Well it has been a busy time since the last T-Girls Tips.

Firstly thank you for all the rave reviews about our new on-line style program. It is a wonderful feeling being able to offer a program that can help so many girls. We all dream that we could have someone to guide us through the process of feminisation and how to be attired appropriately in a “women’s world” often that is not possible because of location, opportunity or cost. Your Personal Style Solution answers all those needs and in a matter of minutes gives you a style program that will show you how to best dress for your body type.

Come And Join Us At “The Style Lounge”

The Femininity Coach is about to launch a support service to all of you girls who have the Personal Style Solutions Program. Over the coming weeks you will be issued with your own password to access a world of knowledge through the soon to be launched Style Secrets On-Line website. As a member you can enter” the style lounge” where you will have access to the latest tips, tools and techniques along with industry experts offering you personalised advice. You can ask your own “Secret Style Agent” any questions you like. To find out more click here.

Good Morning TransAmerica

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Anja Gensel who visited Australia. It has been a pleasure getting to know Anja, she has a very interesting story after living in stealth for many years. Anja heads up a radio show in Alaska called Good Morning TransAmerica. Click on the link below to listen to her interview with Kathleen Cummings for the Gender Centre here in Australia along with her story on Stefanie Imbruglia and her battle and subsequent victory with The Australian Passport Office. Click here to listen to the interviews.

“Define your Style” – Frock Magazine

I am absolutely thrilled and delighted to have an article published in the latest frock magazine; the article titled “Define your Style” is the first in a series that will be published in Frock. If you have not checked out Frock I suggest you do. They also have a sensational offer for subscribers so click here to check it out!

Seahorse Ball

If you missed it last year now is your chance to grab your ticket.

I am often amazed at the beautiful stories and poetry I receive from so many of you girls. This week we are featuring a beautiful poem

MY GUIDING LIGHT

By David P. Krusen

Tonight is the night
The clouds are running through the sky
Like horses guiding
Through the night

Look at the stars
Shimmering like gold
Can’t you see?

Look at the shooting stars
Shooting like cannons one by one

Look at the moon smiling
And shining on the earth
Look at the sky and its dark color
But don’t be afraid
Don’t cry
The light is guiding us
And the clouds will protect us from harm

The air feels like it’s breathing through my body
And the wind is whispering in my ears

The wind will take me up
with the cloud of running horses
I will race and fly through the night
with my guiding light forever

Copyright © 2002 by David P. Krusen

5 Minutes With Miss Anja Gensel

Julie: Tell us a bit about you

Anja: I am a political activist in Anchorage, Alaska, effecting real change through my non-profit TG Advocacy organization called “TransAKtion!. I also produce and host a TG themed talkshow podcast called “Good Morning, TransAmerica!” which .tackles hot-button issues such as transpeople and Christianity, Transitioning in the Workplace, and The impact of transitioning on our partners and families. We travel the world from Australia to Kazakhstan to examine the quality and culture of life for the transpeople who live there. We have world-class guests such as Dr Doug Osterhaut, Dr. Toby Meltzer, and Dr Joel Beck, and many more to come. The show is available from iTunes or our website.

Julie: What has been the biggest challenge for you so far?

Anja: The gatekeeping behaviour of many of the politicians here in Alaska, and a particular televangelist named Jerry Prevo, who likes to use the public’s uninformed fear of transpeople as a weapon to bring down attempts to extend civil rights to GLBT Alaskans. Also, our general lack of civil rights here, across the USA.

Julie: If you had to start over again, what would you do differently?

Anja: Move to Norway or Australia, where I would already have the same civil rights as every other citizen, and not got involved in the seemingly endless uphill battle for even the basics here in the USA!

Julie: Who do you admire and why?

Anja: Phyllis Frye and Roberta Perkins. Phyllis is a gender warrior who takes the fight all the way to the halls of congress. And she has done so since the 1970s, and we are all better for it. She has been my role model since I was a teenager. Through Roberta Perkins’ efforts, the lives of thousands of Australian transpeople have been changed for the better. She founded the New South Wales Gender Centre, and brought the government’s attention to problems that sex workers face. This amazing woman has likely saved thousands of lives! How Amazing is that?!?

Julie: It takes courage and determination to step out, what tips can you share and what is your motivator?

Anja: We are blessed with one life that is tragically short. Far too short to spend it being someone that you are not. And yes, you will lose SOME friends-but you WILL make new ones who love you for who you are!

Julie: What are your 3 biggest success tips?

Anja:

1. Don’t attack or lash out at the uninformed. Educate them, and dazzle them with excellence!
2. Know your political leaders, and exactly what they stand for, Vote and participate actively in your government!
3. Always try to be a positive force in people’s lives. It comes back three-fold!

Fast Fun Facts About Anja

Nick Name: The Sledgehammer

Star sign: Aquarius

Favourite Book: Clan of the Cave Bear series by Jean Auel

Favourite Movie: Aliens

Favourite Saying: That which does not kill us, makes us stronger. Nitsche (My central theme!)

Best advice you’ve ever received: Don’t sweat the little stuff!

Best holiday: My recent trip to Australia. I met so many wonderful and inspiring people there. What a beautiful country and people!

Your long term goal: To have EVERY American to be able to enjoy the rights and freedom that we love to tell the rest of the world and ourselves that we stand for!

What others say about me: It depends on who you ask! To some, I am a relentless pitbull who refuses to hear reason, or a crazy man in a dress who tries to hijack the Alaskan lifestyle.

To some others, I am someone who is diplomatic while remaining strong in my convictions for civil rights, and stands up to bad behaviour in very public ways.

To some I am a role model, to others, a trouble maker.

Anything else we absolutely must know about you: I have been accused of hating America and hating Alaska. To those who claim this, I say Blah, blah, blah! A true patriot stands up and says “This is not right! And a true patriot seeks to keep government working for the people-All of them. We do NOT honour our troops or those who have died for our freedom, by quietly rolling over and taking it, when the government is wrong.

Note: If you would like to share 5 minutes about your journey or story you can do it here.

If you have something you would like published please send it to julie@thefemininitycoach.com

Bad Questions To Ask A Transexual – Calpernia Addams

I am sure many of you have heard of Calperinia Addams, she is a transsexual Hollywood actress. I came across this video she posted and wanted to share it with you. I am sure many of you have been asked some of these questions and if you haven’t you will have the answers up your sleeve!

Check out more of Calpernia Addams visit her website www.calpernia.com
Have a fantastic week

Hello! Well, life has been really busy for me over the past month or so because I have been working on a new, exciting project!

For the past couple of years I have been searching for a way to reach out and help as many girls as I can. I am thrilled to say that I have finally found a program that ticks all the boxes! I just partnered with The Australian Image Company to launch an on-line style program, and I’ve been bursting at the seams to tell you about it!

Ladies, This Is a LIFE-CHANGER

I don’t mean to be flippant, but I know that so many of you beautiful girls lack the confidence to walk out the door, and I want you to know you deserve more!

I fell in love with this program, and I am sure you will too. Just for you, my loyal supporters, I am offering you a 10% discount before I officially launch this program. Are you wondering how much it costs? Well, I recently conducted a survey and the feedback was that most would pay up to $250 for a style consultation such as this.

Guess What: It’s Less Than Half Of That!

You will find that this style program will help you build confidence, along with giving you the “know how” you’ve been looking for. And when coupled with the shopping guide, it will give you a new found freedom you’ve only dreamt of! We’ve put together a little video showcasing both my friends and clients so sit back and enjoy!

To claim your 10% discount you need to use the code jtgt001 when ordering your program, this link will only be valid until midnight on the 31^st of May

How to be Confident, Gorgeous and Sexy!

The Ultimate Style Makeover Program – Perfect for the T-Girls and Cross-Dressers

You’ve Got Style!

Regardless of where you are on your feminine journey, each and every woman has her own unique and gorgeous style. It’s not a matter of age, beauty, wealth, or size – and it’s so much more than just fashion. It’s about having the freedom to explore, discover and celebrate your femininity and unique style consistently and confidently.

Every T-girl needs a BFF to tell her whether or not she can “walk out the front door in that outfit.” That’s where The Femininity Coach and Your Personal Style Solutions fit in. We give you – and women like you all over the world – the most comprehensive information in a 
confidential, relaxed and engaging web-active format. It’s like having your very own 24/7 image consultant without the exorbitant one-on-one fees!

You’ll learn how to bring focus to your most flattering features, downplay your least favourite, and master the art of “putting it all together.” We’ll cover hot topics like deportment, makeup, shoes, hair and wigs – no fashionable stone is left unturned!

When you invest in your custom-made “My Personal Style Solutions” program, you’ll have more confidence in what you already know works well, be inspired by new ideas, and find the missing pieces of your style puzzle. Knowing what styles to look for, how to coordinate and accessorize and how to shop wisely will save you Frustration, Time, and Money – as well as the Heartache and Insecurity that come from feeling inadequately dressed.

My wish for you is that you look and feel great; that you dress in a way that makes you smile whenever you pass a mirror, and makes others smile when they pass you by. The way you dress will profoundly affect the way you feel, and you deserve to feel abundant joy! With Your Personal Style Solutions, you’ll travel more smoothly along your journey with confidence and high self-esteem.

Ultimately, style is about confidence and feeling good about your authentic self. To understand and express your personal style is to give yourself the gift of freedom. You’ll be able to relax more, feel confident and secure, enjoy your life, and reach boldly for the goals closest to your heart.

5 Minutes With Miss Tammy

Julie: Tell us a bit about you

Tammy: Cross dresser (now confirmed bi sexual) married man. Loves lingerie. Feel totally feminine in it otherwise still a man.

Julie: What has been the biggest challenge for you so far?

Tammy: Embracing bi sexuality

Julie: If you had to start over again, what would you do differently?

Tammy: Not put so much weight on in my 30′s. Marry a TG instead of a genetic girl

Julie: Who do you admire and why?

Tammy: Trans Veronica. Has natural C breasts and still loves to be active more than passive. So more male than female but is extremely feminine. The perfect woman from what I have seen

Julie: It takes courage and determination to step out, what tips can you share and what is your motivator?

Tammy: I haven’t stepped out.

Julie: What are your 3 biggest success tips?

Tammy:

• See a professional.
• See a professional; and
• See a professional.

You will achieve nothing without them

Fast Fun Facts About Tammy

Nick Name: Haven’t got one yet.

Star sign: Leo

Favourite Book: Bluewater

Favourite Movie: Indecent Proposal

Favourite Saying: Be gentle with me

Best advice you’ve ever received: Never never say die

Best holiday: I have had too many to choose just 1

Your long term goal: Stay married and have gorgeous TG on the side

What others say about me: Too raunchy to repeat here

Anything else we absolutely must know about you: I am too honest. Never ask me a question if your afraid of the answer you may get.

Q)”Do I look fat”
A) Yes (if of course you do)

Note: If you would like to share 5 minutes about your journey or story you can do it here.

SHE

by Cate Lousie Gersch

And share in her triumph over difficulties.
She opens her eyes, the new day dawns -
Her heart filled with joy, gone are the storms.
No longer bars imprison her soul –
Life gently beckons; she answers its call.
Freed from its prison, her Spirit now sings!
She now lives contented, at peace with the world –
No more Fear her master.
Tears of happiness spring from her heart –
Freely they come; she embraces each one
Like a lover’s caress, or the sun’s warmth on her skin.
She eagerly awaits like a child for what every day brings –
As a butterfly drifting on summer’s soft breeze,
She is now free to explore!
Once disheartened and broken,
Now with each step she takes,
Her confidence grows like captains of old
Sailing for lands yet unknown!
She marks out her map –
As the journey unfolds, her heart is the compass;
Her direction, it shows though trials she faces.
She knows she will overcome! She now lives empowered –
No longer in chains.
Will love ever find her?
For she longs to share with another
Her love, her joy, and care…
For there are those
Who will judge her for whom she’s become –
Threatened by her free Spirit
And her courage to endure.
Uncomfortable in her presence, they stay far away;
But as she tastes rejection,
She knows acceptance, too –
Trusting but a few now,
For she knows betrayal comes easily…
But for another with whom to share Life’s journey,
Her life is complete.
Wisdom and knowledge are now what she seeks –
Not things superficial, but waters still and deep.
She hopes with her passing, her life’s not been in vain,
But by her friendship, others might gain.
That they may take delight in knowing her true heart,

Have a sensational week

Love and Hugs

I hope you have had a sensational week! Mine was a busy but exciting one, I travelled to Melbourne to have a meeting with the Australian Image company about partnering in a very exciting new on-line style program. I am not going to tell you too much about it this week as I am still getting it ready for launch. I will be launching it next week in T-Girls Tips and I know you are going to love it!

New Member On Our Panel Of Experts

I am in final negotiations with a new panel member for the Femininity Coach. I will be introducing her to you over the next couple of weeks but I can tell you that she is a medical doctor and a specialist in hormone therapy. She has agreed to come on board and provide support and information to the subscribers of Julie’s T-Girl Tip’s, she has spent many years working within the TG community.

This week we have part two of “Body Shapes” last week we featured part one of “Body Shapes” Thank you for the emails telling me how much you enjoyed it. Our aim is to provide resources to you that help you on your journey. If there are any topics that you would like to cover here in T-Girl Tip’s please send me an email Julie@thefemininitycoach.com

Dressing For Your Body Shape -Part II

Five minutes with

Thank you to all the girls who have sent in their “five minutes with”.   We have had a few come through without pictures so please make sure you attach a photo. If you would like to participate go to www.thefemininitycoach.com/5-minutes-with-questionnaire and download the questionnaire.

5 Minutes With Miss Stacey

Julie: Tell us a bit about you?

Stacey :I’m a ex military T-girl. I love to dress and have been working on going out.

Julie: What has been the biggest challenge for you so far?

Stacey: Makeup and voice.

Julie: If you had to start over again, what would you do differently?

Stacey: I would have started when I was much younger

Julie: Who do you admire and why?

Stacey: Transsexuals because of their bravery

Julie: It takes courage and determination to step out, what tips can you share and what is your motivator?

Stacey: Don’t worry about what others think, they’re not worried about what you think. My motivator is the fact that I really want to do this.

Julie: What are your 3 biggest success tips?

Stacey:

• Confront your fear
• Dress conservatively
• Act like you belong

Fast Fun Facts About Stacey

Nick Name: Stacey

Your long term goal: To live as Stacey

Anything else we absolutely must know about you: I love to wear skirts!

Note: If you would like to share 5 minutes about your journey or story you can do it here.

Have your say

This week I am really excited to announce the first article in our guest contributor spot. This week we have a poem written by Marissa Jayne Wolfe

“Transgender”

She closes her eyes to hear the baby cry
Some things are too difficult to face.
While she wishes for a child
All she has are dreams to embrace.

Trapped in this cell
praying for daylight to come one day.
No way out of these thoughts
even wishing her feelings away.

For what is a girl to do?
When she faces losing all
If she chooses to follow her heart
And display it on the wall.

Instead of keeping peace
Holding it all inside.
If she keeps this secret
A part of her will have died.

She cries and prays and begs for God
to take her pain away
But God says no and she stays trapped
as a male for another day.

Thank you for your support, see you next week

Love and Hugs

We have lots to bring you this weeks starting with part one of our “Body Shape” series. You can look great no matter your challenges. Once you know how to look great, your self esteem and self confidence will soar. You will walk, talk and act differently. This will cause others to respond to you in new and positive ways.

Gold Coast T-Girls Night Out

This Friday we are having a “Girls shopping night at Who’s Lucy”. Hover Over the picture to the right all the details.

Please RSVP to Mechelle or Julie on (07) 5520 5533 or email: julie@thefemininitycoach.com

5 Minutes With Vanessa Sheridan

This week I have the pleasure of introducing you a wonderful role model with in the trans community, Vanessa Sheridan.

Vanessa is an expert business consultant, speaker, trainer, and executive coach. Vanessa’s focus is to raise awareness within the business community. She has learned that social change often happens first in the workplace.  Her website is www.vanessasheridan.com.

Julie: Tell us a bit about you?

Vanessa: I’m a U.S.-based transgender business consultant, speaker, corporate trainer, and executive coach. (However, I’d be delighted to work internationally if there’s a legitimate opportunity.) I’m also the author of several books on transgender-related topics and have twice been a finalist for Lambda Literary Awards. My latest book is “The Complete Guide to Transgender in the Workplace,” and it’s the first full-length, hardcover volume on this topic ever to be released by a mainstream publisher. I’m proud and humbled by that fact. I hope the book helps many, many people.

Julie: What has been the biggest challenge for you so far?

Vanessa: Raising awareness about transgender issues throughout the business community and the larger society. It’s critical to let the public know that, while our lesbian and gay siblings deserve support and affirmation, transgender people have their own distinct concerns apart from the gay and lesbian communities. We need and deserve equal rights (not special rights) just like every other citizen.

Julie: If you had to start over again, what would you do differently?

Vanessa: I’d come out earlier and be bolder. But then, I’ve always been a slow learner and devout coward.

Julie: Who do you admire and why?

Vanessa: I admire anyone who is true to themselves and chooses to take pride in being who and what they are. Transgender people have a long, storied history that deserves respect, and I admire those who put themselves on the line for the sake of truth and honesty.

Julie: It takes courage and determination to step out, what tips can you share and what is your motivator?

Vanessa: Be aware, informed, and responsible. You owe it to yourself to know what’s going on in the world and to work for justice. Always be considerate, kind, and loving. Choose to be positive and optimistic. The world is full of people who will tell you that you can’t be successful, but you should refuse to listen to them. Be passionate, be involved, and be smart about it. When you fall down, keep getting up. You may or may not reach your goal, but you’re never going to reach it if you don’t keep on trying.

Julie: What are your 3 biggest success tips?

Vanessa:

1. Find your courage and step out. You can do this if you really want to.
2. Believe in yourself, and never stop. You are worthy.
3. “Illegitimi non carborundum.” (Don’t let the bastards grind you down.)

Fast Fun Facts About Vanessa

Nick Name: I don’t think I have one. If I do, no one’s told me about it.

Star sign: Sorry, I don’t buy into astrology.

Favourite Book: At the risk of sounding self-centered and/or conceited, I’d have to say my own book, “The Complete Guide to Transgender in the Workplace.”

Favourite Movie: “Contact,” with Jodie Foster. It made me think and imagine.

Favourite Saying: “There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” William Shakespeare, “Hamlet,” Act 1, scene 5, 159–167

Best advice you’ve ever received: Question authority.

Best holiday: Easter. Most people say Christmas, and I love that holiday too, but as a Christian I have to say Easter. Without the hope that Easter provides, Christmas becomes rather meaningless.

Your long term goal: To be the recognized world leader in the field of transgender business services.

What others say about me: While I hope it’s generally positive, I really have no idea. I’m too busy doing my work and trying to make a difference to spend much time worrying about what others say about me.

Anything else we absolutely must know about you: I composed and recorded the musical scores for three documentary films that have been distributed worlwide. I sing, write, play several instruments, and love to play rock ‘n roll onstage. Upload your photo in

Note: If you would like to share 5 minutes about your journey or story you can do it here.

A Bit Of Fun

This week I received this clip from one of my very talented clients, she sings like an angel and I really wanted to share it with you. Thank you ROZZ for sharing your amazing talents with us.

Do you know of anyone within the Trans community that we can feature on our website? I am looking to highlight those who are flying the flag for the TG community. Each week I would like to feature one of these special ladies, if you would like to suggest someone please email me Julie@thefemininitycoach.com

Have a fun week

Love and Hugs

Julie: Tell us about Cate Cate: I came out in 2005,after struggling for too long with who I really was inside, and despite the challenges and difficulties I’ve faced over the last few years, and the breakdown of my marriage, I couldn’t be happier..the only regret’s I have is the impact it has had on my family…their initial shock to what I told them, and how it has affected my relationship with a couple of them…but, for the most part, they are slowly coming to terms with the “new” me, and have often commented to me that I’m such a different person to the one they used to know…much more confident and outgoing. Julie: What has been the biggest challenge for you so far? Cate: I would have to say that really, I can’t think of any, apart from a couple of the jobs I’ve had since beginning my transition, where I’ve had to deal with the attitudes of some of the men towards me…All of the women I’ve worked with so far have been wonderful towards me, and I’ve formed some close friendships with more than a few of them, I’m really blessed in that respect.

Julie: If you had to start over again, what would you do differently?

Cate: To start at a much younger age, possibly late teens to early twenties..but, as other girl’s have said, I wouldn’t have had my family, and that has been a rewarding experience in itself, and has helped me to learn a lot about life.

Julie: Who do you admire and why?

Cate: My Mother….she is the most wonderful, loving, caring person I know, and for me to have been born to her is the best thing that could’ve ever happened to me..and the way that she has dealt with, and overcome all the difficulties she has faced in her life is an inspiration to me..she is simply the best!

Julie:It takes courage and determination to step out, what tips can you share and what is your motivator?

Cate: Don’t ever let fear rule over you…it will rob you of everything if you let it…we have to control it, not let it control us…be confident….look the world straight in the eye…when you walk, hold your head high, be proud of who you are..never be ashamed….and I remind myself each day that I have the same rights as everyone else out there…and I won’t let that be taken away from me

Julie: What are your 3 biggest success tips?

Cate:

1. just be yourself..don’t change for others, if you have to change for them you’re depriving yourself, and not being true to your spirit

2. don’t allow negative energy in your life..surround yourself, as much as possible, with positive energy, influences and people.

3. don’t take yourself too seriously…laugh…a lot…

Fast Fun Facts about Cate

Nick Name: Some friends call me Catey

Star sign: Virgo

Favourite Book: Too many to mention

Favourite Movie: The Notebook

Favourite Saying: Never give up!

Best advice you’ve ever received: to treat others as you want to be treated.

Best holiday: That’s yet to come…never really had a holiday for over twenty years, but a group of girl’s from where I work are flying to Sydney next month for 5 days, to see the Mardi Gras..and we plan on having a ball!!!

Your long term goal: To complete my transition and hopefully find a woman with whom I can have a permanent relationship with, and share life’s experiences together.

What others say about me: Do you really want me to answer that??,ha-ha…but seriously, from what I’ve been told and heard, that I’m easy going((not easy, LOL)..happy, caring and I’ve got a warped sense of humour…

Tell us more about you: I don’t like, and won’t tolerate those that judge without first getting to know people, I love being there for my friends, and enjoy living life to the full.

Julie: Tell us about Kathy Kathy: Its in Kathy’s writings in Kathy’s story in my web site www.changelingaspects.com/Kathy’s Writings/Kathy’s Story.htm Julie: What has been the biggest challenge for you so far? Kathy: Living too long as a male Julie: If you had to start over again, what would you do differently? Kathy: Be born into the right gender from birth.

 

Julie: Who do you admire and why?

Kathy: Many Trans people who have made the long journey to finding themselves

Julie:It takes courage and determination to step out, what tips can you share and what is your motivator?

Kathy: Open the front door, and do it. the first step is the hardest, after that, it all seems so easy.

Julie: What are your 3 biggest success tips?

Kathy:

Being yourself.
Being open with people.
Living the life that you are meant to be.

Fast Fun Facts about Kathy

Nick Name: Kath

Star sign: Sagittarius

Favourite Book: London

Favourite Saying: Never give in–never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy. Never give in–never,never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yeild to force; Never yeild to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy. Sir Winston Churchill, Speech, 1941, Harrow School British politician (1874 – 1965)

Best advice you’ve ever received: Be true to yourself in all things.

Best holiday: Too many to pick out one.

Your long term goal: To help other Trans people as much as possible.

What others say about me: I’m like a dog with a bone. i wont let go of what I am trying to achieve.

Tell us more about you: I’m an activist and an advocate for the Trans community. especially the young ones coming through, as well as the other end of the spectrum, for those who might have to go into care as they age.

Julie: Tell us about Rachel Rachel: Rachel is from the UK but now lives in New Zealand. She has lots of friends around Auckland and loves being dressed and going out. Julie: What has been the biggest challenge for you so far? My biggest challenge was telling my children about Rachel. When Rachel ever went out life was so difficult trying to keep the children away while I dress and done my makeup. Now life is so easy and fun with help & advice from them.

Julie: If you had to start over again, what would you do differently?

Hard to say, wish I had started dressing when I was 16, but had I done so I would have missed out on having kids.

Julie: Who do you admire and why?

I do admire young T-Girls who have no money and still work hard to be who they are.

Julie: It takes courage and determination to step out, what tips can you share and what is your motivator?

If you need help, ask a professional. There are lots of makeup artists out there but not many understand about how to do make up for a T-Girl. So take your time and find someone who does. There are people out there and if you are in Surfer’s call Julie.

Julie: What are your 3 biggest success tips?

Get your foundation right; go to a professional for a wig fitting. And watch women when you are out and learn their mannerisms.

Fast Fun Facts about Rachel

Nick Name: Rachel

Star sign: Pisces

Favourite Movie: Lord of the Rings

Favourite Saying: If you love something so much; do it

Best advice you’ve ever received: To tell my children about Rachel, it has made family life so much easier. Next step is to tell my brothers & sisters (not looking forward to it but I know in order for Rachel to move forward it is something that needs to be done).

Best holiday: Surfer’s and being Rachel for the whole holiday.

Your long term goal: To become Rachel full time

What others say about me: Some say my pictures are gorgeous, having comments like this gives me encouragement to keep going when thing are hard.

Tell us more about you: Just a fun loving girl who loves to socialize with others. So if you are in Auckland anytime, look me up.

Julie: Tell us about Michelle

Michelle: Well I am a straight to the point type of girl who loves to make people laugh. I am also loving and caring and addicted to shopping lol Oops! I love writing songs, graphics, drawing, playing video games, listening to music and cooking, and also like to let my hair down every now and then.

Julie: Michelle, what has been you biggest challenge so far?

Michelle: Good question Julie as there have been so many over the, but I would have to say the latest challenge I had was trying to tell my Nan (Grandma) that I am a cross dresser, My Nan is like my adopted Mother and loves me to death and basically said She would accept me no matter what!

Julie: If you had to start over again, what would you do differently?

Michelle: Oh that’s an easy one hehe . I would have never gone out and got tattoos well not in the spot that I have them on anyway but ¾ sleeves cover that lol.

Julie: Michelle, who do you admire and Why?

Michelle: I actually admire my Dad he is such a trooper the amount of stuff and situation’s he has had to deal with over the years, with his separation with my Mum and losing his own father to cancer he managed to pull through stronger than ever, he is my best friend.

Julie: It takes courage and determination to come out, what tips can you share and what is your motivator?

Michelle: My motivation is the fact I can’t stand being hidden away and not being myself, every year that has passed Michelle has been getting stronger and stronger and needs to burst out just like a new butterfly from it’s cocoon,

The best tip I can give is the old cliché that life is to short; who knows what tomorrow may bring.

Julie: What are your three biggest success tips

Michelle: Well, for me a good moisturiser as my skin gets dry easy I use Nivea soft intensive you can’t go wrong; using black eye shadow and a cotton tip instead of eyeliner and do it before your foundation to blend it in nice.

Fast Fun Facts about Michelle

Nick name: Mas / Mascara

Star sign: Scorpio

Favourite Book: Animalia by Graeme Base, this is a classic from my childhood. The drawings and detail are amazing with hidden twists along the way. I also had the pleasure of meeting him and getting my book signed. He is such a nice man.

Favourite Movie: Hmm… there are so many I have loved over the years, but I always go with the first movie that made me cry, which was E.T. by Steven Spielberg. It’s an oldie but a goodie, but gets me every time.

Favourite saying: I fear being like everyone I hate. I fear failure. I fear losing control. I love balancing between chaos and control with everything I do. I always have a fear of going one way or another, getting lost in something, or losing everything to get lost in. And I fear being a completely acceptable sheep in society.

“I never said to be like me, I say to be like you and make a difference.” – Marilyn Manson

Best advice you ever received: Best advice I had was from a TG friend of mine who said, “Who care’s what people think, go out be free and most of all be yourself!

Best holiday: Oh, I had the most awesome trip overseas, visited a few interesting place’s like London, Rome, Malta, Thailand, Singapore in a matter of 2 weeks. Apart from jet lag it was amazing to experience such diversity in cultures and food. Also living in Malaysia for 2 years was a blowout. I really miss that place.

Long term goal: Is to go all the way.

What others say about me: I get a lot of comments about my body, legs and my style of clothes – all positive feedback to which helps with confidence.