There was a commercial New Year's Eve party/event in Brooklyn last night, a big one. Two guys who are event organizers have been having these for several years. Three thousand people in a vacant 45,000 square foot industrial loft, themed as an airline terminal, with lots of people in costume. Airline stewardess seemed to be a popular one. (Actually, that's what I wanted to go as, but I couldn't find the necessary clothes in my size in time, so I made do with a dressy black silk blouse, heather wool skirt, and a colorful silk scarf around my neck.) Despite being a huge space, it was pretty tightly packed. A good portion of the floorspace was given over to artsy-ish installations, local conceptual and performance artists providing their labor for free. In keeping with the vibe of a community/artist -centric event, they also had solicited volunteers to build out the space beforehand. That was kind of fun -- I put in two shifts, gaining two passes and some drink tickets.

Before I get ahead of myself, I should explain that they held a party a few weeks back, for the prospective volunteers, a concept pitch and social. I met some people there, other volunteers, artists, and some staff members who work for the event organizers. I got to chatting with one of them, and felt her out about whether or not crossdressers would be welcome at the event. Her eyes lit up, along with a big smile. Yes, to make a short story even shorter.

So, where was I? Oh, yeah... last night.

I went and picked up the tickets (actually, wristbands) early and then went home to get ready. Many hours later, after flinging clothes, shoes, jewelry, coats and bags everywhere, and carefully doing my hair, nails and makeup, I was more or less ready. My Sweetie begged off at the last minute. Said she didn't think she could handle either the crowds or the smoking. (There were a few people smoking when we got "banded" and she, as it turned out correctly, extrapolated that the smoke levels were going to be above her asthma trigger point once the place was full.) So, I had to go myself or stay home. She was encouraging me to go. I didn't want to leave her alone for New Year's. But, what, waste all that preparation effort? I came up with the best compromise I could. The event wasn't starting until 11 pm (and running 'til dawn), so I stayed home with her and we rung in the New Year with the Times Square ball drop.

Somewhat reluctantly, and unbravely, I left the house to go the car (parked a block away due to snow), and was promptly wished a Happy New Year by someone I didn't know hanging outside the house next door. I replied before realizing I should have just smiled and waved. Oy, what must she think of me and my voice?

There were police blocking one end of the street that the industrial building was on, and a couple of cars with flashing lights doing something or other. I went around the block and parked on the other side. I figured I could always go home, but I might as well tiptoe towards the door and see if the party was off or on. Actually, by the time I got there, the police were gone, and you could hear the music thumping out into the street. So, in I went with a quick flash of my wristband to the giant bouncer.

Inside, it was crazy. A combination of Times Square, Mardi Gras, and a circus side-show. I never could get near the room with the dancing. (The space was divided into three huge rooms, separated by large freight-elevator lobbies.) The hallway to that room was too narrow, and jammed. As it happened, though, I spotted the woman I had been chatting with at the social, who was working, directing the crowds. I said hello. Her eyes lit up and in one motion, she grabbed me, said, "You look beautiful!" and gave me a kiss on the cheek. After wishing each other Happy New Year, she had to get back to crowd direction, but that made my evening.

I found the bar, and presented one of my tickets for a vodka and ginger ale. The bartender was another highlight of my visit. She was tall, attractive and had a gorgeous smile. She complimented me on the souvenir Iberia Airlines flight bag I was using for my purse. Appropriate theme, and all that.

Things got a little more other-worldly for me after that. I had barely left with my drink in hand before a random guy came up to me, wished me a happy new year and clicked (if that's the right word for plastic cup to beer can tapping) drinks with me. He continued on his way. Minutes later, another random guy grabbed me in a hug, wishing me a happy new year. I returned the wish, keeping what poise I could. I know I'm a crossdresser, and I don't think I'm a homophobe, but I think I'm entitled to feel uncomfortable at encounters like that. But, I didn't let those spoil my evening. I left on a high, with the words ringing in my ears, "You look beautiful!"

Now, does anyone have a suggestion for how to get the odor of cigarette smoke out of silk?