Bernice
Thank you for your 'ego boost', and yes, the cheque is in the mail.
It always warms my heart to know if even just one person sees my advice as being helpful to them, that is reward in itself. Truth is, I never forget where I came from and still remember all too vividly how hard it was in the beginning when I was trying to make sense of my crossdressing and reconciling those confused feelings about why I kept wanting to do it. So as we fast forward to today, giving something back comes easily and whether the advice comes from me or any one of the wonderful gals here, I personally take a lot of joy (and pride) in watching people take positive steps forward to enriching their own lives and feeling better about themselves. On the other hand though, it's always sad to read about the struggles others are facing, but that's the reality of life. However, if we can help find some positive things amid someone's tough situation, it can make a world of difference to that person, so it's all good. I think we can all learn from one another - even from those bad experiences.
Bernice, as far as those pictures of me, in all honesty, I never considered that others would think I was making it look easy. When I first started putting on makeup, I had to teach myself under the dim light in the recesses of an otherwise dark closet. Thinking back to those early days when I really didn't have a clue, I shudder to think I actually went out looking more like Bozo the Clown than a girl. But, it really wasn't until I came out in September 2000 that I really began practicing makeup techniques in earnest. One advantage I did have was that art was always my strongest subject in school so shading and blending colours did come more easily to me. Also, I spend a lot of time moisturizing and caring for my skin which I find does make makeup application easier. I suppose I've never been a really macho man's man (which I'm actually proud of) so I do have a bit of a head start which all helps me accomplish the end result you see in my picture. Granted, we are all different and have different starting points so I do concede that some of us have a tougher challenge than others. Among my TG friends, I also recognize that I'm luckier than some (most!) and never forget that.
some of of us will look at what you have accomplished with envy (perhaps even despair), doubtful we could ever look as good as you do.
Hmm, I hope that's not true. I'd hate to think some may look at my picture or accomplishments with despair. Envy perhaps but not despair. I used to envy people too and still do such as those who can dress as often as they like. One thing everyone should keep in mind though.
ALL of us have the potential to achieve a better self image and go out into the world and do whatever we want for our femme selves. We just need the right mindset and confidence to do it. We are all human and I realize that building confidence can take some of us a long time, but just knowing you
CAN do it, is what's important. Reading about the experiences of others is probably the most valuable resource we have as a group. That's what gave me the inspiration and confidence to get me to where I am today. No one should feel it's out of their reach. We all have the potential within us. We just need to recognize that and awaken it. Life is way too short to miss out on your dreams.
Stephanie
No seriously, some of us will look at what you have accomplished with envy (perhaps even despair), doubtful we could ever look as good as you do. We need to follow ALL of your advice. I just felt compelled to boost your ego a little. 