As a part time CD’er, I have always wanted to venture into public. But my wife and I have an agreement that; 1) all dressing takes place in the bedroom, nowhere else. 2) she will not participate. Well a week ago I was asked to join in an event at a mall for our church whereby 5th & 6th graders have to find their leaders who are in disguise. Our program director and I were talking about how a 6’2” middle ager would hide; she looked me in the eye and said “We’re going to make you a woman.” My mind said “Stay cool here” while my heart was about to start singing. She said “We’ll get you a dress and a wig and you’ll be great. Just have your wife make you up.”Since this was her idea, I suggested she e-mail my wife for support. (Insert deep breath here.) Later my wife and I are talking about this, and although she was not thrilled about the idea to say the least, she’s not saying “no.” Yeeeeessssss!!!!
My work schedule is hell right now, and I had two weeks to get ready for this. Now comes the hard part. I didn’t have the luxury of hiding behind the internet for the right outfit, so I had to screw on my courage and visit brick and mortars to get an outfit to “blend in.” Since this is not Halloween, and the event is in prime Christmas shopping season, the mall will be packed on a Friday night. I want the experience of dressing, having fun with kids trying to find me, but not to have the evening ruined with stares and ridicule. I started with Ross, going in and took a lap around the store and left with zero confidence. I have to do this I reminded myself, so I went to a Beauty supply store and told the clerk I need to become a woman for a night and needed some press on nails. She assisted, and my courage level went up to 25%. From there I went Kohls and browsed around, but still not ready to encounter defeat, so I went to Dress Barn, thinking “I can do this.” I walked in and told them my mission, and they were great. The manager helped me find a knee length skirt and a tee sweater, a belt and hose. She gave me some coupons, and told me “You may like it and decide to come back.” (Insert future returning customer here.) My confidence is now about 60%.
I went to the mall today to scope it out and get some clip on earrings, a necklace, a bracelet, etc. I went into the first store and the sales lady was super. I explained the circumstances, she helped me get accessorized, and even asked that I stop by on when dressed to let her see me. Courage level is now about 75%. The second store (Claire’s) was also terrific. I’m ready except for a few make up items and it’s 8 days away.
I’m not sleeping much, but I’m eating right. I just don’t want to miss this opportunity. Sorry for the long post. Updates will follow.
Hugs to all,
Colleen