You’ve heard mention of the “Group”, well let me tell you about it.
First: for the new sisters or brothers, I offer to meet with you outside of the group in a public place like a restaurant. I’ve mentioned this in a previous blog I know, still it needs to be reiterated. I know of a couple of places we can meet, one in particular that is very accepting of us. If you have a spouse that would like to join us they may and if they would like my spouse will be glad to join us. This gives you a chance to meet me during the day and at a public place. You come as you are, there is no need for you to be any more uncomfortable then you already are. Most girls have a ton of butterflies when we meet and afterwards when they’ve had a chance to ask questions they find it’s very enlightening. One of the reasons for meeting outside of the group is for screening. It is our goal to keep and have a safe meeting place.
Second: when you do come to a meeting you can come as you are and if you want to change clothes after you get there we do have a place for you to change your clothes. I try to get there about 30 minutes early for those who need to change clothes. The group is open to you of course, your immediate family or those who have a desire to learn more about us and will support us. If you feel safe with having a friend there then bring them.
During the meetings: We do plan to have various topics at different times and these topics will depend on what the group is needing at that time. The main emphasis’s is support and this will always be up for discussion at every meeting. We will share information about other groups which we have visited or have regular contact with. We will discuss any new topics in the news concerning TG’s. We will try and have any information about any upcoming events near or far to us. Of course we will discuss anything to do with clothing, make up, shoes, wigs, nails and hair removal.
Meetings other then scheduled: This is getting together for a bar-b-que, make-overs, going to the club which for those who want to go we usually go after a group meeting or a rod trip. We are planning a make-over evening in the first part of 2009 and a road trip about late spring time. I’m always up for a shopping trip. We do have sisters from out of town that come through and we always try and get together for at least lunch and a visit.
As you can see the group is for support, a place to be with others like you, discuss what’s on your mind, hear the stories of the great adventures from your sisters that are out and about and to learn more about yourself. We do have a referral if you need to visit with a therapist. The group is facilitated by TG’s for TG’s. We are like you and we cover a good range of the spectrum. You are not alone. This is not a place to pick up dates, go to the clubs for that if you must.
HUGS Sandra
I just wanted to add a note about the meeting place. Sandra has made arrangements for us to use a facility that should address any concerns you might have. It is a public facility (as opposed to a private home or that sort of thing), so you don’t have to worry about meeting strangers for the first time. But at the same time the facility is not a mainstream venue and it is not open to the general public during our meetings, so you can be assured of protecting your identity and your secret if you so desire.
Also, while you are welcome to come in drab and change on the premises, you don’t have to. (We sure don’t!) If you prefer to come already dressed and leave that way, that’s great too.