Privacy is a pretty good argument.  Probably better than discrimination.  After all, how do you enforce a law related to reproductive anatomy without checking what sort of reproductive anatomy (if any) a person has?  Privacy violation is basically assumed in the law. 

Well this girl is in a happy mood today. Me and our youngest went down to check out the Buick 455 engine that I am getting for my wagon.  It sounds sweet. put down a down payment. He's getting it pulled out of the car mid week. I will go down a get it next weekend.   My wife said to go ahead and get it.   Kymmie

I thought this has already been studied?    I'm not in favor of funding a bunch of health research with our tax dollars.  It wasn't great before, and changing the focus doesn't change the principle of the thing.  It isn't the government's job to do this.  The inconsistency of defunding one thing just to fund a different thing is truly galling.  Unfortunately we don't seem to have a "No I don't want to pay for any of that!" party that I can vote for. 

I'm fine with it.  People ought to be able to move to where they are happiest.  In fact, I'd be in favor of the US government subsidizing people's move to expedite their exit. Those who want to leave, let 'em go.   I can't imagine being more happy or free anywhere else, especially not the UK.  I'll stay right here. 

I know she's not ending the relationship...she's got 5 kids here, and I can't imagine her leaving them.  And it isn't a monogamous relationship - she's got our husband, our female partners, AND my sister.  I guess its a good thing it isn't just about me.  But she's not really the kind to talk about relationship issues with me, or discuss her emotions much.  If I bring it up, she changes the subject or dismisses it totally.    I am still upset today, and I bared my fangs at my husband quite a bit.  Probably more than I should have.  But he understands her better than I do and it feels like he's willing to let her do whatever.    Right now I'm just doing my best to keep it together and do extra parenting stuff while she's gone. 

I am glad to see this, I am a member of two Scottish Clans.  I will have to get my kilts cleaned up a bit, but a canny Scot canna no be beat!!   My Irish roots are deep enough that I think they would also accept me as a dual citizen and they have become accepting in the past few years.

https://www.thenational.scot/news/25067206.scottish-mp-calls-visa-americans-fleeing-trump-administration/?code=Y2EWMWE2NJCTOTNIMS0ZZWZHLTLKZJETOWZHMMQZYTUXYZG4&state=7bad3a1ff3c949fc93105e9951126bca&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Threads#Echobox=1743872497-2&callback=in   "A SCOTTISH MP is calling for a special visa route to allow Americans fleeing the Trump presidency to come to the UK."   "Christine Jardine said she wanted to see a potential “fast lane” for skilled US citizens. She presented a motion on “Trump and the UK’s place in the world” to the Scottish LibDem conference in Inverness, which was backed by party members."   Things have certainly changed.  I grew up thinking America was a place refugees came to - not fled.  At least the protests yesterday were encouraging.

@Heather Shay Good question. I’d say I’m progressing in my emotional growth, and quite meaningfully so.   I’ve been navigating complex internal and external challenges, from my living situation and past trauma to gender affirmation, emotional vulnerability, and spiritual development.   What stands out most is that I consistently reflect, ask thoughtful questions, and strive to align my emotions, values, and sense of self.   Some signs of this growth include greater self-awareness, I express my feelings honestly, whether it's joy, grief, discomfort, or confusion. I’ve become more attentive to moments of shyness or insecurity, and I explore their roots instead of pushing them away.   I’m more empathetic too. The compassion I show toward others in my support groups reflects a deeper emotional sensitivity and maturity. I don’t shy away from difficult topics with my therapist or psychiatrist, whether it’s about social anxiety, transitioning, substance use, or spirituality.   I meet each of these with openness and grace.   I no longer feel the need to pretend I have everything figured out. I keep showing up, expressing myself, and seeking truth, and that takes real courage.   Even when I feel overwhelmed or unsure, I know I’m still growing, because I’m choosing awareness over avoidance and self-love over shame.   That, for me, is what emotional progress looks like.

Skin changes are normal on HRT.  My skin felt softer, and my facial fat rearranged itself.  I remember looking in the mirror one day and realizing that my eyes were different.  Then, another day, my lips were different.  I am more sensitive to temperature changes.  My skin dries out more easily, so I now regularly use a moisturizing cream on my hands.   For me, the changes were welcome.  That was what I signed up for, among other things.  If you weren't expecting them, I can see that they would be disconcerting.   Relax and enjoy the ride!

Greetings.  I am back on HRT about a month and perhaps dealing with adjustment pains.   I woke up in the middle of the night noticing my lips suddenly much softer and felt fat redistribution in my cheeks (lifting my cheeks).  Then I finally noticed my feet feeling cooler and my skin sticky.  This happened before and it scared me into stopping but now, 6 months later I realize this is just part of the process of adjustment.    So I went out and bought a moisturizing soap, Dove soap, hopeful that will get rid of that sticky feeling after I shower.  I know other changes will come and remind myself that this is a long process that will take time and not to panic or freak out with sudden changes. 

Me too!  

The Pride Alliance will truly benefit!

@neo3000  Congratulations on starting T.  And congratulations for having the staying power to hang in and move forward.  You are an inspiration to others!  Jani

Neo, thank you so much for your words of encouragement and happiness.  Congratulations on finding your way to the Manhood Express, the train that is taking you on this wonderful journey.  You're an inspiration to everyone.       HUGS   Carolyn Marie

Sunday good morning    ok there is nothing wrong with my AC. I think they turned it on and set the temperature down too low and it froze the coil with ice.  When I got home from work it wouldn’t blow air as reported.  I turned on the heater and checked the drain water sensor.  I then turned on heat.  It didn’t take long and I was feeling heat at the registers. Let it sit a while then turned on the blower only, air was coming out.  So I turned on the A C at !° below the current temperature on the thermostat, it was blowing cold.  When it shut off, I dropped the setting two more and it followed   Ind now it’s set normal and is doing just fine! Phew. I was concerned because AC repairs are not cheap here and my Granddaughter the HVAC TECH is busy in Virginia.  It’s supposed to hit 81 here today! well, off to church.  

Good morning. Yesterday, didn’t post apparently   or is it?  My wife tells me the AC isn’t working.  Now I don’t know if it is or it isn’t.  I turned it on and it’s running but I really don’t know if it’s “working”. Since it is a heat pump and the heat has worked all winter I find it hard to believe but I know I’m not always right these days.  So I guess we will see.    today is 4AM so I’m up early. And I did get a reasonable nights sleep.  I guess we will see how work goes.  The manager will be coming in at some point to do the order.  I usually do the Saturday order but because the President of the company is coming, the store managers have been told to do it themselves.  Ok by me.  Saturdays during spring break and early golf can get hectic on what has been a quiet day all winter.  We are starting to add staff.  Three new hires.  One, at least is MTF.  She started yesterday.  She is apprehensive as she is just coming out but I will offer her help in anyway she wants or not.  It’s all up to her.   A customer was in yesterday talking about being religious and asked the manager if she was.  I don’t know her answer but she responded that I was and says where do you think she was?  She was taking classes.  Anyway.  It was a nice conversation.well I got to go.     willow

Thank you @kat2 it wasn’t easy to do,  i know I have no place to say though in my opinion from the photos you’ve shared of yourself you look beautiful. It’s your body and you’re the one who needs to be comfortable I’m just offering an outsider’s perspective and a non-bias opinion. I know also you didn’t ask. It’s another wet, dreary day in Planet NH. Yesterday I got some cute pants at goodwill one pair in particular I’m I love with as they have become my new lounge pants though I’m sure not what they were originally made for lol. Later I have to go to the pharmacy for my meds and I plan to have grilled chicken with some shaved carrots, chopped cucumber, spinach with White Cheddar “Harvest Snaps” as my croutons, Shredded Cheddar Cheese and a lime wedges for added flavor to the whole salad. I thank you for your positive reassurance as well as your kind and caring energy. Blessings to you Mia and all the patrons @ Mia’s Café.   Peace, Hugs and Happiness, Silo

Decided will run for KCPA President.

For a quiet and peaceful thought of the day, consider that "the present moment is all you truly have, and it's a gift." Embrace this moment, appreciate its stillness, and find peace in the simple act of being present.    Here's why this thought can be calming: Focus on the Now: By acknowledging that you only have the present, you're naturally detaching from worries about the past or anxieties about the future.    Appreciate the Gift: The word "gift" emphasizes the value of the present moment, encouraging gratitude and a sense of peace.    Simplicity and Stillness: The phrase promotes a sense of simplicity and stillness, which can be incredibly calming in a world that often feels chaotic.    Mindfulness: This thought encourages mindfulness, a practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment.    Acceptance: It promotes acceptance of what is, rather than striving to control or change what cannot be.      Additional Tips for Quieting Your Mind: Practice mindfulness: Engage in activities like meditation, deep breathing, or simply paying attention to your senses.    Engage in simple, repetitive tasks: Activities like knitting, coloring, or gardening can help redirect your thoughts.    Find time for solitude: Spending time in nature or simply in quiet reflection can be incredibly restorative.    Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it's okay to have racing thoughts.    Challenge negative thoughts: When you notice negative thoughts, try to identify their source and challenge their validity.    Engage in activities you enjoy: Doing things that bring you joy and relaxation can help to calm your mind.    Get enough sleep: Sleep deprivation can contribute to racing thoughts and anxiety.    Eat a balanced diet: Certain foods and drinks can negatively impact your mood and mental clarity.    Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.    Seek professional help if needed: If you're struggling with persistent anxiety or racing thoughts, don't hesitate to seek help from a qualified professional.