlier in The New Union returning to the hotel for the disco till 2am once more and retiring to bed.

Friday 9th July – up early, dressed and had a full breakfast at Velvet’s before realising just how warm it was and returning to my room to get changed. This time in stretched white jeans and t shirt sitting outside the New Union, I clocked numerous girls arriving for Sparkle and some making those tentative first steps; whilst sipping a cold beer. I met up with Sue who had travelled in Bob mode for a quick chat and a drink before she left to book into her hotel. I then I walked into town and – yes, you guessed, did a little bit of shopping before meeting my wife off her train at rush hour in Piccadilly. Walking up to the station, I thought there might be some trouble as I got mixed up with a gang of 15 guys just starting out on a stag night! But they didn’t notice me in their midst and instead turned their attention to two girls walking towards us instead.

Stopping off at Taurus on the way back to the hotel, we sat and sipped a white wine and enjoyed a nice snack before getting back to our room and getting ready for the theatre. We got a taxi to the Opera House where we saw Spamalot. What a superb show and a great experience, we, both dressed in our best. Not sure nor did I really care what the guy next to me thought as we took up our seats in the front circle. Walking back to Canal Street from the other side of Deansgate in 4” heels was something I won’t forget in a long time but again we experienced no adverse comments as we joined the theatre goers exiting the theatre and making their way back across Manchester.

Back in the village, we stopped at Edens and relaxed in some of the comfy chairs, joined some while later by the “usual gang” including Steph and Sue, Kate, Mrs Kate, Bev, Di and Claire. Whilst the others later split up and went there separate ways including Napoleons, my wife and I decided to have an early night and were in bed for 2am.

Saturday 10th July – Sparkle – The big day once more dawned hot and muggy. Topping off the spray on tan on my legs, I slipped into my River Island denim mini skirt and t shirt top. Amazingly, my wife agreed to walk with me this time (not like when I wore the shorts last year!) We made our way up the street and into Sackville Gardens where we met up with Dave and Teela and then a number of our other friends. At the last minute I had been asked by Teela from Transpose to help out with the fashion show at 3pm and so in preparation, we walked over to Taurus where we had a few drinks and a bite to eat before returning to join the other girls at the back of the stage. I had two changes of clothes, appearing firstly in a glittery pink “Abba esque” style pair of flares and top and then as a naughty Policewoman in tight black miniskirt and white blouse and a 12” truncheon and pair of handcuffs!

Along with all the girls, we had a tremendous time, once the music was playing my nerves disappeared as I strutted my stuff in front of the watching audience, my wife right there in the front row, enjoyed the show and my contribution.

We picked up a few of the acts and then made our way back to Taurus where we enjoyed a pleasant afternoon with good friends, Tina and Mandy before returning to our room to get changed and back to Taurus for our meal. We then made our way once more to Eden’s where we met up with our friends and sat outside on the boat enjoying a drink or two. Liz and Mary joined us. Unfortunately, my wife decided she needed to get to bed at 1ish and I escorted her back to her room before rejoining the others. We then made our way to Napoleon’s but it was that hot and crowded, I turned back and returned to The New Union who had a disco on until 3am.

On the way I was talking to a woman when this idiot came up to me with his fingers in his mouth feigning a “you make me sick” sort of gesture and so I dealt with him appropriately. The woman I was with was equally scathing about the guy’s attitude and I bade her farewell as she rejoined her boyfriend.

At the New Union I met up with two women from Salford and when the disco ended, they wanted to know where they could continue and so I accompanied them back to Napoleon’s which was a little less hectic by now and we enjoyed some dancing and a few drinks, joining Liz and Mary until their departure followed by myself at 6-30am when I made my way back to my room and succeeded in waking my wife!

Sunday 11th July – back to Bob. Packing our cases, we decided to stay for a while, leaving our luggage in the reception at the New Union. Wearing a t shirt, jeans and heels, we spent the last few hours sipping cold drinks in the warmth of the day and then met up with Tina and Mandy, decided to go up to Taurus where we treated ourselves to Sunday dinner. It was at this stage that I realised that Transfixed didn’t seem to be open which was where I was planning to remove my acrylics. Luckily, Jackie was able to get up to Superdrug just before they shut and purchase the necessary solvents and then re joined us where we continued drinking and chilling on the boat at Eden’s whilst I removed my nails one by one. As Mandy and Tina were going to see The Ladyboys later in the evening, I made use of their room at the Ibis to get changed in and then picked up the car, loaded our cases and got on the road finally at 7pm, arriving home for 9-30pm, the end of a particularly exhaustive but enjoyable week.

The following post in response was from Lucy - my answer follows

A typically wonderful post Emma.

So where do you feel you "are" now? The boundaries have been pushed, almost all the virgin territory occupied. On this board there was recently a fascinating discussion about where the T journey takes us ( in your case everywhere!). On the one hand there is the "whats the difference between a TV and Ts? Two years, brigade. On the other, there are those ( i am one) who think that if you take the shackles off ,it is possible for some to find a personal equilibrium short of full transition ( although for some there is no choice and it is a necessity).

What have you learned from being FT for a week?

Lucy,

an interesting question and one which worries my wife though not myself.

I have always felt that I am on a slippy slope one which starts as Bob at the top and transitioning at the bottom.

I am currently held in place someway down the slope by my love for my wife, my children and of course the need to earn money. They are indeed major stabilizing influences in my duel life.

I love being a guy too much to just give it up, especially as I can enjoy being Emma when I want to (within reason and in accordance with the jointly agreed rules that my wife and I drew up when I told her about Emma)

Yes, I did enjoy being Emma for a week and yes I do want to do it again, circumstances permitting. There are many other normal things to do as Emma, but I am not greedy, I am very lucky to have an understanding wife and don't intend to ruin that relationship with my selfish wishes.

What have I learned - well that despite everyone's desire to pass, being accepted is probably more important for those of us not naturally gifted with feminine traits.

Once you realise that most people are not by choice confrontational, then you are in essence free to go about your business as you please. I am continually surprised to find how easy it has been to talk to women and partners - strangers, I encounter on my travels and how interested and accepting they are. In some ways I feel by getting out and about and meeting people I am doing my bit to explain who we are and counteract some of the negativity we have come to expect from the mainstream press.

My friends will testify that I am a fairly gregarious (gobby) girl and so perhaps this is my destiny! My accomplishments since speaking to Alina that very first time about my dressing in September 2008 and going out for the first time in daylight (since I was a teenager) later that October is perhaps testimony to those who are currently struggling with going out that the world is out there waiting for you and once out, there is no stopping you.

Emma xx

First Time Out In London

2010-06-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

Taking advantage of a company function which I was attending in Canary Wharf, I arranged to meet up with Sue initially on the Monday evening both of us in “bob” mode and then to go out together for a meal and a drink on the following night.

Having had a few beers and a very nice affordable Italian meal near the Strand on Monday, we finalised the details for the following evening.

To ensure no connection could be made with my company organised accommodation and Emma, I booked the Tuesday evening hotel myself and after the seminar finished I made my way across London to the London Guards Hotel in Lancaster Gate.

The hotel was just what a girl needed, in a good area, the room had an en suite, was clean, well equipped and larger than I expected and more importantly had two well lit mirrors.

I had just started getting ready when Sue arrived to get ready and so occupying the two mirrors, we both got dressed and put on our faces.

As we were going to a restaurant in the theatre area close to Covent Garden, I had decided on my LBD with the glitter (gets everywhere!), black patterned tights and my evening heels. For a jacket, I wore a black peplum style blazer.

Given that Sue had indicated it took her 2 hours to get ready, she made amazingly good time this evening, more so given that it was also her first trip out during the daytime. Exciting times!

I organised a taxi from reception to pick us up at 7-10 for a table booked for 7-30 and as we were both ready for 7pm, we decided to go down and wait for it’s arrival. Not sure how nervous or otherwise Sue was as we stepped into the lift on the 4th floor and then walking out into the reception area, heels clicking on the tiled floor.

Standing outside we patiently waited and waited and waited as various couples and groups walked by in the late afternoon sun. With no evidence of the taxi turning up, I returned to the reception and asked the guy at reception as to the whereabouts of the taxi. There was initially a degree of confusion as he didn’t relate my request from room 403 earlier to the two of us standing there in our finery.

The taxi it appears was stuck in traffic so we both sat down in the comfy seats in the foyer to wait. In the meanwhile, various other guests of all different nationalities came and went whilst we sat there demurely! waiting for an increasingly late taxi!

Finally, having warned the restaurant that we were running late, it arrived. Our confidence in the taxi service was further dented when he asked for the post code of the restaurant to put into his “tom tom”. English clearly was not his first language. Finally, having worked out where he was going, he quoted us £28 at which time Sue quite rightly told him no (perhaps no wasn’t exactly what we said!) and after trying to negotiate with him and failing, we got out and walked down to the main road opposite Hyde Park where after a 5 minute wait standing on the corner (didn’t pick up any trade!) we flagged down a black cab.

Chatting away to the cabbie, we made the restaurant Sarastro’s and threaded our way through a group of tourists to the door.

The restaurant was everything I expected (thanks Bea) and we were escorted to one of the alcoves where we relaxed with the aid of a Kir Royale whilst choosing what to eat. The place was amazing, the décor straight out of an old fashioned theatre. Shortly after arriving the place started to fill up though it was not overly busy. The service was good, the food very nice, I plumbed for the pigeon as a starter and the lamb for my main meal accompanied by a bottle of house white.

Just sitting there as two girls enjoying a chat over dinner and drinks was a wonderful feeling, given everyone around us was doing similar. Not once did we have any untoward comments or even any odd glances etc. We were totally at home, listening to a selection of operatic pieces in the background including excerpts from Bizet’s Carmen, one of my favourite works.

Sue had been advised that the murals in the ladies toilets were somewhat raunchy borne out by similar frescos in the gents (Sue in Bob mode had been here a month earlier for his birthday) so having had a few Turkish beers and the wine, I just had to pay a call. Yes, I can vouch for the décor in the toilets and have some photos to prove it. Definitely worth a look.

As it was past 11 when we stepped onto the street, we made our way down through Covent Garden looking for a pub to have a nightcap in but were disappointed to find just about everywhere was shut or shutting. After strolling through the late evening crowds (not quite more groups and couples) including coming across a herd of multi coloured elephants! we arrived at O’Neill’s in Wardour Street at the top end of Soho which conveniently was still open till 2pm and as a bonus had a live band playing.

We made our way in past the bouncers on the door and to the bar where we ordered some drinks and then finding a table sat down in the middle of the pub sipping our drinks. Yet again, truly a normal experience.

Several drinks later, we got talking to a mixed group behind us and enjoyed their company. One of the couples was squatting in a large house in Kew it seemed and was quite clued up. Chatting to Jo he said it took him over 20 minutes to work out that I wasn’t a woman finally working it out due to over hearing me and Sue talking and the fact I had larger upper arms than he did! Oh well! – back to the drawing board!

All too soon, the evening came to a close, the band were very good, (playing in the main covers of Kings of Leon, U2, AC/DC, Lynard Skynard etc – my type of music!) the pub was packed and we had enjoyed a good 2 hours of normality. So with a quick trip to powder my nose, we made our way out on the street joining the throngs at past 2am to find a cab. Within minutes we were lucky to attract the attention of one (it can be quite advantageous wearing a short dress.) – don’t ask what I did!

Back at the hotel, Sue got changed and then left for a bus to take her home whilst I got ready for bed. The end of a super evening. We are already looking at organising another evening out in London soon, though Sue is coming up for Sparkle and we will meet there next.

"Back on The Bike"

2010-05-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

Following on from the previous week‘s incidents, my wife gave me the nod to join my friends for Kate’s birthday last Saturday, though because of our daughter’s hospital appointment on the Sunday, I drove up to Manchester on my own.

My first port of call after leaving my car at Charles Street was Bootle Street Police Station where I completed an incident report about my assault the previous week. All in all, I was there for about 90 minutes with a PC who was very friendly and understanding whilst guiding me through the procedure.

The incident has been classified as a Transphobic incident involving common assault.

With the sun high in the sky, I made my way over to the girls at Transfixed in Jersey Street to choose a new wig. As usual I was made most welcome and spent a pleasant hour chatting and trying different styles before choosing one which was then trimmed to suit my own face.

Back at the car park I picked up my case and walked back to the New Union Inn where I was staying and booking in, proceed to get changed. Knowing it was to be a warm day and with the advent of summer, I had been applying a moisturiser with a tanning agent to my legs all week and so was able to forgo wearing tights.

Wearing the bare minimum, bra, knickers, kitten heels, T shirt and a short flared skirt, I picked up a drink and made my way outside into the late afternoon sun to relax and wait for my good friends Tina and Mandy to arrive. Outside, I quickly got talking to a pair of girls up from Lincoln who had been partners for 7 years, one of whom was a fire woman. It is amazing how quickly at ease I slipped into the conversation and joined them over drinks. Ruth, one of the girls commented that I looked better than she would in the skirt. I was made to feel at home in their company and passed a happy hour waiting for my friends. After Tina and Mandy had arrived, whilst waiting for them to get ready we continued to chat and have a few more drinks, until my friends joined us ready for the evening.

Originally I was going to get changed into something a little more dressier for the meal but frankly, I was feeling really comfortable in what I was wearing and it was still quite warm, so I didn’t bother.

Leaving our new friends we walked up to Villagio’s where the others were going to meet us. Walking with bare legs and your skirt flapping against them is a lovely feeling and one that I had not experienced since the last Sparkle. So much for English weather! I was quite pleased with the overall colour as it disguised my scarred lower legs quite well.

The meal was up to the usual high standards and the company once more exemplary I chose the tiger prawns in garlic and chilli as a starter followed by a steak with a few glasses of cold white wine to was it down with.

After the meal, myself and Di decided to repair back to our rooms and get changed. Again, for me quite minimalistic, I stayed with my underwear and swapped the top and skirt for a new LBD I had recently purchased in black and blue sequins. The dress was a touch on the short side probably 8” above my knees but the weight and feel was to die for, it hung really nice. Teamed with my favourite evening heels and bare legs still, we made our way back onto Canal Street.

Both Di and myself proceeded to visit a number of clubs heading up Canal Street including Spirit where we spoke to quite a few girls, and Via before finally ending at Napoleon’s where we met up with the others.

We enjoyed a few more drinks and a chat downstairs before much to my chagrin, I managed to knock over a beer all over Mandy and Tina. Shortly afterwards, they left, returning to my hotel room to get changed. In the meantime, I left and ended up downstairs at the New Union disco before finally calling it a night.

The following day, I was up for 10 and quickly got ready, new green kitten heels from Faith, a pale green top from Debenhams and my beige flared skirt finished my outfit.

I walked up to Velvet for breakfast joining a number of couples in the restaurant before Di turned up. We had a nice full breakfast and a few coffees to start the day after which I returned to my room and swapped shoes necessitating swapping tops before walking into town for a bit of shopping.

Di purchased a number of tops but I was disappointed to find the ones I was interested in were not in my size. I therefore made do with a new necklace before we returned to Taurus for a drink before Di had to leave for an appointment.

Walking back to the New Union in the glorious sunshine on my bare legs and arms, I felt on top of the world and so instead of getting changed and returning home, I decided to stay a while soaking up the sunshine on a high stool outside the pub where I got to talking with a number of customers and passers bys. The backs of my heels had taken a bit of a hammering the previous day and so a woman who was there with her husband, on noticing the state of my heels, kindly offered to let me have a couple of plasters. We chatted for a while as life went on all around us.

Whilst sitting there, I noticed who I thought to be Steph arrive (as a guy) accompanied by someone I didn’t recognise. Knowing Steph’s home situation, I didn’t want possibly to jeopardise it by going over to say hello and so reluctantly kept my distance. As it turned out, they were both texting me to ask if I was in the village as Chrissie (as it turned out to be) though she had recognised me. However, my phone was frazzled as I had managed to soak it in coke the previous day on my way to Manchester.

Finally, just after 3pm I had to call it a day as with a 2 hour journey home, it would be 6 before I got there. A great riposte from the incidents experienced the previous weekend.

An Eventful Weekend in Manchester

2010-05-26T15:02:00.000-07:00

Friday evening and my wife was accompanying me North to Manchester to help celebrate Jay’s birthday on the following day.

Given the time to get ready etc, we decided that we would go out into the village on arrival without me getting changed. Due to the usual hotels being full, we booked into The Ibis in Charles Street which was close to the car park and the room was comfortable and well lit.

We decided to stop in Eden’s for a quiet drink it being past 10-30pm and were pleasantly surprised to find that a bottle of Pinot Grigio was only £6. Sipping away, Jackie and I were well relaxed and looking forward to the next day when surprise surprise, Kate and Shirley found us and joined us on the comfy chairs in Eden’s. I had no idea that they were planning to be out and certainly for them to find us without any communication was almost something out of the twiglight zone.

After leaving Eden’s we had a walk towards Napoleon’s were we parted company and decided to have an early night, returning to our hotel down Princess Street past some busy bars / clubs. I noted that this might be a problem should we come this way dressed on the following day, never realising just how accurate my assessment would be.

The following morning, we had an early start, the intention being to run over to Cheshire Oaks, pick up breakfast and do some intense shopping before getting back into Manchester to meet Steph off the bus at 1pm.

Dressed in a tight black t shirt and denim skirt with kitted heels, I was suitably dressed for some serious shopping.

Arriving at the Oaks we stopped at our favourite Brasserie and had Eggs Benedict and a pot of tea before checking out the shops. The breakfast itself was not without incident as I managed to squirt egg yolk all over my skirt!

With my wife firmly in command of the itinery, we first made our way to La Senza where she proceeded to try on and buy a series of sets of underwear whilsy I more modestly picked up a matching bra and knickers in Cerise (matches my dress) and a control slip and a pair of “boy” shorts.

Moving on, we enjoyed the sunshine as we strolled around the complex anti clockwise. Running out of time we visited the M&S outlet where Steph and I had had such a good experience some weeks before and met with two of the three assistants who had helped us. I had purchased several boxes of Lindt chocolates and thanking them once again gave them in recognition of their help.

With time pressing, we jumped into the car and returned to Manchester getting back in time to meet Steph off the bus. We decided to make our way to Taurus this being just around the corner from the bus station and bumped into Di who was finishing her lunch outside on the pavement. Joining her, we decided on a bottle of Pinot Grigio and I waited for Steph to let me know she had arrived.

Whilst waiting, I received a telephone call from Jay – she and Gwen had met Steph off the bus and were at Churchills, standing up we were able to waive to each other. Steph, Jay and Gwen joined us for a drink as we discussed what we were going to do.

Finishing off the wine we arranged for me to go back to our room via the car park to pick up Steph’s clothes etc with Steph where I would help Steph get ready. In the meanwhile, Jackie was going into Arndale to carry on shopping and we were going to meet her in the café at Debenhams later in the afternoon.

Back in the room, I helped Steph get changed, picking out a suitable outfit for the afternoon and did her make up before leaving for Debenhams.

We made our way back through the village and then into Picadilly and on to Debenhams in the late afternoon sun.

Sipping on a cold drink, Jackie rejoined us and after our refreshments, we went downstairs and helped Steph pick a new handbag and then 2 pairs of shoes before Jackie shot off to get ready leaving us to follow some 10 minutes later having paid for the shoes.

The walk back was a little slow as our feet were feeling the pinch by now but back at the hotel room, we got changed for the evening. Due to us being late we were in a rush and I managed to ladder my tights in the process. Trying to get 3 of us ready in one room when we were late already is not to be recommended.

As we were so late I asked Jackie to nip down and organise a taxi for us which she did and when it arrived, Jackie went down to ensure he didn’t go without us whilst I put the finishing touches to myself and Steph.

We then made our way down in the lift only to be confronted by a bunch of morons including one guy in particular. Somehow the lifts were not working correctly and initially we joined a guy in the lift only to find it went up. At the top, we then proceeded to go down where it stopped at the 1^st floor. On opening we were confronted by a group of guys one of which went to get in the lift until another started jumping up and down screaming that it was full of trannies at which point he quickly jumped back out again as though he would catch something. He continued to run up and down the corridor screaming that there were trannies in the lift whilst we waited patiently for the lift doors to close and continue our descent. The doors closed and then the lift went back up to the top and proceeded to come down a floor at a time until the 1^st floor again where we were once again confronted by this bloody demented scrote who frankly had Steph not been with me, I would have quite happily caught and broke his nose.

Finally the lift doors closed and we arrived on the ground floor to find Jackie somewhat concerned as the taxi had been waiting some time now. Back to the taxi, we helped Steph in the back seat where she was joined by Jackie leaving me to negotiate a low level seat in the front of the taxi wearing a short tight dress without showing the driver all that I had!

Te driver dropped us off outside Churchills and I paid him including a tip for waiting for us and we made our way to Taurus along a quite crowded Canal Street before finally joining the birthday party inside.

Thankfully, whilst almost 45 minutes late, the food had not been ordered and we were able to submit our order without further delay whilst enjoying another bottle of Pinot Grigio at happy hour prices.

It was good to meet up with everyone and have some quality time with friends who with the exception of Claire, I had only met briefly or via Facebook.

We were able to eat our meal which was very good in a leisurely manner whilst enjoying a good chat and the ambiance of the restaurant, after which, we moved on down the street. Whilst I helped Steph book into her hotel – the New Union, the others repaired to Eden’s where we joined them a short while later, before then moving onto to a crowded Spirit.

Finally, as the night was coming to an end, Jackie and I dropped Steph off at her room and we stayed down stairs at The New Union drinking in the function room until turned 3am when we decided to make for our hotel.

It was during our walk down Princess Street that I was attacked by a young guy and as I have already posted about this incident won’t dwell further on it here, suffice to say it upset both myself and Jackie though physically I was not hurt.

I finally got to bed at turned 4-30am very much sober and with a lot to reflect on.

Transphobia - a first hand account

2010-05-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

Well, it had to happen I suppose, after being out and about an increasing number of times and pushing the boundaries this last 24 months, I was faced with an unpleasant situation.

Having spent the day shopping with my wife and later with Steph, we joined some friends to celebrate Jay’s birthday at Taurus.

Following the meal we spent the rest of the evening around Canal Street before my wife and I called it a night and began walking back to our hotel, The Ibis in Charles Street.

At approximately 3-30am on our way back, a guy broke away from a small group and hit me in the face, pulled my wig off throwing it on the floor before running way back to his mates. Before I could react, the bouncer from the club/pub on the corner of Princess Street and Bombay Street caught him and pinned him to the bonnet of an adjacent car. Accompanied by my wife, I decided that I would get her safely back to the hotel (about 100m) and then I got changed and went back looking for the person.

Luckily for both of us, he was nowhere to be found despite me searching well up into town.

On advice from my friends on Facebook, and those who we were out partying with last night, I have filed a report with Greater Manchester Police as a transphobic incident / assault.

I don’t know what was wrong this weekend but this was one of several incidents which I was involved in on an otherwise great day out. On the short walk after the assault, a bunch of lads hanging out of a car screamed abuse at my wife and I.

Earlier in the day, back at the hotel, a young lad went beserk when he went to get in the same lift that me and Steph were in, running up and down the corridor screaming at the top of his voice that he wasn’t getting in a lift with a bloody tranny! Had I not had Steph with me who you may know is blind, I was certainly up for demonstrating the art of free fall down a lift shaft from the 4th floor on this individual.

All in all, a strange kind of day full of highs and then a couple of lows. Thankfully I was not hurt physically and it will not stop me going out but it has taken the edge off what was a wonderful day accompanied by my wife for the first time in a while as she has been adjusting to our relationship since disclosure about Emma 13 months ago.

Despite the experiences this weekend, it is still far better to go out in the world and be yourself than hide behind doors afraid of the odd comment. This is one negative incident I have had in almost two years of going out.

I am already planning to return this Saturday to celebrate another girlfriend’s birthday, but will try and get accommodation in the village as I usually do.

Another day on, I have found time to reflect a little on the events.

Not in any particular order.

1) I have always believed that in any confrontation there is usually a normal order of escalation beginning with visual recognition, verbal exchange and then on the rare occasion, violence. I have much experience in dealing with verbal and give as good as I get as those who know me know and I also believe that I have a good understanding of risk and interpretation of risk. What I was unable to recognise in this instance was the totally unprovoked attack without any prior indication verbal or otherwise.

2) Complacency - perhaps I am guilty of such, tempered by the fact that I was far from sober, bearing in mind that over the last 2 years I have made these late night walks back to my car or hotel (with due caution I must add) in several cities / towns in addition to Manchester without any problems.

3) Funnily enough I had made that same walk in Bob mode on the Friday night with my wife at a slightly earlier time when it was busier and even then I recognised that it may be a problem when dressed the following night. So why did I walk that way? Don't know, I guess I was just exercising my right to go where I wanted dressed as I wanted with any inhibitions (and common sense for that matter) lowered due to alcohol.

Don't get me wrong, I am no martyr to the cause but I do feel quite strongly about the right to go about safely on our streets at any time of the day or night dressed or otherwise. I was no threat to anyone.

4) You know what upset me most about the assault was the fact that I didn't get a chance to retaliate - probably my bloke conditioning kicking in I'm afraid.

5) My wife was very upset about the incident but was more upset about me getting changed and leaving her to go look for the little scrote. For that course of action I deeply regret leaving my wonderful wife with the uncertainty of my well being foremost in her mind until my safe return. She told me that she had never seen me so mad before.

6) Physically I suffered no actual harm but I must admit that mentally today, the incident was foremost in my mind distracting me from work.

I have as stated submitted a report to the police and today had a nice chat with a PCW from the Bootle Street Police Station. She wanted me to file a report and was all for organising a PC to come and visit me at home to take a statement! I pointed out that would not be a good idea as I not only know quite a few PCs in the area through my rugby and other hobbies but my youngest would be home. We have therefore agreed that I will come into Manchester on Saturday lunchtime to complete the paperwork.

I am intending to help celebrate another girlfriend's birthday that night in the village but this time will be driving as I am staying at the Travelodge in Warrington.

Moving onwards, we will see this Saturday whether the incident has effected my confidence although the verbal onslaught in the hotel mid afternoon has changed the way I choose where to stay as Emma for the moment. Funnily enough I have just received an e-mail asking me to rate my stay at The Ibis. I will complete this later.

BNO - March 2010

2010-04-06T12:40:00.000-07:00

On Friday the 12th March, I joined my girlfriends Tina, Mandy and Justine at Pink Punters for the monthly BNO. Luckily I was able to share a room with Justine at the Premier Inn some 3 miles from PPs as the Camponile was fully booked.

Taking a half day off work I managed to finally find the hotel after missing it twice. Arriving late, I joined Justine in her room to get ready.

We had booked a table for 6pm at Les Igunados – a Mexican style Restaurant in the Hub (Milton Keynes) and so we dressed on the conservative side for our early evening foray into town. I chose to wear my new red top over my jeggings and a pair of mid height heels as I was driving.

I must admit that the meal was very good as we sat in the window watching the world go by. Apart from a few strange looks from the woman on the next table, we were accepted without an upturned eyebrow.

On the way back to the car we took a few photos in front of the fountain in the square and on arriving back at the hotel, decided to have a drink in the adjoining pub/restaurant. Sitting on a settee with the others, it seemed way too normal and so drinks finished we repaired to our rooms to get changed for the night.

Eventually after ruining three pairs of tights, I finally was ready wearing my short sequined black dress with a golden lightening down the front, black fishnets and 4” heels and my animal print jacket over the top fresh from it’s outing in Leeds the previous week.

We organised a taxi to the Camponile and arriving there mid evening, settled down for a drink or two. Unfortunately, Justine realised that she had misplaced her camera and worried that she had left it in the taxi. As it was, it was found on our return to the room much later.

As 11pm approached, we made our way across the road to PPs and soaked up the atmosphere with yet another drink. I was in catch up mode having been driving earlier but initially I just didn’t seem to spark and it took me resorting to Vodka Red Bulls to get me going just after midnight.

Once started you couldn’t keep me down as we socialised and then ended up dancing. Whilst dancing, I couldn’t help but notice a skirt worn by a girl next to – short flared black skirt with a skull and cross bones in white and intrigued to know where she got I from, I asked her.

Having introduced myself, I ended up dancing with her (the skirt had been purchased off E-Bay) and during the course of the conversation, it became apparent that she was more than interested in dancing having ascertained that she lived close to my hotel. Happily married, I chose to take a break from the dancing for a drink. I didn’t bother getting up again until the girl (a South African) started to leave and gave me a goodnight “kiss” . I was somewhat taken aback as were my girlfriends.

It was now past 3am and my feet (still recovering from the blisters I got out and about in Leeds and Manchester earlier in the month) were throbbing. Sitting down, the remaining hours passed quickly in front of an open fire out in the smoker’s area (not that I or my friends are smokers) and at just after 5pm we called for a taxi, arriving back at 5-30am. A quick chat with Justine as we got ready for bed and I was away as soon as my head hit the pillow.

Sadly, this turned out to be Justine’s last night out for the foreseeable future as her wife on her return gave her an ultimatum. (her post in the Angels forum refers). I wish both Justine and her wife well and that they resolve these current differences amicably.

Snowy Day in Manchester

2010-03-25T14:18:00.000-07:00

Fresh from the success of securing a new job, I decided to celebrate with my wife’s blessing, by heading for a rendevouz with Karen and my girlfriends in Manchester mid week.

Having no car, I travelled up to Manchester by train, with bags and changing (trains that is!) twice at Nuneaton and Stoke before arriving at Piccadilly just after 1pm.

I made my way to my usual accommodation – The New Union Hotel in Canal Street, to get ready and meet up with Karen for some shopping.

I wore my new stripey pullover from Primark and teamed it with my jeggings and knee high boots with my trusty red woollen ¾ length coat over the top.

A quick beer at the bar and we were away up to The Arndale centre. By now, the snow was falling quite heavily making the going underfoot quite treacherous especially so in stiletto heeled boots with no tread!

Our first port of call was a jewellers, opposite from Primark where I tried on a few watches before purchasing a nice one from Sekonda to replace my watch which I had mislaid.

From there we made our way into the Centre and ending up in Debenhams, I picked up a couple of pairs of glossy black stockings for later. On leaving the other side of the Centre, we stumbled upon the Mac franchise at Selfridges and on spec I went in and asked one of the girls for a colour match foundation. Sitting down in front of the shop window surrounded by women having their make up done was quite an experience, even after having removed all of mine prior to working on me.

Luckily, Jen, the girl who did my make over, had a slot for me before her 5pm appointment and so she was able to check out a shade that worked for my complexion and show me how to work with the Mac makeup including a quick lesson on how to do smokey eyes. £76 lighter, we left the store and made our way back to the village.

The snow was coming down thick and fast and together with my knee hurting, Karen went ahead to get ready whilst I followed up. As my face didn’t need re-doing, I decided to take a break at Taurus and indulged in a bottle of Pinot Grigio at happy hour prices. Sitting on a stool at the bar chatting with Jason and people watching, I felt good both with my looks and my inner self. Could it get any better?

Before leaving to get changed, I rather cheekily asked the manager if I could buy two bottles of wine now for later during our meal. No problem was his response and he put two bottles to one side in the fridge for later.

Back at the New Union, before retiring to my room, I had a quick drink at the bar exchanging good humour banter with a couple of guys, one of whom was kind enough to take my photo.

For the evening meal at Taurus, I chose a black pencil skirt with animal print down the front paired with a silk top. With glossy black stockings and my black evening shoes, I felt a million dollars walking up Canal Street to Taurus protected from the Arctic conditions by my red coat.

The meal and company was great, service smashing. After paying the bill we split up with some going directly to Napoleon’s and myself joining Tina, Mandy and Dianna at Paddy’s Goose for a night cap as Mandy and Tina were driving home later, having work the following day.

Leaving my good friends to make their way home, I joined up with the others in Napoleons downstairs chatting and drinking well into the next morning. Getting back to my room just after 3am, I had arranged to meet up with Karen to have a wander around downtown Manchester the next day before heading back to the train station for 2pm.

The following morning, I got dressed, this time in a nice dress from Debenhams, paired with a pair of kitten heels and my red coat and booking out of my room, deposited my bag at Karen’s hotel as she was staying another day, before we made our way into town.

Working our way into Manchester we went via Chinatown and then explored King Street, stopping at a café for a bacon roll and a coffee before moving on to The Shambles and then took a ride on the Manchester Eye.

We finished off our walk around with another coffee in The Arndale Centre where I purchased 3 pairs of clip on earrings before sampling the joys of the toilets in the Centre. They must rank as some of the largest cubicles known to women and the well illuminated mirrors made touching up the face the easiest of tasks.

Back at Karen’s I hurriedly changed back for my return trip and Karen accompanied me back to Piccadilly where I managed to miss my train by one minute. No problem, we sat down and had a drink before the next train was ready for departure.

With 30 minutes to spare before my connection, I stopped in the bar at Birmingham New Street and enjoyed a glass of Stella, reflecting on the past 24 hours. Life is good.

Angels 10th Birthday Bash

2010-02-28T14:45:00.000-08:00

Having been made redundant the previous week, my original intention to attend The Angels 10th Birthday Party at Pink Punters on the 22nd January looked in serious jeopardy until Gayna stepped in and kindly offered to pick me up and for me to share her and Davina’s room at the Campinole.

Bag packed, I shared a lift to my wife’s work near Loughborough from where Gayna picked me up at 2pm. Back on the M1, we arrived at the hotel before 3-30pm and having spied the queue at check in, decided to have a quick drink whilst waiting for the queue to die down.

Just as we settled down at the bar, a number of girls including Justine, upped and left (I later found out that they were heading into Milton Keynes)

After downing our drinks, we repaired to our room to get ready, checking up from time to time on Davina who was wending her way North from the south coast.

Dressed and ready to go, we accompanied a new girl down into the bar (this was her 1st time dressed outside her room) and settled in the comfy chairs in the hotel bar.

We met Evie and a host of other girls as they one by one arrived. In the meantime, Davina was still on her way accompanied by Louise. More drinks followed and finally Davina and Louise joined us and we decided that instead of organising a lift into town looking for food, we picked up the chicken curry from the bar menu. Despite comments to the contrary in previous posts, I found the food very good and it certainly hit the spot after 3 hours of drinks!

After eating, it was back to the room to get changed into our party frocks!, before walking over the road to Pink Punters. Initially we congregated in the upstairs bar, getting to know some of the angels we knew only from their posts on the Forum. It was interesting to compare notes so to speak and how familiar some of the accounts were.

Finally, the lure of the music and the strobe lighting drew us downstairs and we spent the next couple of hours dancing. It was during this period that a guy came up to me and tweaked my breast. I responded by grabbing his meat and two veg, winking at his girlfriend who was in tow behind. She just smiled back.

Finally as dawn was quickly approaching, we retired to our room and collapsed. Later that morning, make up removed and undressed, it was back to bob mode for our trip North. Another great night out.

2010-01-14T12:45:00.000-08:00

Taking advantage of one of the last nights I would be staying over in Cambridge at my friends’, Liz, due to me having just been made redundant, I decided to push the boat out, spending Tuesday afternoon, evening and all day Wednesday as Emma.

As it was, it didn’t quite work out that way because of a suspected gas problem at Liz’s, I was unable to get changed until late afternoon and then as a consequence, we missed the early evening showing of Sherlock Holmes which had been our intention to see.

Due to the weather, I dressed to suit and wore a pair of olive baggy silky trousers, crochet top over a beige cami and my new (from E bay) River Island calf brown length boots. Instead of my normal forms, I used my own flesh suitably pushed and pulled to achieve a realistic cleavage. To keep warm, I topped it off with my ¾ length fur lines and trimmed brown coat.

Driving into town, we decided to park close to the theatre to see what was on, having missed the start of the film. (I had quite a shock when the cold seat belt came in contact with my now exposed decollage!) We ended up going to the ADC Theatre to see Midsummer Night’s Dream. Having arrived early, we repaired to the bar and had a couple of drinks whilst waiting for the performance to begin. I found the play to be very good and entertaining. This was the first time as Emma I had been to the theatre and lover every minute. During the interval, the couple of cold drinks before the show made their presence felt and a trip downstairs essential. My second ”first” of the night was the need to queue to have a pee. Back in the auditorium, I got chatting to an American girl, over in Cambridge as an exchange student. This was her second day in England (and she got to meet me – well she wont forget that in a hurry eh!) We chatted away until the second half of the play began.

After the play, we had a quick drink back at the bar whilst chatting to two of the ushers. We then braved the cold night and Liz had the idea of trying out the Hidden Rooms (a club with live music) was around the corner. Hidden I certainly would agree as I doubt I would have found them without Liz. Descending into the darkness, I wondered what I was getting into. I needn’t have worried, in one of the downstairs rooms we came across a Tango class – no not bloody orange drinks - the dance! It was great watching the couples dance, what a sexy dance it is. I would love to learn and have promised my wife that we will have a go once our circumstances have improved.

Leaving the dancers to it, we made our way next door to the bar which was empty other than bar staff and the owner, who we struck up a conversation with. It was interesting and gratifying to know his positive take on the perceived grey area of T girls using the ladies toilets. The place has live music, Wednesdays to Saturdays and when Tina and Mandy join us for a night in Cambridge a week on Wednesday, I am thinking of re visiting the Club.

As Liz had an important appointment the following day, we headed back to her house and had an early night.

The following day, Liz had asked if I would accompany her to the County Courts where she was appearing in front of a judge regarding a personal matter. I asked her if she wanted Emma or me and she asked for Emma. The idea was that after the 30 minute hearing we would do a bit of window shopping (neither of us had money!), have a bite to eat and then take a look at one of the museums – that was the idea.

Dressing for the day, I took advantage of the situation to wear a skirt suit and blouse with dark brown tights and black high heeled shoes. The skirt was a tight pencil skirt, the hem falling just on the knee. I wore my red ¾ length coat over the top to keep warm.

Arriving early, we parked up as close to the courts as we could and then made our way to the courts on the way passing a gang of workmen who made some sexist remarks and a couple of guys who made some nice (to me it was nice) remarks about my legs! I must admit to feeling somewhat empowered, the skirt, tights and heels all contributing to the feeling. My walk for once came easy without me having to remind myself to keep my feet parallel etc.

Arriving at the court house, I was suddenly faced with another “first”, a security check to enter the building. I was taken to the left where my bag was checked and I passed through the scanner only to set it off! Taking my umbrella out of my pocket I tried again only for a similar result. At this the female security officer took me to one side and patted me down before allowing me to pick up my handbag, umbrella and to proceed.

Picking up a coffee from the vending machine we booked in and sat down awaiting Liz’s appointed time. It felt good, sitting there in a skirt suit, legs crossed, chatting away. Liz was quite nervous of the impending session. The case before Liz’s over ran by almost an hour until finally we made to enter. The other party in the hearing made an attempt to prevent me accompanying Liz, but as it was an open session, I was free to take up a seat at the back. This other person was engaged in several law suits and at the back of the court adjacent to myself where legal representatives for other parties involved in those cases.

The court hearing went well for Liz although she has some more work to do and another court appearance in the offing but walking out together we made our way into a blizzard outside and celebrated with a bite to eat at the University café over the road.

Having sated our hunger we then returned to The Gratton Centre and had some fun checking out the shops and finally Debenhams where I picked up a new dress in the sale. Trying the size 16 on, I chatted with the shop assistants, asking them for their opinion and afterwards, another “first” having to ask one of them to unzip me (side zip needing double jointed wrist access!)

Time marched on and as I was now feeling the effect of the 4” heels on my still damaged right knee and the snow was still coming down, we decided to nip back home and get changed.

For my last foray into Cambridge, I wore my denim (“spray on”) leggings with kitten heeled pumps and a woollen, cowled neck dress on top. Over that, I wore my grey woollen jacket (Tesco special some years ago!)

Back in Cambridge, it was now too late to make the museum as Liz had an appointment at 4-30 and so we popped into the Pickerel Arms for a coffee and were lucky enough to meet up with Claire, teh barmaid who we know quite well. We asked her if she wanted to join us a week on Wednesday when Mandy and Tina are coming down to Cambridge for the night to which she was enthusiatic but not 100% sure until later in teh week. We exchanged contact details witha view to firm up arrangements. We then made our way across towm for Liz's appointment where I left her to have a wander back to the centre, popping into a number of charity shops on the way and finally having a good mooch around Primark where I spent the princely sum of £1 on a new belt!

All good things must come to an end and so it was that with tea time looming, we returned to Liz’s and I packed Emma away for the immediate future.

So came to an end a wonderful 36 hours where I was able to temporarily suspend the reality of my current position and be Emma, free of the doubts, worries and the uncertainties of my family’s immediate future.

Nb other than the photo taken at the Theatre, I didn't get the opportunity to take any others insitu and so have used ones taken at home today to illustrate what I was wearing

Di's Birthday Bash

2010-01-14T12:26:00.001-08:00

The final trip out of what has proved to be a very eventful year was to celebrate my good friend Dianne’s birthday. No I don’t know how many years but in my humble opinion, no more than 30.

The Wednesday before New Year in Manchester was my last trip out with my good friends and something I was looking forward to having been unable to join with them for the Christmas Meal

As I was on holiday, I managed to pack and leave home by 11am and deposited the car at Charles Street just after 1-30pm walking on to my hotel at the The New Union.

I unpacked and started to get ready. Initially I was intending to get ready and go shopping but in reality I was not cash rich and so instead chilled out as I got ready in my own time. I chose to wear a leather skirt my wife had given me after she had lost weight paired with a blouse over which I wore a beaded sweater and a pair of knee high stiletto heeled boots. Wearing my red ¾ length coat I made my way to Taurus where I exchanged pleasantries with Jason and ordered a Pinot Grigio at happy hour prices.

Sitting on a bar stool sipping my wine watching the world go by, I felt totally at ease. I had arranged to meet up with Jay (on Angels forum) and texted her to tell her where I was.

Shortly after 5, Jay arrived after an afternoon of shopping. Another bottle of wine followed and we soon got to know each other well. I was jealous to find that she had come over from Southport by train, something I had yet to experience. Finally, time being of the essence, we made our way back to the New Union to meet up with Dianne. Leaving Jay at the bar, I retired to my room to get changed and repair my make up.

For the evening, I chose the new dress my wife bought me for Christmas teamed with shiny black hold up stockings and new shoes.

On my re appearance, Dianne was entertaining Jay as I realised that I had a run in one of my stockings. Quickly I retired to my room to exchange one of my glossy black hold ups.

On my return to the bar, Dianne was in conversation with a woman and I ended up chatting to a guy who offered to give me a BJ. My response was that I was happily married and that my wife was more than able to satisfy my requirements for a BJ. For once the guy took my comments in good grace and we continued to chat. I felt really good.

As the hour got closer we departed the New Union for Velvet and accompanied Jay to the Concorde meeting at The Rembrandt.

Leaving Jay at The Rembrandt, we made our way to Paddy’s Goose where we had a couple of drinks with our friends.

Moving on from there we made our way to Napoleon’s, where we passed the next 4 hours in good company, dancing when we felt like it, drinking for the remainder of the time. Kate, having lost so much weight looked formidable and Mrs Kate equally beautiful.

Dancing on and off through the next few hours, I managed to stay awake until 4am when we decided enough was enough and made our way back to the New Union.
What an end to a very full and eventful year.

The following morning I got up and dressed and went for a walk before retiring to my room and getting changed.
, leaving the hotel and driving home.

The night before the night before Christmas!

2010-01-06T14:51:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, the last day in work before Christmas, finishing at lunchtime, my wife had come with me and we had a room booked in the local Travelodge near Cambridge. After a quick drink with my colleagues we booked into the hotel and got ready. The idea was for us to spend the rest of the afternoon and early evening shopping and then meet up with my friend Liz and have a meal and a few drinks. This was my wife’s first time in Cambridge.

The weather meant that we had to dress warmly and so I chose my woollen long sleeved dark pink dress over my new denim leggings tucked into my knee high stiletto heeled boots.

It’s still funny to look at the receptionist’s face when having booked in an hour earlier as a couple, we leave together as two women!

We dropped the car at the Grafton Centre and strolled carefully (pavements were somewhat icy) into the centre where we wandered in and out of the shops with no particular agenda. Finally we made our way into Debenhams where we perused the racks of dresses each of us looking for that something special. In the John McDonald Star Collection area we found them. My wife bought me a new con fit dress and I returned the favour with a gorgeous dress that fitted her like a glove. I purchased another pair of enhancers and a stick on bra which was on special offer, whilst Jackie picked up a couple of new bras.

We decided to stop for a sandwich and coffee in the café upstairs and enjoyed a spot of people watching. Picking up a few bits of make up in Boots on our way back to the car we returned to the hotel and freshened up and got changed for the evening. I wore a grey dress with shiny black belt over shiny black hold ups and on my feet a pair of black patent heels.
Once more passing through reception we got a smile form the guy behind the desk as we exited the hotel and carefully walked across the icy car park to the car.

We picked up Liz from her house and parked at my usual spot, we chose to eat at the St John Chop House – a traditional English menu where I had eaten before. The place was busy but not as full as the last time and we were given a table near the window.

The food was as expected really tasty with us having between us, Sea Bass, home made sausages and bacon mash and beef and game suet pudding. We finished off the meal with a “low fat sweet” me – sticky toffee pudding with ice cream, my wife a marmalade sponge with cream and Liz a fruit roullade.

We were looked after really well and again not one raised eyebrow from the other adjacent diners. I wholeheartedly recommend the restaurant on all counts.

Given the state of the pavements outside we decided to walk round the corner to my regular pub (as Emma) the Pickerel Arms and were warmly greeted by the bar maid Claire.

The pub was packed and we were lucky enough once served to find a couple of seats by the fire where we settled down for a very pleasant end of evening chat and drink. All so very normal and a great experience. All to soon, several glasses of wine later, it was time to leave and my wife drove us back to the hotel having dropped Liz off on the way.

Back at the hotel we decided to try the two dresses on before getting ready for bed – I wasn’t really dressed when we were shopping to try clothes on. Looking at the label in my dress we were disappointed to find that it was actually a size 16 and not the 18 that we thought we had bought. Shrugging, I we thought I might as well try it on only to find that it fitted! Yes, my very first size 16 dress. I was over the moon on all counts, it being a present from my wife, a gorgeous dress to boot and now a size 16! My wife tried her new dress on and what a fit! She looked a million dollars. Already she was planning to wear it to our friends New Years Eve party – shame I couldn’t do the same! Instead, I had it in mind to wear it out in Manchester on Dianne’s birthday on the 30th.

Off with the make up and to bed, the next day being Christmas Eve and back home to our daughters.

Wet and Windy in Cambridge

2009-12-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-22T16:06:00.000-08:00

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!

2009-11-22T15:55:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-04T09:47:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-04T04:20:00.000-08:00

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

2009-10-27T04:58:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-26T03:51:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-06T15:10:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-06T13:14:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-14T14:06:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-09T12:39:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-07T16:10:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-29T15:15:00.000-07:00

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!!

2009-07-19T12:53:00.001-07:00

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

2009-07-18T17:46:00.000-07:00

(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

2009-07-14T23:58:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-29T14:17:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-06-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

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.

My Brother

2009-06-13T02:40:00.001-07:00

As I am preparing for a weekend as Emma with my wife, I cast my mind back to this very day 28 years ago, Saturday the 13th June 1981 when I had the unpleasant task of signing the authorisation papers to switch my brother’s life support machine off.

You see it all the time on hospital drama’s like Holby City etc but I have never really seen the recreation of the sort of emotions you feel in reality when presented with such a task.

My brother was 19 years old and I was 23, my father was with me but couldn’t sign the papers, my mum deliberately had stayed away from Bangor hospital preferring to remember my brother how he was.

For those of you old enough, it was the Saturday that a nutter fired a starting gun at the Queen as she was trooping the colours.

He was at the end of his first year at Bangor studying Plant Genetics and was only still there because he was to attend one final field trip the following week. In the meantime I was studying for my degree finals which were to start two weeks later.

It seems that Friday lunchtime, he was cycling with his mate to the pub for a drink and a game of darts (he had been practising so that he could beat me when he came home for the summer – my brother was very competitive and could never accept losing!) when they were free wheeling down a steep hill in Tregarth (where my brother had his digs), it seems they touched handlebars near the bottom of the hill and my brother hit a wall and then went head first into a disused railway bridge stone abutment. His friend ended up with a broken wrist and collar bone whilst my brother crushed the top of his head in (it was before the days that cycle helmets were worn)

Within 20 minutes he was at Bangor and operated on however the damage had been done. I remember speaking to the surgeon who operated to try and save his life and he explained that in 30 years, he had never seen such a serious head injury. We were informed that he was clinically dead within seconds of hitting the stone wall.

Anyway, time moves on and I refuse to dwell on what has happened, although not a week goes by without me thinking “There but for the grace of God go I” there are a lot of people out there far worse off than I and so tonight I will quietly remember a younger brother who I never got to know properly, for an uncle my daughters never had, for never having nephews and nieces to buy Christmas presents for, for a life extinguished before it had time to flourish.

You have to live life today because who knows what tomorrow will bring.

Good Night God Bless Stuart.

Mum's birthday

2009-06-08T14:25:00.000-07:00

Whilst pounding the rubber at the gym earlier this evening, I had time to reflect on today which would have been my mum's 76th birthday had she been still with us.

All through my life, my mum was there for me even more so after my younger brother's untimely death. She always said that it should have been me and not my brother.

That comment might seem a little harsh but what she meant was that it was me who took all the risks - swimming in disused quarries, climbing trees, swinging on home made rope swings across rivers, disappearing to the coast (Southport) for the day on my bike at the age of 11 etc. My brother in the meanwhile would sit in and read or watch television.

I was the one who played sport, rugby, squash, fencing (epee, foil and sabre) my brother played snooker, tennis (I never did get a chance to beat him) although I was better at squash and always beat him at darts.

Unfortunately on his last day of his first year at Bangor University, two weeks before my finals, he was involved in a bicycle accident which resulted in his death.

My mum never had any worries about my brother, it was always me!

Losing my dad 10 years ago, was the beginning of the end for my mum and I think that when she died almost 4 years ago now, it was really due to her deciding to die. She was worn out and despite my best endeavours and her grandchildren, felt that enough was enough.

I still miss her. She was always there to tell me what I should do - usually after I had done the opposite! She was a very strong willed woman and there were not many people I remember who ever crossed her!

I often wonder whether she suspected anything of my dressing which I started at the tender age of 13. After all, I was wearing her clothes and shoes until my feet outgrew the size 5s my mum wore. I think mum's always know.

I can remember a few close calls when my parents returned unexpectedly and I had to pretend that I was taking a shower (with all the doors locked!) and I didn't hear them!

Anyway, I for one will drink a toast tonight to both my parents for teaching me what is right and to be the person I am today and to wish my mum a happy birthday wherever she is.

Thank you mum and dad.

Bits and Pieces

2009-06-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

Ever run a B&B? Well, with all three daughters boyfriends staying over and my father in law, we ended up providing shelter and catering for 9 of us last week!

Difficult to sort out anything to do with Emma, with the house fully populated. Television fully used by 4 person Xbox games of Halo, and some racing game.

Over the weekend I moved my storage from Northampton to local in the process increasing the size of storage unit by 30% for an increase in cost of less than £10. We took our youngest with us to do some of the lifting although I had to invent some reason as to why I went into my unit alone before loading the van. – a dozen pairs of heels and a rack of Emma’s clothes was the problem!
After loading the van we stopped at the Red Hot Chilli Shack and during the meal my daughter made us laugh.

She asked me what were the orange slices on my sweet plate. I said cantelope to which she replied that she thought that was a type of deer! This was after stacking her plate with what she though were onion rings only to find out that it was battered squid!

Never the less, we successfully transferred the contents of my storage unit to one only 3 miles from home. My wife has suggested that I keep Emma’s clothes etc in the garage rather than in the storage container which allows me a lot more flexibility especially when trying to put outfits together.

Well, tomorrow is D day – I finally am having the 2nd interview for a job I was first interviewed for way back on the 1st April. Crossed fingers I get this. It’s me against one other. May the best man win so long as it’s me!

My wife and I are looking forward to the weekend meal with Manchester Concord and a bunch of our friends together with some girls and partners my wife has not yet met. Not decided on what I will be wearing yet, I suppose a lot depends on what the weather is going to be over the weekend. We have just put another order in with Roman Originals which may be with us before the weekend.

Not sure whether it’s good form to wear the same dress in the same company more than once! But I guess, when you are only part time then some compromise is necessary and allowed.

Just got rid of my painted toenails after several weeks of wearing various shades. It certainly makes you think twice before taking shoes and socks off! Will re do them before the weekend in Revlon Red. We had some friends over to watch the Lion’s game followed by the England Argentina game on Saturday, and it was pretty surreal sitting watching noting that my friend’s wives were all sporting painted toenails like me!

Finally got back to the gym for the 1st time in two months to start working off the weight I have gained since losing my job. I started with a gentle 30 minutes on the jogging machine at 7km/hr and 15% gradient, burning 620 calories and walking 3.5km. Will be going again later tonight and then early to bed ready for my interview in Birmingham tomorrow.

I booked the Saturday night meal at Sparkle for our group at Shang Hi; 14 on Saturday to join with 12 of us on the Friday at Villagio’s. Not sure where we will be eating or with whom on the Sunday of Sparkle, but the Indian has been suggested by the Sparkle organisers.

I have spent the last few days jet washing my patio (three days of fun!) and have had installed floodlights over the BBQ and the patio together with a double gang external socket which should now allow us, weather permitting!, to extend any BBQs into the evening. Can’t wait to try it out. Shame we can’t have a girls night here where I live but unfortunately this will only ever be wishful thinking.

Yesterday, I took one of my daughters and her boyfriend back to London to clear out her digs and bring it all back to the house, leaving her at her boyfriends for the moment. My eldest, has just returned after her first afternoon shift at the local pub, so it looks like she will be staying with us for the summer now she has got a job locally!!

Speaking of girls, who is it that said that girls are tidier than boys! In my opinion (based only on 3 daughters) they are by far worse. My daughter’s room in London was a tip! We had to fight our way in to pack up the rest of her things! Today the youngest has spent all day cleaning her bedroom up and the eldest, who’s bed we have just replaced, managed to bring down over a dozen glasses and cups when she cleaned her room prior to installing the new bed! And she’s only been back home 2 weeks!

Anyhow, I’ll get off my soapbox now and get changed for the gym. Till the weekend everybody.

Sunny weekend in Manchester

2009-06-04T03:19:00.000-07:00

Some 7 weeks after my wife was told about Emma, she met the rest of my friends and partners in Manchester.

Packing for the weekend proved to be somewhat more fraught than usual due to the fact that not only was our eldest daughter at home, accompanied by her boyfriend, our youngest was home with her boyfriend and to top it off my father in law was also staying whilst he painted the front of the house.

Painting my toe nails a bright red on the Saturday morning proved interesting as was packing a case as I still had not decided what dress to wear that evening and whether to wear jeans or a skirt out in the early afternoon. Obviously I therefore had to take 6 pairs of shoes with me – just in case! My wife, on the other hand was more organised and was able to squeeze her clothes into the remaining space in our suitcase and in the shoulder bag.

Driving up to Manchester on the Saturday lunchtime, my wife expressed her concern in meeting everyone for the first time (although she had met up with Kate and Tina in Bob mode already together with their wives)

This time we were staying at the Days Inn Hotel just outside the village on Sackville Street and were pleased to find our room was ready this time when we arrived.

Thankfully, the double room we had booked was considerably bigger than the single that I had stayed in before Christmas for the Northern Angels Xmas meal, though a lot less spacious than the Atrium apartments which would have been our first choice had there been any vacancies.

Getting ready I chose to wear my jeans and an orange top with my new wedge sandals whilst my wife plumped for a similar outfit. My make up seemed to take less time than ever and we were soon ready to leave and meet up with Kate, Karen, Mandy and Dianne at Taurus.

Taking the lift down to the foyer accompanied by my wife was a really great feeling and strolling out through a busy reception without any fuss, set up the day.

Outside, the streets were very busy in the warm sunshine and as we made our way up Sackville Street to the canal, we were just two women in the throngs.- (No I said throngs!!!) Outside all the bars, there were large numbers of people drinking and taking in the sunshine, certainly no place to have any doubts about yourself. My wife was a lot more comfortable this time as we wove our way through the crowds on Canal Street than the previous first time out.

At Taurus, we met up with my friends, Kate, Dianne and Karen having been shopping and Mandy like ourselves, just joined. Happy hour encouraged us to have another bottle of the excellent house wine – a Pinot Grigio whilst catching up on gossip.

As the girls drifted away, we all arranged to meet up at View for pre dinner drinks and so we returned to the hotel to get changed.

The moment of truth, what dress? Well unfortunately the purple dress proved to be too difficult to get on due to the side zip and so I resorted to my new LBD combined with fishnet tights with a rose pattern superimposed on them and peepholed silver shoes with a black lace overlay. The dress finished 4” above the knee and was very stretchy and fitted really good over my corset. I changed my make up for more of an evening look and accompanied by my wife looking resplendid in her red and white spotted dress we rode the lift down to reception and made our way out onto the streets.

I felt a million dollars as I strolled alongside my wife up to Canal Street. On the way, a young Asian bloke hung out of the back of a car and just as it was pulling away shouted out “asking if I was a bloke or a woman!” – I shouted back “asking him if he was black or white!” Making our way through the crowds of people milling around, I felt really relaxed apart from having to continually pull down my dress as it headed North with little encouragement! There were a couple of hen parties out and about and some large groups both blokes and mixed together with a few other “girls” as we made our way to View.

At View we met up with the rest of the gang including Lisa and after a quick drink, trooped out and down the street to Villagio’s where we enjoyed a lovely meal. Initially the place was quite empty but by the time we were paying the bill, it was full.

After the meal we went to Via for a drink or two but for me it was too loud to be sociable and initially very busy, until towards midnight it thinned out a touch. We then moved onto Napoleon’s where we re joined the rest of our group for a drink and some dancing. By 2am, we were showing signs of wear and tear and so Kate, Mrs. Kate, Mandy, my wife and I bade the others good night and walked back in the cool night air to our hotel.

The next morning, we had decided to meet up for breakfast at Velvet and so got ready for a Sunday morning. This time I chose to wear a long flowing skirt from M&S with a favourite crochet style cream top over a chocolate brown camisole, and white peep toe shoes. My wife stayed with leggings an a red top and her wedge sandals.

Having got to reception, we waited for Kate and Mrs Kate to join us and then strolled together back up to Canal Street in the morning sunshine. The feeling being out in the sunshine dressed and in wonderful company is difficult to explain but it is something that will remain with me for as long as I live and an experience I will be able to draw down on when times may be somewhat more sombre or in deepest winter.

Sitting outside enjoying smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, outside in the sunshine adjacent to the canal locks was again an experience not to be forgotten and one I hope to enjoy many more times to come. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end and after finishing our breakfast, we sadly had to leave Kate and Mrs Kate and walk back to the hotel to get changed and check out.

It’s Monday – it must be Teela’s

2009-05-20T07:54:00.000-07:00

Being a “man of leisure”, I thought I would be able to drive up to my hotel arriving at 3pm to get changed and over to Teela’s to help her get ready for the night.

Wrong, I had forgotten that my daughter was home on exam leave and I therefore had to wait until 1pm before organising my case etc. I then shot into town to pick up a couple of pies and a new razer and make up wipes before finally getting onto the road and following an artic for 11 miles on a long windy country road heading for the M1

Despite the initial delays, I still managed to check in for 3-45pm and quickly decided on what to wear. I had recently taken delivery of a new full length overbust corset from Vollers and it was into this I endeavored to secure myself. Once I had reached a point at which I couldn’t tighten the laces anymore, I tied them off and then struggled to bend over to pull on my knickers and tights! – memo to self, put underwear on before corset!

I decided to go with my new denim pencil skirt and top from M&S. After shoehorning myself into the skirt, fastening the button and pulling the zip up, whilst lying on my back, breathing in, (despite the corset!) I was then faced with having to move the skirt round through 180 degrees to position the zip at the back.

At least the top was a looser fit and went well with the skirt. To complement the red top, I chose my red heels and finished off with my blue casual jacket.

Make up complete, I walked out of my room past reception which had a number of guests booking in and out to my car. The tightness of the skirt caressed my legs at each step and was quite sensuous.

On trying to get into the driver’s seat in a ladylike manner, I failed miserably due to the combination of a tight full length corset and the skirt, luckily there was only an Asian lady within watching distance of my manoeuvring and a businessman on his mobile. Having finally inserted myself into the car, I carefully drove off and arrived at Teela’s for 6-30pm – so much for getting there early to help!

Getting out of the car was almost mission impossible but I managed it, I think everything had loosened up a little an I carefully walked over to the entrance.

As well as the more usual visitors, we had two new girls out for the first time and Suzanne managed to be there again.

Dressed as I was, I was careful not to end up sitting on one of the low slung sofas and restricted myself to a standard sit up and beg chair.

Tina, Justine, Mandy, Dianne were there and Kate joined us a little later and finally Lisa in bob mode dropped in after work at the back end of the evening.

After 3 cups of tea and an earlier coffee at the hotel, I finally had to address the tricky problem of going to the toilet. Ten minutes later, I re-joined the girls somewhat more comfortable and certainly more wiser regarding choice of clothing!

Once more as the evening came to an end , time to wish Kate a Happy Birthday for this coming weekend (unfortunately I can't join the girls as I am already out with my wife that Saturday) and to make arrangements to meet up with Karen on the following Saturday in Manchester.

Dianne has tentatively made arrangements with Teela to run a minibus down to Pink Punters in September, somewhere my wife and I can join them as we live within 70 miles.

Once more back to the hotel and as I only needed to be back home for an 11 40am appointment at the Job Centre, I made use of the time and put on a mini fashion show taking numerous piccies in the process.

Getting up early the following morning I dressed in a business suit and walked out of the hotel to the shop next door to pick up a newspaper and sandwich. Going through reception, at 6-30am, I was surprised to see a young lady behind the desk chatting to a young lad who wished me good day to which I mumbled a hasty reply. On re entering reception, the lad told me to smile and I grinned back asking him what he wanted from me at 6-30am! I am sure they must have had a chuckle after I left them.
Anyway, after changing back and a hot shower, packed etc I was on the road by 9am joining the thongs - oops throngs! on the M6 heading South.

Villagio's on a Wednesday

2009-05-20T03:41:00.000-07:00

Once more heading up the motorway with my wife’s blessing for our monthly Wednesday meal out in the village and now officially unemployed.

Having spent the earlier part of the day working out what I was going to wear and packing accordingly, it was a streamlined Emma heading to Manchester – one suitcase and a shoulder bag as opposed to 2-3 cases, a box and two bags which I used to take.

Tina was wanting me to go out in my glittery short dress but I had already chosen to wear my new mid blue dress from BHS together with my peep toes Kurt Geiger pumps and my new white and pale blue pin striped jacket from M&S and new evening bag from Fiorelli to complete the ensemble.

I was dressed and ready by the time Mandy turned up followed by Tina who were both making use of my room in the Travelodge at Lymm. This time Mandy checked in her car to avoid the excess parking charge of £60 she incurred the last time she left her car outside.

Once Mandy was ready we spent the next 2 hours watching Tina finish her preparations! Well, not quite 2 hours!

Once ready, off we went leaving the room en masse dressed for the ball with Tina only just wearing a dress! I am not saying it was short but!
I drove into Manchester with Mandy whilst Tina went separately as she would be going straight home afterwards whilst Mandy had to go back to my room to change.

We parked at the top of Canal street once more and paid the £3.50 for after 6pm. We had tried for on the street parking but once more it seemed pretty busy with no spaces available.

Walking down to Tribeca we met up inside with Tina and had scarcely sat down with our drinks when Emma joined us wearing what could loosely be described as a denim belt, and what nice legs she has too!

The final girls of the group joined us; Kate resplendid as usual this time in her black pvc look leggings with a short dress / top and new girl Marlene.

Once assembled, we then made our way up Canal Street to Villagio’s where outside the entrance, Emma became the subject of some unwanted attention from a short scruffy murmuring individual who made a beeline for her. Kate and I intercepted him, myself preparing for the worst, but it was a non event and we all gained entrance up the steps into Villagio’s without any drama.

The meal was lovely and the service second to none albeit the place was very quiet. During the meal Tina’s Nicky joined us and I didn’t get a word in edgeways thereafter!! – no joking really, Nicky as usual was bubbling over and a great addition to the party. What was good about the reduced numbers was the ability to have a chat with everyone rather than separate groups.

Having completed the obligatory touch up in the ladies, we all made our way up to Manchester Concord at the Rembrandt for an hour before carrying on to Napoleons.

The place was full of the usual suspects and we all “enjoyed” a dance or two upstairs although once again I was hard pressed to recognise any of the songs played in the early part of the evening (midnight – 2am)

Retiring downstairs, we finished the evening having a “quiet” chat and taking a few piccies although once again Emma attracted unwanted attention.

Leaving Napoleon’s I made a big mistake, I chose not to make use of the toilets and so arriving back at the car was faced with an unfortunate dilemma – what to do now that my bladder was letting me know it was there!

What can a girl do but – well I’ll leave it to your imagination, suffice to say it’s not something I would recommend at 2 in the morning. All through this Mandy nonchalantly sat locked in the car looking straight ahead!

Regaining the car, a guy who had been in the vicinity of the car park came over and I carefully opened the window a few inches to answer his question as to where there was a party! On his way, I explained to Mandy that all I was thinking of was how much I could hurt him if he tried to reach into the car!

Back at the room, Mandy got changed and went on her way. I decided to stay in mood, removed my make up and undressed and climbed into bed in my nighty for a few hours sleep.

Waking up under no pressure as to timing, I had a leisurely bath and fresh shave, got dressed again this time to go shopping for the day. Make up was understated. I carefully packed my case and left Bob’s clothes and wipes etc in my shoulder bag for easy retrieval later in the day at Teela’s.

I wore my new full grey denim skirt, red top and red shoes with glossy tan tights and my white jacket and black bag – see picture.

At 9, I well and truly checked out as Emma as I handed my room key directly to one of the girls at reception. I guess that there are no doubts now as to what I do when staying at Lymm!

First stop was M&S at Gemini park Warrington where I picked up a tight stretchy denim pencil skirt (tight is not the word! see later post) and after a coffee realised that my current lipstick was not really right and so nipped into Boots where I picked up a new lipstick from Revlon, a replacement translucent powder from Max Factor and a small hair brush for my handbag. Changing my lipstick in the car I then drove over to Cheshire Oaks.

I spent the next 5 hours exploring the shops at the Oaks and treated myself to a new short skirt and pink top from M&S, and some black strappy wedges from Next – a bargain at £10.

For lunch, I ate at the brasserie and had the lamb shank followed by treacle tart. The food and service was excellent though not cheap and I was treated as usual with respect and courtesy from the staff.

One embarrassing moment came whilst visiting the ladies in the food hall. I carried out my business and on leaving the cubicle to wash my hands felt the back of my leg was wet. Looking down in horror I noticed that I had managed to catch part of my skirt when I flushed the toilet and so surreptitiously I rung the wet part of my skirt out and then continued to the washbasins.

At 3pm, I made my way to Teela’s who had just finished one of her photo sessions with a client and after a chat over coffee, got changed back into Bob.

Back on the road for 5pm, I made the 93 miles home for 6-30pm despite the traffic.

What no chicken!

2009-05-20T03:34:00.000-07:00

On the way home from an extraordinary weekend with my wife, we decided that as time was getting on that we would forgo cooking anything when we got home but would treat ourselves to a Kentucky Fried Chicken bucket as our youngest was at home waiting for us.

Arriving back in town we went straight to the KFC and joined a small queue. After 20 minutes we got to the front and put our order in.

"Sorry we don't have any chicken left"

I asked when would the next batch be ready

"Sorry we don't have any chicken left"

You mean you don't have any chicken cooked or uncooked at all!!!

"Well we can do you a few pieces of boneless and some wings"

Fraid not, thanks for telling us when we first arrived that you didn't have any chicken left and promptly stomped out.

Plan B - a pizza!

Reminds me of the Monty Pythan cheese shop sketch!

Emma xxx

A weekend out and about with the wife

2009-05-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

Following on from my disclosure of Emma to my wife of 25 years, some 5 weeks ago and the first time she met Emma last Wednesday, we booked into The Atrium in Manchester for Saturday night and paid the additional money for a late check out on the Sunday.

The idea to go out with Emma was my wife’s as I would not have suggested such a trip so soon after meeting me as Emma in the flesh for the first time.

We both were quite nervous as we drove up to Manchester after a couple of hours shopping in Leicester during which I purchased another pair of jeans with 32” leg this time. The previous day we had had fun spending the morning trying on and choosing outfits for the two days, so we managed to get away with one suitcase.

Booking into the apartment, we split up into the bedroom where my wife got ready and the bathroom where I got ready. My wife did not want to see me get ready before I had my wig on and so this split of the space worked well.

Before we started, my wife gave me a pedicure and painted my toenails a nice shade of dark pink. This was the first time I had ever had painted toenails!

For the initial part of the day (late afternoon) I wore a tight pair of jeans and a black tunic with red, pink and white flowers on over a tight under wired black bra with fillets in which combined with my own flesh gave a convincing cleavage. On my feet I wore a pair of wedge sandals showing off my painted nails.

Once ready, we rode the lift down to reception and walked out past reception and onto the streets of Manchester both of us nervous for different reasons. My wife for accompanying her husband dressed as a woman and for me, worried how my wonderful wife would cope.

It was about 4ish and despite my reassurances to my wife, there were a lot of people milling around and no other obvious t-girls out that early, far more tourists!.

We strolled together up Canal Street in the late afternoon sunshine – yes sunshine (considering it was supposed to be raining!) until we reached Taurus where I had decided we would start our adventure.

Made welcome by the bar staff, “ladies, table for two!”, we decided to partake of the happy hour tariffs and ordered a cold bottle of Pinot Grigio to accompany the BBQ ribs – a lipstick killer! and the humous.

Sitting there together sipping wine, nibbling the food, we enjoyed the ambiance and engaged in wide ranging conversation revolving around my presence as Emma and the village and social scene.

The food was wonderful as I expected and my wife and I enjoyed the shared experience. Sitting behind us was a family with children and mixed groups all around as the venue was particularly busy.

One bottle down we decided that at £6 a bottle, it would be churlish not to have another. Anyway, my wife by now was far more relaxed and we slowly finished off the 2nd bottle. By now, a number of T girls had arrived at Taurus and my wife was taking it in her stride. So far so good!

As time was ticking, settling the bill for less than £25, we made our way back down Canal Street which by now had a number of girls out and about, and returned to our apartment to get ready for the evening.

Going through a busy reception was easier for my wife this time and we quickly got ready for the evening. We both put on a pretty dress and changed our make up for the evening. I decided to wear a pair of black KG peep toe heels to show off my painted nails with a LBD and black blazer and handbag.

Once again strolling through reception despite the presence of a number of families, was easier and we made the street by 8ish. I had decided that early evening we would go for a drink at Tribeca and so we made our way down to Sackville Street and entering into the bar, I was struck by the mix of customers. Normally when eating with the normal gang of girls on a Wednesday night, we meet for pre meal drinks in Tribeca and so in some respects I expected the usual mix of clientele – but not this night, it appeared very much a normal bar mix of groups. No problem, we ordered white wine spritzers and made our way upstairs to the mezzanine floor where we sat down in the midst of several young mixed groups of drinkers.

Once again, it seemed so natural sitting there in a pretty dress and heels chatting and sipping drinks with my wife. The fact that 5 weeks ago, my wife didn’t have a clue about Emma!

After 2 -3 drinks we got chatting to another Emma who was out with some of her friends for the evening. All too soon, it was time to move on and whilst my wife needed the toilet before leaving, I took advantage and joined her making use of the mirrors to re apply my lipstick adjacent to 3 girls and Emma. Not once was any eyebrows raised and we continued to chat whilst repairing the face and brushing out my hair.

Leaving the bar, we finally made our way to Napoleon’s. The supreme test of acceptance!

It was funny to see my wife having to pay to get in whilst my entrance was free. The bar was very busy and noisy and checking our jackets in we made our way downstairs and found a settee to chill out on with soft drinks by now.

We spent a pleasant hour people watching as the normal mix of girls, admirers etc passed through the downstairs bar. Finally we decided to check out the dance floor but decided that enough was enough and partly due to the drink but probably the stress my wife had incurred through the day’s experiences, tiredness won the day and at 2 in the morning we made our way back to the apartment passed all sorts of groups of revellers including at least one hen party.

Heels clicking as we made our way through reception, we retired to the comfort of our room and I returned to Bob mode (well apart from the candy pink finger and toe nails!) as I had promised. What a day!

Waking early on the Sunday, and with a coffee in me we both got ready for a day of shopping. I wore my new full length denim skirt and white top with blue jacket and cream heels. My wife – far more sensible than me chose jeans and top and wedge sandals.

Make up understated for the day, we made our way downstairs and walked over to the NCP car park where we had parked and shared a lift up to our floor with an elderly couple!

We drove over to Cheshire Oaks – a retail mall on the Wirral where I usually go as Emma when over Teela’s and where the previous weekend, whilst I was away on rugby tour, my wife had taken my youngest daughter to, to choose a prom dress and accessories.

Our first stop was the brasserie where we had breakfast. Fuelled up, we then walked the entire circuit of shops, sauntering into many on our journey. I purchased a new evening bag to go with my blue dress and heels I am wearing this coming Wednesday in Manchester, I treated my wife to a new leather bag from Tula’s. In La Sensa, my wife picked up two new bra’s and I purchased a control slip and knickers in black and cream. I also picked up a new red skirt whilst my wife bought a new purse.

With feet throbbing, we sat down outside of Millies Cook shop and had a coffee and cookie. Certainly no place for shrinking violets as we were right in the open next to the though way and a major road crossing. Whilst on the surface my wife seemed calm and controlled, afterwards I learned that she was far from comfortable. For myself, I find that turning down the sensitivity meter, I was oblivious to comments (if there were any made!) and the odd stare. My wife was on this first time, hyper sensitive and it drained her. Every credit to her that she didn’t just abandon me and run back to the car!

The only time I felt mildly uncomfortable during our 5 hours of shopping on a busy Sunday in the sunshine, was whilst hanging around in La Sensa whilst my wife tried on the bras. I was certainly the subject of a group of young girls in the store and it didn’t help that it was particularly warm and I had to keep my perspiration under control and try to keep my foundation in one place!

Once more back in the car, it became evident in our conversation of the stress that this shopping trip with Emma had caused her. Emotionally drained, we arrived back in Manchester and back in the room, I changed back whilst my wife made a cup of tea.

30 minutes later, we were leaving the apartment as we first arrived, a happy married couple who had just shared a pretty extraordinary weekend!

The other woman - the wife meets Emma in the flesh

2009-05-07T03:19:00.000-07:00

Well, almost 28 days to the hour after telling my wife about Emma, she met Emma in the flesh.

Taking advantage of my youngest staying over at her boyfriend’s straight after school till late, we decided that last night would be a good test as to how far we have got in our relationship which now includes Emma.

The day started with my wife washing, drying and ironing my LBD which I was planning to wear as I had managed to drop a BBQ rib on it the previous Wednesday out with Kate and Mrs Kate and of course the foundation around the neck area. (foundation which doesn’t transfer!! – yeah!)

I in the meantime on the way to my office to finish clearing out my stuff, called in at Fosse Park and had a walk around the shops looking for things for Emma. My first port of call was BHS where I picked up a new pair of boot cut stretch jeans, 31” leg and size 14, 4 tops and a stretchy ¾ length mid blue dress.

At Boots I treated myself to a new Chanel lipstick and matching lip liner and nail varnish and in M&S a necklace and matching earrings and a bracelet which would go with the necklace.

Driving home after work, I picked up an Indian meal and some afters and laid the table, prepared the food so that all we had to do was put it in the oven when ready and opened a bottle of 2002 St Emilion to let it breathe.

By this time, it was nearly 5pm and my wife was expected home by 6-30 and so after a close shave, I got dressed (I used my daughter’s room leaving our bedroom for my wife). Before putting on my face I quickly checked the fit of my purchases. The jeans are unbelievably tight – no problem in tucking – I needed a shoehorn to get them on but when on and the belt fastened – wow! The tops looked as good on me as I had hoped and the blue dress I intend to wear out in Manchester this Saturday (more about this later!)

To keep cool whilst getting ready, I borrowed a fan from the conservatory and switched off the central heating.

I was in the middle of applying my make up when my wife got home and finished whilst she herself got ready.

The moment of truth was rapidly approaching. Both of us had all week been somewhat nervous of this encounter and it was with a certain degree of trepidation I carefully walked down the stairs to join my wife in the lounge.

My wife was wearing a beautiful red and black dress and heels and looked a million dollars.

The first seconds seemed to take hours but the world didn’t come to an end. My wife didn’t run away. My heart eventually dropped back to a more normal level and we exchanged our first words.

Sipping the first glass of wine sitting next to each other on the sofa was certainly a new experience for both of us and soon we decided to start dinner with the Indian starters and another glass of wine. Walking into the kitchen, both our heels clicking on the stone tiled floor was yet another experience imprinted in my mind.

Having chatted and chatted for hours, we decided that we would skip the main course and continue with the pudding – chocolate miniature puddings that is.

During the conversation my wife suggested that whilst are youngest was staying over with friends in Leicester on Saturday, why don’t we (Emma and my wife) go out in Manchester for the night!

Well you could have knocked me down with a feather. In nano seconds I accepted this offer – well who wouldn’t!

The final hour before picking our daughter up was spent with me trying on my recent purchases and giving my wife chance to comment. Then it was my wife’s turn to show me what she had purchased whilst accompanied by our youngest the previous weekend when out shopping for a prom dress and shoes for my youngest over at Cheshire Oaks.

Finally, we could wait no longer and as my wife left to pick up our daughter I quickly removed my make up and dived into the shower, tidying up my clothes later after she had gone to bed.

Well – who would have thought that we would be in this position only 4 weeks after disclosure. My wife really is very special and I love her loads!!

T for two

2009-05-05T08:38:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday I was late leaving work after only getting into work late having been to the Building Society to discuss agree strategy re my forthcoming unemployment

I got to the hotel at 6-30pm due to heavy traffic on the M6 and leaving late and as I was meeting Kate and Mrs Kate at Taurus for 7-30pm I didn't have much time.

Luckily, (or should that be unluckily) Kate had had a bad day and only got home at 7pm and also was running late so we agreed a later time to meet - 8-30pm

I managed to leave the hotel by 8pm and got to the village for 8-30pm only to find there were no available parking places off street - so after 3 times round the block I decided to put my car in the 24hr park at the top of Canal Street which cost me £5 and then made my way to Taurus.

Kate and Mrs Kate had by now arrived and had order their starters which I then shared before plumping for the Cajun Salmon.

By the time we had finished, it was quite late and so we didn't call into Manchester Concorde but went straight to Naps.

It was really great to bump into June and Penelope over from Ireland and Jayne who was positively walking on air since starting her RLE. However, it was a strange sort of atmosphere there that night and after a bit of dancing, we retired downstairs, finished our drinks and departed.

On my way back up Canal Street I was approached by a girl from a mixed party asking where I was going and where was the nearest party! "Back to my car" I said and pointed back down the street (it was 1-30am!) she seemed to think I would know!

Back at the car I was propositioned by this drunken guy. I suggested he did something else (certainly not ladylike!)and got in my car for the return trip to the hotel!.

I stayed in Emma mode overnight having cleaned my make up off and moisturised!

I made use of a nighty I have had for some time with glue on forms.

Getting up, I dressed in a pencil skirt, chemise and gold blouse and cream heels. Understated makeup completed, I packed and trundled my luggage to the car avoiding various business men checking out and then drove over to M&S at Gemini where I spent an hour checking out the clothes and finally choosing a new perfume. At 10am I walked over to the cafe and ordering myself a coffee sat down waiting for Mrs. Kate.

Bang on 10am, Mrs. Kate arrived and we sat down having a chat over our drinks. On finishing, we took my car over to Cheshire Oaks and had a very pleasant morning in and out of the shops. I was pretty good for most of the day purchasing a new bra and knickers (black) from M&S and a beautiful full flouncy denim skirt (14) which falls to 6" above my ankles in Roman Originals. The woman on the changing cubicles was ever so pleasant and made me feel really at ease even though two women in the next cubicles were discussing hot flushes!at the time

Mrs. Kate purchased a new bag and we then went over to Teela's where we had a coffee and chat before returning to the fray!

I can't begin to explain how wonderful if felt shopping with Mrs. Kate - far too natural!

Late afternoon, we stopped at the brasserie and ordered an afternoon tea for two - sandwiches, cake, scones and a pot of tea. We obviously set a trend in that a few other couples ordered the same after we received ours!

After filling our faces, I realised that my old handbag (a £6 special from Asda's years ago) was showing signs of distress so I decided to treat myself to a new leather one!

I think I must have caught Mrs. Kate's enthusiasm for bags as I ended up buying one which started life at over £175 but I managed to buy for a mere £77!!!

I am however very pleased with it.

With the final purchase made and my feet screaming at me, we made our way back to Teela's for me to change. the end of a great day - my thanks to Mrs. Kate for making it so.

Hopefully the next time around the Oaks, Kate and my wife maybe able to accompany us and make it really special.

Emma - a girl who likes to shop!

Teela’s with her foot up!

2009-04-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

It only seems like yesterday that I was over at Teela’s for the monthly tea and then a day as her secretary, but what a month it has been.

Telling the wife about Emma two weeks ago and then being made redundant the following day and Teela having returned to hospital for her ankle to be re-set!

Making my way up to Warrington, I was intending to get ready and spend a couple of hours shopping at Cheshire Oaks before joining Tina and Kate and the rest of the girls at Teelas. However as I still had my case and overnight bag with me in the car since the previous Wednesday I was faced with a slight dilemma regarding a suitable jacket to wear shopping. My black jacket was a tad too fancy for daytime shopping, my animal print jacket was a definite no no for daytime anywhere and my blue casual jacket didn’t go with the skirt and shoes I intended wearing. What’s a girl got to do?

Finally having tried on numerous combinations I decided on my multicoloured blouse predominantly red and one of my favourite grey pencil skirts with a small fishtail detail to the rear. On my feet, a new pair of red heels (4” of course!) and on my legs, glossy hold ups in neutral shade. Regarding the jacket, I had to go for my black one and made a point of visiting M&S for my first port of call.

I was in luck as I soon found a single breasted black suit jacket reduced to £24 which together with a new red blouse and chemise I purchased, returning to my car and changed jackets!

Thus attired I returned to the fray. The place was busier than I thought including more than the normal share of feral teenage girls! But I managed to survive, even trying on a pair of shoes in Kurt Geiger – I’m afraid to report that my ankles together with my purse, breathed a collective sigh of relief as I returned them to the shop assistant with the comment “some other time”

Having popped into Roman Originals I returned to the car and then back to Teelas to join the girls for what turned out to be a well received lecture on skin care. I must admit that I am still learning this part of being a woman although in the current climate, skin care seems to be more and more taken up by men, including myself as I always moisturise after shaving these days.

Who should be at Teela’s for the first time but Suzanne. Her first time out proper, well done, Tina and myself had been trying to arrange a trip out for Suzanne for several months but to no avail.

I took advantage of being at Teela’s to try on and purchase another wig in the same style as my last one – an “Emma” but in a lighter shade. I guess I have spent more on wigs for Emma now than I have ever spent on hair products for Bob!

All to soon the evening came to an end and Suzanne, Mandy and Tina disappeared upstairs to change leaving myself and Kate chatting with Teela.

Back at the hotel, time to change and in bed - early for a change (1pm!) setting the alarm for 5-15am – back to work after a fairly momentous Easter break!

Roll on the 29th when I am back in Manchester again.

Emma xxx

With Permission

2009-04-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, I met up with the gang once again for dinner in Manchester, but with one big difference – the tacit approval of my wife.

No more lies / fibs etc., no more hiding everything and ensuring a robust “alibi’s” in place.

Driving up to my hotel, I had an idea as to what I was going to wear but as usual had to pack several alternatives – just in case!

I finally plumped for a short stretchy tight shiny black skirt (you tart!) with a crochure style cream top over a camilsole, black peplum style blazer, dark brown tights and black heels with a matching cream trim.

Nearly ready, Tina arrived at the room to get ready. After a coffee, and bang on 6pm we left the hotel and this time I got a lift in with Tina.

Unfortunately, the route I suggested (this being my normal way into Manchester) turned out to be congested and instead of a 25 minute drive, it was more like 50 minutes in heavy traffic!

Arriving in the vicinity of the village, due to it being later than normal, we found a parking spot quickly and closer to Canal Street. Walking down to our pre meal meeting house – Trebica I managed to leave a shoe behind in a crack in the pavement!

Luckily no damage apart from my pride! Despite us being late, we were the first to arrive and drinks in hand settled in on the balcony to watch for the rest to arrive.

One by one our gang congregated including Emma on only her 2nd outing, Mandy, Kate and Mrs Kate. Waiting as we were for Lisa, I then almost made a fatal error, I rang Lisa on my mobile and was asking her whether she had been caught in the traffic and was going direct to Taurus (where we were planning to eat) when I realised that I was in fact speaking to one of my rugby team! Luckily, I had said nothing particularly incriminating when I realised what had happened. – Phew!

Moving on to the Taurus, we met up with the final couple of girls of our party of 14 and enjoyed a very nice meal which for once I was able to accompany with a glass or two of wine.

We then visited the Rembrandt and the rest of the Manchester Concord girls before making our way, as is the custom, to Napoleons.

It was a lot quieter than the previous Saturday, presumably because it was mid week. I got up and joined Kate and Mrs Kate on the dance floor and there I was minding my own business when a woman joined me and separating me from Kate and Mrs Kate grabbed hold of me and started dancing “cheek to cheek” including twirly bits!!

I lasted about 10 minutes and then not having been rescued by any of my girlfriends, (thank you Kate!) excused myself, thanking my dance partner and re-joining the rest of the girls for a “quiet” drink.

All too soon, the evening came to an end and I walked back to with Mandy to her car for a lift back to the hotel.

All the time I had been staying, there had been no one on reception after 11 but this night there was a young girl behind the desk who I bade goodnight to as we walked past. Mandy was changing back in my room and so some 30 minutes later Mandy (now in Bob mode strolled back out past the same girl! on her way to her car.

Assuming CCTV was in use the following sequence of events would have been recorded – my arrival in Bob mode at 3pm, Tina’s arrival in Bob mode at 4-15pm, Emma and Tina’s departure at 6pm, Mandy and Emma’s arrival at 1-45am, Mandy’s departure as Bob at 2-25am, my departure as Emma at 11am (after initially leaving for the shops at 8-30am and returning at 10-45am) Confusing eh!

Due to me being on holiday and my wife being in work, I decided to go shopping in the morning and having contacted my friend in Oxford to make sure she was in, stayed as Emma and drove down to Oxford for the rest of the day, changing back to Bob at tea time for my drive home. Despite it being a school holiday, I managed to survive in a potentially hostile environment without comment including a coffee and pee stop midday at the services on the M1 which were very busy.

Back home I had a pleasant hour with my wife going over my evening out.

Emma xxx

12 days down the line

2009-04-20T00:41:00.000-07:00

Here I am writing the next post of my blog some 12 days after telling my wife about Emma.

Her response is superb and just as I had hoped. Knowing someone for 26 years does give you an inkling as to how she is going to react to something as momentous as my confession to being a crossdresser. - make no apology for the label I use - my preference!

Whilst the progress was originally to be in small steps, in some instances, the progress has been in huge strides. Yes, there are a few issues which we still need to address but we have a timetable in place for these and a plan!

Progress to date:-

1) Meeting up with my good friends Kate and Mrs Kate and Tina and Nickie, Kate, Tina and myself in Bob mode.

2) Sharing some underwear and make up

3) Agreeing to join Emma at Sparkle for the three days

4) Agreeing to go out for the 1st time with Emma for a meal with Kate and Mrs Kate and Tina and NIckie in the village - to be arranged.

5) Talking about just about everything - expectations, joys etc - I know you all know me as somewhat "gobby" but I have never talked so much with my wife in so short a time - the result being a level of acceptance that I could only previously have dreamed of having.

6) Wishing me a good time out with the girls in Manchester (a week after disclosure) and again this evening when over at Teelas. I had offered not to go as the room had been booked some time ago when I was under the weather having just been advised of my likely redundancy. Again, my wife gave her ok for me to go.

7) We have decided to go out together once a month and to re-vamp her wardrobe to celebrate her losing some 21 lbs and getting down to a size 10 bottom.

8) Our marriage despite having had a full house these last two weeks is more like when we first got married.(Please let me have some sleep!!)

9) My wife joining The Angels and having full access to my blog and e-mails and forum posts

10) My wife is now looking at an increasing number of my pictures without the initial reaction and is now able to comment on them.

The major hurdle yet to be overcome is meeting Emma in the flesh. I am also s....ing bricks at this prospect but know we need to do it to move on.

I now have two weeks of work before leaving my present company. Hopefully, I will be offered one of the jobs I am currently pursuing.

Fingers crossed.

For those of you at Teela's tonight, see you later (planning a trip around the Cheshire Oaks first - need a new perfume.

Love

Emma xxxx

Two Glasses of Wine

2009-04-14T00:46:00.000-07:00

A Philosophical Look at Life I was sent recently which I would like to share with you.

When things in your life seem
almost too much to handle,
when 24 hours in a day are not
enough, remember the
mayonnaise jar and the 2 glasses
of wine...

A professor stood before his
philosophy class and had
some items in front of him. When
the class began,
wordlessly, he picked up a very
large and empty
mayonnaise jar and proceeded to
fill it with golf balls.

He then asked the students if the
jar was full. They
agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box
of pebbles and poured
them into the jar. He shook the jar
lightly. The pebbles rolled into
the open areas between the golf balls.
He then asked the students again if
the jar was full.

They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box
of sand and poured it
into the jar.

Of course, the sand filled up
everything else He asked
once more if the jar was full.

The students responded with a
unanimous 'yes.'

The professor then produced two
glasses of wine from
under the table and poured the
entire contents into the
jar, effectively filling the empty
space between the
sand. The students laughed...

'Now,' said the professor, as the
laughter subsided, 'I
want you to recognize that this jar
represents your life.
The golf balls are the important
things; your family,
your children, your health, your
friends, and your
favorite passions; things that if
everything else was
lost and only they remained, your
life would still be full.

The pebbles are the other things
that matter like your
job, your house, and your car. The
sand is everything
else; the small stuff.

If you put the sand into the jar first,
he continued,
there is no room for the pebbles or
the golf balls.

The same goes for life: If you
spend all your time and
energy on the small Stuff.

Pay attention to the things that are
critical to your
happiness.

Play with your children. Take time
to get medical
checkups. Take your partner out to
dinner. Play another
18 holes. There will always be time
to clean the house
and fix the disposal. Take care of
the golf balls first;
the Things that really matter. Set
your priorities. The
rest is just sand.'

One of the students raised her
hand and inquired what the
wine represented.

The professor smiled. 'I'm glad you
asked. It just goes
to show you that no matter how full
your life may seem,
there's always room for a couple of
glasses of wine with
a friend.'

Emma xxx

Giz a Job!

2009-04-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

Well, the threatened redundancy happened earlier today. All in all a pretty eventful day in my life!

My director came out this lunchtime with the letter that I am to attend a meeting next Friday to discuss the terms and conditions of my redundancy.

This is the first time I have ever been made redundant and I have been working since 1981.

I have a 2nd interview with one company week commencing 20th April, so wish me luck.

I may soon be asking you send me red cross parcels!

Love

Emma xxx

The Deed Is Done!

2009-04-09T01:08:00.000-07:00

Last night or more accurately in the early hours of this morning, I finally told my wife about Emma.

She currently feels as though she has been hit by a 20t truck – her words.

It was obvious that had I continued, my wife had already jumped to the conclusion that I was having an affair and was distraught. We finally got to sleep at 5-30am and was up again at 6-30am for work.

I don’t really know what I feel at the moment.

I do know that we will develop the scenario a small step at a time with my commitment that at any time my wife is uncomfortable, I will stop and we will re group.

After 2 bottles of wine, a 4 hour discussion and 1 hour of sleep I am tired and sad. I thought that I would be happier but at the moment this eludes me.

As we all know, there is no turning back but I do believe that not only was coming clean with my wife the only correct action, I think that given time, space and a better understanding of who Emma is, our marriage will survive and perhaps in time, my time as Emma may be embraced as a real part of our relationship.

Softly, softly is the key for the moment and the establishment of a set of rules, one of which is the absence of Emma in the bedroom. The children are not to know being another. I have already stated that my dressing will only occur outside our locale and that from now on, no more lies!

Thank you all who have given me sage advice and encouragement, without this and my good friends, I would not be in this position now.

In time I hope that my wife will meet you all.

Love

Emma xxx

Backwards In Heels - A Night Of Dancing (part 2)

2009-04-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

Back at the apartment, controlled mayhem ensued as we three girls all manoeuvred around the available mirrors touching up make up and stepping out of jeans, skirts etc and putting on our best frocks. Of course, as I was still deciding which dress to wear, I had to try on 3 different dresses before reverting back to my new black one and the chance to wear my new animal skin effect jacket from Roman Originals!

Finally, we were all ready and looking the part, we departed for Trebica where everyone was meeting for pre dance drinks. On the way through the early evening pedestrian traffic we saw Kate and Mrs. Kate, Karen and Diane on the other side of the road making their way to the Shang Hi and so changed direction and joined up for the short walk to the venue.

Not having to drive for a change, I was able to join the other girls for a glass of wine before making our way downstairs to start the evening of dancing.

Once more I partnered Tina as June re-visited the dances we learned at the first dance evening in January. Staring with the social foxtrot this time, remarkably most of the steps came back once the music started and even the new girls quickly caught on.

I am still waiting for a chance to try this dance out with my wife one night and surprise her with my new found knowledge! Just hope I remember to lead that’s all!!

Following on from the Social Foxtrot we had a go with that “German dance!” – A Yearning Saunter! – well, this caused some consternation in the ranks as we all gamely tried to follow in June’s precise footsteps. I for one struggled to get a feel for the rhythm of this dance and when attempting the crossover steps managed to swap seamlessly between the male steps and female steps much to the confusion of poor Tina.

Soon enough, we stopped for our meal and having repaired our make up climbed the stairs and joined the restaurant’s other guests to enjoy our meal. This time, due to not wearing my corset, I was able to enjoy somewhat more of the excellent cuisine on offer.

We must have caused somewhat of a stir with the other diners as we all walked up to the counter in our finery to help ourselves to the fine selection of Chinese food on offer.

Suitably filled and having enjoyed a good chat with the girls on our table we returned to the dance floor for the second session.

Kicking off with a return of the barn dance to Bring It All Back by S Club 7 Tina we all got in the swing of this energetic dance, made more interesting by the 4” heels I was wearing! We spent most of the time trying not to over run the couple in front of us and to avoid spinning into the couple to our side, but what fun. Unfortunately the song still is ringing in my ears several days afterwards and I doubt I will ever be able to listen to the song without bursting into a wide grin as I remember what I was wearing whilst dancing the last time I heard the song.

As the clock approached midnight, it was time for us to disperse and Tina, Mandy and I trotted back to our apartment (a mere 2 minutes away) and got changed for a close encounter of the Napoleon’s kind!

At last I got a chance to wear my glittery dress which fitted where it touched and teamed it with my white shoes embellished with metalwork. Walking back through the foyer, I felt a million dollars as we met a number of guests returning just as we were going out again!

Back at Napoleon’s, Tina was afforded the ultimate accolade when she was initially asked to pay to get in! Wow! Good on you Tina.

Inside, we met up with most of the other girls and ended upstairs by the dance floor. I joined Kate, Mrs Kate and Karen on the dance floor for a boogie until my toes told me that they were no longer functioning! Why do beautiful shoes have to hurt so much!

I decided to have another drink and sit down. Adjacent to me, I got chatting to a girl (gg) from North Wales, a nurse over with a gang of friends visiting the village for the first time. We got on really well and before you know it, I was invited back to her hotel! – as I explained at the time – I am happily married and although flattered, sadly declined the kind offer! Although I did invite her back to look us up at Sparkle in July!

I am not sure about Saturday but my bottom was fondled or pinched so many times and two men were very complimentary about my new jacket! I even had a proposal from a guy who was with a girl just leaving one of the toilets! I guess it must be Saturday nights!

Re joining Mandy and Tina, we gradually made our way downstairs as they closed off the top floor and several drinks later decided at 5-30ish to return to our apartment after having several piccies taken.

Heels ringing, we made our way through the foyer past a bored guy half asleep on reception and back to our apartment bringing to an end a superb day spent with a great bunch of girls and in particular my girlfriends, Tina and Mandy.

Emma xxx

Article for Magazine

2009-04-08T01:58:00.000-07:00

Backwards in High Heels – Another Dance Night with the Northern Angels – Emma Walkey

After the success of the inaugural dance evening in January organised by Lisa, the group of girls welcomed back June from Ireland, a qualified dance instructor for another entertaining evening at the Shang Hi Restaurant in Manchester.

With 19 girls attending in their prettiest party frocks and heels, June certainly had her hands full once more. Whilst there were quite a few of us attending for the second time, we also had a number of new faces – testimony to the fun we all had the first time.

Emma rarely gets out at weekends due to family circumstances and even forsook her rugby to attend, booking into a local hotel with Tina and Mandy, such was the attraction of the evening and the memory of the fun I had on the first occasion.

The Restaurant made available a special downstairs room which was equipped with sound, a dance floor and bar.

Once more, we paired off into partners, one playing the male role; I teamed up with Tina and a number of the girls renewed their previous partnerships. For the evening we were lucky to have join us a number of partners who fancied chancing their feet in the sequence dancing to come.

June started us off with the “social foxtrot” and having shown us the basic steps watched us massacre them! After a few re starts, it became apparent that there was a vast improvement testament to the fact that we didn’t have as many girls stopped on the dance floor scratching their heads or massaging bruised toes. June’s Irish banter and goodwill permeated the group and we were all moving around the dance floor generally in the right direction with broad grins on our faces.

We then moved onto A Yearning Saunter, which involved us getting to grips with our partners and moving around the room in an ordered manner, ladies backwards guided by their partners (not sure how many held driving licences!) Again, June took one of our unsuspecting group and demonstrated the new steps – easy really! We then demonstrated our interpretation of the steps.
With guidance from June on how to undertake a crossover with the immortal words “kill a wasp and now kill a fly!” we all attempted the intricate steps!
At this point I was reminded of the famous Morecombe & Wise sketch with Andre Previn where a piece of classical music was massacred with the immortal words “ all the right notes but not necessarily in the right order” and this best described my attempts in following in June’s footsteps – all the right steps but not necessarily in the right order!

Having worked up an appetite, we then had a break for our food. Trooping upstairs to the main restaurant, we took up our table and joined the Restaurant’s other customers at the buffet. Once again the food was plentiful and very tasty and we all ate our fill washed down with drinks from the bar and were well served by the wonderful staff.
Having sated our appetite, we all returned to the dance floor to re visit the barn dance to the tune “Bring It All Back” by S Club Seven. This involved synchronised spinning amongst other new steps and the ladies twirling!

I must admit both Tina and myself quite enjoyed this routine as 10 couples rotated around the floor almost all in step! trying to avoid kicking the couple in front or running them down in our eagerness. Even now some 24 hours afterwards I still have that tune in my head and a smile on my face as I remember the fun we had.

All too soon, the evening came to an end and we bade each other farewell with a number of us going on into the village and ending at Napoleon’s where unfortunately or should that be fortunately! we did not get a chance to use our newly acquired skills.

All in all a superb fun evening and I for one am looking forward to the next instalment. (am already looking for a new dress!) Well done Lisa for organising another superb evening and to June who really believes she can make dancers out of us all and without whom the evening would not have been possible.

No Bottle

2009-04-08T01:52:00.000-07:00

Once again, I failed in what is on paper a relatively simple task. Telling my wife about Emma.

Every minute of each passing day I have this task impacting on my every activity.

During my 1 hour drive to work and home again, I am going through a possible dialogue in my mind endeavouring to persuade myself that this is the night that I come clean!

Since returning from my weekend in Manchester, every night we have had an “early night” despite the fact that our three daughters are currently all at home for Easter. Every night I have manoeuvred the conversation towards this goal only to falter.

Yesterday morning I even advised my wife that there was something I wanted to discuss last night, this being on the back of a brief discussion as to why she had thought I was having an affair. Even when I asked her why she thought that, she backed off completely apologising in tears as to her even mentioning this!

I am at a loss as to how to handle this situation. I know in my heart that this will not be the end of our marriage but am scared stiff that I will disappoint my wife and feel that I have let her down in some way.

I love my wife dearly but know that I cannot for my sanity lose Emma. Yet this continuing deceit is piling pressure on my every waking moment and whilst my times as Emma are a great stress relief, the current situation is countering the benefits.

I desperately want my wife to know about Emma in the hope that she can accept her and join her out and about with my good friends.

Am I being unrealistic or selfish in what I strive for? I don’t know anymore, all I know is that Emma is an integral part of my life and will not go away.

My best mate is coming around tonight for tea (his wife and daughter are away on a girly weeks’ holiday down in Cornwall) and on Saturday, my father in law and his wife are staying with us until Monday. I believe it is in the best interests to put off disclosure until after they depart.

All I have to say is:-

“You know those knickers and the cosmetics you found, well they are actually mine. I am a cross dresser.”

Oh well, therapy over for this morning – back to work.

Emma xxx

Backwards In Heels – A night of Dancing (part 1)

2009-04-06T15:04:00.000-07:00

Wow! What can I say! Lots according to all my friends!

Only my second outing as Emma on a Saturday started with my case and overnight bag packed in the boot of the car and nervously waiting my wife’s return after having used the car to run our daughter’s boyfriend home and picking up some cash for my weekend away “at my mate’s stag do in Manchester!”

Waving goodbye, I must admit to pangs of guilt as to having told yet another lie as to my true intentions, I parked up in town and darted over to Roman Originals to pick up my new animal print jacket. Luckily no one in the shop knew me and I also managed to get back to the car without bumping into anyone else.

On the road, the adrenalin coursing through my veins I drove up to Mandy’s arriving short of midday. A cup of tea and bacon and egg butty later, we departed via the local Asda where I picked up a pair of ladies sunglasses for when I’m driving and then on into Manchester.

We arrived at where the car park was supposed to be but couldn’t initially see it until Mandy pointed out the huge letters NCP in bright yellow on the side of the building we were approaching. That’ll be the car park then I noted!

Out of the car park on a 50:50 decision, we of course chose the wrong direction initially until we realised our error and then found our way to The Atrium where we were booked in for the night.

Wow again. I was over the moon about the apartment. One bedroom with twin beds, a large living room and dining room fully equipped and more importantly – plenty of mirrors!

By now, we were under pressure for time as we were picking up Tina from a pub car park near to where she lives at 4ish and it was now past 2-30pm. Whilst Mandy put on her face first, I always dress first. I had already an idea in mind as to my overall outfit this being my tight stretch jeans tucked into knee high boots with stiletto heels and a suitable top. The top I chose was one I had recently purchased on e-bay and looked great.

Face on, wig in place but no time for my nails we were ready together and with a spray of perfume, grabbed my jacket and made our way to the lift.

Our first attempt to get to the ground floor failed miserably and as the door opened on the 1st floor, a cleaner was waiting to go up! Finally we got to the ground floor to walk into a family waiting to go up! – Talk about baptism of fire!

Strolling out through the concourse, heels tapping, there was no one on reception but the foyer was full of guests coming and going.

Outside we made our way round the corner to the car park only to run into a gang of young girls! To say we were s….ing bricks is probably an understatement however as I had told Mandy before setting out – if in doubt tits out, arse out, eyes level, head high and full speed ahead!

Once in the car and having paid the £5.20 extortionate fee for less than 2 hours! We made our way through the city and out to pick Tina up which after a typical blonde moment on the slip onto the motorway when I almost ended up in a bus lane and had to let a gentleman driver behind me let me back in, we picked Tina up.

Back at the apartment, whilst waiting for Tina to get ready, we cracked open a bottle of champagne and tucked into a Melton Mowbray pork pie – now that’s what I call a classy start to the day!

By the time Tina was ready and with my nails painted etc, it was now past 6pm and so we made our way out and into the village where we mingled with a good cross section of the public on our way to the Taurus bar where we had a quiet drink – well it would have been had we not attracted the attention of a guy (from Salford – with his boyfriend) who insisted on chatting us up despite me accidentally elbowing him twice as he leaned over towards our table.

Despite our best endeavours from the book of The Art Of Wit And Repartee, such as f…off, he obviously couldn’t take a hint and christened me a “gobby slut”, Tina a “slut” and Mandy “sophisticated”! Well I say! I mean! I can’t believe he had the nerve to call me gobby! Anyway, all good things must come to an end and we “reluctantly” made our way back to the apartment to get changed into our party frocks for the dancing. (next instalment to follow soon)

Emma xxx

Wardrobe Purge

2009-04-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I spent an enjoyable day over at Teela’s taking the opportunity to dress whilst sorting out my existing wardrobe and having my arms waxed.

Out went all my size 24 jackets and tops including some heavy duty 44D bra’s from my heavier days, my size 20 and 18 skirts and a couple of pairs of shoes and a gorgeous pair of boots which unfortunately I couldn’t wear because I have a high instep.

Finally I got my hands on a foundation that matched completely my skin colouring courtesy of Teela. What a difference it makes!

I dressed in jeans and knee high boots until near the end of the afternoon when I changed into one of my new skirts and blouse to try on a new jacket that Teela had bought for herself and matching shoes. The shoes with 5” heels were too much of a struggle for my poor ankles but the jacket was gorgeous – must have!

A picture of me wearing the new jacket and skirt is in the gallery.

Whilst there I met Louise from the midlands and got on well, hopefully we will meet up and perhaps have a drink. Later Mandy came by and we exchanged plans for the coming weekend.

After getting changed and loading the car once more, I dashed over to Cheshire Oaks with a view to buy the same jacket that Teela had let me try on.

I strode into the shop and found the rack only to my find to my dismay that they did not have one in my size. Undaunted I went to the two young girl assistants at the counter and asked them if they had the jacket in a 20.

Whilst one of the girls went out back to check, the other one asked me if it was for my wife to which I answered no it was for me and I wanted it to go out in this Saturday in Manchester. Well I think it is fair to say she was speechless and didn’t know what to say so I helped her by continuing and telling her I had seen a pair of shoes to match.

On her return, the other girl seemed unfazed by my admission but unfortunately since it was in the sale, the answer was no. Helpfully she suggested we could ring some of the other stores up and down the country. Where was the nearest? Well I suggested Leicestershire and she promptly gave me the list of shops to find one nearest to me as she was not sure where Leicestershire was!

Lo and behold there is a shop where I live! I now have to check if they have one in my size and if so, how to get in and out without being checked out by any of my friends!

On my way home, I finished a great day by meeting up with Tina and his wife in Stockport and had a drink and a bite to eat. As usual, the crack was vicious and I am looking forward to this weekend. Tina, myself and Mandy are sharing accommodation in the Atrium – now that will be an experience – I hope there are enough mirrors!

Roll on the weekend!

Today I attended a job interview over near Birmingham. It went very well and it seems that if I get offered the post, it will involve me visiting Newcastle, Birmingham, Portsmouth and the Wirral and staying over!

Could be interesting!

Fingers crossed.

As Teela goes into hospital on Friday for her ankle operation, I would just like to wish her the best and a speedy recovery

Emma xxx

It's In The Stars!

2009-03-27T04:17:00.000-07:00

Never thought I was one for horoscopes but I just had to check out the one in the current Sunday Mail. Scorpio – 20th November

“No longer can you pretend that nothing is wrong. No longer can you pretend that everything is progressing smoothly. According to this week’s celestial setup it is unlikely to be progressing at all – especially on the work front, where there seems to be gridlock. It is time for some serious thought, followed by some serious action.”

Well, I still have failed miserably in my attempts to tell my wife about Emma, despite my best endeavours and I am still waiting for my official redundancy notification from work!

In addition to the knickers she found, she came across a small cosmetics pouch in which were my pencils (lip, eyebrow and liner) which she hid away and didn’t say anything to me about. Telling - It’s all about timing!

Other than that our current relationship is more like newly weds and certainly not showing any signs of flagging or breaking up!

We are out with friends tonight at a quiz – the first time we will have been out together for some while. The youngest is staying in with her boyfriend and the eldest is coming home for the weekend now that I have bailed her out re her mobile bill! – again!

Just had a phone call setting me up for a job interview next Wednesday, so fingers crossed, there may be good news on the horizon.

Looking forward to Tuesday daytime over at Teela’s and meeting up for an evening drink with Tina on the way home (both of us in Bob mode)

Emma xxx

Another Week Another Dollar

2009-03-22T14:20:00.000-07:00

With Bob 100% in charge, the weekend has been pretty hectic.

Friday evening I managed to get my PC working again – the previous evening I had wasted 3 hours getting nowhere with my internet connection.

In rugby my team (4ths) was ambushed by our opposition in the league, putting out a 1st team against us including the Middlesex county scrum half up visiting! It didn’t help that I had to let our 3rds have 8 players for their league game including most of my back division. I ended up having to play scrum half (normally no 8) with two of my flankers out in the backs.

Needless to say we were well and truly beaten although we still managed 3 tries – all from the forwards. I guess they didn’t like us beating them by 30 points+ in the earlier encounter at home. With two games to play against the two teams currently above us in the table, it is still possible to win the league at our 1st attempt but it will not be easy.

I had thought that with a few drinks inside me that I may have broached the topic of my knickers which my wife found, but the opportunity never happened.

I trained my under 16s this morning and then sped South to watch my youngest daughter play for her under 18s side in a league game, which they won by over 40 points!

Back home, we dropped my middle daughter off at the train station (she was back for mother’s day) and then raided KFC for dinner.

I am still working out how to tell my wife about Emma, probably it will happen tonight in bed. I am becoming increasingly concerned that my youngest knows something either from my indiscretions or from my eldest daughter. Twice now she has made some obtuse comment when Shania Twain‘s Feel Like A Woman has been played in the car – such as referring to it as my song!

If this is the case then it is more and more important that my wife is told and the sooner the better!

The coming week brings me the chance to pick up my recent purchases from my friend’s house in Oxford, including three new skirts, (one leather), two jackets, some make up, another pair of shoes and three blouses.

I have also tentatively arranged to take a day off work and travel up to Teela’s again with all my clothes and bags and to spend the day sorting everything out including separating all my earlier clothes that are too large for me now. I was going to take advantage of the visit to have my arms waxed and dressed, take another trip around Cheshire Oaks.

I had originally hoped that I may make it the Wednesday and so join my friends in the village, but logistically this has proved to be impossible:-
1. Nowhere to get changed afterwards
2. A car full of suitcases etc left parked in Manchester – not sure it’s a good idea!

No problem as the 4th April will soon be here and I am looking forward to the whole day and the following morning being Emma and attending the dancing evening with the other girls. I am booked into The Atrium and sharing the apartment with Tina.

At the time I booked, I couldn’t understand why there were no vacancies in the hotels in Manchester for that weekend – I was lucky enough to get what I did. I now understand from my wife that it is the day of The Grand National at Aintree! This may have something to do with it perhaps!

I am currently waiting for a reply from Vollers re my corset (less than 4 months old) which has the bottom of the metal busk protruding from the material – this shouldn’t happen. At the same time I am looking into having an overbust corset made to measure with 28” waist to give me a better overall shape.

Currently the top of the underbust corset sits just under my fairly prominent sternum and is visible under a lot of outer clothing that I have been wearing without wearing some heavy duty body over the corset to smooth the silhouette.

Finally, I have still not received official notice of my impending redundancy so work goes on. I wonder what the week will bring? – watch this space.

Emma xxx

It’s Work Jim But Not As We Know It!

2009-03-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

After a pleasant evening taking tea at Teela’s with some of my girlfriends, the following day I embarked on another first as Emma, a day working in skirts!

Teela who runs Trans-Pose on the Wirral offers the chance for girls to spend the day dressed and working as her secretary, answering the phones, making coffee and other work loosely classed as secretarial.

Having set the alarm for 6am, I awoke after a very restful night’s sleep cocooned in my nighty and got up, had a coffee and brushed my hair out.

Ablutions completed, I proceeded to get dressed as I was leaving the hotel and driving across to Teela’s dressed. As I had quite a bit of baggage to get to my car, I dressed casually in a pair of tight jeans over my hold ups and a new red top over bra and corset. I wore my new control knickers from M&S and was surprised as to how comfy they were considering they were a thong. On my feet I pulled on my knee high boots in which I tucked my jeans. It is this look I have always admired on women and I was very pleased with my appearance.

After a close shave, I applied my make up – again understated for daytime though I did plough on the mascara, finishing off with a soft pink shade of lipstick once more from my collection of Chanel.

Once dressed and presentable, I proceeded to put together my outfit for my day at Teela’s and then re packed my bags.

One at a time as filled, I walked out to my car and loaded the bag in. It took me 5 trips to and fro through reception before I was ready, having left a travel bag with my business suit, shoes etc in till last.

I then popped back to reception and bade the girl goodbye popping my key into the slot in the desk.

I arrived safely through the rush hour traffic at Teela’s and after an initial cuppa, sat down for Teela to give me a makeover. Firstly my own application was removed and then using her own brand of cosmetics established a proper colour match for my complexion.

What a difference the correct colour of foundation makes. I will be purchasing my own next week when I return, I was so impressed.

Having completed the rest of my face, I then changed into my suit for the day including heels and started my first day of work as Emma.

It is fair to say that Teela was not so demanding of me but I still managed to complete a task on the computer and answer the odd telephone call whilst up and down the stairs keeping us both refreshed with tea and coffee.

It is difficult to describe the sense of well being whilst sitting there in a tight pencil skirt and jacket with nylon clad legs crossed. It felt so right.

Lunch was provided and later in the day, Barbara arrived for a makeover and to get dressed.

I fell in love with one of the wigs on display and when I checked the name to ascertain the price I found out that it was an Emma! – well obviously fate took a hand and I parted with my hard earned sheckles.

Far too soon it was time to put Emma back in her bag and so reluctantly I changed back into Bob ensuring no trace of the day remained. (unfortunately this was found not to be the case – see earlier blog!)

Driving home I could only reflect on a wonderful day and experience and start to make plans to repeat it in the near future.

I certainly can recommend the day as Teela’s secretary.

Emma xxx