Set in stone (or skin)

The time is rapidly approaching that I will no longer be living in Denver. I have mixed emotions about the transition. I'm excited about our new start and this new phase of our lives, but I'm a little sad about leaving Denver (the city) and even more sad about leaving Denver (the people).

I've made some amazing friends in the last 4 years and have been incredibly lucky. Charleigh was my first non-Air Force friend, and she really brought me into her world and introduced me to all kinds of great people. They have all become my core group of friends... I've also gotten closer with some of Tim's friends, Lena, Jackie, Jeff & Jenny and that has been great too. It will be a major loss for both Tim and I, to not be able to see everyone as often.

I think one of the hardest things will be leaving one of my best friends here, Tiddleywink (also know as Princess Consuela Bananahammock). We've really gotten close over the past two years, and all the hours we've spent shopping, brunching, playing dress-up, planning parties, trying not to buy shoes (and buying them anyway), eating cheese, and arguing with each other, have just been so much fun. I'll really miss her.

We're wrapping up our time here together with a joint trip to get some art from the talented folks at Tribal Rites. She's getting a cool piece done on her back, and I'm getting my stars on my ankles. (Those of you who saw the VLV photos, may have noticed the stars I had Joe do in henna on the back of my ankles. That was just a practice round...)

I'm a little nervous, but also excited to get a little more ink done. The last time I got a tattoo was with (my very best friend in the world) Echo in San Francisco on our 1997 "Freedom Ride". I'm so glad we did that together. Every time I see that tattoo, I think of that amazing trip and feeling so close to her. Since she and I have always lived far away from each other, it's a little reminder of our connection and our dreams about our future.

This set of tattoos will always have major significance for me. This time in Colorado has been a huge growing experience for me, and the happiest moments of my adult life have been spent on these city streets with the man I love, and the people I truly care about. Plus, I'll look badass. ;)

Tim asked me what I would say if people asked my what my tattoos mean... They mean I'm a two star general, and my name is General Lee Fabulous. ;) (thanks to the girls and all the liquor it took to come up with that...)