Sisterly gatherings

Thanks once again for your sweet comments girls; heart-warming. Your first time out eh Jane? I'll have a bucket of water at the ready, but a large cold vodka and coke will probably be more appropriate. It really makes me happy to see girls venturing out for the first time, it's good for "the cause" - every new girl on the street helps to raise our profile, and it's good for themselves - feeling the freedom to be able to express themselves the way they've always wanted. I also feel that I'm making a statement to the world (or at least a little part of it): "Hey everybody, this is me". When you think about it, it's quite sad that many of us have (or had) never truly been able to say that, and that I think is what is so life-changing about going out. But I'm trying to avoid making that point over and over again, so don't just take my word for it, get out there and find out for yourself. And Cerys too, well, not the first time she's been out, but the first time for a long time so I think she's just as nervous (don't be honey, Aunty Lucy will look after you). Actually Cerys I think your nerves will disappear about 3 seconds after stepping through the hotel door, or possibly less. That's what I found on my first (ever) time out. It's a bit like being on stage, it's all a bit nervy in the dressing room doing make-up and costume, then you stand at the wings with butterflies, step onto the stage, the lights hit you and you become your character. The difference is you're showing your real character (fearless and feisty no doubt in your case, Cerys); no longer acting, just being yourself, and no need for silly nerves. I don't get nervous now, just can't wait to get out. But I do understand Cerys, actually I had a part in a show a few years ago, kind of a reunion, it was the first time I'd been onstage in nearly 20 years (as an actor), and yes I was a little bit nervous, but you'll be fine, and you know that as well as I do.

I've been to the village twice now and it's a great place for the likes of us. Really looking forward to going back, and to meeting new people, including our wonderful webmistress Katie. I don't suppose she has time to read blogs, especially not ones as verbose as mine, but love and respect to you Katie for giving us this site, you saved my life, I hope you'll at least let me buy you a vodka. And my old friend (!) Sarah is making the trek up from London to be there, and also going even further north to visit me at the weekend. What a week for us Sarah - partying, dinner/girly night in, shopping, shopping and shopping, and then another evening out in the village! Phew, can we take the pace at our dear old age? I think we might just be able to handle it, eh babe?!

Tina, today is  f r i d a y, so tomorrow is  s a t u r d a y; and you know what that means? Well this weekend for me it means something special; my beloved sister Pippa is coming to visit, and I'm so looking forward to having her over. Pip, you really do feel like my long lost sister; there have been a lot of things missing in my life and you were one of them. You're a true friend, and I'm so glad we've met. Prepare to be showered with affection, with the odd glass of Chardonnay thrown in. With something to look forward to, today at work seems to be going a lot quicker. It's been a difficult week, especially yesterday which was awful, having to deal with ignorant, arrogant customers (who are always right) and certain f***head employees who have their heads stuck up their own a**** and are *%!"$**^! and need ^!&£$%^*"@'<|¬ing. If I'd been wearing my heels they could have done someone some serious damage. Yes, it was a bad day. I am SO looking forward to tomorrow.