A Browncoats Love Letter

There are a lot of people in my life that I love dearly. But this Valentines day, I'd like to say a special, great big "I love you!" to a particular group of people.

When I first auditioned for "Browncoats Burlesque," I was super nervous. I'm not sure what I was expecting, I just knew that I was nervous. Even when I was accepted into the troupe I was nervous, because I didn't really know anybody and I had no idea what I was doing.

But once my first show was done and I had the chance to meet my fellow Browncoats and other members of the Burlesque community, as well as get to know them via Facebook, everything changed.

Not only was GeeKISSexy a GINORMOUS boost for my confidence and self-worth, but the outpouring of love that I've felt from everyone in the troupe and around it is staggering. I don't think I've ever felt so welcome and accepted in my life! And it was pretty much instant. None of this "testing the waters" stuff that is so common in a lot of the social groups I've been a part of the in past. These folk have jumped right in without hesitation. Not just in giving love, but opening themselves up to be loved. You're all kindred spirits.

I feel so blessed that I have been made a part of this little corner of Ottawa's Burlesque community. I honestly can't give enough thanks to everyone I've met in the past few months both in and through Browncoats Burlesque. You opened your hearts to me, and helped me to open mine.

I've struggled a lot in the past few years, and I feel like this has been the final step in my recovery. Proving to myself that I've healed enough to love others because I've learned to love myself. And for that, I know no other way to express my gratitude than in these few clumsy words, though I assure you, they are of the utmost sincerity. :)

Also, I want to extend extra-special, shiny, happy feelings today to a few that have been so caring and wonderful to me, especially when I've been sad. Jason, Mae, Luvy, Jean-Francois, and Gypsy...You guys are amazing <3

And so, today I'm sending love and warmth to *all* of the people that I love, but I just wanted to give a special shout-out to my shiniest, noobiest group of friends. You've made such a difference in my life, and I wanted to give that some special recognition.