Photo Credit: Allen Halas
Ruthie
Dear Ruthie is sponsored by C3 Designs. C3 Designs offers a variety of services performed in-house, including custom jewelry design, jewelry and watch repair, appraisal, pearl and bead stringing, engraving and flip guards. You can read past columns here.
We’re only a few weeks away from 2021, but with any luck you’re finding a bit of relief in the hope of a new year. Not to get all hippy-dippy on you, but the turning of a page can leave people feeling optimistic and invigorated. The holidays are usually a time to find the best in others, but I’m not so sure that was the case this year.
Perhaps with the hustle and bustle of the season in the past, you’re starting to see people in a positive light. If not, try to spend this week, celebrating people’s best qualities and being thankful they’re in your life. Sure...it sounds like a some kooky new-age way of being, but why not give it a shot? If we all look for the best in one another, this year may kick 2020 in the ass! And now, let’s read a letter.
Dear Ruthie,
I’m out to everyone but my parents. I want to come out to them, but I’m scared as I’m the only child and the three of us are very close. I’m 99% sure my mom will be cool with it, but my dad? Not so much. Any thoughts on how I should come out to Dad?
Love You,
Anna Banana
Dear Banana,
Have you thought about telling them together? If you’re right about your mom’s reaction, she’ll be a great example and pillar of support for your dad should he struggle with the news. Since the three of you are so close, it also makes sense that you’ll share your coming out experience together.
More important, though, understand that you don’t have to come out until you are 100% ready. Do not rush yourself if it’s not feeling right. Take your time and proceed in a manner that makes sense for you, honey bunny.
Ruthie’s Social Calendar
December 16—“S.T.O.P. Senior Frauds & Scams” Online Class via Milwaukee LGBT Community Center: The community center teamed up with Eras Senior Network to deliver this program on how to best protect yourself from online, email and telephone scams. To attend the free 5-6 p.m. presentation, contact Christie Carter at ccarter@mkelgbt.org for registration.
December 19—Winter Farmers Market at Mitchell Park Domes (524 S. Layton Blvd.): Relish the homespun goodness of a Milwaukee farmers market, even when Jack Frost takes hold. This indoor experience is open every Saturday through March, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and offers free parking and admission.
December 22—Winter Wonders Drive-Through at Boerner Botanical Gardens (9400 Boerner Drive, Hales Corners): See all the holiday lights your little heart can handle with this dazzling delight. Open at 5 p.m. on select days through January 3, the jaw-dropping light show promises to bring out the kid in even the biggest Grinch. Be sure to stop by www.winterwonders.org for schedules and tickets which are available in a range of prices and options according to carload.
December 23—Mary Christmas Pop-Up Bar at Mary’s Arcade (734 S. Fifth St.): Open at 4 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, this tacky take on the holidays must be seen to be believed! The gang at Hamburger Mary’s turned their arcade bar into a glittery gallery of Christmas glitz, and includes mulled wine, drink specials and more. Start your Christmas celebration here, and you’ll surely eat, drink and be “Mary Christmas!”
Have a question for Ruthie? Want to share an upcoming event with her? Email Dear Ruthie at dearruthie@shepex.com.