Joey went upstairs where Josey was to sleep and called home to ask, “Mom, did you sign permission for me to be hypnotized?”

Mom said, “Janice your school counselor said, ‘You told her that you got angry because as hard as you tried you would never be a girl. That you wanted to be friends with girls, but when the boys tease you felt a need to prove you were a guy like them.”

Mom asked, “Is there anything you are worried about being hypnotized?”

“Mom, they said, I won’t notice that I’m staying in the girls’ cabin. I don’t think that will work.” Joey said, “I’m the one they will blame.”

Mom said, “Aunt Beth will ensure the hypnotism works, or you won’t live there. Megan has promised to work with you as much as she can.”

“Mom, Aunt Beth insists I need to live and practice at the Dancing Camp as Josey. There’s no way that I won’t be living among the girls. I am excited to learn ballet but don’t want to get in more trouble…”

“I hear you Mom, and I trust you. Aunt Beth showed me the pink tutu, but don’t mind being Josey to do it. It’s just that I lose my cool when I feel so close, but doesn’t happen.”

“Goodnight honey, it seems you are ready to agree to it,” she blew a kiss over the phone and hung up.

Josey had a dream as she slept; it resulted in her having a sense of peace and a restful sleep. It was Joey who was visible in bed, but Josey knew it was an encouragement to her to embrace Josey. When she woke, Joey did his essentials, but to show his willingness to Aunt Beth; she put on a skirt that Megan encouraged her to buy. Aunt Beth was happy to see how Joey was dressed when he came to eat breakfast.

Aunt Beth asked, “Does this mean you are open to being hypnotized?”

“I’m afraid it won’t work, but I am hoping it will,” Joey said. Joey chose a simple breakfast. It provided some energy but was lower in calories than Joey usually ate.

Beth helped Josey to put on the vagina gaff, the breast forms, and used a sealant that blended both to appear to look like a natural part of Josey’s body. Josey dressed again and when she checked her appearance she was very pleased.

Come eight o’clock, the nurse Joy came to Aunt Beth’s bungalow. Joey was asked to verbally and then to sign his agreement to being hypnotized. Joy swung a pendant in front of Joey’s eyes. She was speaking to him as a haze came over his eyes. “You are Josey and are excited to be at the Walters Dance Camp. You will stay in one of the girls’ cabins and share a room with Megan Sharp.”

After Josey was conscious again Nurse Joy Harper asked, “Josey what is your hope in being at the Dance Camp this summer?” Josey blushed at the question.

“I wanted to learn to dance as a ballerina, but I’m too old to start. Aunt Beth has a pink Tutu she will give me if I succeed.”

Joy said, “You know all you need to do is to go online and order one. I don’t think you’ll want to try and then be embarrassed if you fail with the other girls watching you.”

Josey acted surprised, “My friend Megan Sharp is here, and she’s helped me to learn enough to start. She said Aunt Beth and the camp are a safe place to learn. She said, all the girls have struggled at one level or another. She’s agreed to give me the support and encouragement that I’ll need. I know that it doesn’t guarantee success, but this is my chance to do my best.”

Aunt Beth said, “I want to put you in Megan’s cabin; you will be sharing a room with her, and a bathroom and two showers with three girls. There is to be no misbehaving or taking of pictures in the cabin. Do you agree to that?”

Beth and Joy looked at each other and were satisfied that the hypnosis had worked and that Josey was safe to be in the cabin and the camp.

Aunt Beth took Josey to Megan’s cabin and introduced her to the seven girls who would stay in that cabin. “Girls, I want to introduce you to my niece Josey. She wants to learn to be a ballerina; most of you girls have years of experience. I want you to be nice to her; she will need our help to learn quickly. My understanding is that Megan has helped her to learn some of the basics… Will you help push her along? She will be here for two and a half months. I want her to learn enough to qualify to be one of the dancers for our ballet at the end of the summer. Can I have your help to that end?”

Stacy, one of the gifted dancers, said, “That is expecting a lot of her; do you think it is a fair expectation?”

Aunt Beth said, “I saw her at Easter time, and I can tell she has put a lot of effort into being here. I expect it will be possible if she tries hard enough. But she thinks there is a trick to dancing on her toes that she wants to learn.”

Stacy turned to Josey, “There’s no trick, it will take practice, learning to handle pain, and working through it until you are disciplined enough to handle it. Megan told me about you; she, Heather, and I will take turns helping you in addition to the regular exercises and lessons we’ll all be learning…”

Heather introduced herself, “I don’t regularly help beginners; you better be in good spirits. I want you to be happy with no complaining.”

Aunt Beth said, “You all have fifteen minutes to be dressed and at your scheduled lesson. Each group will have fifteen to thirty minutes to stretch and be ready for the first lesson of the day. Ten girls are new this summer; you will wear a pink dance skirt that will help identify you with the various assistant dance instructors. You will be learning jazz and modern dance along with the ballet.”

Megan showed Josey to their room. She warmly greeted Josey and showed her the pink dance skirts she could be wearing. “You should use the toilet now; instructors will be very angry if you need to go to the loo during lessons.” Megan showed Josey their schedule for today. Josey got her ballet shoes and they were soon at the dance hall which had been sectioned off for the various lessons.

The first day was exciting, yet grueling for Josey. One session that was supposed to be exercised was more dance moves, stretches, jumps, and more, but in rapid succession with little time to catch one’s breath.

Lunch included a salad with mâche leaves, artichoke hearts and feta cheese, and kombucha to drink. The other girls enjoyed their meal, but for Josey, it was not as filling as she had hoped. She changed and refreshed herself. Lunch was two hours allowing for a short nap.

The afternoon was more grueling but included a ten-minute break for a smoothie and nuts. Josey was happy to come at 4:30 when they were scheduled to stop. But Megan was there to help Josey to refine her movements. She felt like a little child when she stretched out on one leg. Megan moved Josey’s other leg stretched out higher with her foot and toes pointing properly, while her body was leaning out in the other direction, her arms and hands just so. Josey was afraid of losing her balance as the positions brought their strains.

Josey asked, “Is all this necessary?”

Megan insisted, “It will be more difficult to learn improper forms. You’d need to unlearn that and learn everything and to learn to do it properly under the gaze of your Aunt, or another instructor. Worse would be to be the focus of one who does it improperly.”

Josey said, “But I thought this was all just fun.”

“It is quite fun with each accomplishment and the pride you can take in what you are learning,” Megan said with a smile. As the weeks continued I found she was correct, each accomplishment large or small soon gave its sense of accomplishment.

Josey learned the first week; the muscles she hadn’t used or conditioned. She went out with Megan and two other girls Friday night. Josey thought they were going to the movie theater, instead it was a community dance.

Josey quickly studied how other girls were dancing and mimicked them the best she could; when Jason Miller took her hand and stepped to the dance floor. Jason was a college student working a summer job. He was an environmental science major, who got Josey to agree to explore a state park with him. Afraid of revealing herself, she was shy in talking, which led to misunderstandings about what she had agreed to.

She sought Megan’s help to get out of what she agreed to. Megan’s response was, “This is part of your summer learning. Go with the flow and learn from it.”

Saturday morning, Stacy woke Josey at 6:30, “Get up, I’m the Spirit of Ballet, and, pain in your side, we’re going for a run. If you want to succeed you need to be in better condition. It takes a lot to be a ballerina.” Josey had on a running that she thought was fashionable. Soon, it mattered not what she was wearing or who might be watching. Josey was doing all she could to keep up with Stacy. They had run to the edge of town, two and a half miles away. Stacy brought it to a trot as they turned around. They jogged another mile before starting to walk. “Make sure you don’t stop; I don’t want your legs to tighten on you.”

Stacy started a regular conversation, seeking to learn about Josey. She was disappointed as Josey had no ballet aspirations, but to accomplish a few capabilities. Stacy said, “I have a rude awakening for you; you and I will be in the reference area today to discover more about ballet than you seemingly were interested in. You will obtain a novice’s understanding of ballet. It will help you in your pursuit, and whet your appetite hopefully for some more.”

Josey smirked, “Can I shower and have lunch before we do that?”

Stacy said, “Yes to both, we are still both girls, and no one will want to be around us if we don’t. You could even nap for a half-hour, but I would suggest you set a timer to wake you.”

When Josey was finished with her shower and back to her room; Megan was amused by what Josey had done. She was taken aback by Josey’s cooperating with Stacy. Josey admitted she didn’t know there was a ballet library and reference area.
Megan suggested, “Have a good lunch, take a short nap, and enjoy learning about what we’re doing…

Story to be Continued…

Josey barely got to sleep and Megan woke her up, “Aren’t you supposed to be awake and with Stacy.” Trying to wake up, Josey made her way to the dance arena.”

Stacy said when she arrived, “I didn’t expect you for another twenty minutes. I’m proud you’re open to learning. “

Stacy had a list of words and terms like demi-plié, Arabesque, Chassé – a traveling step, and ballare the Italian word from which ballet comes that Josey was to research and learn. Josey soon found a student book and began her studies. A half-hour later Stacy stopped Josey and she learned the words; Stacy had Josey enact the movements with the words. When Josey asked why; Stacy said, “You’ve been stumbling through the first week. Ballet has its own language and understanding that helps you to learn ballet. You’ve been exposed to this during the first week, along with the three weeks Megan helped you prepare for camp. You should be way ahead of where you are. You fighting against suggestions from others has kept you from growing like you could.”

Saturday afternoon, Josey was excited and said it was like putting a jigsaw picture together. Stacy had Josey put on a new panty and tutu. She enjoyed putting steps together first as she wished and then to Stacy’s playing music. The music had drawn Megan, Cyndi, and others. Josey was surprised at the end when her audience applauded.

Josey thanked Megan for helping her before coming to camp. She told Megan, “You helped me to get ready for Camp, but worked against some of what you taught me. It’s more fun since Stacy chided me and helped put the words, instruction, and dance together.”

Megan said, “It looks like you were enjoying dancing. Your steps were more fluid.”

Josey asked, “Instead of going to dinner please dance with me?”

Megan said, “We could do that or after Sunday dinner, we could put on some leggings and a top and enjoy dancing among the fireflies.”

“Would you do something silly like that for me,” Josey asked.

Heather who was close by said, “It’s a fun thing we like to do on weekends. For us it’s not about you but something we regularly do. Would you mind a small group being with you? We could go to another part of the camp if you’d rather not have the rest of us.”

Josey said, “I’d like to become part of the group.”

Sunday morning nearly half of the group went to two churches in the community. Josey went to the Methodist Church but was anxious someone might have a problem with a transgirl being there. Joey liked singing but didn’t know if Josey’s voice would give her away. She sang but stopped when a woman in front of her turned around. “Darling with that voice you should be singing out.” Josey thanked her for the compliment but kept singing the way she had been.

Michael Hames one of the male ballet dancers sat near her; he introduced himself during the passing of the peace. They talked after the service. Michael asked, “How many times have you been lifted during a ballet? I saw you from a distance, dancing to your heart’s content last night. You have a good heart for dance and music. When it comes time, I would like to dance with you.”

Josey felt her heart miss a beat; she was unable to speak at first. “That is a nice compliment, but it may be a while before Ms. Walters thinks I’ll be ready for more than simple steps.”

Michael said, “I don’t think so, Ms. Walters asked me if I would be willing. She said though you are a novice, she wanted to try to bring you further along sometime this summer.”

“But I’m not sure how one goes about being in sync with another dancer,” Josey said. “I wouldn’t want you to get hurt if I mess up.”

Megan who was next to her giggled; Michael said, “Once we’re in sync as you put it; I believe we’ll be able to do it.”

Megan said to Michael, “You mentioned that possibility too early. Please let me talk to Josey; she has enough to think about. She needed to focus on things one at a time, or she would become overwhelmed. Thank you.”

Megan turned to Josey, “Let’s get going, you can ride with me.”

Megan talked privately with Josey about needing good hygiene in her privates. It embarrassed Josey, but fortunately, Megan helped her. Megan said Josey needs to plan and be sure she finds time to keep herself clean.

Megan found it easy to change the subject, by talking about how well Josey was doing. “It appears, Stacy’s time with you helped you along.”

Josey, “She had my number and wasn’t shy in calling me to task. I was set to take a stand, but the way she explained it; I found myself learning and doing it as she showed me. I know I have much to learn. And don’t be surprised when I have one of my fits. This might be a big change, but it’s not a miraculous miracle.” We both had a good giggling fit.

Come morning Aunt Beth and Joy had trouble holding their composure when Josey appeared as a different camper. Beth told Anna Roche Josey’s instructor for the morning, “Stay with your group throughout the day, and focus on the experienced ballet dancers bringing the novices along at a faster pace. I sense there is a willing spirit open to learning through that.”

Anna was happy to be given such an assignment. “Megan, I want you to pair with Josey and the others, who are experienced to pair with a younger or less experienced dancer. You will lead the younger ones by example and assess which profit from this come lunchtime.”

Megan took me and the other experienced ballerinas took another dancer who they could relate to. First, we did our stretches and the five positions over again. I was doing things better by following her lead. Then she did five to ten choreographed steps and I did what she did. She’d watch and show me how to do them better. Finally, she put twenty steps together and I was soon able to do it to her satisfaction. The hardest to do was an arabesque as I turned. I was sure I did something wrong, but Megan complimented me. The third time Anna Roche complimented the both of us.

“Megan, you make a good leader; I’d have been pleased if she could do that early next week. I’ll take Josey and the others after lunch; focus on improving yourself after lunch by doing parts as choreographed in Swan Lake.

I was exhausted, and in need of the break come lunchtime. Aunt Beth, Anna Roche, and Megan met after lunch. I washed and napped.

I loved Anna Roche’s French accent as she worked with me in the afternoon. Anna had me practicing moves to dance, but I did not know which ballet I was dancing to. We had rehearsed again; we had lost track of time until Megan called us. “You need to stop and get ready for supper or you’ll be late.”

Anna asked, “Could you watch Josey once before we stop?” Without waiting for Megan’s response she began the music.

Josey hesitated and said, “But…” Anne started the music again, and Josey began to dance. Josey had to concentrate and kept Megan out of focus as she danced. The piece was about over and Josey was pleased she remembered the steps. Anne and Megan clapped, and Josey asked, “Did I do well?”

Megan turned to Anna, “You introduced her to a part from the Nutcracker?”

Anna said, “I was sure she would not recognize it. And with her relaxed, she followed the steps as I showed her. We got lost in time and she accomplished much.”

“The Nutcracker, I heard of that, but where was the march of the soldiers?” asked Josey.

“You were given that piece of the music,” Megan told her. “You shouldn’t have been ready for it.”

Anna said, “You and she shouldn’t have accomplished what you did this morning. Josey didn’t know how much she was tackling. She is good at following what we show her. Enough for now; it’s the end and we need to get ready for dinner.”

Josey took a shower and was soon ready for dinner. Aunt Beth called Josey saying, “I heard you had an amazing day Josey.”

Josey instead of saying ‘Thanks,’ she said, “I’m in over my head. Things are going well, too well. Megan and Anna Roche both had me dancing; dancing I shouldn’t be able to do. If tomorrow they expect me to do that I’m afraid I won’t be able. Help me, Aunt Beth.”

Beth said, “You have dinner with the others and I’ll find you around 8 p.m., we’ll talk then. You should celebrate what you did.”

Dinner was vegetable stir with chicken and rice; none of the tasty sauce. Josey looked at her reflection as she left the cafeteria. She saw a thin ballerina; Josey was pleased, Joey not so much. She went up on her toes to see if she could. She couldn’t sustain being on her toes. Stacy saw her, “You’re coming along, you’ll get there.”

Josey said, “Not that important as that I was dancing as a ballerina. You were right, there are tricks but dancing to learn. Something has changed in me. You helped me to change.”

Stacy had Josey stop with her as they sat on a bench along the path. Stacy said, “You have changed, but how did I help?”

Josey had to pause and think, “I was doing what I had to, you helped me to see a larger picture. I was looking for a trick; you gave me the language of ballet. You changed me.”

Stacy asked, “Do you like ballet more now?” Josey stood up and was ready to cry as Stacy took her time standing up. Josey hugged Stacy and wept in her arms. They were sitting again as a group surrounded them. “I’m not used to how girls care and show feelings.”

Someone said, “You’re one of us, what aren’t you used to?” Neither Josey, Stacy, nor Megan knew how to explain what she said.

Once back to her room with Megan, “It’s true they don’t know who I am.”

There was a knock on the door, Beth was there. Beth asked, “Josey, when did you find the poise of a ballerina? It’s not that of a novice.”

Josey’s voice still cracked from tears in the way. “Weren’t you the one who instructed them how to treat me? You wanted to see if I changed. You expected I had.”

Aunt Beth smiled, “I was hoping you’d become a ballerina, but not this soon. We’re early into camp. I’m happy for you.”

Josey said, “But being Josey, a ballerina, someone who belongs here is becoming real to me. What kind of boy feels like this?”

After Aunt Beth left to go to her bungalow, Josey changed into shorts and a top. She went down to their community room; wanting to talk about what others had done. Jenny talked with Josey, saying the fun she had was learning to jump in anticipation of someone catching her. “Finally, I jumped and Stacy caught me and I twirled as she sat down.”

Josey was able to picture the sequence and sensed the joy that Jenny felt. Josey thought back to her day and was moved more deeply by what she had done. She joined other girls watching the Nutcracker. When she recognized the ballet she had done today; she was in awe of what she accomplished.

She showered, preparing to go to bed. Megan and she visited until both tired and were ready to sleep. The lights went out, and sleep overcame Josey. She was a ballerina in her dream, and Michael Hames was her partner. She was soaring over him as she felt his hands on her waist and thigh. She liked his touch but realized she was just another ballerina to him.

The camp had progressed into July, and Josey’s Mom had come over the 4th of July celebration unannounced; Aunt Beth had pointed out Josey, but Josey’s Mom didn’t recognize her. Finally, Beth brought Jennifer to Josey and said Jennifer let me introduce you to our rising star Josey Anders.

Jennifer said to Josey, “How can it be? You’re one of the experienced girls. I saw the last of what you did and was taken back.” She collected herself, “Josey, were you practicing with Megan more than I knew?”

Once over the surprise that her Mother was here, Josey became conscious of herself being in tights and a tutu. “I’m embarrassed Mom; I should have been better dressed.”

Mom stepped forward and hugged her, “You’re a ballerina; I’m a little surprised by how much you look like my daughter, not my son.”

Beth said, “She’s been part of our group showing those from the community about ballet…”

Story to be Continued…

Josey won over her mother, “Mom, do I have to go back to school as Joey; you know your women’s Dr. Helene knows I have gender identity issues. I’m growing as Josey, and I don’t want to go back to my old self.”

Jennifer, her mother, said, “Josey, I’m not sure that would be good” Jennifer noticed Josey standing her ground and staring back at her. I could call and see if she’d be willing to make an appointment via a video connection. Ultimately she’d need to see you personally. I would suggest you be ready to continue as Joey.”

Josey asks, “Aunt Beth do you think I could be in that pink tutu for my video call?”

Beth says, “Josey that may be possible, but I want to continue the camp day. You and your Mom need to let us get back to rehearsing. Let your Mom look on watching everyone to practice up to lunchtime.”

Anna and Megan started their group from where they had stopped. That would allow them to finish the current dance. It would be Josey’s first time of Josey being lifted by Michael Hames. He would have the option of lifting her waist high or over his head. Josey was calm and in sync with Michael as he began to lift her. She soon felt comfortable with Michael’s hand on the front of her waist. He is halfway around the form as he brings her down. Her toes and then the next foot and he has her hands as he lets go. She is soon surrounded by other ballerinas. She dances off stage as the dance goes on, now without her. Josey loses her crown and is back to being one of a multitude of ballerinas.

Away from them, Beth rings a bell, and lunch break begins. They were back to their cabin as three pups came running up to them. Cynthia and Josey are the first two to sit down and let the pups come to them. Cyndi looks around but no one is with them. “They are adorable” Margaret the cleaning lady said, “I saw a car stop, open the door, and throw the three pups out. The car drove off. It has happened before, but usually with an unwanted dog or cat.”

Cyndi said, “They’re so cute; I’d like one but we have another five weeks of camp.”

Josey said, “If we can find some boxes and duct tape in could make some puppy castles to keep them in. My friend George showed me how to make one.”

“And who’s George?”

Josey paused, “He’s a boy I look up to. He’s a year older and more of a guy’s guy.”

Sherry says, “Is he your boyfriend; do you think he’s cute?” Josey sits back.

Josey thinks of him differently, “I guess he’s handsome; girls think he’s cute.”

“Hmm, I’m glad you paid attention to him; are you sure you could make puppy castles?” Cyndi asked.

Megan spoke, “You need to clean up and be ready for lunch. Don’t try bringing a lot of stuff to feed them.”

Josey’s Mom wanted to take her out for lunch, but Beth told her, “You go find a place you want to take here, and you can take her out to dinner tonight.”

All the girls were at lunch, and Josey was happy to stay with the group. A bigger lunch would have hurt her, if she went back to practice.

Cynthia mentioned the pups, and Beth said, “Don’t plan on them staying around; I don’t want you distracted by trying to take care of them. The sooner they find forever homes the better.”

Cyndi, who is twelve, said, “I’m sure my parents would let me have one.” Josey thought, ‘I could talk my Mom into one.’ Cyndi, Sherry, and Josey all took something back for a pup to eat. Margaret the cleaning lady has brought back scraps from the kitchen and some boxes.

The pups were still around, and the girls used the quiet time to pet, care, and build temporary homes for them. Josey asked Margaret for a box cutter. She said the larger boxes were for Cyndi and Sherry whose bedrooms were on the lower level. Josey used the smaller ones for her one pup. The newspaper went into one side for poop and pee, and rags or towels for where they’d stay and sleep. There’s a little trick to disciplining them, further info is not needed.

Mysti was the name Josey picked for her pup; Mom would initially say ‘no’, but Josey didn’t accept that answer. “Give her time Mom, you’ll warm up to her.” Mom decided to give me the holiday weekend to come to my senses. Josey knew it was Mom who would change. Joey would have given in to his Mom.

Aunt Beth informed Jennifer, “Either go to town or watch the girls practice from a distance. They’ll be done at five, but you should know I expect all the girls to practice 2-3 each day of the holiday weekend.”

“Surely, you will allow me to have time with Joey undisturbed?” my Mom said.

“Surely not, Josey to remain as your daughter; you haven’t had her to spoil. Take this time to enjoy her; you might even call Dr. Helene before she gets away for the holiday.”

Jennifer did call Dr. Helene Miller, hoping she’d already be gone for the weekend. Unfortunately, for Jennifer, Helene still had two appointments and took Jennifer’s call. The Doctor’s suggestion was to allow her to call at 5:30 on Tuesday, and allow her to be the one to encourage Joey to be himself… Jennifer went to Nova Hope to check on places to eat and to see what they had in the way of stores for shopping. She found Hope’s Tea & Potpourri Room where Beth had taken Josey when she first came. There was Nova Hope Restaurant, Evening News Pub, and Supper Club. She went to Keene, New Hampshire which was eight miles away. Where she found the Redfern Art Center which had summer performances this weekend.

Mom asked Aunt Beth about the Redfern Art Center and Beth told her, “You should make it an evening of a nice dinner and the Art Center performance. Tonight, you two might want to enjoy the Evening News Pub. It’s a fancy place for our town.”

When Josey was back to their cabin; she checked on Mysti her pup. Her pup had peed on the paper but had pooped on a rag near where she was lying down. Josey used toilet paper to move the poop to mark the paper in the other section before throwing it away. She let the pup outside and played with her. Sammy and Pearl were out with Cyndi and Sherry. Other girls were around them and playing with the shelties.

Finally, Josey came in and showered; then she asked, “Megan could you help me to look nice for my evening with my Mom?” Megan went to Josey’s clothes and picked out a skirt, top, panties, bra, and pantyhose. “This is what I’d suggest.”

“I like the choices, especially the pantyhose. I like how my legs look now.” Josey said.

Megan complimented her, “You’ve worked hard, to be pretty. Thanks, Josey for allowing me to be part of your ballerina story.”

Josey was dressing as she watched Megan. Megan was simply getting ready for dinner; Josey asked, “What do mothers and daughters talk about?”

Megan said, “You could take the lead by saying what you like about your mother, or what you’d like her to tell you.” Megan said, “My Mom likes to know what I like and who are my friends. Like I’ve been here, she’ll ask how the summer went and what dances I got to do as what characters.”

“Wow, all that, I don’t talk that much,” Josey said.

Megan giggled, “If you want to be a girl; you’ll learn to talk more and to take interest in what’s important to us, your friends.”

Josey was doing her makeup, when Megan indicated where she should use concealer. “Your complexion is better, but make sure you have a uniform complexion.” Josey did that and asked for her suggestions on eye shadow and fingernail polish. “Stay casual tonight, I heard your mother has something planned for tomorrow night. You and she will go shopping so you can buy a special dress.”

“A fancy dress doesn’t impress me,” said Josey.

Megan said, “It should feel as special as a pink tutu.” That struck a note with Josey.

Josey took Mysti out before she’d go out with her Mom. Jennifer was soon there where Mysti cuddled up to Jennifer. “She likes you, Mom.”

Josey took Mystic back to her homemade kennel; Jennifer asked, “Has Mystic been house-trained already?”

“She’s on her way, but not there yet… I’ll go wash my hands then we can go.”

Dinner was nice; Mom told her of the performance at the Redfern Performing Art Center and dinner beforehand at the Evening News Pub and Supper Club. Acting surprised, Josey said, “But will I need a nice dress for the evening?” Her Mom told her they would go shopping.

“I’m not for you being a girl, but like Beth suggested I’m going to enjoy a mother/daughter time while I have you,” said her mother.

Two months ago a dinner with my Mom and a performance at an art center wouldn’t interest me. But Megan Sharp, Anna Roche, and Aunt Beth helped me to become Josey. “Mom, please put to the side the thought of what you don’t want me to be. I want us if possible to talk as mother and daughter. And for you to see me anew if possible. I have no preconceived idea of you accepting me like this, but I want us to enjoy the weekend.”

Mom paused, “I think that will make for an enjoyable mother/daughter time.” Dinner at Nova Hope was enjoyable once Mom talked to Josey as a daughter.

“I know you aren’t on board with taking Mysti, but I have two years of high school to take care of her and train her. Did you know Shelties are smart and easier than most dogs to train?” They talked.

Soon the subject changed to ballet, and her Mom noticed Josey’s eyes light up as she told about when Anna and Megan first helped her. “Mom you should have seen it; they helped me understand the terms, and Anna used Megan to help me learn the different movements. I learned the Plié and attached to the Arabesque and the Chassé. And when it came time to review them; I put them all together and danced. I guess I wasn’t supposed to be able to do that yet. Soon they had be doing parts of different ballets; even Aunt Beth was surprised.”

Mom said, “I am delighted, I never saw you so excited as you described it… Isn’t it a bit embarrassing wearing the breast forms, and the vagina?”

“Actually since the first three days, I haven’t thought of them,” said Josey. “And I can concentrate on being a ballerina. Once in a while we freely dance outside like fairies flitting about. It’s like there’s a spirit in the air and our dance is like individual prayers, but instead of talking it’s our whole body that’s delightfully expressing our joy.”

The evening came to an end, but Josey took a while to fall asleep. It had been a long time since she saw her mother smiling about what she was doing.

The next morning, Josey put in three hours of practice, and the perspiration as she went to the shower showed a healthy glow. Other girls wished her a good time with her mother. This was different from Joey, I rarely wished others a good time or was remembered by them.

Josey didn’t expect dress shopping to be special, but her mother took her to the women’s stores in Keene, New Hampshire and there were many shops for girls. Mom said, “You’re the age of a young when woman get excited at the chance to dress up.” We went to Clay's and Maurice’s, then onto Moe Mentum, Kohl’s, and Miranda’s on Main; she lost count of the stores before her mother allowed her to choose what she wanted. The nice dress for the night would be a shimmering blue dress. That Clays even steamed the wrinkles so she could wear it that night. Josey found the three-inch heels at Kohl’s. Mom talked her into stockings from Miranda’s on Main and some jewelry: a bracelet, necklace, and a sapphire ring bought by Mom as a gift.

“Mom, I became enticed as we were window shopping, but upset as you had me try clothes without buying them. How was I to know, we would buy what?”

They got a hotel room where they could freshen up and change to ready for the evening. Jennifer was caught off guard when Josey undressed and went to shower, and when dressing she did so in front of her mother. Mom asked, “Don’t you have any qualms about dressing in front of me?”

“Mom, I need your help, how else am I supposed to do it? As a ballerina, we wear little, and can’t afford to be shy. If I can do that with Megan and others, why should it be different with you?” She said, “Thanks for the stockings they feel great and make my legs look much better.”

Dinner at the Evening News Pub and Supper Club was the first step into a world Josey hadn’t known. She ordered beef tips on a bed of wild rice, and sautéed vegetables. She sat up straight, took small bites, and savored each. Mom let Josey to have a glass of wine. She asked, “Mom are places like this usually poorly lit?”

Mom said, “It’s for setting a mood. I’m sure the males here are taking you and me in with their eyes. Can you feel it?”

“Mom, that's creepy.”

“You said, when you chose the dress; I bet this will turn some heads?”

Josey said, “But I didn’t think of it including me.”

“How do you feel about being an attractive young woman?”

Once to the Redfern Center for the Arts and hearing an orchestra warm up, seeing the large stage, the program with the touring of New York City Dancers, and the Manhattan Trio Singers along with the orchestra would present the program Light, Dance, and Sound. That gave little indication of the fabulous evening they were to enjoy.

Joey would never have gone for this kind of performance, but after learning and turning to dance by ballet Josey was into the evening. The dancers were in sync with the orchestra making the dancers' spirits, move freely as lights and shadows. One would have thought they began with their best presentation, but performance after performance including a medley of Broadway musicals with the Manhattan Trio taking the lead, backed by the orchestra and interspersed with dance from the New York City Dancers as well as Keene State University cancers with figures from The Lion King and lavish dance costumes and high kicks from Moulin Rouge. Twice Jennifer pulled Josey to a more lady-like applause for their performances. “But Mom, they caught me up in their music, it felt more intense than the Rock Concerts I’ve been to.” Mom was amused with her daughter’s emotions flowing out.

There was no encore, but that was okay for even the audience felt exhausted. The New York City Dancers carried the night, and the Orchestra and the Manhattan Trio helped carry the evening. When Josey met some of the dancers there were close to ten dancers and staff she saw from the Camp. Megan and Anna complimented Josey on her gown. The four women went for after-theater refreshments. Anna bought Megan a glass of wine, while her mother bought her a non-alcoholic white grape drink in a wine glass.

Back to their hotel room, Josey enjoyed walking through the evening with her mother. She changed into the negligee her mother bought her that she swore she wouldn’t wear. Mom asked, “What changed your mind?”

Her simple reply was, “The Evening.”

To Be Continued…

Josey woke in the morning at 5:30, got dressed, and went down to the lobby. Hanna a dancer of the New York City Dancers befriended Josey. “Didn’t I see you come over to us after the performance?”

“Yes, but you were busy with important people,” Josey said. “I loved your dancing. I’m sixteen and only now learning ballet. I’m from White Plains, New York.”

Hanna asked, “Did I meet another dancer last night from White Plains?”

Josey said, “That must have been Megan Sharp; she’s a co-dancer and one of my teachers.”

Hanna asked, “Can we go into their restaurant for breakfast?” Josey tried excusing herself because she planned to eat with her Mom. “Then let’s talk over coffee or tea.” They talked and two others from the dancing troupe joined them.

Josey’s phone rang, it was her Mom and she was delighted for Josey, “Would the group mind if I came down and we could have breakfast together.” It was a group of five, and the breakfast was a good time of give and take with a joyful spirit.

Hanna and Danielle both invited Josey to meet with them where they’d be on and off Broadway.

Hanna talked to Jennifer, “We understand she’s trans or however she sees herself. Her friend Megan spoke well of her recent progress. That you support her she’s especially someone we want to follow.”

When Jennifer said, she wasn’t sure that Josey would continue as a girl. She was challenged, “You mean Joey is her stronger persona?” Jennifer knew better but was waiting to hear Dr. Helene Miller’s thoughts on Tuesday.

They were back at the Camp by 11:30; the ballet dancers planned to dance outside from seven to ten that evening. Josey had peach tights and a matching top; it caused many to take a second look to know she wasn’t nude. She’d put on a tutu to make it more obvious.

She was outside giving Mysti, her dog, needed affection and exercise. Her mother came out to check on Mysti and affirm the presence of her daughter Josey. Josey was showing differences from Joey; caring more about others than herself. Her affection and attention to Mysti also revealed a personality difference. Josey now had a sense of play. She was very playful with Mysti, without getting rough.

Come three o’clock Josey, Mysti, and Jennifer ran out of energy. Mysti slept next to Josey, and Jennifer borrowed Megan’s bed. They were refreshed for dinner. Mysti’s cardboard castle was ready for her.

Jennifer had woken earlier to be in conversation with Beth. Dinner was a simple cookout, but chicken instead of hotdogs, early corn on the cob instead of baked beans, and bowls of fruit and yogurt.

Guys from Keene State University were thereby 7:30, but Josey was happy with Michael and her dancing peers. She found Michael and the guys more interesting than she had. Michael was three years older and that was enough and he was known by her.

Beth Walters and camp security kept watch and soon encouraged the few Keens State guys to head back.

The Fourth was the next day, and a festive atmosphere around the community was exciting. Twelve dancers including Josey danced as part of the community festivities. Short skirts were worn instead of tutus. They entertained small crowds of people and helped over two dozen from the community to experience and learn firsthand about dancing. There were two boys, who were encouraged to participate; one was excited to get Megan and Josey’s attention. Sadly, he explained, “My father thinks this kind of dancing weakens boys.”

Josey explained, “It takes much time to see how much boys and men have to contribute. One of our group had to pretend to be a girl first before he was encouraged to dance.

There was a good break from their little dance clinic, to refresh and be ready for the local fireworks, come dark. Many like Charlie, sought the dance community before the fireworks began. Charlie the eleven-year-old boy sought to be with Josey. And as the fireworks continued she leaned back against her. He was embarrassed when others pointed out what he did. Megan helped turn it around. “She appreciated Charlie being willing to dance. He lucked out getting the attention of a good-looking girl.”

“Charlie ten is a good age for a boy to start dance,” said Josey. “You should ask your parents to speak to Beth Walters. This is her dance school camp. This might be your opportunity to begin dancing. If your father sees this as an opportunity, without making it a final decision it just might work.”

A girl standing nearby, said, “Charlie, Dad might just accept it. Dad smiled when he saw you with Josey.” Marie looked to Josey, “You just need to know how most men think.”

“I agree, it might help,” Josey said.

All the dancers were looking forward to getting back to dance camp activity. Mom called Josey, “Were you good at caring for Mysti?”

“Yes, I was with her no less than four times after this morning. Mom, you will need to make your decision without my help. I want her.” Josey considered her Mom’s silence on the other end, “And no it’s not a question of Josey or Mysti. I want both.”

Mom said, “You have hutzpah, where did that come from?

“I’m just guessing about hutzpah, but yes, I think I do. Josey has things that never surface with Joey.”

Mom said, “Remember, tomorrow you have a face-to-face with Dr. Helene my doctor.” Josey thanked her Mom for the reminder. Their conversation soon ended.

With a good night’s sleep, Josey was excited for a full day of dance camp. She was refreshed and Mysti helped to wake her up. When she got to the cafeteria she found a bag of puppy chow and a leash and collar for Mysti. It was her Mom saying they were keeping the pup. Josey's crying was a clear sign she was a teenage girl. Her Mom was soon behind her saying, “I want you to know I support you in whatever that will be.”

Josey kept crying with the only chance she was crying in her mother’s arms saying these are happy tears. I’ll get past them.”

Megan moved over telling Jennifer, “Sit here Mrs. Anders.”

Josey ate cream of rice with almond butter, and goji berries for breakfast; it was a rare opportunity to have the goji berries as they were cost-prohibitive. Someone ordered enough for breakfast. Josey, afraid of what Dr. Helene Miller would say, took two of the green pills which she usually gets once per week. She then hurried back to her cabin room to give Mysti her gifts and to take her for a good walk and some play.

Mysti was a bundle of energy as her new collar and the puppy chow was fed to her. Returned to her puppy castle; she’d stay there until lunch recess.

Today, Coach Anna was working with Josey’s group; she worked them hard and had them coming on their stage from the left and right and moving between the other dancers. It took four times before the girls learned to be conscious of others and know their roles within the dance sequence. Then each time another twist was added. It added to Josey’s excitement as she completed the added steps. She had completed seven steps on her toes, and Megan applauded her achievement. Anna was critical of Megan, “Don’t compliment her for doing what she was asked. I don’t want her to lose her concentration.”

It was when they broke for lunch that Coach Anna Roche called Josey to her and complimented her morning routine. “You did very well Josey; my criticism of Megan was because she lost sight that she was a coach at the time. I expect you to do what is asked of a student. I know this was an achievement for you but now, not then is the appropriate time to compliment you. If I seem to forget, you are to do such things without compliments. More is still expected of you.”

“I know you have a doctor’s visit coming up, but it cuts into the workout. I hope those things can be avoided in the future. There are allowances given to ballerinas in America than I am used to. I hope you will not be too emotional to return to practice after it's over. Beth Walters told me it might be. I understand, but I am expecting more out of you.”

Josey steps forward, gives Anna and unexpected hug, “Thank you for your compliment and I will try to return, but my doctor’s visit isn’t until 4 p.m.”

“Ms. Walters said you will need the beginning of the afternoon session to dress properly and it might be a video call. Did she tell you that she put the Pink Tutu you’ve worked for will be in your cabin room after a shower and lunch?”

Josey hadn’t expected the pink tutu to be given to her yet. She went to her room, the tutu was not there yet, but Mysti was and she needed to be outside. Mysti and Josey were bubbling over with glee, once outside. Josey hoped Mysti was already hers. Megan gave her a walk while Josey cleaned up her boxes. When Josey appeared back outside Megan let Mysti’s leash go and Mysti was running to her, but as a puppy, she wasn’t fully obedient. “Megan, we can’t be too lax with her. I would hate to lose her to an accident.”

Josey gave Mysti some fresh water and a scoop of puppy chow. She ran some more and then was put back inside.

Josey freshened up but went to the cafeteria before showering. Aunt Beth and her Mom congratulated her on the steps she took on her toes. Aunt Beth asked, “So what was the trick to achieving that?”

“There’s no trick; you and the dance camp brought me along. I didn’t expect to do it already.”

“Neither did we; you responded better to Anna’s coaching and Megan’s help than anyone had the right to imagine!” said Beth. Our applause was earned by Anna and Megan as well.”

Josey jokes, “But I’m not sharing the pink tutu.” There was laughter throughout the cafeteria.

As lunchtime was winding down, it was announced, that Strawberry shortcake would be served for the evening dessert.

When Josey went to take her shower the tutu was still not there. The shower was good, and smelling clean was now treasured by Josey. She wore a robe back to her room finished drying off, and combing out her damp hair. She lay down and dreamed that she was a real girl. Megan came in and broke her out of her dream. Megan said, “We have dreams like you were having.” Megan sat on her bed across from Josey. “Were you dreaming just of yourself, or was someone else in your dream?”

Josey, “You surprised me, whatever I was dreaming was gone.”

Megan says, “You can trust me were you alone or was someone part of your dream?” Josey seemed dazed. “If you knew the person, is was probably romantic; if not you were trying to think or feel like a woman. Either serves their purpose. Ms. Beth had me bring your pink tutu. You should try it on to see how it looks.”

Josey was quick to her feet, and Megan brought it from around her back; “It’s a nice tutu; what makes it special to you?”

Josey quickly put on a pair of white tights. Then she eases her way into the panty with the tutu, gets her arms into the sleeves, and pulls the tutu up snuggling her body. She pulled the zipper up until Megan could help her. Josey likes how she fills out the tutu.

Once in the pink tutu and it is properly fitting she turns to the mirror, “Oh my!” There’s a big pause, but no sign from Josey of how she likes it. “It’s my dream come true, can you believe that? What do you think Megan?” Even without the distraction of the tutu skirt, Josey would be smooth.

Megan wants to hug Josey, “It is beautiful Josey.”

Josey asked, “Do I dare keep it on to practice dancing this afternoon?”

Megan said, “I’m sure it would be fun to get a video, of a short dance, but wouldn’t it be better to be safer to wait?” Cyndi and Jessie come to see the pink tutu that was spoken of. Most of the girls had been dancing for years and already had a special tutu or two. Cynthia spoke, “That is the prize tutu I’ve seen Ms. Walters show before. It’s nice to see it on someone. It is beautiful on you, Josey!”

Mysti barks from her box, wanting Josey's attention to pick her up.

Josey’s phone rings, she answers and it is her Mom, “Josey, you need to come up to the main hall; Dr. Hanna has called early. Come immediately as you are…”

To Be Continued…

Dr. Helene Miller spoke as a ballerina hurried into the room, “Is that you Joey?”

“Yes,” Josey said, as she turned to a large screen connecting the two on a video call. Josey was stunned to already be connected and on the screen. Josey carefully made her way to a stand that had a microphone. “I hope you would address me as Josey. That is who I am at the Walters Dancing Camp.”

“Your Aunt Beth told me you are one of the big surprises at the Dance Camp and that the Pink Tutu you’re wearing is a prize she thought would take to the end to achieve if then.” Josey’s face lights up as they talk. “Your Mother says you want to go home when camp is over as Josey. Is that true?”

Josey could see no indication if Dr. Helene Miller was pleased or not. “I think; I wanted to become the girl you see now. I suspect I would need to live as Joey for a while sometime, but I would like to remain Josey for now, and when I return and can see you in person. Would you agree to that?”

Dr. Miller said, “It would likely be more difficult to return home as Josey. You would likely receive a lot more negative responses to people…” She asked first to see me in the five different positions that ballet dancers start from. And then asked to see me dance about… “I see a much more graceful person; can you explain how the change came about?”

“I was Joey dressed like a girl to learn the tricks or secrets about how girls stood on their toes. But I was accepted as Josey, and I got frustrated because I was having trouble. Instead of them becoming angry with me, my friend Megan taught me about ballet and demonstrated a lot of the basics. I improved modestly until my teacher Anna Roche and friend Megan began to teach me by following Megan’s lead. My learning and ability just took off, and now three weeks later, I am learning ballet dances. It was like I became Josey and my spirit reflects that. My Aunt Beth, who heads this camp, gave me this pink tutu as something I earned. It should have taken until early August if ever I would have earned it.”

“Would it be okay if you left camp and came home tomorrow,” asked Dr. Miller. Josey’s posture changed like the air was kicked out of her.

“If I did,” Josey said, “If I give back the Tutu’ it wouldn’t mean anything. Are you going to require me to do that?”

Dr. Miller said, “I thought you’d like to come home; you achieved what you wanted. Why would Joey want to stay any longer? …You could stay, but that didn’t make sense in Joey’s thinking.”

“Joey has some scruples I didn’t have when I came here. I would rather not stop what I started. No, it doesn’t make sense to me the way I thought, but I don’t think I would be any happier as Joey or Josey if it ended now.” Josey looked at Dr. Helene in front of her. “I would like to finish what I’ve begun. I won’t learn everything, but I will have seen my commitment through. I don’t usually do that.”

Dr. Helene smiled, “I am happy for you. Your mother and I didn’t expect any big change, but this experience is helping you to grow.” Dr. Miller asked the others to leave the room, and the building, if that were possible. She needed to talk to me privately.

Dr. Miller said after the others left, “This is between you and me and is confidential… Are you being forced under pressure to do what you are doing?” She went through some possibilities of how that might happen. “Can I hear you talk as Joey?” We talked.”

Joey said, “You were correct, this was a drastic change, one I didn’t expect. I’ve been selfish and immature. I’m afraid of going back to being me too soon.” Joey changed, it was once again Josey speaking. “There’s a lot of Joey left in me; I don’t hate myself as Joey. I always liked girls’ things, but that was a secret. I don’t want to hide or be a secret. I deserve better than that. I hope you can understand that.”

“I am impressed, Josey, if you would call the others back. I think you will be happy with what I will say.”

Dr. Helene Miller greeted the others. “It appears that Josey has made some good strides. While Josey and I agree that Joey continues to be an important part of who she is. I agree that she should continue at the dance camp as Josey. My suggestion is that she continue taking supplements as beneficial and that she will have an appointment to see me soon after she returns home. Her time in dance and as Josey has helped her to see more of who she is. What the future holds for Joey/Josey should be done with my help and a counselor.”

When the session was over, Mom, Aunt Beth, and Josey hugged and talked. Mom was to stay until the next for a proper goodbye. Josey surprised Anna Roche by getting to her dance lesson already in session. Josey practiced dancing as part of the group. Michele continued to dance, becoming familiar with what had become Josey’s role. Shelley was, in fact, a more accomplished ballerina.

Josey dared to let others know that she was a transgender person. It was something most of them had realized and were now happier that it could be spoken about. Charlie, who had become a day camper who went home at night, talked more to Josey. “I can see the attraction you see in being a female dancer, and I appreciate that you hadn’t pushed that idea on me. I might enjoy the chance to be a ballerina, but not now if ever.”

Josey’s Mom had Mysti out playing when the afternoon session was over. Mom also sat with Josey during the evening meal.

Josey’s filled with a whirlwind of emotions. She had taken off her breast forms, but pushups helped her to keep her feminine appearance. She was thrilled that her Mom was accepting of her as Josey; yet like any teenager she was anxious for her Mom to leave in the morning, despite knowing she would cry in saying goodbye. Her mother had a surprise, she took Josey to town to get her makeup. Anna Roche was with them, and to Josey’s surprise, Anna had worked with cosmetics to fund some schooling and her first two years as a ballerina in France.

Anna had convinced Jenifer Anders to allow Josey to have enough champagne that Josey might become giggly. Once she did, Josey tried whispering a question, “Ms. Roche, do you think it will be safe to tell my mommy about my stash of girl clothes?”

“You can call me Anna tonight. When did you begin cross-dressing, and when did you begin collecting the clothing?”

“When my cousin Michele visited and left a short skirt and two pairs of panties. I told my mother, but they disappeared after my mother didn’t mail them to her. Then the next visit Michele found the panties hidden in the back of my chest of drawers and her skirt hanging in my closet under one of my shirts. She had me dress in them when our mothers went shopping. She gave me a blouse to wear and helped me to look girly. She came to visit now and then for some time. My wardrobe increased each time.”

My mother interrupted us asking, “Why don’t you tell Anna about the pictures Michele took of you?”

Josey was surprised that her mother knew about the photos she had taken. Josey asked, “How long did you know about that?” Her mother explained that Josey had not done a good job of hiding them, nor had Josey realized they had been cleaned and put away.

“Mom, why didn’t you tell me you knew about Michele and me?” Josey asked, not knowing if she wanted the answer.

Her Mom said, “I thought at first it was a one-time thing that you would grow out of. The longer you dressed behind my back, the angrier I got. But I wasn’t sure how to talk to you so I talked to Michele and my sister Karen. Karen discouraged Michele from helping you. It wasn’t until Aunt Beth visited that I saw the disrespectful side of Joey. But when she showed the picture of the pink tutu, you embarrassed me and told Aunt Beth any boy could do what girls do. And that set up the events of this summer.”

Mom said, “When Aunt Beth said how well you were doing. And she said she thought Josey was for real. I have since found some of your stash of clothes that I didn’t know was still there. They are clean and either hanging in your closet or put away in two drawers of your chest of drawers. I also put your poster of Kate Winslet from Titanic on her toes onto my wall.” Mom giggles, “I cleaned off the stain on it the best I could.”

“Mother, you know there was no such thing,” Josey protested.

His mother kissed Josey on the cheek and got into the car. “I will look forward to having a daughter for a while when you get home.”

Josey, “I thank you for the mother/daughter times we’ve had on this visit. I hope you’ll be up for our closing programs.”

The car drove off with no remark if she’d be back or not.

Anna commented, “I want you to go to your dancing workshop on time. You’ll be working on how ballerinas jump and are lifted by partners.”

Josey changed into her regular ballet tights and was stopped by Aunt Beth as she entered the main hall. “Now you have permission to be yourself, Josey, enjoy yourself.”

“Yes, um,” said Josey and she went to stretch and be ready for the day. Anna was good at her word when it came time to practice. Anna asked, “What sports have you played and enjoyed?” When Josey indicated basketball, “Do you know how to take a jump shot? I don’t know much about basketball, but I like to watch it. It seems like there are smoother jumpers than others. Could you explain that?”

Josey explained, “Some have trouble handling the ball, jump with their hands with the ball and their eyes on the basket. It takes time and learning by experience.”

Anna says, “That sounds like something I want you to learn next in ballet. …You have learned some dances, but your jumps or being lifted need to become smoother, more second nature to you by repetition and experience, and learning about where you are with others.” The ninety minutes in the morning were hard and frustrating for Josey. She made small strides that were frustrating to her. At the worst, Anna would work with her more personally in the afternoon.

Once back in her room, Josey heard from Megan that she had a good morning and asked how Josey did. Megan asked, “Were you the one who was learning how to jump?”

“Yes, it was, and don’t tease me. It’s like I have to relearn to dance all over. Ms. Roche said it would take years of practice, being patient while I am being pushed to learn it. And there are things like fouettes, en pointes, and more that I need to learn.”

Megan said, “There is much you have learned quickly, but it takes time. Be patient with yourself, you’ll be surprised how much more you’ll learn yet during this camp. If you continue to dance with our group when we’re home, you’ll continue to improve.”

It hit Josey, she would be going home. Would she dare join a ballet group there? Every day, she talks with Mysti about her hopes and fears about returning home. She tried talking with Megan, but Megan told her to concentrate on her ballet now. So this became a thing between her and Mysti. She had talked to Anna Roche, and Anna gave her time once a week. Anna advised Josey that ballet was good for her and something she could do in college and later in local theatre groups.

Josey asked, “Anne, why are you willing to help me? It’s like you take interest in me and hear what I’m trying to say and be… I have a limited future in ballet, but you understand that it speaks to my life.”

Anna says, “I hope to go on to ballet, but there are people in my journey that I think I’ll be remembering. I think you’re one of those people I hope comes backstage to see me. I even hope you’ll have a daughter, son, or a friend with you. I believe Josey that you make a good Mom.” Anna sees Josey wondering, “I’m not forecasting your future; I just think you can achieve your heart’s desire.”

It’s the end of the week and Josey has learned and moved ahead some, not as quickly as she would like. Friends of Megan’s came that weekend. Josey and Mysti moved to Aunt Beth’s for the weekend, as she didn’t want Megan’s friends to recognize her.

Aunt Beth’s granddaughter Teri was there, a distant cousin to Joey. Teri no longer dances, but she’s willing to put on some tights and practice with Josey. They’re quickly friends. Teri drives them to Keene to do some shopping therapy. Teri’s old enough that they are on their own. Teri likes being in another college town. Teri asks, “If my friend Danny is home and willing to go to a movie, are you game if he has a friend who would go with us; I hope you will be willing?”

Dan’s home and his brother Trez are willing. Josey sneaks back to get a nice outfit. Aunt Beth had told Teri she wished they weren’t going out, but she didn’t force a change. Aunt Beth talked alone to Josey, “Josey, you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to.”

“It’s not just to please Teri, but I need to do it sometime since I’m thinking I’m a girl,” said Josey. Beth winked and said, “Not completely.” Josey smirked.

Aunt Beth complimented, “Teri and Josey, I think your dates will be pleased with how attractive you are.”

Shortly after Dan beeped his horn to let Teri and Josey know they were there. Teri spoke, “Relax Josey, Dan knows better; especially since my Grandma hasn’t met Trez. They’ll be at the door soon enough.”

Josey enjoyed Aunt Beth’s questions for Trez and Dan. Trez was both handsome and seemed to be well-mannered. He said he had graduated from high school and would attend Keene State this fall.

Approved to go out, the guys walked their dates to the car. Trez said, “I’ve never dated the girls from the dance camp. I suspect you are graceful as well as attractive.”

Josey smiled, “I’ve never dated someone who graduated from Nova Hope High School. This will be a first for both of us.”

They first went to a small restaurant and the guys treated the girls to dinner. Josey was nervous, eating, and being watched. She took small bites that she thought were appropriate for a girl. Trez would go to play basketball at Keene State and study in their environmental science program.

Teri mentioned, “Josey had been a tomboy and has just started to take ballet. But her grandma said Josey is developing into a fine ballerina.” Maybe if we go to a dance, instead of the movies, you will see if she can translate her ability in dancing with you?”

That made Josey more nervous as going to the movies would require a lot from her. Dan looked at his younger brother, “Well, I think we could do that. What do you think Trez?”

Josey already learned a little about dancing as a girl and wasn’t very nervous. Trez was already impressed with Teri as Dan’s date. He was happy that Josey had a tomboy side as well as being pretty and graceful. He spent his time waiting for a slow dance with Josey.

An older boy tried to cut in, but Josey spoke for herself, “Sorry but I’m staying with him.” The guy told her how it was supposed to be. Josey said, “Sorry times have moved on and I choose to stay with Trez.”

Trez’s ego took a great boost. After they started to dance again, Trez said, “Thanks, you know how to make a guy feel good. I like what you decided, but I’m surprised as he was older.”

“I did it as much for me as you; you’re new but I know I like you,” said Josey. It was the last time at the dance they were interrupted. They did as much talking and walking as they did dancing. Josey was surprised that she had feelings for Trez, or was it just the idea she was liked? Liking a boy seemed awkward, but Josey amused herself, ‘I’m a ballerina that new… being Josey liking a boy is new.’

She hoped for a kiss before the night ended but didn’t want to push the idea.

When it came time to leave the dance and be taken back to Aunt Beth’s, Josey could tell Dan and Teri were back as very good friends. After Teri was in the car, she cued Josey, “Follow suit.” When Dan got into the car and turned the key to start it, Teri’s hand went up to Dan’s face, turned it towards her, and kissed him.

Trez murmured, “I like that idea.” He and Josey turned to each other and kissed. Trez’s kiss was wet, warm, and Mm nice. Josey liked it. She touched his face and kissed again. When dropped off at Aunt Beth’s, Josey told Trez she hoped to see him again…

Sunday night Josey was back in her room with Megan. Megan’s visitors had left after lunch, and none of her friends recognized Josey. It was after supper and they were out dancing with others that Megan asked, “How was your date with Dan’s brother? Teri had told me you were going out. When I noticed a nice dress was gone; I was sure you were a willing participant.”

Josey blushed, but recovered, “It was nice, very nice. I hope to see him again before camp ends.”

Megan asked, “How were his kisses?”

“Who told you that we kissed? I was surprised but they were nice. I was the one who suggested he come back,” Josey volunteered.

Megan giggled, “You just told me; I was only guessing.”

While we talked, Kirstin one of the dancers came to Megan and kissed her. Josey’s eyes lit up. Megan introduced Kirstin, “Kirstin is here for the main production, I’m in it with her. She’s from the City (NYC) and we became good friends last summer. We get together enough to keep our relationship alive and warm.” Kristin and Megan giggled.

Kristin commented, “Josey, I heard you already won the pink tutu as your prize from your Aunt Beth. That is quite an accomplishment. I thought your Aunt might give it to you for trying hard, but that you achieved your own goal this fantastic summer.”

Josey found herself warming up to Kristin, and the idea of Kristin and Megan together.

Kristin said, “I hope you don’t mind but I know your secret with Megan. I think some of the other girls have figured it out as well. Like me, we’re impressed that a boy would be willing to do all this as a girl. That you never really danced ballet before makes it more impossible.”

Josey said, “If it weren’t for Anna Roche teaching me and Megan showing me how to do the different movements it would never have been possible. I was too ignorant that it should have taken much longer. Roche drilled me to learn the terms of ballet and repeatedly the movements learned quicker than I should… I’ll confess I did it all to impress Megan.” Megan was now the one blushing. The three of them hugged.

Kristin went to where she was staying, only after a long look at Megan hoping she would be coming. “Another time maybe.”

Before they went to sleep, Megan talked to Josey about her relationship with Kristin and that sometimes she would stay with her. Josey understood.

Josey asked, “Megan do you know who in addition to Kristin knows about my being a boy?”

Megan said, “Cynthia heard you and me talking and she heard Joey’s voice once. Diane told two people in her cabin and then your Aunt Beth. Mrs. Walters spoke to those girls while you were with your mother. Some have watched you not knowing what to believe. Most see you as Josey; not knowing if they think you’re a girl, or not. Most of the girls prefer it when you are not wearing the breast forms.”

Josey was upset upon hearing all this, but as she lay thinking a calm came over her. ‘It was no longer a secret and people hadn’t teased her. Was she free to be Josey? Her heart warmed.’ Before long she fell asleep and had a restful sleep.

Megan asked, “Josey, how did you sleep last night? You were talking and it seemed like you were talking to someone.”

Josey said, “It was a good sleep, but now that you mention that; do you remember a ‘Ronnie’ from the NYC dance team?”

Megan said, “There’s a Ronnie in their dance group, but I don’t know her. Why do you ask?”

“Because that’s who I was talking to in my dream.” Josey said, “I never had a dream like that. Did you ever have a dream where you’re in a conversation with someone you didn’t know?”

Megan asked, “Do you remember what you were talking about?”

“We were just talking, and she was supportive of me,” Josey stopped and thought. “Somehow she knew I’m trans. She thought it was neat that I was brave enough to be here learning ballet.” Josey paused, “That was it.”

Megan asked, “Would you like Cynthia to contact Ronnie to see if she remembers you from when they were here?” Megan thought of something and asked, “Were you attracted to Ronnie? Do you remember who she was when they were here?”

Josey pulled out a program from when the New York City Dancers were here. Ronnie from her dream popped out of the program. She didn’t see the name but her in the group picture. “We talked when she was here, but I hadn’t remembered that until now.”

Megan texted Cynthia and Cyndi replied, “Ronnie texted me last night that Josey was her kind of girl. She hoped I would talk Josey come to the city sometime with Megan.”

The Camp dancers were seriously preparing for their closing programs. Josey. Josey saw a new picture of herself. She was thinner and was getting the physique of a dancer. She was sixteen pounds lighter than when she came, though she had gained in her chest area.

It wasn’t until Tuesday afternoon when Michael was rehearsing with Josey and lifting her that he noticed when he lifted her. Michael, “Josey, you’re lighter and flowed into my arms as I lifted you! Did feel as awesome for you as it did for me?” Anna said, “Josey don’t answer; focus on your dancing… Everyone repeats that last movement and sets every move to memory.”

Anna said, "Josey, thanks for staying focused that is what a serious dancer needs to do. You just moved forward in your dancing.”

When she returned to her room before lunch, Josey saw she had a message from Trez “Can I take you out tonight so we talk about a date on Friday or Saturday?”

Josey messaged, “Let’s plan on it, but I need permission. I will text you when I know.”

Megan said, “Josey, you need to tell him you’re transgender. I am sure he will want you if you go out alone with him.”

Josey, “You can’t know that for sure.”

Megan replied, “Only 80% are sure; you should decide beforehand what you’re going to say if it’s true.”

“I’m not going to have sex with him, so I don’t need to tell him.”

Josey asked Anna, “Would it be okay to go out to eat tonight and on a date this weekend?”

Anna smiled, “Can I ask If these were the boys you and Teri dated a little while ago?”

“It would just be me out to eat tonight. I’m not sure about the date. We’ll talk about that.”

Anna said, “Yes, you have permission for tonight and I suggest the date be Saturday. I will likely ask for extra time on Friday, you'll be tired.”

Josey said, “Thanks, but are you serious about extra rehearsing Friday?”

Anna said, “Don’t tell anyone about Friday; it would only be for some of you.”

The lunch was a salad with mâche leaves, and feta cheese and she grabbed a handful of walnut pieces as she went to her room. She took Mysti out to run, using lean chick pieces to train her to return on command. Mysti got distracted once, but otherwise, she showed how smart shelties are. She had another half-hour to rest before the afternoon rehearsals. She sent her message to Trez.

Come the afternoon practice, Anna barked at Josey as they were about to begin. “Josey! Your thoughts are distracted; I won’t have that. Either your head is 100% here, or I have you the rest of today. Do we understand?”

She put a nylon mesh over Josey’s head; Josey’s sight was hampered. You will need to lean on what you’ve learned and your partner The second time they were repeating movements 2 and 3. “You know the steps, now trust your partner.” The music began, and Anna said, “Begin.” Josey was stressed as she danced through the 2nd and 3rd movements. “Back to position, repeat.” The third, fourth, and fifth times through the dance Josey and Michael were flawless. The fourth and fifth parts did not include Josey. She got to watch others. The sixth through eighth scenes all had parts where Josey was dancing. The seventh scene was the most demanding for Josey as she had seven steps to take on her toes, and then leap as Michael would swoop her away. Once back down she would gracefully run off stage. This movement took five takes, and Josey’s toes were sore after the second time her toes were experiencing pain.

Megan consoled Josey at the end of practice, you accomplished your goal, dancing on your toes; you’ll have to do it only once for each performance. If your toes and feet are sore, you’ll need to find it in you to perform at your best.

“Now put your feet in the whirlpool for at least twenty minutes.” Megan and Josey were both in the whirlpools at the same time. Reminiscing how far they’ve both come at the Dance Camp. Megan teased, “And you thought there was some simple thing that makes it possible.”

“The poise the dancers have deceives how difficult it is,” responded Josey. “I can’t believe you helped me do this. Thank you, thank you.”

Megan asked, “Are you going to be able to go out with Trez tonight?” Josey smiled and nodded her head affirming she would.

The time in the whirlpool and two Tylenol, gave enough relief to go out. She chose a blue flowered sundress and then went to take a shower. She smiled as she took of her bra. Between the pills and wearing a bra, fatty tissue accumulated and she hoped her doctor would say it was a natural development. She dreamt it was true as she washed herself with a soapy washcloth. Little bumps formed around the aureole of her tits. She swore the feelings she had were real. She asked Megan to look and touch them, but Megan wouldn’t even look at them.

She was dry and back to her room, Josey decided to wear her matching panty and bra set. The camisole barely touched her buns. She did most of her makeup before putting on the dress and brushing out her hair. Megan complimented her on the application of her makeup. “Everything goes together well Josey.”

She wore the shoes with the two-inch heels. “That is a smart choice. Your toes thank you,” Megan commented. She filled her purse with what was needed for the evening. She and Megan hugged, and then they walked together as far as the cafeteria.

Josey sat on the bench from where one could see the parking lot, as Megan went inside with the others eating there.

She saw Trez as he drove in, and was already walking to his car when he stepped out of it. “Wow, You’re very pretty tonight,” Trez said.

“Thanks, you’re looking good and handsome.” Did I say that?

She extended her hand as he reached for her; he took her hand and gave her a peck on the cheek. He escorted her to the door of the car. She sat on the seat and shifted her body until her legs were fully in. She looked up and saw that Trez was focused on the hem of her skirt. He shook his head as he changed focus and started around the car to the driver’s door and got in.

He took her to a Mexican café, the woman called Trez by name, “Nice to see you bring a pretty senorita here tonight. Are you two open to something just a little extra spicy?”

Josey said, “Yes if you guarantee it’s not too hot.”

Maria said, “You trust Mama. It will be a treat, not a bad trick. Thank you for trusting me.” She soon brought out two Pineapple Mocktails and they ate chips and sauce. Soon, a waitress brought out the two dishes. Josey’s was made with chicken, and Trez was given beef. Neither could guess the spices. The dishes did have a good tangy zing. There were peppers and onions. The red peppers had a sweet and zesty spice.

Trez talked about a hideaway on Saturday where they could be to themselves. His hand found its way to her lap as he talked. She pushed it back, “I am not sure I’ll be open to what you have in mind.”

“It won’t be anything you aren’t open to, I promise.” She asked more, but he wanted it to be a surprise. They sat in the car and kissed with a little petting before they returned to dance camp.

To Be Continued…

This is based on Maryanne Peter's vignette Finding Poise.

Josey wanted the date but was upfront that she might not like what he was planning. Trez was sure he would get what he wanted. Saturday Megan said, “I’ll warn you one last time not to trust her date. His brother Dan has a bad reputation.” Megan was true to her word and let that be her last warning.

Many in Josey’s group took time to practice for their big performance. Many, like Josey, talked about who would be there from their families. Josey said my Mom and cousin Michelle were Aunt Karen’s daughters who helped dress Joey as a girl when they were young. Josey said that at first, her Mom told Michelle what she was doing, but one phone call to Michelle changed her mind, and she was now excited that she was coming.

They would be here on Tuesday and stay at Aunt Beth’s lodge.

Josey had done very well in her practice with Michael. Michael wanted to take Josey out that night. He was disappointed, she was going out with a local guy named Trez. Despite that he snuck a kiss with Josey; surprisingly they both enjoyed the kiss.

“Michael that was a surprise, but I need to focus on when we dance,” said Josey. She quickly ran back to her cabin. She told Megan what happened, saying, I might have a date with the wrong boy.”

After her shower, she changed from the dress she planned to wear to a smarter-looking dress. Megan commented, “Are you trying to assure yourself that you made the right choice?”

“Let’s just go to dinner, what will be, will be.”

They were a little late to dinner, which caused more campers to look at them. Some ‘Oohs’ were heard; one girl, as she left told her, “Josey, watch out, don’t get hurt.” Josey checked with Megan, that she hadn’t asked the girl to say that.

Josey and Trez went to a movie, and shortly after it began Trez began to move his hands down; soon he rubbed her leg and then leaned to kiss her. “No, Trez.”

“Shush, be quiet,” Trez said. He brought his hand up and around her shoulders. He whispered, “I’d like more to remember you by.”

Josey asked, “Do you want a trophy to remember me by?” She looked at him, he was looking but wouldn’t meet her eyes. “Something like that,” he snickered kind of to himself.

“Well, there would have to have been something more.”

He said, “I’ll tell you whatever you want.”

“Sorry, not enough, I had feelings for you,” she said, “But I’m not feeling anything back.”

He said, “We should get out of here and be someplace alone. I’ll show you love.” He got up, tugging her hand, he pulled her up; they were leaving.

Josey said, “I’m not going anywhere with you alone. I want to go back to the camp.”

Trez was emphatic, “I got the car, we’ll go now and you'll get back to camp when I’m ready.”

Josey took out her phone and made a call. “Megan, it’s Josey and I’m at the theatre, and I need a ride.”

Megan said, “Josey, it’s not a good time.” Before Megan could say anything else Josey said, “I’m sorry,” and hung up. She called Aunt Beth, despite that it would be embarrassing.

Aunt Beth answered and Josey started to explain. Trez commented, “You are inconvenient for them. Let me give you a ride.”

“She’ll come and give me a ride,” Josey said. Trez left. It was twenty minutes, but first Megan came through the door, and then Aunt Beth was soon behind her. Megan saw a smirk come on Josey’s face and she looked to someone behind her.

Megan said, “You ended our call before I told you I was coming. I’d never leave you out to hang.” Aunt Beth said, “She doesn’t understand yet…”

Josey asked, “What don’t I understand?”

“Neither of us would leave you vulnerable to a prick,” Beth said. “Megan’s too good of a friend. We’re all sisters.”

Beth turned to Megan, “Megan would you and Kristin please follow us to my cabin? “I’ll give Josey a ride.”

Josey told her Aunt Beth that Megan said it wasn’t a good time. “How was I to know she’d come?”

Aunt Beth asked her to wait until the four of them were together. Once all were at the cabin; Kristin hugged Josey, “It’s okay.” She said more but Josey didn’t understand what she said.

They talked, Beth was family, but Megan and now Kristin were sisters too. Josey cried and came in the middle of a hug.

Josey was trembling, shaken, and embarrassed by the night’s events. Aunt Beth suggested Josey stay the night with her, and that Kristin have Josey’s bed and stay with Megan. Josey was going to say if she did Kristin and Megan would make out, but realized her Aunt knew that.

Monday night, her Mom and with her Joey’s friend Sandra arrived. Her Mom had told her of the possibility but she was surprised that Sandra had come. Josey was turning red when Sandra said. “Your Mom thought if you were coming home or going to school as Josey, you’d need a girlfriend to be there for her. Sandy stepped up to Josey and gave her a big hug. “Josey, I’m excited to know this side of you better.
Have you got into shopping? You must have worked hard learning ballet and getting in shape.”

Josey asked, “You’re not put off by my wanting to dance ballet or being a girl?”

Sandy said, “Many of us thought as Joey you were working against something inside you.”

Mom spoke up, “I need to get us checked into Aunt Beth’s bungalow. Can Sandra stay with you for a while?”

“Sandy, I could show you where we’ll be dancing if you want.”

Sandy was excited, “Could you possibly do a few steps for me?” Coach Anna was there and Anna loved putting Josey on exhibition. She was sure Josey wanted to, but at the request of her coach Anna could coax Sandy’s responses.

“You should have seen Joey when he came here. She thought there was a secret to a ballerina looking so good. Her friend Megan and I hit a responsive chord. Once she began improving, she blossomed and Josey became her own person.”

Sandra watched Josey’s performing the various moves and was awestruck.

Two days later were the first performances. The first performance at one was for the beginners by all rights Josey should have been part of it. Josey and others had seen how most of those dancers had progressed. Their performances on the whole were beyond early expectations except for Aunt Beth and the other instructors.

Louise had stepped in to share Josey’s performance in Swan Lake; she was an advanced ballerina, who had a smaller part in their performance later. One could see Louise’s talent, but not having practiced as much with the group benefitted Josey. While Josey’s performance was fairly good, it was the life and spirit she brought to the performance that captured the hearts and applause of the audience.

There was a short reception after they presented Swan Lake. A Critique from the Ballet Review listed Josey Anders as an up-and-coming ballerina to watch for. She acknowledged “Josey brings spirit and life to her performance in Swan Lake. It has been contagious and the performance takes on a new life. She becomes a maturing swan as she emerges in her role.”

The Nutcracker Suite’s second performance stayed on Friday, but the second performance of Swan Lake was brought up on Thursday and had its own performance.

Their troupe was excited they were having their night. Being Princess Odette, the White Swan; Josey was getting more anxious. The other night they were more like the warm-up ballet with the focus going to the older, more experienced, and well-polished performing ballet dancers.

Josey was blessed to come this far, but she was worried that she wasn’t ready to be the focus of so many. She was comforted by her Mother and Sandy’s excitement for her.

Her mother took her aside, “Josey what you need to do is to keep your joy and spirit flowing. You’ve learned and improved a lot. Don’t get distracted by trying to be someone else.”

Sandy stepped toward her, “Once you told me you were jealous of the grace girls show, and said it was unfair… I thought boys got too much attention. More people focused on what boys did… You set your eyes on dancing on your toes; I’m so happy that you have developed so much. I kid you not, I’m so proud of you,” Her kiss came out of nowhere. She was hugging Josey though she had not planned it.

The warmth radiated between them was heartfelt. The longer Sandy hugged Josey both felt the warmth of it. Josey’s fears we melting away.

Sandy tried to apologize as she let go. Josey could only whisper, “Don’t that was so good. Between my Mom and you, I’m ready.”

Having her stomach and muscles tied in knots, Josey had not eaten breakfast. “Mom, I’m hungry and need to eat. Could the three of us, go in town and have a late breakfast?”

Mom said, “Shouldn’t we invite Megan Sharp to go along with us.” Sandra chimed in, “I would to talk with Megan. From what you said she deserves credit for you to get solidly grounded.”

The breakfast went fine, and once back to their cabin; Megan encouraged Josey to get into her stretch and warmup regiments for the evening. Josey without thought changed into her full-body tights, Megan stepped very close to Josey. “That is the second time you started to change in Sandy’s presence. She’s not one of the regulars here and this is not a public locker room.” Josey blushed into a crimson red.

“Except for changing into a white panty, I didn’t see much,” Sandy said as she giggled.

The staff set out, nuts, fruit, and energy snacks for those performing tonight. One building was set aside for makeup and helping with hair. A well-starched doily was placed as Josey’s hair decoration.

Aunt Beth made an unexpected appearance, walking straight to Josey. “Josey, Louise pulled a muscle in her leg and is questionable for doing the first part of Princess Odette’s performance. Instead of someone trying to step into the role at this late time; I am giving the full performance to you. No one will know of the change until Swan Lake begins.” She said, “Anna Roche believes you know the full ballet well enough to handle it.”

Louise soon appeared in the area limping the aid of a crutch. Josey asked what happened; she slipped walking the creek and pulled or bruised something as she landed in the creek. Josey hugged her and felt she missing an opportunity to be seen by others. Louise had tears that Josey tried to soothe. Josey knew she wouldn’t have cared just two months ago.

“Mom, I don’t deserve this; Louise has put in so much time, years. I was a selfish boy wanting something I thought was easy.”

“Yes Josey, you’ve changed; there’s only traces of who you used to be. You’ve worked and learned to be a ballerina. There’s a new spirit in you and she needs to embrace herself. Let your joy come forward, and be in sync with your dance.”

Megan found Josey and took her to stretch and get her mind in sync with Odette. With fifteen minutes to go, Josey was there. Anna Roche had Josey get into position and in sync with the music. “You have this Josey. We believe in you.”

Josey was like a little girl getting to dance as Princess Odette, the White Swan. With the first few steps began an out-of-body performance. There were the other swans; Michel was the Prince, yet also a swan that came alongside her. Being on her toes brought some joy others wouldn’t understand. Being lifted by Michael gave her the feeling of soaring. The ballet was like the transformation taking in place of her.

Oh so soon, she found herself in the fourth act. Her joy almost interfered with her dance, but Michael had caught her, and she was now in sync for her landing. She twirled as the other swans surrounded her and as they bowed she rose in a pirouette. At the end, the audience rose in applause.

Josey bowed and broke into tears of joy. ‘I can’t cry!’ Cynthia helped her to stand and reminded her to curtsey to the crowd. Megan, Anna, and Aunt Beth waited for her off-stage. Josey joined the ensemble as they took one last bow before the audience.

Friday, Josey was happy they danced the night before now she could focus on the experienced troupe of dancers and they performed the March of the Wooden Soldiers. She was in awe of the lead dancers; she was beyond happy for Megan.

Saturday was goodbye and the beginning of a slow trip home. She had loved the reception for her performance, tonight's reception was grand.

Mom, Sandra and take their time going home; spending part of the day shopping and dining near Boston. They stop the next night in New York City and enjoy watching a ballet at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Where they saw Coppélia performed. Meeting three of the ballerinas after the performance was exciting for Josey.

When Josey mentioned Hanna of the New York City Dancer. Tasha, one of the three, texts Hanna to come out and meet Josey from the Walker Ballet Camp up in New Hampshire.

Hanna Sharon came out to visit Josey and took her up on stage, “Josey, please take off your shoes. She asked Josey, “Now follow my lead.” She did as they danced steps from one part of Coppélia. Hanna asked, “Do you know what you just did?”

Josey said, “I’m guessing, it is from your ballet.”

Hanna giggled, “You’ve just danced at Lincoln Center. Do you know what it usually takes to dance here?” Josey knew the answer; every one that grew up near NYC knew the answer. ‘Practice, practice, practice.’

“So after dance camp, do you see the possibility of being in a ballet here? She asked.

“No, but I have a better understanding of what it took to perform that beautiful ballet. Were you able to enjoy being in it? …It looked like poetry come to life. I never thought ballet could be funny like this one was.”

Once back in White Plains, Josey continued as herself except for one weekend a month or whenever a three-day weekend happened. She found it interesting to keep being Joey. The school agreed to allow Josey Anders to be a student at the school for a semester. That became a year and two years led to graduation. Time led to boyfriends and girlfriends. Upon graduation and with the approval of her doctors Josey began formal transitioning. Her hormone regimen allowed for surgeries to come sooner. Josey wasn’t all sugar and spice as real girls aren’t either. And then came college.

She’s in college at Fordham University and planning a wedding for late May.

The End