RANSVESTIA

somewhat specific to me and probably more severe than those faced by many of the girls. So I decided to write you. If you decided my story might cheer up somebody or make them realize that in many ways they are fortunate, I would be happy for you to share it with others. Actually my story is quite humorous, too.

Let's begin-about four months ago I happened across Ms. Fein- bloom's book, Transvestites and Transexuals at the University of Ken- tucky library. I was amazed, intrigued and jealous of the Argus chapter described therein. "If I could only belong to such a group" was my thought. More fundamentally, I realized that my "affliction" was by no means a unique predilection, nor was a preference for occasional existence as a woman, an "affliction" at all. Until that time I had confined my activities to dressing furtively, while I was married and usually on in bra, panties and nylons. Now, however a whole world was opened to me.

I could summon the courage to shop for my own clothes and would feel no need to purge nor to use 007 spy tactics to hide them! I also had gotten divorced in the meantime and could build my wardrobe as I wished (and could afford). Also I had only begun to face my problems. Having succeeded in shaking my guilt feelings, I realized that there just aren't many other women like me—6′6′′, 220 pounds, size 14 (men's) shoes, sleeve length 37" and so on. Virginia, when John has to buy men's clothes he has to deal with "tall and big men's stores you can imagine the difficulties I faced and still face. You girls out there-count your blessings if you are only 6'. I've seen many women 6' and its getting so a woman that tall only gets a second look every so often (because of her height, although she may get some second looks for other reasons).

I have conquered some of my size-related problems. I examined the yellow pages of the New York City phone book and found a shoe store that carries size 14! I ordered some black patent sandal-type, low heeled (I couldn't face being a 6'9" woman!) shoes, and plan on ordering some more over the phone. They also would take business by mail, of course. I have shopped at various "Tall Girl" stores, but it's rare that I can find anything tasteful and not overly expensive in these places. My long legs (and not my waist, I assure you) force me to wear control top pantyhose. But when I put it all together-a sleeveless cowl-necked and knit top, long skirt (over your pads, and Virginia, they do give me an excellently shaped "tummy" and hips)

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