There were many questions to ask Virginia, much to talk about, and the get-together lasted until the wee hours.

We had a late breakfast at Annette's on Sunday morning. One or two went to church. There were more photo sessions, more visiting. I noticed that several more had changed back into their brother's clothes, the masculine side asserting itself now after 48 hours or so. For others it would have taken many more days, perhaps even weeks, before the fire would subside if left unchecked. And for two or three of the FPs, well, I suppose they could have gone on forever.

Annette's GG played teasingly with the big family dog, making it talk and sing in response to her voice. This woman intrigued us all with her ability. I had watched her move among the guests, remember- ing each name, putting a nervous wife at ease, skillfully drawing out a timid FP, keeping everything in perspective with her rippling laughter. Now she even talked with the animals much to our amusement.

The day sped on. Endless bits of news on clothes, make-up hints, new cosmetic products. A trip to a scenic overlook was planned. Several had to leave for home. Frantic last minute snapshots.

"Goodbye Marilyn, you looked stunning in that yellow dress last night"... "Goodbye Donna. Oh your hair is just fabulous."

Each year Annette and her GG invite the FPs in the northwest to their hilltop mecca. For some it has become the big event in their femme lives. It was hard to leave.

"Goodbye Charlene . . . goodbye Brendalyn . . . bye." They hung on, dawdling by the car, trying to make it last a little longer.

A few would stay on till Monday morning but most would go today. "Goodbye Janice... yes, blue is so becoming on you."

I was at home with these wonderful people, an island unto ourselves, discovering together what it is like to live out this part of our lives. How much I need their companionship. I thanked God for Virginia, for Annette, for each of these girls, for all of this.

"Goodbye Virginia . . . yes, I'll write."

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