December 2007

Pssst…Poppets! Hi. It’s still me, in spite of the new name there on the byline. See, I’ve done it. I’ve moved to Washington. Now, I have no problem being as vocal here as I did with being a Bostonian but do you remember how cruel 13 year olds can be? Hell, remember how cruel 49 year olds can be? In an attempt to deflect some of that cruelty, I’m writing under a pseudonym now. But I won’t stop writing. I’m still me. You’re still you. And we’re still us. Ain’t it grand?

So, yes, I have made the move from the east coast to the west. I’m enjoying learning the area. In many ways, Washington already feels as alt-friendly than Massachusetts did. While I already knew Rumors, I have also found Neighbors. People have told me good things about Purr and Cuff. I can’t wait to spend my first paycheck at the Crypt.

However, before I immerse myself in the Washington scene, I wanted to say a quick good-bye (for now) to some of my favorite spots in New England. These towns are the ones you need to know about but probably don’t the ones you might not usually think about visiting. But if you want to get a feel for everything that is quintessential New England in a comfortable and welcoming environment, they are the places you need to visit.

Let’s start in Massachusetts with P’town. Or Provincetown as it is actually named. (http://www.provincetown.com/) Now, most of us have heard of P’town. It’s renowned for Carnivale, for the Fourth of July celebrations, for being a welcoming place all summer long. But it doesn’t close. People forget that P’town is still there and friendly during the winter months as well. Sure, some places are closed for the season but not all. And the crowds are nonexistent. Is there anything more romantic than an isolated walk along a windy beach before returning to your room to snuggle in front of the fire with your sweetie? Nope, I don’t think so either. If, however, you want to see the north shore instead of the Cape, head to Rockport. (http://www.rockportusa.com/) A fascinating blend of old and new, there are artists and shops and cafes enough to intrigue for days. It’s also only an hour outside of Boston and less than 15 minutes away from Gloucester and Manchester by the Sea in case one quaint New England village isn’t enough for the weekend.

Then there’s Rhode Island. Ah, the redheaded stepchild of New England. You’d be surprised how many of us forget Rhode Island is even there. Except for Providence of course. (http://www.edgeprovidence.com/) Providence has one of the largest, most thriving alternative communities in New England. There are great clubs, the arts, dining…you name it, it’s there.

Finally, to Connecticut. As the hometown of Yale University, New Haven combines the energy and spirit of a college town with the old-world charm of New England. (http://www.visitnewhaven.com) The community paper, The Metroline, is the easiest way to keep track of what’s going on in the local LGBT community but there are also several events throughout the year including, but so far beyond only, Pride Week. And if you are in the area on a Sunday and want to attend church – hey, I know not everybody’s Pagan like me! - drive up the road about 30 minutes to Salem Lutheran Church in Naugatuck. (14 Salem Street, Naugatuck, CT 06770) When the minister there, Pastor Christine Nessel, says she welcomes everyone into her church, she means everyone. Want to go dressed in all black? You’ll be welcome. Want to go with your same-gender partner? Or your soon-to-be-different gender partner? She will welcome you and her warmth and acceptance will be real.

So. There you have it. My last column (for a while anyway) on the interesting places in New England. Just something to think about while you are planning your 2008 vacations. Now, it’s time to start exploring the Pacific Northwest. Anybody have suggestions?

Until next time, Poppets, take care of you.