I've enjoyed a couple of new experiences this week. First, I recently purchased three sleeveless dresses and, with the summer heat fully upon us, I've ventured out several times wearing them. In short, I've overcome my phobia about my shoulders.
On Thursday, I had dinner at a nice restaurant with a close GG friend, and wore one dress, a strappy, tiered ivory dress with a light floral print in pastel and irregular hem line. Before we met up, I browsed a couple of shops and found a cute blue tie dyed halter dress, about knee length...love it! Had a great time visiting with the SAs as I killed time. Had an even better time visiting with my friend, even though she knew me as a male until only recently...now we are really just like girlfriends. The waitstaff was courteous and referred to us as ladies and called me ma'am repeatedly.
Yesterday another first. I wore a floral print maxi...intense primary colors...on my afternoon errands including getting an oil change and wash. I thought I looked presentable and was pleasantly surprised by how courteously the male staff treated me. If they knew I was a BM, they politely kept it to themselves, and I never saw one member of the garage crew look askance or stare. I may not have been passing, but I will take it as close enough!
Then I stopped at the local Kroger to pick up supper. It was very busy, which in my view is the best time to blend in. One simply can get lost in the crowd. I got my things and at the check out, the young female cashier didn't react at all, just said, 'Miss, do you have a Kroger card?"
Overall, I feel as though the practice, positive experiences and growing self confidence are paying dividends. I may not pass, but I feel, more than ever, that I in the community where I live, i am a woman. And I can't fully express how good it feels to say that....I even said it aloud.