Saratoga Pride is an LBGTQ group outside of my hometown but close enough that I thought it would be worthwhile to check out.  I stumbled upon it from meeting Amy a few weeks ago.  They were having their annual dinner last night at a small restaurant/ pub, "50 South", just outside Saratoga, NY.  There was a rather small group there, about 30, less than I expected, not knowing what to expect, which also was good as it made for a more intimate setting.  (I give the restaurant a 5 of 5 on the food and service, and acceptance!)  I had never been to any kind of LBGTQ event or gathering before last night. I would not have been at all surprised if I had met someone there from my hometown, was well prepared if I had,  but I didn't.  I'm finding the more I step out as Jess now,  which is more often than not, I am as comfortable,  💇‍♀️ even more so, than in a cis-male role.  I never expected that so quickly, having only been stepping out for a few weeks, now.  And I'm finding that most, no,  just about everyone  I encounter out in public seems comfortable with me, too, whether I'm  just pumping my own gas, getting coffee, going to the supermarket, going through the mall,  walking downtown window shopping, and yes even going to a nice restaurant by myself I've never been to.  I've never been shy in engaging with anyone and I think people quickly figure out I'm non threatening and that may have something to do with it.  I noticed at the banquet, however, that the different groups there, i.e. the L, the G, the T,  mostly clustered together, not all, but it was very difficult for the most part to strike a conversation and keep it going with everyone.  Hmmm, have to think more on that one and figure how to better break the ice next time.  Still met quite a few good people, though,  and I'm looking forward to following up with them in the near future. 😊   Jessica 😍