Quite a while ago TJ had asked me to think about being her makeup model, for a course that she had recently booked on the Wirral. About 3 seconds later, I said that I’d like to give it a try.
It was a 2 day course, and I was free on those days. In the end I was only needed on the 2nd day, but what a great day last week it turned out to be!
There were 5 girls on the course in total, plus their 5 models. I was anxious to know what to wear on the day, and TJ had advised that they were all in jeans on the first day, so in the end I thought I’d be more comfortable in my combat trousers, ugg boots, and long top. I don't think I had the chance to get nervous as we got there, as it was too late by then to back out. Once the morning got going, there was a display by the tutor, and I think I noticed one or 2 in the room looking over, but I was cool about it. TJ took my own make up off, and the look they were first going for was a glam/smokey eyes look, which I was very impressed with. By this time it had got to lunchtime, where they'd prepared a small buffet for us. It gave me the chance to mingle and chat with others.
One of the delegates asked me, 'How did you get the job?' I just said that I wasn't press-ganged into it! It also gave me the chance to talk and explain to them about things-t. And, a few of them got quite interested.
After lunch, the next challenge was to achieve an extreme catwalk model look. TJ had her own ideas on this (picture a drag queen version of Gene Simmons from KISS!), suffice to say that I'll never be seen on Canal Street, or anywhere else, looking like that again! Some of the other model looks were absolutely stunning.
We later had a play around enhancing a cleavage (well, mine in particular!) by shading, and that was really impressive. I was quite pleased with the end result.
When that was finished I took the chance to have a walk around the studio to chat to the other stylists and models, who were by now quite friendly and chatty.
Finally, TJ prepared me for an evening look, as I was going out later, and by the end of the night I was very impressed with how the foundation had lasted.
One final point about the makeup itself. For the last 2 years I've been using Grimas beard cover, and then MAC full cover foundation. The course tutor did explain to me that the Grimas product was about 10 years old, and that it was now old 'technology'. After using his product all day, I can truly recommend and endorse the new foundation and beard cover, and I’ve ordered mine from TJ already!
Wednesday, 10 December 2008
Wednesday, 3 December 2008
Only a tranny...
A few weeks ago, I was over in Germany for a few days with work, and had the opportunity of meeting up with my sis for a few days, and evenings. It gave me the chance to view the scene over there, which turned out to be a bit different to what I usually see back home.
On Friday night we were over in Mannheim, for a lovely Indian meal at a friend’s house, and then over to a ‘fetish pub’ in Mannheim; shame when you have to get glammed up, and then go in to a smokey bar (Germany still has them) so that your clothes stink of smoke afterwards. Still, it gave me the chance to speak to a few t‘s in there, dressed, and in ‘bob’ mode. I didn’t discover what the German equivalent of ‘bob’ was, maybe ‘Fritz’ or ‘Helmut‘, or similar. From what I could tell, the scene isn’t as developed or ‘mainstream’ as what it is over here.
Late on Saturday night we went to the Grande Opera event in Offenbach; a rather classy bdsm event in a club, which I thought was very impressive. At the other end of the scale from Nap’s, for example. I’ve never been faced (!) by nude slaves before, nor absolutely gorgeous blondes wearing the most revealing of outfits; it was very much of an eye-opener, and as one of very few t’s there, I felt rather under-dressed in my best burlesque outfit, with black lacy skirt, highest heels, and tight corset. The venue had a lovely setting, with the entrance being though an old courtyard, and made a great background to the photos we took at the end of the night, which I’ve added to Flickr.
Included in the entry ticket was a food buffet, so towards the end of the evening, we settled on trying a bowl of their finest goulash soup. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw one of the naked male slaves swinging his way past my table, where we were eating. I kind of gave him a stare along the lines of ‘Oi Helmut! Mind where you’re shaking that thing. I’m trying to eat my goulash.’
A fantastic all-round experience, and I look forward to going back to see one of their future events!
Another funny moment that had us in stitches afterwards, was on the way to Offenbach, sis had lost the piece of paper with the address on, in the car. We were on the autobahn at this time, so I suggested we pull over in one of those wooded lay-bys that they have on the continent. What surprised me were the number of cars parked there, at about half past midnight. Then in the headlights we saw 1-2 men scurrying across the road, and another guy coming out of the woods. So anyway we parked up at the far end, and stopped and put the interior light on to look for the paper. We found what we had lost very quickly, but when sis looked up in the rear mirror, she could see a silhouette of all these guys walking towards our car! She then said ‘S**t! I think this is that do**ing lay-by! Let’s get out of here quick!’ So we razzed out of the lay-by as quickly as we could!
On Friday night we were over in Mannheim, for a lovely Indian meal at a friend’s house, and then over to a ‘fetish pub’ in Mannheim; shame when you have to get glammed up, and then go in to a smokey bar (Germany still has them) so that your clothes stink of smoke afterwards. Still, it gave me the chance to speak to a few t‘s in there, dressed, and in ‘bob’ mode. I didn’t discover what the German equivalent of ‘bob’ was, maybe ‘Fritz’ or ‘Helmut‘, or similar. From what I could tell, the scene isn’t as developed or ‘mainstream’ as what it is over here.
Late on Saturday night we went to the Grande Opera event in Offenbach; a rather classy bdsm event in a club, which I thought was very impressive. At the other end of the scale from Nap’s, for example. I’ve never been faced (!) by nude slaves before, nor absolutely gorgeous blondes wearing the most revealing of outfits; it was very much of an eye-opener, and as one of very few t’s there, I felt rather under-dressed in my best burlesque outfit, with black lacy skirt, highest heels, and tight corset. The venue had a lovely setting, with the entrance being though an old courtyard, and made a great background to the photos we took at the end of the night, which I’ve added to Flickr.
Included in the entry ticket was a food buffet, so towards the end of the evening, we settled on trying a bowl of their finest goulash soup. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw one of the naked male slaves swinging his way past my table, where we were eating. I kind of gave him a stare along the lines of ‘Oi Helmut! Mind where you’re shaking that thing. I’m trying to eat my goulash.’
A fantastic all-round experience, and I look forward to going back to see one of their future events!
Another funny moment that had us in stitches afterwards, was on the way to Offenbach, sis had lost the piece of paper with the address on, in the car. We were on the autobahn at this time, so I suggested we pull over in one of those wooded lay-bys that they have on the continent. What surprised me were the number of cars parked there, at about half past midnight. Then in the headlights we saw 1-2 men scurrying across the road, and another guy coming out of the woods. So anyway we parked up at the far end, and stopped and put the interior light on to look for the paper. We found what we had lost very quickly, but when sis looked up in the rear mirror, she could see a silhouette of all these guys walking towards our car! She then said ‘S**t! I think this is that do**ing lay-by! Let’s get out of here quick!’ So we razzed out of the lay-by as quickly as we could!
Wednesday, 12 November 2008
So now big sis knows!
I’d decided last month, after some mild prompting by Mrs L, to introduce my sis, who was in the country for 10 day vacation, to the younger sister she never had. We were having a coffee in the supermarket after shopping, when I broached the issue, and pulled out my avatar photo from my wallet. Well, you just couldn’t have scripted the reaction! After I made my admission, my sis told me that in her country, she knew people on the tv/ts scene, and made her own admission to me, as to how that came about!
We had planned to spend 5 days in London doing the tourist trail, as we hadn’t done this since we were teens. Well after one full day of heavy sight-seeing in the capital, the plans were changed somewhat. On our first night there, 2 sisters could be seen arm in arm walking along the Embankment, looking for Blackfriars Pier, as I’d already booked places in advance for the Rose’s boat trip on Saturday. Then the following day, it was a full-on shopping day at Bluewater for 7 hours, again for 2 sisters. Seemed to spend forever in John Lewis (trying on strapless bra’s for example!) trying on Jigsaw and Hobbs’ dresses. I also never knew Per Una had such a big range. Bluewater was crowded though, which was surprising, as I thought there was a recession on the cards?! It could have been a lot worse though for us! As we walked through the revolving door at John Lewis at 10 am, it suddenly stopped working whilst we were in the middle, and it was like we were stuck in a goldfish bowl! Then the alarm started sounding, and various staff appeared to come and see this tranny with her sister, whilst they physically pushed the door system round so that the 2 trapped girls could escape!
The next day we visited Hay’s Galleria, and strolled along the embankment, did some shopping, and took loads of pictures. I approached a group of girls in Starbucks where we were having lunch, to ask for local directions, and they were quite cool to talk to. I think I surprised my sis, as I don’t think she expected me to open my mouth to speak to anyone in there!
At 6pm we’d arranged to meet a couple of sis’s friends who were joining us for the Rose’s cruise, for a meal at the Howard Hotel, near to Temple Station, by the Embankment. This was an awesome experience! The staff in there were buzzing around us! Walking through the crowded hotel bar to get through to the restaurant, and having doors opened for us on the way: a very enjoyable and head-turning experience. The loos in there were superb, and I received one or two smiles from other girls in there, as we ‘powdered noses’.
The cruise itself was spectacular; the Thames embankments look very impressive lit up. The company on the boat was great. It was lovely to see Helena Love, working unofficially with her camera, TJ and Dave, Jane, Astrid and San, and other girls who I met for the first time. I'd recommend it for next time, to anyone who hasn't been before.
For the last couple of days, we’d been reminiscing about any giveaway signs I may have left when we were younger, but it seems like most young trannies, I seemed to have successfully covered my tracks in those days. A funny thing is that now it’s also payback time for me, as when we were teens, I used to raid her wardrobe. This week she’s been trying on my clothes!
We had planned to spend 5 days in London doing the tourist trail, as we hadn’t done this since we were teens. Well after one full day of heavy sight-seeing in the capital, the plans were changed somewhat. On our first night there, 2 sisters could be seen arm in arm walking along the Embankment, looking for Blackfriars Pier, as I’d already booked places in advance for the Rose’s boat trip on Saturday. Then the following day, it was a full-on shopping day at Bluewater for 7 hours, again for 2 sisters. Seemed to spend forever in John Lewis (trying on strapless bra’s for example!) trying on Jigsaw and Hobbs’ dresses. I also never knew Per Una had such a big range. Bluewater was crowded though, which was surprising, as I thought there was a recession on the cards?! It could have been a lot worse though for us! As we walked through the revolving door at John Lewis at 10 am, it suddenly stopped working whilst we were in the middle, and it was like we were stuck in a goldfish bowl! Then the alarm started sounding, and various staff appeared to come and see this tranny with her sister, whilst they physically pushed the door system round so that the 2 trapped girls could escape!
The next day we visited Hay’s Galleria, and strolled along the embankment, did some shopping, and took loads of pictures. I approached a group of girls in Starbucks where we were having lunch, to ask for local directions, and they were quite cool to talk to. I think I surprised my sis, as I don’t think she expected me to open my mouth to speak to anyone in there!
At 6pm we’d arranged to meet a couple of sis’s friends who were joining us for the Rose’s cruise, for a meal at the Howard Hotel, near to Temple Station, by the Embankment. This was an awesome experience! The staff in there were buzzing around us! Walking through the crowded hotel bar to get through to the restaurant, and having doors opened for us on the way: a very enjoyable and head-turning experience. The loos in there were superb, and I received one or two smiles from other girls in there, as we ‘powdered noses’.
The cruise itself was spectacular; the Thames embankments look very impressive lit up. The company on the boat was great. It was lovely to see Helena Love, working unofficially with her camera, TJ and Dave, Jane, Astrid and San, and other girls who I met for the first time. I'd recommend it for next time, to anyone who hasn't been before.
For the last couple of days, we’d been reminiscing about any giveaway signs I may have left when we were younger, but it seems like most young trannies, I seemed to have successfully covered my tracks in those days. A funny thing is that now it’s also payback time for me, as when we were teens, I used to raid her wardrobe. This week she’s been trying on my clothes!
Just an addition....
to the diary. These incidents occured in the summertime, and were posted elsewhere, but I thought I'd add them here on the diary...
A funny thing (or 3) happened to me on Saturday…..
1. Walking with a t-girl along ‘Curry Mile’ in south Manchester, on the
way to a cash dispenser about 7.30 pm, we were just chatting as we walked, when walking towards us was a lone Asian guy, in his early 20‘s. Now I rarely look at people close up, as I walk, but was so surprised to hear him say, as we passed each ether, ‘hey transvestite, you are fu****g dead.’ I was shocked to hear that behaviour, but we both kept walking in opposite directions. We wondered afterwards, had we had seen a passing GMP patrol, would we have bothered to report it? I do know that in some areas, a racist remark would end up with a night in the cells. In hindsight, what I would have done is to turn round to him and give him a big ’Wooooo, I’m really scared!’
2. After the meal 6 (4 TS, 2 TV) of us headed into town, to Castlefields, at the south end of Deansgate, so, nowhere near the Village. It was one of the girl’s local pub, so ‘Star Babe ’ (SB, as I’ll call her for what happened later) knew the staff and we were made welcome, in the busy pub, and sat near the front. Well the loo’s were at the back of the pub, ladies on the right, and gents on the left. So when I needed to go, I walked past this table of 4 goons, on the way to the ladies, when I heard someone behind me shout, ‘Wrong one’. So I turned around, ready for a bit of banter, but none of them would look me in the eye. The girl that followed me into the ladies had seen what happened, and inside, she said ‘Don’t worry, have you got any perfume?’ When I asked her why, she said’ So you can spray some in his eye!’ We had a good laugh at that!
On the way out, I looked at them again, but none of them looked up, so I didn’t know who to talk to, so left it at that. Again, in hindsight, my comment should have been, had I known who spoke, ‘And why would you want me to go into the gents, big boy?!’
3. Later on in the pub, we were sat on a long wooden table, having a great chat, when a group of about 4 drunken plo**ers sat on the end, and started to mither us, and just wouldn’t give up. They thought it was a big laugh, and when 1 of them was about to take a photo of us, I told him in no uncertain terms to ‘f*** off’. They were so drunk that how the staff hadn’t spotted them was surprising. Anyway, some time later they got up to go, or that’s what we presumed, when suddenly 1 of them grabbed SB with both arms and forcibly kissed her. After she was able to push him off, she followed up with the best right hook you’ve ever seen, and knocked him in the air straight out of his flip-flops, which stayed on the ground! As he hit the deck, all his loose change fell out of his pockets and rolled all over the floor. At the same time I vaguely recall hearing one of Bernie’s attack alarms being set off in the backgound, and the staff came along and ejected the to**ers. Not sure if this is something that should have been reported, but given the circumstances, that there was retaliation on our part, what’s the opinion? As for SB, she’s now our reigning champ, despite breaking a finger-nail! And to think, nobody thought about playing ‘Eye of the Tiger’ on the jukebox after that!
Afterwards we had a lot of sympathy from the GG’s who were in there, and were very friendly and chatty with us.
So, despite the experiences, it wouldn’t stop me from going to the same places again next week.
A funny thing (or 3) happened to me on Saturday…..
1. Walking with a t-girl along ‘Curry Mile’ in south Manchester, on the
way to a cash dispenser about 7.30 pm, we were just chatting as we walked, when walking towards us was a lone Asian guy, in his early 20‘s. Now I rarely look at people close up, as I walk, but was so surprised to hear him say, as we passed each ether, ‘hey transvestite, you are fu****g dead.’ I was shocked to hear that behaviour, but we both kept walking in opposite directions. We wondered afterwards, had we had seen a passing GMP patrol, would we have bothered to report it? I do know that in some areas, a racist remark would end up with a night in the cells. In hindsight, what I would have done is to turn round to him and give him a big ’Wooooo, I’m really scared!’
2. After the meal 6 (4 TS, 2 TV) of us headed into town, to Castlefields, at the south end of Deansgate, so, nowhere near the Village. It was one of the girl’s local pub, so ‘Star Babe ’ (SB, as I’ll call her for what happened later) knew the staff and we were made welcome, in the busy pub, and sat near the front. Well the loo’s were at the back of the pub, ladies on the right, and gents on the left. So when I needed to go, I walked past this table of 4 goons, on the way to the ladies, when I heard someone behind me shout, ‘Wrong one’. So I turned around, ready for a bit of banter, but none of them would look me in the eye. The girl that followed me into the ladies had seen what happened, and inside, she said ‘Don’t worry, have you got any perfume?’ When I asked her why, she said’ So you can spray some in his eye!’ We had a good laugh at that!
On the way out, I looked at them again, but none of them looked up, so I didn’t know who to talk to, so left it at that. Again, in hindsight, my comment should have been, had I known who spoke, ‘And why would you want me to go into the gents, big boy?!’
3. Later on in the pub, we were sat on a long wooden table, having a great chat, when a group of about 4 drunken plo**ers sat on the end, and started to mither us, and just wouldn’t give up. They thought it was a big laugh, and when 1 of them was about to take a photo of us, I told him in no uncertain terms to ‘f*** off’. They were so drunk that how the staff hadn’t spotted them was surprising. Anyway, some time later they got up to go, or that’s what we presumed, when suddenly 1 of them grabbed SB with both arms and forcibly kissed her. After she was able to push him off, she followed up with the best right hook you’ve ever seen, and knocked him in the air straight out of his flip-flops, which stayed on the ground! As he hit the deck, all his loose change fell out of his pockets and rolled all over the floor. At the same time I vaguely recall hearing one of Bernie’s attack alarms being set off in the backgound, and the staff came along and ejected the to**ers. Not sure if this is something that should have been reported, but given the circumstances, that there was retaliation on our part, what’s the opinion? As for SB, she’s now our reigning champ, despite breaking a finger-nail! And to think, nobody thought about playing ‘Eye of the Tiger’ on the jukebox after that!
Afterwards we had a lot of sympathy from the GG’s who were in there, and were very friendly and chatty with us.
So, despite the experiences, it wouldn’t stop me from going to the same places again next week.
Tuesday, 23 September 2008
Niagara Falls…
Sounds more like a statement than a place. Five of us were out for a meal in Taurus. Mandy, Di, Mr and Mrs Kate. It was Mandy’s first time out, and she’d got changed in AXM. When I got there I went to check on Mandy, and boy, was it hot down in the changing rooms! So much so, that I’d had a wardrobe malfunction, and with the Olympics on the horizon at the time, this was the topical post I’d put on the Angels T-Lounge forum:
Britain gets first gold and silver at Boob Olympics!
Out in the Village last week, I’d decided to borrow Mrs L’s long viscose/silk straight summer dress. As it was a size 10 (it‘s what the label said!), and tight-ish up top, and, as the dress wasn’t designed to show any straps, I thought I’d get by without wearing a bra. Just a bit of extra stickiness added to the back of the boobs, and off I went. Boobs your auntie!
Things were fine walking the few blocks from the car to AXM, but once inside the bar, I kind of got the feeling that things were slipping a bit. Probably the warmth of the evening, warmth and glow of the skin etc. The right boob was certainly heading south faster then the left one, and once it got halfway between real nipple and belly button, drastic action was needed!
So for those that might have seen me looking bored, with my arms folded at MC last week, it wasn’t that at all, I was fighting gravity to keep my boobs from sliding all the way down, granny-style.
Luckily there was a spare bra in the boot of the car (in the emergency tranny breakdown kit) so after a minor detour on the way to AXM Late, the appropriate underwear was added in the loo’s, and all was well in the end.
And, the right boob got the gold medal by a half-cup!
Britain gets first gold and silver at Boob Olympics!
Out in the Village last week, I’d decided to borrow Mrs L’s long viscose/silk straight summer dress. As it was a size 10 (it‘s what the label said!), and tight-ish up top, and, as the dress wasn’t designed to show any straps, I thought I’d get by without wearing a bra. Just a bit of extra stickiness added to the back of the boobs, and off I went. Boobs your auntie!
Things were fine walking the few blocks from the car to AXM, but once inside the bar, I kind of got the feeling that things were slipping a bit. Probably the warmth of the evening, warmth and glow of the skin etc. The right boob was certainly heading south faster then the left one, and once it got halfway between real nipple and belly button, drastic action was needed!
So for those that might have seen me looking bored, with my arms folded at MC last week, it wasn’t that at all, I was fighting gravity to keep my boobs from sliding all the way down, granny-style.
Luckily there was a spare bra in the boot of the car (in the emergency tranny breakdown kit) so after a minor detour on the way to AXM Late, the appropriate underwear was added in the loo’s, and all was well in the end.
And, the right boob got the gold medal by a half-cup!
Friday, 12 September 2008
Sparkle time!
A couple of months ago we had the big Sparkle event in Manchester; this is how I vaguely remember the weekend!:
Thursday
I decided to take the train in from home; no point in paying for 4 days parking if I didn’t need to use the car, and I was in Piccadilly in less than an hour. I met up with Karen, and we had a light lunch there, before checking in to the hotel. An upgrade to a deluxe apartment on the 6th floor; the weekend was starting ever so well! After unpacking we headed for the Trafford Centre by public transport, which turned out to be a bad move. The hotel staff had indicated that it would be quick, but it wasn’t the case, and it took a tram and bus, with a long wait in between, to get us there. All of a sudden we weren’t going to have the time to get ready for later. Anyway we had a look in the Lewis sale and other places, bought a few bits, and headed back. As we stepped outside, Europe was having its biggest rain deluge in living memory, so we legged it across to the bus-stop, and then decided to take a bus straight back in to Piccadilly. At the M&S food store we stocked up on a few items, including the evening micro meal, and headed back to get ready.
By about 9.30 pm we were ready to go out, and headed for AXM where we were rounding up the posse to head for the Tiger Lounge, where they were holding the weekly Here Come The Girls event, which was quite appropriate. By this time the rain had held off, and we ended up with a quiet evening in the club. For whatever reason, most of the group decided to spend the evening at AXM, but it was a good evening for us all the same, and it gave us a chance to talk to some other girls we’d met for the first time. The classic moment of the evening was the GG comment to Karen ‘You’re really gorgeous!’
Friday
Sparkle really didn’t kick off until the afternoon, so we went shopping in town in the morning. I had kind of indicated to Kaz that I wanted to stay en femme for the whole weekend, and got her ok to escort me in to town in the morning in blokey-mode. It is very liberating to be walking with a guy in town; I was able to relax a lot, and not worry about any hassle I might have otherwise got. The Arndale was rather quiet, but we had a good amble around in some of the shops (tried a lovely skirt on in Monsoon, but £50, well, not this weekend!), and then went over to M&S, and then to MAC in Selfridges, to talk with some of the girls in there.
At lunchtime we had a bite in Eden, with some of the other girls.
In the evening we were in Velvet; about 12 of us. Not so easy to book a table during Sparkle weekend. I’d booked for 12 about 2 months before, and it was a pleasant time spent with our local girls, plus Bea, Jess, Jo-Jo, Doris, Imogen, Jaime and partner (with bump!) and Linzi. It was good to catch up with Becks and Gill, who were on another table with their partners.
At the end of the night we were heading back to the apartment, when we stopped on the corner of the main street, before getting propositioned by a little middle-eastern guy. Kaz couldn't get the words out quick enough, something like 'b****r off, you little ****'. He was that close to getting a Glasgow kiss!
Saturday
I was still looking for the skirt that I couldn’t find on the previous day, so as Kaz had decided to do other things early on, I went over to Primark for my first ever look in there. The place was so busy, even for just after 9am. What surprised me most was how many blokes had been dragged in there by their partners, and looked bored stiff. I finally found a skirt I was looking for, paid a few pounds for it, and made my way back to the hotel. When I got back there I sat in reception for a bit, and read a magazine. I must have had 2-3 conversations with different people whilst I sat there; it was all very pleasant and relaxed. They when I went back to the apartment Kaz told me that she’d gone early to Primark as well, and we were probably in there at the same time!
We were doing stewarding duties in Sackville Gardens from 12-2pm; that was quite good fun, moving people on and not letting them stand still for too long. Also helping trannies out of the ground after their heels had sunken into the grass!
Afterwards it was pleasant to catch up with friends I hadn’t seen in a while, as Marianne and Vicki, and then Mel Lilac turned up. It was a lovely sight to see Jess shimmying up Canal Street looking like the girl next door, latte in hand, after spending the day at the Anderton boat lift.
Later on it was time for a quiet early meal in Fossa, with a few lovely fiends, before getting back to The Place for yet another costume change.
I remember a year ago I didn’t have the nerve to walk 100 yards down Canal Street; how things are different now! After our meal in Fossa, Kaz and I had gone back to get changed for the Magic Theatre event at AXM Late. Walking by Piccadilly Station, and the full length of a packed Canal Street at 10pm on a Saturday night in basque, black lacy skirt, fishnets and heels, I vaguely remember getting my bum felt a couple of times, but I had so much padding on down there, it could have been more often!
Unfortunately the entertainment was a bit of a flop. There were meant to be 500-600 people in the venue, but I doubt if more than 50 people could have seen the entertainment that was on show on the little stage. 6‘-4“ tall trannies wearing platforms at the front of the stage meant the rest of us couldn‘t see anything, except an occasional arm or foot in the air on the stage. A lot of people had made such an effort with their costumes, and it was a shame that the venue couldn‘t match the expectations. I was stood with Jess at the bar for a while; her face was a picture of disgust! Luckily, some of us had got on the dance floor a bit earlier, but the music wasn’t to my taste, and I found that very disappointing, for a Saturday night. Later on we floated on upstairs, and before then had a small group get together on the half landing, as just about everyone in the area at that time was known to each other, including Di and the Kate's! I think the night ended about 3 am, after we shimmied on back to the apartment, and Kaz kindly took some lingerie shots of me.
Sunday
Well the weather didn’t know what it wanted to do, with showers, sunny spells, and heavy rain. I was booked in at the Roses lunch at Villaggio’s with another 80+ diners. It looked like we had taken over the whole of the downstairs section. Nicky had done well, and all for £12 a head. Very well organised, and a better show than the Christmas meal which I’d organised last year, when they sprung the service charge on us at the last moment, after many of the diners had left.
Good food and good company as usual, with TJ! After the meal we picked up Rachel, and got lost in Manchester trying to find The Place, to go back and pick up my luggage. At reception, the girl was struggling to get my heavy case out of the store room. ’Where is there a man, when you need one?’ I commented to her. I got a kind of sheepish grin in return!
Home by 5 pm, and the best part of 72 hours non-stop in L-mode. A great time!
Thursday
I decided to take the train in from home; no point in paying for 4 days parking if I didn’t need to use the car, and I was in Piccadilly in less than an hour. I met up with Karen, and we had a light lunch there, before checking in to the hotel. An upgrade to a deluxe apartment on the 6th floor; the weekend was starting ever so well! After unpacking we headed for the Trafford Centre by public transport, which turned out to be a bad move. The hotel staff had indicated that it would be quick, but it wasn’t the case, and it took a tram and bus, with a long wait in between, to get us there. All of a sudden we weren’t going to have the time to get ready for later. Anyway we had a look in the Lewis sale and other places, bought a few bits, and headed back. As we stepped outside, Europe was having its biggest rain deluge in living memory, so we legged it across to the bus-stop, and then decided to take a bus straight back in to Piccadilly. At the M&S food store we stocked up on a few items, including the evening micro meal, and headed back to get ready.
By about 9.30 pm we were ready to go out, and headed for AXM where we were rounding up the posse to head for the Tiger Lounge, where they were holding the weekly Here Come The Girls event, which was quite appropriate. By this time the rain had held off, and we ended up with a quiet evening in the club. For whatever reason, most of the group decided to spend the evening at AXM, but it was a good evening for us all the same, and it gave us a chance to talk to some other girls we’d met for the first time. The classic moment of the evening was the GG comment to Karen ‘You’re really gorgeous!’
Friday
Sparkle really didn’t kick off until the afternoon, so we went shopping in town in the morning. I had kind of indicated to Kaz that I wanted to stay en femme for the whole weekend, and got her ok to escort me in to town in the morning in blokey-mode. It is very liberating to be walking with a guy in town; I was able to relax a lot, and not worry about any hassle I might have otherwise got. The Arndale was rather quiet, but we had a good amble around in some of the shops (tried a lovely skirt on in Monsoon, but £50, well, not this weekend!), and then went over to M&S, and then to MAC in Selfridges, to talk with some of the girls in there.
At lunchtime we had a bite in Eden, with some of the other girls.
In the evening we were in Velvet; about 12 of us. Not so easy to book a table during Sparkle weekend. I’d booked for 12 about 2 months before, and it was a pleasant time spent with our local girls, plus Bea, Jess, Jo-Jo, Doris, Imogen, Jaime and partner (with bump!) and Linzi. It was good to catch up with Becks and Gill, who were on another table with their partners.
At the end of the night we were heading back to the apartment, when we stopped on the corner of the main street, before getting propositioned by a little middle-eastern guy. Kaz couldn't get the words out quick enough, something like 'b****r off, you little ****'. He was that close to getting a Glasgow kiss!
Saturday
I was still looking for the skirt that I couldn’t find on the previous day, so as Kaz had decided to do other things early on, I went over to Primark for my first ever look in there. The place was so busy, even for just after 9am. What surprised me most was how many blokes had been dragged in there by their partners, and looked bored stiff. I finally found a skirt I was looking for, paid a few pounds for it, and made my way back to the hotel. When I got back there I sat in reception for a bit, and read a magazine. I must have had 2-3 conversations with different people whilst I sat there; it was all very pleasant and relaxed. They when I went back to the apartment Kaz told me that she’d gone early to Primark as well, and we were probably in there at the same time!
We were doing stewarding duties in Sackville Gardens from 12-2pm; that was quite good fun, moving people on and not letting them stand still for too long. Also helping trannies out of the ground after their heels had sunken into the grass!
Afterwards it was pleasant to catch up with friends I hadn’t seen in a while, as Marianne and Vicki, and then Mel Lilac turned up. It was a lovely sight to see Jess shimmying up Canal Street looking like the girl next door, latte in hand, after spending the day at the Anderton boat lift.
Later on it was time for a quiet early meal in Fossa, with a few lovely fiends, before getting back to The Place for yet another costume change.
I remember a year ago I didn’t have the nerve to walk 100 yards down Canal Street; how things are different now! After our meal in Fossa, Kaz and I had gone back to get changed for the Magic Theatre event at AXM Late. Walking by Piccadilly Station, and the full length of a packed Canal Street at 10pm on a Saturday night in basque, black lacy skirt, fishnets and heels, I vaguely remember getting my bum felt a couple of times, but I had so much padding on down there, it could have been more often!
Unfortunately the entertainment was a bit of a flop. There were meant to be 500-600 people in the venue, but I doubt if more than 50 people could have seen the entertainment that was on show on the little stage. 6‘-4“ tall trannies wearing platforms at the front of the stage meant the rest of us couldn‘t see anything, except an occasional arm or foot in the air on the stage. A lot of people had made such an effort with their costumes, and it was a shame that the venue couldn‘t match the expectations. I was stood with Jess at the bar for a while; her face was a picture of disgust! Luckily, some of us had got on the dance floor a bit earlier, but the music wasn’t to my taste, and I found that very disappointing, for a Saturday night. Later on we floated on upstairs, and before then had a small group get together on the half landing, as just about everyone in the area at that time was known to each other, including Di and the Kate's! I think the night ended about 3 am, after we shimmied on back to the apartment, and Kaz kindly took some lingerie shots of me.
Sunday
Well the weather didn’t know what it wanted to do, with showers, sunny spells, and heavy rain. I was booked in at the Roses lunch at Villaggio’s with another 80+ diners. It looked like we had taken over the whole of the downstairs section. Nicky had done well, and all for £12 a head. Very well organised, and a better show than the Christmas meal which I’d organised last year, when they sprung the service charge on us at the last moment, after many of the diners had left.
Good food and good company as usual, with TJ! After the meal we picked up Rachel, and got lost in Manchester trying to find The Place, to go back and pick up my luggage. At reception, the girl was struggling to get my heavy case out of the store room. ’Where is there a man, when you need one?’ I commented to her. I got a kind of sheepish grin in return!
Home by 5 pm, and the best part of 72 hours non-stop in L-mode. A great time!
Wednesday, 30 July 2008
Another busy week…..in May
The lovely Karen Cameron came down to Manchester from north of the wall for a couple of days, and we had a great time over a couple of evenings. On the Wednesday night we met up with Kate, and had dinner in Velvet, and then went on to the Concord, and then to Naps for a look. On the next evening, there was just Karen and myself , and we had a drink or three, and some fine food in Taurus. Earlier I’d arrived in town before 5, and parked up near Sackville Street, and had a walk in to town for some late night shopping. After my experiences at Christmas, I was really keen for another stroll up to King Street. I’d settled on wearing jeans, short black leather jacket, and wedge sandals, and as it was sunny, a big pair of sunglasses to hide behind! On King Street I made a bee line for Hobbs, which is always my favourite place to shop. They have a big changing area downstairs with big mirrors outside, and the staff are always friendly and helpful. Well an hour later, after trying on a heap of gorgeous clothes, I emerged with just 1 dress, it was time to get back to Canal Street.
Now I don’t know the city that well, but it was only when I found myself crossing Deansgate that I realised I’d been walking in the opposite direction for 5 minutes. AND, my sandals were now starting to rub. I wouldn’t mind if they were new, but I’d had them for 18 months! So back on King Street, and I pass by 2 guys who have just turned the corner into the Street. I heard one say to the other ‘tranny’, and I should have thought who else they were referring to , but I guess it was me. Anyway, the way I look at it, if it took 1 to point me out to his friend, then at least I fooled one of them!
I got to Canal Street early, and took my drink outside in the sunshine. Well anywhere would have done to rest my feet. Karen met up with me and we sat outside AXM in the sunshine and had a pleasant drink. We had a meal in Taurus, and again had great service in there; we were seated at one of the top tables near the window, so Karen could have a good look at the activities in Canal Street. After the meal with Karen we went back to the Atrium where she was staying, so I could have a look around, and to take some pictures of our guest.
On the Saturday, we had Teela’s meal back at Velvet, for about 10 of us. I got a lift across to Manchester from Diana, who was making her first visit out in public that night, after a couple of visits to Teela’s monthly tea evenings. The drive to Manchester was uneventful except for Diana just being a tiny bit nervous about driving in to town, anyway we eventually found a parking space on one of the roads off Canal Street. You couldn’t have parked any nearer. Anyway Di was finally able to reverse in to the space alongside the kerb, after a few attempts, and I was able to walk to the kerb from there. It didn’t take me too long. So, picture the scene: we turn on to a packed Canal Street at 7pm and walk into a fight scene with local police, who are trying to break up a fight. There’s guys pinned against the police van, against the wall, and then we have to walk through this no man’s land of the space between the fighting and where the crowd is standing, alongside the canal. Well Di passed this test and moments later we met up with the rest of the group at the entrance to Velvet’s.
The company was the best thing about the meal, as for some reason most of us didn’t enjoy the food. The portions in Velvet are usually big, but my tuna was too dry. The compensation was the good chat we had in there, and they were in no hurry to get us away from the table. There was some debate as to what happened to Sue Williams’ steak; the consensus was that it might have slipped down her dress.
Afterwards we hit a few of the bars in Canal Street, Cruise, View, Fossa and AXM. In View we had an interesting chat with 2 young blondes from Cumbria, who at first couldn’t quite work out what we were about. But after explaining all-things T to them, we got on great afterwards and had photos taken together. In AXM, down by the mirrors near the ladies loo’s, I just couldn’t get away! Spoke to at least 3 different groups, including 2 lovely teenage girls from Preston, who wanted to know if my boobs were mine or if I’d had implants. It was great talking to them, and then to their mums later on!
Now I don’t know the city that well, but it was only when I found myself crossing Deansgate that I realised I’d been walking in the opposite direction for 5 minutes. AND, my sandals were now starting to rub. I wouldn’t mind if they were new, but I’d had them for 18 months! So back on King Street, and I pass by 2 guys who have just turned the corner into the Street. I heard one say to the other ‘tranny’, and I should have thought who else they were referring to , but I guess it was me. Anyway, the way I look at it, if it took 1 to point me out to his friend, then at least I fooled one of them!
I got to Canal Street early, and took my drink outside in the sunshine. Well anywhere would have done to rest my feet. Karen met up with me and we sat outside AXM in the sunshine and had a pleasant drink. We had a meal in Taurus, and again had great service in there; we were seated at one of the top tables near the window, so Karen could have a good look at the activities in Canal Street. After the meal with Karen we went back to the Atrium where she was staying, so I could have a look around, and to take some pictures of our guest.
On the Saturday, we had Teela’s meal back at Velvet, for about 10 of us. I got a lift across to Manchester from Diana, who was making her first visit out in public that night, after a couple of visits to Teela’s monthly tea evenings. The drive to Manchester was uneventful except for Diana just being a tiny bit nervous about driving in to town, anyway we eventually found a parking space on one of the roads off Canal Street. You couldn’t have parked any nearer. Anyway Di was finally able to reverse in to the space alongside the kerb, after a few attempts, and I was able to walk to the kerb from there. It didn’t take me too long. So, picture the scene: we turn on to a packed Canal Street at 7pm and walk into a fight scene with local police, who are trying to break up a fight. There’s guys pinned against the police van, against the wall, and then we have to walk through this no man’s land of the space between the fighting and where the crowd is standing, alongside the canal. Well Di passed this test and moments later we met up with the rest of the group at the entrance to Velvet’s.
The company was the best thing about the meal, as for some reason most of us didn’t enjoy the food. The portions in Velvet are usually big, but my tuna was too dry. The compensation was the good chat we had in there, and they were in no hurry to get us away from the table. There was some debate as to what happened to Sue Williams’ steak; the consensus was that it might have slipped down her dress.
Afterwards we hit a few of the bars in Canal Street, Cruise, View, Fossa and AXM. In View we had an interesting chat with 2 young blondes from Cumbria, who at first couldn’t quite work out what we were about. But after explaining all-things T to them, we got on great afterwards and had photos taken together. In AXM, down by the mirrors near the ladies loo’s, I just couldn’t get away! Spoke to at least 3 different groups, including 2 lovely teenage girls from Preston, who wanted to know if my boobs were mine or if I’d had implants. It was great talking to them, and then to their mums later on!
Saturday, 26 July 2008
I don't know.......
who the blonde bint was on my avatar photo recently, but it certainly wasn't me! I don't know why people have to do this kind of thing. Nutter!
Thanks Diana for letting me know!
Thanks Diana for letting me know!
Sunday, 4 May 2008
April Showers
Work commitments had kept me extra busy for some weeks and I hadn’t even had the chance to see my close friends who live nearby. For the monthly meal we settled on a return to Eden, to try the atmosphere with a few more diners. For the second month running I’d tried to get in to town before 5pm, so I could go and do a bit of shopping in King Street, but again, the timing was against me and I didn‘t get in to town until about 6pm. I was very early for the meet at Eden though, and had a cocktail in the bar area, and settled to read the paper. It was all quite relaxed in there.
Eventually June, Kate, and then Jaime arrived, and we had a lovely meal with superb service. Afterwards it was over to Nap’s, to show June the new premises, where we stayed until closing time. The place was buzzing, and it was a pleasant surprise to bump in to Cathryn and co. Mary told us about the changes with Northern Concord, and the new re-branded Manchester Concord, which I’m happy to support. Anyway, I’m now member 39! They’re also going to have a great location at the Rem for Sparkle in June, with a good view of the proceedings in the gardens on the Saturday.
Eventually June, Kate, and then Jaime arrived, and we had a lovely meal with superb service. Afterwards it was over to Nap’s, to show June the new premises, where we stayed until closing time. The place was buzzing, and it was a pleasant surprise to bump in to Cathryn and co. Mary told us about the changes with Northern Concord, and the new re-branded Manchester Concord, which I’m happy to support. Anyway, I’m now member 39! They’re also going to have a great location at the Rem for Sparkle in June, with a good view of the proceedings in the gardens on the Saturday.
The Monthly Meals
I plan to continue these in the Village this year for newcomers and old friends. It’s what got me back in to the scene when I re-started, so I want to offer the opportunity to other girls who are looking to get out in safe company for the first time.
In January we went to Eden in Canal Street; a cold evening in mid-January, so not much atmosphere, and our group of 6 were initially the only diners in Eden at 8pm! Then later, 1 other t-girl came in and ate alone, before eventually joining us later on. This night out gave us the chance to visit the new Northern Concord venue at the Rembrandt upstairs. Very, very impressive premises, and far better and more convivial than the previous place at Hollywood’s.
Happy New Year!
Our monthly meal in February was at the Little Yang Sing in Chinatown, as it was the Chinese New Year about that time. There were 7 of us at the meal, and for some it was the first time they’d ventured out of the Canal Street/Village environment. The atmosphere was great and they looked after us really well. It was also good to catch up with Linzi again who’d come up from the West Midlands.
I think the funniest moment was when we all trooped into the full restaurant, and for a split second, heads turned to watch us, then a split second later, they were back to their own conversations. All in all, a good evening out!
In March we went back to Taurus for the monthly meal, which I think always has a good atmosphere, as some people just use the bar, so there’s always people coming and going. We were joined this month by Emma from Bakewell, and Jaime, who’d come from South Wales. Emma had seen the post on Angels and had planned the visit with military precision, and was staying the night in a local hotel. Kay had offered to do the chaperoning from the hotel, on what was Emma’s very first night out. You wouldn’t have believed it, as she looked so natural! Later after the meal she told us that she’d had to nip down to the ladies to deal with a slipped boob, but, we all get these problems from time to time I’m sure! It was lovely to meet Emma and Jaime, and we appreciated that they’d travelled so far to join us. I look forward to the next time.
Afterwards we tried the Rem, where hostess Mary made a fuss of Emma, and so now there’s a photo of Emma on Mary’s Manchester Concord blog! Later on we went with Emma to Nap’s, where she later stayed with Kay for a bit longer. At this stage it’s worth noting that Emma’s blog on the evening makes far better reading than these lines, so if you can find it I’d recommend a read!
In January we went to Eden in Canal Street; a cold evening in mid-January, so not much atmosphere, and our group of 6 were initially the only diners in Eden at 8pm! Then later, 1 other t-girl came in and ate alone, before eventually joining us later on. This night out gave us the chance to visit the new Northern Concord venue at the Rembrandt upstairs. Very, very impressive premises, and far better and more convivial than the previous place at Hollywood’s.
Happy New Year!
Our monthly meal in February was at the Little Yang Sing in Chinatown, as it was the Chinese New Year about that time. There were 7 of us at the meal, and for some it was the first time they’d ventured out of the Canal Street/Village environment. The atmosphere was great and they looked after us really well. It was also good to catch up with Linzi again who’d come up from the West Midlands.
I think the funniest moment was when we all trooped into the full restaurant, and for a split second, heads turned to watch us, then a split second later, they were back to their own conversations. All in all, a good evening out!
In March we went back to Taurus for the monthly meal, which I think always has a good atmosphere, as some people just use the bar, so there’s always people coming and going. We were joined this month by Emma from Bakewell, and Jaime, who’d come from South Wales. Emma had seen the post on Angels and had planned the visit with military precision, and was staying the night in a local hotel. Kay had offered to do the chaperoning from the hotel, on what was Emma’s very first night out. You wouldn’t have believed it, as she looked so natural! Later after the meal she told us that she’d had to nip down to the ladies to deal with a slipped boob, but, we all get these problems from time to time I’m sure! It was lovely to meet Emma and Jaime, and we appreciated that they’d travelled so far to join us. I look forward to the next time.
Afterwards we tried the Rem, where hostess Mary made a fuss of Emma, and so now there’s a photo of Emma on Mary’s Manchester Concord blog! Later on we went with Emma to Nap’s, where she later stayed with Kay for a bit longer. At this stage it’s worth noting that Emma’s blog on the evening makes far better reading than these lines, so if you can find it I’d recommend a read!
Sunday, 20 April 2008
A fabulous weekend...
I was back in Blackpool about 10 days later, where I stayed over on the Friday night before the Angels Christmas meal on the Saturday in Manchester’s Village. It was going to be 48 hours of Lisa-time. I’d called in at the Trafford Centre in the afternoon on my way up to Blackpool, to get a few last minute ‘necessities’. The plan was to meet up with a friend and have a night at Roxy’s on a busier night, and then the next day I’d set off for Manchester to meet up with Jen, Imogen and Linzi for a day’s shopping, before having our big night out, and then another day’s shopping in town on the Sunday, before ‘de-Lisa-ing’ on the way home.
At John Lewis I wanted to buy a brown scarf and matching gloves. Downstairs the sales assistant was being very helpful with colours etc, and then we looked at the gloves, and I said I needed a big stretchy pair. So we settled on a pair that I was happy with.
‘Are you sure they’re big enough?‘ I asked. ‘they’re actually for me, as I don’t always look like this’, I said to her, pulling my usual photo out of my wallet to show her the other me. The assistant gave me a really cool smile, and a ‘wow, come back again soon!’ she said.
I’d called in to Selfridges to see GG Lisa on the perfume section, but it was her day off. I’m sure one day we’re going to get her to join us with her friends on a night out in Manchester.
Well first snag; my friend couldn’t now make it due to domestics. Shame really, but I was determined to go out, so went alone. Lynda told me where the scene was in town, and after a stroll around the block and along the Blackpool prom for a block, I got into the car and headed for town. I got there about 60 seconds later. Well, I was in heels! I parked where we were last time, and knew that Roxy’s was only a short tottering distance away. But this time it was busier, AND, I had to pay on the door. That never happens at Naps!
It was already 9-ish, and full with Christmas party groups, so not the best mix of regulars to meet, even if there were any. In fact from my point of view it was a lousy atmosphere, as those in there for the Christmas parties wouldn’t normally be in there, in my opinion. Including a few middle aged women in works’ groups giving me odd stares. Still, I chatted to 2 or 3 friendly girls, and stayed and watched the show for a couple of hours before getting back to Lynda’s.
The next day all started off ok, and I got to the Charles Street car park in Manchester just a little bit later, by which time Jen and Linzi had already gone off to Selfridges on the other side of town. I was getting a bit nervous at this time, late Saturday morning, having to get across town on my own. I didn’t think I’d have the confidence to make it. Anyway, I was in the car park, and still waiting for Imogen to get in touch. Then I get a text ‘I’m in the car park’.
So I text back ‘I’m on level 2’.
Imogen replies, ‘so am I!’
Then I look across and see that she’s parked just 2 spaces away from me in the car park! After we’d stopped laughing, we set off to the hotel for a comfort break, and to check when the rooms at the Days Inn would be ready. We still had a few hours to spare, so we thought we’d try and catch up with the other 2 girlies across town. As we set off, we came across the builders digging the hole in the road, that Jen’s already blogged about on Angels. Well I wasn’t ready for any hassle so crossed the road early, but Imogen wanted to take the test and walked right past them without getting any comment. By this time I’d made a significant observation. Imogen walks quickly. Very quickly. In 3 ½ “ heels, I don’t. by the time we’d got to Piccadilly, I couldn’t keep up with the pace. I had to let Imogen catch up with the other girls, whilst I sat in a coffee shop for a while, to rest my feet. After a while I was well-rested, and set off towards King Street. I’d got my confidence by this time; well what could I do otherwise? I was in the middle of town! I nipped in to Karen Millen and had a browse and tried on a few outfits, but they were very pricey. A gorgeous black floaty skirt, but for £90? The staff were very friendly and helpful though, and the atmosphere in the store was quite cool. Then I got a text from Jen: ‘we’re having a late lunch in a bar in Portland Street if you want to join us’. well I got there in 15 minutes and was glad to sit down. We had a lovely lunch and some nice wine, and then headed back to the hotel to check in and get ready for the evening. I wore my favourite black and grey lacy dress, with black heels.
The Christmas meal
We’d booked a table at Villaggio’s for about 18, and had a great evening in there. The place was full, with a lively and noisy atmosphere. A few new girls joined us, and hopefully we’ll see more of them in 2008. The one downside was that they didn’t provide the after-meal entertainment music that they’d promised, so we had to go to AXM for that, and in the end it was a good move. We were upstairs and the dancing went on until the early hours, and it was a good atmosphere in there too. I chatted to this half-merry nurse from Hull at the bar, who called herself a brunette Pamela Anderson, and you could see the similarity. She promised to buy me the same bodice that she was wearing. I was being a bit careful with what I said to her, as I didn’t want to upset her boyfriend who was at the bar too. It turned out that he was a gay friend who fancied the barman, and that‘s why they were staying at the bar! I vaguely remember Kay Denise taking some photos at this time; my new Yorkshire friend hanging on to me for dear life, as she was ready for a fall!
The place was buzzing, and I remember seeing Nicki dancing until later on she couldn’t stand any longer, with her feet up on the coffee table. We were joined by a group on a works party from North Wales. There was one girl who was an absolute stunner, blonde with the black dress. She told me it came from Axos.com. A few moments later as we were chatting, she leant forward, and asked me what perfume I was wearing, so I told her it was Missoni. ‘Well I’m getting married next year and that’s the perfume I’m going to wear on my wedding day, in that case!’ I was quite chuffed with that!
Somehow, during the chatting I noticed that my friends had disappeared back to the hotel, so I tried to catch them up, but eventually walked back to the hotel on my own.
The next morning I was in the bathroom just about to get made up, when there was this bang, and out of the corner of my eye I saw one of the light bulbs in the bedroom go shooting across the room, and all the lights went out in the room. Fortunately Imogen was still in her room and allowed me to use her bathroom to finish off my face-trowelling! I’d decided on the short beige cord skirt from Polo, cappuccino opaque tights, and my brown boots, with a patterned top, and short black fitted leather jacket. I thought it was a ‘blendable’ outfit, anyway!
Breakfast for the 4 of us was a quiet affair, a few families and couples in the dining room, but it was as if we were the invisible women! We decided that we’d stroll in to town and do some shopping, and have lunch, and then say our goodbyes in the mid-afternoon. Again, this was a big step for me, as I’d not been out in the day until this weekend, and we were going in to the city centre, 2 Sundays before Christmas, when it was going to be absolutely packed.
By 11am we’d reached King Street, which is what I’d suggested, and after we all browsed in Boots the Chemists, we then split in to a few of the local shops, keeping in touch by text. By this time I’d found Hobbs, and they were having a sale! I’d seen this lovely tailored light brown skirt, which I tried on downstairs in the dressing rooms. And then, I’ve absolutely no idea what happened for the next hour, but I was having the best time of my life! The assistants were really helpful, and great company too! I saw a lovely black suit on the hanger, but they didn’t have my size. Better still, they had my size in the brown colour, which was even better! Then there was the blouse that went with it, so I just had to have that! The best thing I saw was this gorgeous flowing silk dress, with a wide tie bow at the back. When I tried it on, it was like it was made for me, and so I just had to have that too! The other thing about trying clothes on in here is that you could go out in to the main bit of the shop, and use the big shop mirrors, whilst other women were in there browsing and trying things on, and nobody seemed to notice me in there at all. It was the most natural experience, and I was in no hurry to leave. But, eventually, I realised I’d committed most of my shopping budget, and more, in this store, so had to get going and meet up with the other girlies for lunch!
Jen had sent me a text to say they were in Deansgate, so I made my way up that way, past Kendals. As it was a sunny day, I had my Dior sunglasses on, so I think this gave me a bit of confidence too. I had a look at the handbags in Ecco whilst I waited for them. When we met up we decided to eat at Café Rouge in Deansgate, as it’s where I’ve eaten before on my own. When we went inside, heads turned, but just for a split second, and then we were ignored by the other diners. ‘That usually happens’, Linzi said to me. The restaurant was quite full with families, but we were served courteously by friendly staff, and had a good natter.
After lunch, it was getting late, so we said our goodbyes, and I headed back towards the car park in Charles Street on my own. It was 3pm by this time, but I was feeling very confident after the experiences of earlier. I don’t know why, but I went by King Street (!) again. And then I saw Planet. And they had a sale on! Well, you can’t ignore that, can you?! I’ve got to add that the 2 sales assistants were really friendly. So 30 minutes later, and with another 2 lovely dresses, one gold, and one beige and brown, I was back out in to the street, laden down with shopping bags, and heading back to the car a very happy t-girl!
With my confidence levels sky high, I decided I was going to take on the workmen in the famous hole in the road, around the corner from the car park. And? When I got there, they completely ignored me as I walked, no, strutted, right past them!
An hour later, I was in my office in town, de-Lisa-ing, but with a grin that seemed to last for weeks afterwards!
At John Lewis I wanted to buy a brown scarf and matching gloves. Downstairs the sales assistant was being very helpful with colours etc, and then we looked at the gloves, and I said I needed a big stretchy pair. So we settled on a pair that I was happy with.
‘Are you sure they’re big enough?‘ I asked. ‘they’re actually for me, as I don’t always look like this’, I said to her, pulling my usual photo out of my wallet to show her the other me. The assistant gave me a really cool smile, and a ‘wow, come back again soon!’ she said.
I’d called in to Selfridges to see GG Lisa on the perfume section, but it was her day off. I’m sure one day we’re going to get her to join us with her friends on a night out in Manchester.
Well first snag; my friend couldn’t now make it due to domestics. Shame really, but I was determined to go out, so went alone. Lynda told me where the scene was in town, and after a stroll around the block and along the Blackpool prom for a block, I got into the car and headed for town. I got there about 60 seconds later. Well, I was in heels! I parked where we were last time, and knew that Roxy’s was only a short tottering distance away. But this time it was busier, AND, I had to pay on the door. That never happens at Naps!
It was already 9-ish, and full with Christmas party groups, so not the best mix of regulars to meet, even if there were any. In fact from my point of view it was a lousy atmosphere, as those in there for the Christmas parties wouldn’t normally be in there, in my opinion. Including a few middle aged women in works’ groups giving me odd stares. Still, I chatted to 2 or 3 friendly girls, and stayed and watched the show for a couple of hours before getting back to Lynda’s.
The next day all started off ok, and I got to the Charles Street car park in Manchester just a little bit later, by which time Jen and Linzi had already gone off to Selfridges on the other side of town. I was getting a bit nervous at this time, late Saturday morning, having to get across town on my own. I didn’t think I’d have the confidence to make it. Anyway, I was in the car park, and still waiting for Imogen to get in touch. Then I get a text ‘I’m in the car park’.
So I text back ‘I’m on level 2’.
Imogen replies, ‘so am I!’
Then I look across and see that she’s parked just 2 spaces away from me in the car park! After we’d stopped laughing, we set off to the hotel for a comfort break, and to check when the rooms at the Days Inn would be ready. We still had a few hours to spare, so we thought we’d try and catch up with the other 2 girlies across town. As we set off, we came across the builders digging the hole in the road, that Jen’s already blogged about on Angels. Well I wasn’t ready for any hassle so crossed the road early, but Imogen wanted to take the test and walked right past them without getting any comment. By this time I’d made a significant observation. Imogen walks quickly. Very quickly. In 3 ½ “ heels, I don’t. by the time we’d got to Piccadilly, I couldn’t keep up with the pace. I had to let Imogen catch up with the other girls, whilst I sat in a coffee shop for a while, to rest my feet. After a while I was well-rested, and set off towards King Street. I’d got my confidence by this time; well what could I do otherwise? I was in the middle of town! I nipped in to Karen Millen and had a browse and tried on a few outfits, but they were very pricey. A gorgeous black floaty skirt, but for £90? The staff were very friendly and helpful though, and the atmosphere in the store was quite cool. Then I got a text from Jen: ‘we’re having a late lunch in a bar in Portland Street if you want to join us’. well I got there in 15 minutes and was glad to sit down. We had a lovely lunch and some nice wine, and then headed back to the hotel to check in and get ready for the evening. I wore my favourite black and grey lacy dress, with black heels.
The Christmas meal
We’d booked a table at Villaggio’s for about 18, and had a great evening in there. The place was full, with a lively and noisy atmosphere. A few new girls joined us, and hopefully we’ll see more of them in 2008. The one downside was that they didn’t provide the after-meal entertainment music that they’d promised, so we had to go to AXM for that, and in the end it was a good move. We were upstairs and the dancing went on until the early hours, and it was a good atmosphere in there too. I chatted to this half-merry nurse from Hull at the bar, who called herself a brunette Pamela Anderson, and you could see the similarity. She promised to buy me the same bodice that she was wearing. I was being a bit careful with what I said to her, as I didn’t want to upset her boyfriend who was at the bar too. It turned out that he was a gay friend who fancied the barman, and that‘s why they were staying at the bar! I vaguely remember Kay Denise taking some photos at this time; my new Yorkshire friend hanging on to me for dear life, as she was ready for a fall!
The place was buzzing, and I remember seeing Nicki dancing until later on she couldn’t stand any longer, with her feet up on the coffee table. We were joined by a group on a works party from North Wales. There was one girl who was an absolute stunner, blonde with the black dress. She told me it came from Axos.com. A few moments later as we were chatting, she leant forward, and asked me what perfume I was wearing, so I told her it was Missoni. ‘Well I’m getting married next year and that’s the perfume I’m going to wear on my wedding day, in that case!’ I was quite chuffed with that!
Somehow, during the chatting I noticed that my friends had disappeared back to the hotel, so I tried to catch them up, but eventually walked back to the hotel on my own.
The next morning I was in the bathroom just about to get made up, when there was this bang, and out of the corner of my eye I saw one of the light bulbs in the bedroom go shooting across the room, and all the lights went out in the room. Fortunately Imogen was still in her room and allowed me to use her bathroom to finish off my face-trowelling! I’d decided on the short beige cord skirt from Polo, cappuccino opaque tights, and my brown boots, with a patterned top, and short black fitted leather jacket. I thought it was a ‘blendable’ outfit, anyway!
Breakfast for the 4 of us was a quiet affair, a few families and couples in the dining room, but it was as if we were the invisible women! We decided that we’d stroll in to town and do some shopping, and have lunch, and then say our goodbyes in the mid-afternoon. Again, this was a big step for me, as I’d not been out in the day until this weekend, and we were going in to the city centre, 2 Sundays before Christmas, when it was going to be absolutely packed.
By 11am we’d reached King Street, which is what I’d suggested, and after we all browsed in Boots the Chemists, we then split in to a few of the local shops, keeping in touch by text. By this time I’d found Hobbs, and they were having a sale! I’d seen this lovely tailored light brown skirt, which I tried on downstairs in the dressing rooms. And then, I’ve absolutely no idea what happened for the next hour, but I was having the best time of my life! The assistants were really helpful, and great company too! I saw a lovely black suit on the hanger, but they didn’t have my size. Better still, they had my size in the brown colour, which was even better! Then there was the blouse that went with it, so I just had to have that! The best thing I saw was this gorgeous flowing silk dress, with a wide tie bow at the back. When I tried it on, it was like it was made for me, and so I just had to have that too! The other thing about trying clothes on in here is that you could go out in to the main bit of the shop, and use the big shop mirrors, whilst other women were in there browsing and trying things on, and nobody seemed to notice me in there at all. It was the most natural experience, and I was in no hurry to leave. But, eventually, I realised I’d committed most of my shopping budget, and more, in this store, so had to get going and meet up with the other girlies for lunch!
Jen had sent me a text to say they were in Deansgate, so I made my way up that way, past Kendals. As it was a sunny day, I had my Dior sunglasses on, so I think this gave me a bit of confidence too. I had a look at the handbags in Ecco whilst I waited for them. When we met up we decided to eat at Café Rouge in Deansgate, as it’s where I’ve eaten before on my own. When we went inside, heads turned, but just for a split second, and then we were ignored by the other diners. ‘That usually happens’, Linzi said to me. The restaurant was quite full with families, but we were served courteously by friendly staff, and had a good natter.
After lunch, it was getting late, so we said our goodbyes, and I headed back towards the car park in Charles Street on my own. It was 3pm by this time, but I was feeling very confident after the experiences of earlier. I don’t know why, but I went by King Street (!) again. And then I saw Planet. And they had a sale on! Well, you can’t ignore that, can you?! I’ve got to add that the 2 sales assistants were really friendly. So 30 minutes later, and with another 2 lovely dresses, one gold, and one beige and brown, I was back out in to the street, laden down with shopping bags, and heading back to the car a very happy t-girl!
With my confidence levels sky high, I decided I was going to take on the workmen in the famous hole in the road, around the corner from the car park. And? When I got there, they completely ignored me as I walked, no, strutted, right past them!
An hour later, I was in my office in town, de-Lisa-ing, but with a grin that seemed to last for weeks afterwards!
Thursday, 10 January 2008
December playtime!
Mid-December saw the Christmas meal of the Renaissance group in Blackpool, with a meal at an Italian restaurant on the edge of town. Luckily we’d secured 2 places due to last-minute cancellations. Becks had set up the changing facilities near Bloomfield Road, and then we set off to the meal. There were about 30+ girls there, and we took over the restaurant. One of the girls there was convinced that I’d met her recently somewhere; I guess that could happen easily, as some of us are bound to share the same ‘hairdressers’! but I know it definitely wasn’t me, anyway!
It was good to finally meet Lynda Collins during the meal, who runs the group, and someone I’d heard about on the t-scene quite a few years ago. A legend! She runs the Gynway B&B in town, which is where Renaissance meet twice a month.
After the meal we hit Roxy’s lesbian bar in town, and took the place over. Well, as much as 30+ t-girls would do on a cold and otherwise quiet Tuesday night. There was a drag act on, but the star of the show I thought was the GG who sang on stage. She was a stunner! They made us welcome; it made us determined to try the place out on a busier week-end evening. Ok, it’s a lesbian bar, but still away from the safe environment of the Manchester Village.
It was good to finally meet Lynda Collins during the meal, who runs the group, and someone I’d heard about on the t-scene quite a few years ago. A legend! She runs the Gynway B&B in town, which is where Renaissance meet twice a month.
After the meal we hit Roxy’s lesbian bar in town, and took the place over. Well, as much as 30+ t-girls would do on a cold and otherwise quiet Tuesday night. There was a drag act on, but the star of the show I thought was the GG who sang on stage. She was a stunner! They made us welcome; it made us determined to try the place out on a busier week-end evening. Ok, it’s a lesbian bar, but still away from the safe environment of the Manchester Village.
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