Today is the birthday of a dear friend of mine: joannabarbarella. If you'd like, feel free to send her birthday wishes below in the comments.

Haylee V

I hope you enjoy this foray into my darker side. Please remember to like, kudos, and/or comment, even if there's something you disliked about it. All CONSTRUCTIVE criticism (even the negative ones) is greatly appreciated.

*kisses*
Haylee V

There are many on this site that have experienced tragedies too horrific to comprehend. Some have managed to, somehow, find balance and deal with these hideous, monstrous demons, some have not. I have shared some of my childhood tragedies with a few close friends- people that have been through, or are currently going through- similar circumstances. PTSD is a ROYAL BITCH, and sometimes, we all need a shoulder to cry on, a gentle hug, an understanding heart, and a listening ear. I would like to be that person, and give back to a site that in the last three months has given me so much.

Just an FYI: I posted the first chapter of "No Good Deed". Enjoy.

OK, I've been too lazy for too long. I'm bored to tears, and want to touch base with my friends, fans, and dear, devoted readers. here's a glimpse into what I've been working on:

First, Smoky Corners. I plan to, EVENTUALLY, finish "Third Time's A Charm". Unfortunately, though, my muse for all things SC has fled to parts unknown, and I'm having significant trouble finding her again. when I do, I will post updates.

Second, I'm working on THREE new stories. One involves a new concept and possibly a new universe. The other two will be SOLO stories.

The things I've learned, from the people that matter most:

1) "Judge not, that ye be not judged."

2) "Never judge a man until you've walked a mile in his moccasins."

3) "A fool's name, like a fool's face, is always found in a public place."

4) "It's better to remain silent- and let the world think that you're an idiot- than to open your mouth and prove them right."

5) "If you can't say something nice, then don't say anything at all."

After having watched one of my favorite anime series yet again (I My Me! Strawberry Eggs), I can really feel for Hibiki Amawa-sensei.

I have a lot of sadness within me, and maybe a little too much bitterness that I need to deal with. I think, at times, we all have the ability to become bitter and calloused, if we allow ourselves to wallow in self-pity and doubt. Well, I'm tired of just wallowing. Thanks to the person (you know who you are) that pointed out what I could not see- that I had begun to let the bitterness consume me. I don't want to become THAT person.

I am Veronica Haylee McSwain.

I am 47, and a transsexual.

I did not choose this role in life, yet I cannot shy away from it either.

I hurt. Often. And it's not a physical pain, but a pain of indifference, intolerance, and bigotry.

I do not want, nor do I have the unyielding need for, your acceptance.

I do, however, require your respect. Not because of WHAT I am, but rather because of WHO I am- a fellow human being.

OK, so it's not Trans, or Smoky Corners, but here's something I wrote a few years ago. Enjoy.

"Requiem For the Deranged Poet"

(c) 2006

With neither rhyme nor reason
I cater to the call
And thrust my mighty ink-stained pen
Upon the parchment wall.

I dabble in the darkness vexed
And whittle words once wise
And quote the thoughts that I've annexed
Amid my mind's demise.

I can't remember things forgot
When I was but a lad
When jumbled thoughts ran cold and hot
Zounds! I've gone quite mad!!

First, a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone for all the well wishes. I felt each of your prayers and am so thankful that you each took time out of your busy schedules to think of me. I missed you all and love my brothers and sisters (and others) on the site.

Second, there's going to be a moratorium on my posts for a few days. I'm working on QUITE A FEW new projects, and I'll post them soon.

Third, everything's going good with the new pacer, so no worries.