HAPPY NEW YEAR!

This is my first Christmas as a transgender person. The only difference is the types I have on my wish list. I would love for someone to give me a lavender night gown or a black negligee. See how my prioritites have changed! Anyway, I like this better; a transgender Christmas! I read Kate Bornstein's excellent book; "Gender Outlaw." It is one of the most personally challenging books I have ever read. Ms. Bornstein talks about her transsexual experiences (male to female), the infighting among transgender folks, and the need to see beyond gender identity. Her gender fluidity makes her hard to define. I can relate to Ms. Bornstein's feelings because I feel the same way as a crossdresser. There are days that I feel masculine, feminine,both, queer, and other gender descriptions. The other point she makes is that theater should be an evolving medium. Staid theater makes for lousy plays and bored audiences. Her play "Hidden: A Gender" is challenging to gender defenders and to those whose idea of what gender is and is not may be found wanting. Another point Ms. Bornstein makes is that transgender folks need to work together. The transvestite suffers the same violence and oppression as the she-male and the trannseexual. Transgenders and transvestites (especially people of color) were at the front lines of the battles for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender rights. I rate this book a "9". "Gender Outlaw" is a great read for all in the transgender community.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

As 2005 winds down, I am thankful for the many wonderful things that has happened in my life. I am thankful for my health and strength and for the wonderful people I have met. I am thankful for the goals that were achieved. One of the highlights of 2005 was discovering my transgenderism. As 2006 beckons, I have set some goals for myself. Here's wishing everybody a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS The journey may be long. I may hit a few bumps along the way, but I am enjoying the ride.

I attended the last gender drop-in group for this session (starts again in February). This support group has encouraged me much. I have a better understanding about transitioning, the emotions of those in transition, and some of the victories attained. I learned much about myself as a crossdresser. I have become more comfortable with myself and being with my transgender sisters and brothers. I have taken small steps in my life as a CD, and I am ready to take several more. I cannot wait until the next session starts. I finished reading Leslie Feinberg's "Trans Liberation: Beyond Pink or Blue". Along with "Transgender Warriors", these two books are a great set for those interest in transgender history and activism. I recommend these two books to professionals and teachers in particular.

I have not posted in several days because I have been busy with work and school.

I have read books and articles about transgenderism and the people who have suffered physical violence and mental abuse. I have not suffered any of these but it affects me nevertheless. As a crossdresser, I face the same challenges as my transsexual brothers and sisters.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS The past cannot be changed, but one can learn from it. One should learn all they can, rejoice in the achievements, and strive to be a better person.

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I have been selecting items for my wardrobe. There will be many colors and shades. Black, red and blue will be my staples. I like navy blue, but royal blue will be a big part, too. Once I can master the shoes part, the rest will be easy. Today, I feel very good about being a crossdresser/transgender. To me, it gets easier with each passing day. I understand transgenderism better and I try to incorporate it into my personal life.

I am reading Leslie Feinberg's second book ''Trans Liberation: Beyond Pink and Blue". There are more transgendered people in the world than you think. Each person expresses their gender in their own unique way. I am devouring everything I can get my hands on about transgenderism.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS I can be a gentleman and a lady all in the same day.

I am been involved with a support group which has helped and encouraged me. My girlfriends on the chat forum have touched my life in wonderful ways. I think much about them and their well being. My femme side is becoming a larger part of my life. 'Genevieve' is defining her own identity. She is developing into a classy and well rounded woman. I appreciate the days that I don't feel femme because I keep CDing in the right perspective.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS Keep polishing that diamond until every facet illuminates the light.