Why I use cash

So, I usually just carry/use cash since I get strange looks when I try to use my credit card(s) because of my old name. This morning I was asked for my ID and scrutinized. The cashier even called over her manager. They both looked at me and my license and my credit card again and again. It was sad and embarrassing and frustrating. I haven't had the money to do a legal name change. The good news is Carrie checked and it looks like my tax return should be to me on Friday or Saturday of this week. I promised myself that I would use a chunk of that money to do a legal name change. Yes! That will feel soooo good.

In other news, we've had three exhausting days with the Affirmations move. Although...I'm sitting in my new cubicle in the new building writing this...so at least there is some progress. More move updates later.....

total randomness...

Today I visualized my first honest to god positive outcome with all this surgery drama. Maybe it's a good change that I'm letting myself be hopeful.

In other news...tomorrow is the 17th...and Carrie and I are going to go have fun with Jenn and her boys...

In other, other news--I almost have sideburns. lol

LGBTI Health and Blogs

Oh how do I love the National LGBT Tobacco Control Network....
Let me count the ways
1. Giving Chico a scholarship to attend the conference
2. Having other scholarship winners blog from the conference. It seems like a great/creative idea and a fun way to get the conference play by play for those of us who can't be there.

Injection Silicone Use (ISU)

It's been brought to my attention that recently a few people have saught medical treatment after injecting silicone at a pumping party in Detroit. The Detroit Free Press has a small article here--without much mention of the trans community. While I know that ISU is fairly common, I haven't seen or heard much about it in the past year.

Other media outlets have contacted Affirmations for a comment or input and I'll be giving an interview later this week.

A couple of people would like to organize a communtiy summitt to raise awarness and brainstorm ways to get this info out--using ways that make sense to people in our diverse communities. I'm hoping that this can lead into a larger and much needed conversation on access to appropriate trans health care.

I love her!

My little vixen......

Affirmations Building Delays

So we heard about more building delays at our staff meeting today. They are telling us 4-6 more weeks before we are even given an occupancy permit--but even that seems hopeful at this point. Many of us are concerned about programs for late April/early May. This will allow Carrie less stress during Big Bash. Also, I am thankful that the move will not coincide with the philly trans health conference. Looks like Laura and my travel budget was approved and we'll be leaving Wednesday night and returning sunday. WOOT.


If you're interested in all the building drama check out these articles. (Since the new building is a big deal for downtown Ferndale there have been some news articles)
A picture of the construction:





First this article in early Febuary.

And then this article from March 9th.

Tampons and Donations...

"You probably never thought of this, but women's shelters in the U.S. go through thousands of tampons and pads monthly. Assistance agencies generally help with expenses of everyday necessities such as toilet paper, diapers, and clothing, but one of the most BASIC needs is overlooked.

Seventh Generation, a green paper products and cleaning products company, has a do-good attitude and will donate a box of sanitary products to a women's shelter in your chosen state - just for clicking the link. Talk about easy, and, yes, it is legitimate!"

http://www.tampontification.com/donate.php

NCTE's Calendar Campaign

NCTE has a cool campaign which launched in 2007. They have a free monthly calendar featuring an aspect of human rights that is vital to full transgender equality. The calendars are available on our website every month. Since March's topic is focused on healthcare I couldn't resist!



Next week is also National LGBT Health Awareness Week (March 11-17). Check it out.

My pups

Twiggy the Italian Grey hound and Crunchy the beagle


Lola. She's about 5 months old now. Most people think she's a Shepherd/Jack Russell mix



Lola in all of her cuteness

Lola when we first got her a few months ago and Crunchy!

About 10.5 Months on T.....dorky as ever :)

I dream of pants that fit....

Trying on clothes the past couple of days has confirmed the fact that nothing seems to fit my body right *dramatic sigh* But seriously, I think I am meanat to just go naked! Since beginning T 10 months ago or so I weigh about the same but my body size and shape has changed quite a bit. My chubby belly has gotten a bit bigger, and not sure how this happens, all my pants fall off. I still feel ridiculous tucking things in at times and am picky about belts. What's a guy to do.? LOL