🏳️‍🌈 May Blog

Dear LGBT Friends, Family, Neighbors & Allies,

Peter and I had an amazing time in New Orleans, discovering that it's a very welcoming city for the LGBT community! I know of two gay couples who relocated there from San Francisco, and they absolutely love it. It seems that LGBT individuals from San Francisco often choose to move to Palm Springs, New Orleans, or Sonoma County. Here are a few pictures of Peter and I enjoying the great city of New Orleans.

New Orleans is a fantastic musical city with live performances every night, which we thoroughly enjoyed. We would stroll down Frenchman Street, visiting five different clubs to listen to the bands performing at each venue, and then we’d choose our favorite to go inside and enjoy.

Some Noteworthy Experiences

Everyone was incredibly friendly! We took the buses and trolleys every day, which cost just $0.80 for an all-day pass for seniors. While waiting at a bus stop, we met a young woman with a harmonica who played a lovely tune we requested, attracting a crowd. Interestingly, five of us shared April birthdays as Aries, creating a spontaneous community. We all boarded the bus, sitting in different spots, but with huge smiles, nodding at each other in delight at our shared experience.

I love dogs and often ask owners if I can pet theirs. Most say yes. At a music festival, after some wine, I asked to pet a dog, which then licked my face, reminding me of my late son's dog, Bowser. I shared my son's story and cried, and the dog licked my tears, creating a beautiful moment. Although I usually wouldn't kiss a pit bull, this experience was extraordinary. Peter joked it looked like we were making out. 😜

The key to coping with my son’s passing was professional therapy. I learned about a program (LIFESCAPE Study) from Stanford and UCSF offering free therapy for LGBT seniors, which even pays participants $300 for completing the course. This is a valuable opportunity, especially given the high costs of therapy. See their flyer under resources.