> copied from my 1/2/2017 Facebook post:
Here’s something new that I have no experience with – being called sir. Mistaken for a gentleman. I know I may not dress especially femininely in general, but sir? Gah.
Mostly, I have been going out without a head covering nor do I wear make-up on a regular basis. I must admit to the disquieting feeling of having my gender mistaken. All just from having no hair – or now, what most closely resembles a fuzzy baby duckling head?
Yes, I understand no one is doing it maliciously, but in these …intolerant times, it puts me on guard that someone might take offense and start bad-mouthing Charlie, thinking he is with another man. I find myself in addition to being slightly offended, trying to act more girly than I otherwise would to compensate for what others instantly assume is a man. How bizarre is that!?
So, in addition to battling this stage-4 menace there’s this whole *I’m a girl, damnit!*, thing. Lesson here is to show compassion and understanding in all things. Because as I hope you can see here, you never know what a seemingly innocent, off-hand remark can do to a person.
Oh, and as a side note. I bought some really girly scarves to try and stop the confusion. Take that ‘sir’!
While I’ve often been called ma’am, having long hair most of my life, Karen describes the occurrence a bit differently than I’ve experienced it, as the situation is not one of her choosing. I’m a bit oblivious to her short hair, as she looks the same to me, and my heart races just as fast as ever. When I look at her I see the love of my life, and nothing can change that, hair included. And if somebody thinks I’m with another man and takes issue with it, they can piss off anyway. It can’t be easy to go willingly into uncomfortable situations, so I’m proud that she does.
Hi Karen and Charlie,
What a great idea with the website. I read every post.
You both come into my thoughts quite often and I wonder how things are going, so thank you for sharing.
We got some snow here in Wooster and was wondering if you got any so you can use that awesome sledding hill. Super cool idea by the way! Karen, make sure you kick Charlie’s but when racing him down that hill for the first time. Once you beat him, hit him with a big snow ball.
Hope today is a good day for both of you and tomorrow is even better.
Sincerely, Ed Feil