My New Normal Chapter 2

When we got home, I just wanted to curl up in my bed and go to sleep. My Mom had other ideas.

Donna! I want to clear out your underwear and sock drawers put everything in here! She handed me a Ziploc Spacebag. Don't worry about keeping them folded, they'll be fine. She said. I'll come in and help you in a couple of minutes.

I knew I didn't have a choice except to obey. I saw a brochure for Fort Smith Military Academy on the kitchen counter. My Mom could have been bluffing, but I doubt it. Especially after all the salon work and shopping we did.

I bagged up my underwear and socks neatly. I figured if it was neat when she came in, I might be a bit more lenient with me. While I waited, I started laying out everything on the bed. There was a lot more stuff here than what I tried on at the store.

I thought I was getting clothes to go and from dance class. I noticed several things I didn't recognize. I noticed a pink shoe box. I opened it to find girls' sneakers, white with pink trim. A bag of pink ankle lace socks. Two packs of multicolored satin panties and a couple of pairs of capri pants.

There was also another multicolored package. It said "Hidehim" on the label. I didn't know what that meant or what they were for, but I didn't like the idea of it. I started looking for unused hangers in my closet when Mom walked in.

Well, look at you! Nice work, Donna!

Mom started pulling all my clothes out of the closet. Soon all my boy clothes were folded in a pile on the floor. My Mom hung almost everything in my closet. Dance clothes on the left and regular girl clothes on the right.

My pajamas were piled on the floor and my new nightgowns found a new home in my dresser. It took less than an hour and all my boy clothes were gone. Everything was all-girl clothes now. My head was spinning with all these soft pretty things. Mom picked up the three Spacebags full of clothes.

Wash up, dinner is almost ready!

Yes ma'am! I said trying to be as obedient as possible. I figured the more obedient I was the quicker I'd get out of this mess. Funny thing was she said dinner was almost ready, but I didn't smell anything. I washed up as instructed and made my way into the kitchen. Mom made salads.

I eat salad as a side dish, but not as a dinner! Again my head was spinning. I must have looked at the salad a little funny, It was unintentional.

Girls eat salads, young lady! Eat! She ordered.

It wasn't so bad, but the thought of a young lady and being called Donna from the time I left the salon was weighing on me. I sat silently eating the salad. I was so hungry and lost in my mind I didn't realize I was so quiet.

Donna, earth to Donna! Mom said.

Yes! I said softly.

Talk to me, darling! What's wrong?

Did she really ask that? I thought to myself. I knew I had to be careful about what I said next.

Mom, is all this really necessary? I mean, I'm not trying to be a smart alec, but I mean, why do I have to dress up as a girl?

Sweetheart, I love you! I've been trying to break down the walls you put up after your father passed away. You wouldn't talk to me. Heck, you don't hardly talk at all anymore. I had to do something to get you out of your room. You're a good kid, but you're wasting away and closed off.

But dressing as a girl, dance classes? I asked.

I know about the red tights! The happiest I've ever seen you was in the third-grade Christmas play. Your father and I were so proud of you! I know you liked the dance routine. I've never seen you smile as much as you did that night. You loved that costume so much.

I tried to find a dance studio for boys, but it doesn't exist around us. So I opted for a girls' dance class. I know you like the costumes. I'm okay with that!

If someone at school finds out, I'm dead! I don't mean just beat up, they'll kill me! I said, being dramatic. What about when summer is over? I'm going to be the only boy with girly hair and earrings.

Let me worry about school! For now, you need to adapt to being a girl. Who knows, you may learn something from this. Besides, I know you like the clothes already!

I blushed because I knew she was right. I just felt like I was doing something wrong.

Cross your legs at the table, darling. Girls keep their legs crossed at all times while sitting.

Mom, no offense meant but isn't this a bit drastic?

Perhaps! But you drove me to this! This wasn't my first choice either. I can still send you to military school if you want to change your mind.

No! Anything but that! I said.

Then it's settled.

I helped Mom clean up dinner and started the dishwasher.

Go put on a nightgown and come back. We can watch Dancing With The Stars tonight! I'll make popcorn!

While I really wasn't interested in the show I figured I didn't have much of a choice either. But popcorn sounded good. Especially the way my Mom makes it with honey butter!

I came into the living room in my green nightgown. I wore my red tights, no point in trying to hide it anymore. I put on the pink lip gloss she bought me. My Mom smiled and patted the cushion on the couch next to her. She set the big mixing bowl of popcorn on her lap.

I sat down next to her and crossed my legs. Mom put her arm around me and pulled me close. That warm, comfortable feeling returned and I relaxed for the first time in a very long time. We ate popcorn and watched Dancing With The Stars. I loved the dresses the women wore. The grace with which the women moved was impressive. I started to think maybe this wasn't a bad idea.

I fell asleep in my mother's arms. It was the first time I fell asleep in some place besides my room in a long time. Mom woke me up and walked me to my room. She tucked me in bed and kissed my forehead for the first time since my father passed away. I began to feel love again for the first time in a long time.

Thursday Morning

I woke up to the sound of pots and pans rattling around in the kitchen. I had the craziest dream. I dreamt I was a girl, ballet dancing in a green elf dress with my red tights. When I got out of bed, I saw my green satin nightgown and tights,. I went to my closet and found nothing but the clothes my Mom bought for me yesterday.

I rubbed my eyes and walked down the hall and into the bathroom. The mirror reinforced my memory from yesterday, this wasn't a dream. I brushed my teeth and brushed my hair as best as I could. I washed my face. I started treating my ears like Charlene taught me.

I walked into the kitchen and Mom was drinking a cup of coffee.

Morning darling! Did you sleep well?

I guess. I said softly.

Are you hungry, honey?

A little bit. I said with a defeated voice.

Mom handed me a blueberry yogurt and two pieces of toast.

Can't I have some Apple Jacks!

Sorry darling, we're all out! Besides dancers don't eat cereal. Here drink this! It will help perk you up!

She handed me a cup of hot tea.

Can I have a glass of milk?

Sure but just a small one. You consume too much dairy. We are going to be changing things up a bit. We are both going to start watching what we eat together. I'm going to do everything I can to support you through this. That means we eat the same foods and participate in similar activities.

Starting right now!

After breakfast, we are going to get cleaned up, and we are both going to my yoga class this morning. You need to start stretching your muscles so you'll be ready for dance class on Monday.

Yoga? What's Yoga? I asked.

Yoga is a stretching class for your body. It teaches you balance, focus, poise, and how to communicate with your body on a more spiritual level. The best dancers and world-class athletes do yoga to maintain their bodies and prevent injuries.

Class starts in less than two hours, so we need to get ready. Go take a shower and I will lay out your things.

Yes ma'am. I said with a voice of defeat.

What came next after my shower shouldn't have been a shock after yesterday, but it was. Mom laid out pink panties, a strange-looking pink thing that looked like my briefs but smaller. A yellow leotard and pink socks with my new sneakers.

As I studied the clothes with a towel wrapped around my waist, my mom came into my room.

Something wrong Donna?

What is this? I held up the strange-looking underwear.

I'm glad you asked! That is a gaff. It helps you hide that little bump you have in the front. It will give you a nice flat front.

You mean it covers my....

Penis! Mom said. This way you won't have an embarrassing bump in your yoga or dance outfits.

If you say so. I said sounding defeated again.

Cheer up! You're going to love it!

Charlene is usually in my morning class before she goes to work.

I cracked a small smile. I couldn't help it.

I thought that might cheer you up a bit. Mom said.

Mom helped me with my hair and watched as I treated my ears. She gave me a touch of eyebrow pencil on my eyebrows and lip gloss. I actually liked the lip gloss. She handed me a pink hip purse and loaded it with eyebrow pencil, lip gloss, a small packet of facial wipes, and my phone. My Mom gave me a gym bag, grabbed hers, and we left for the studio.

Looking in a full-length mirror, all I saw was a girl in a leotard and leggings. Mom was right, my crotch was flat. The tight leggings and leotard felt great. That warm feeling was returning, it felt stronger than ever.

The more I walked in my new leggings and leotard the more comfortable I felt. I looked like an 10-year-old girl holding her mother's hand. We walked into the yoga studio together I was almost smiling as the tight clothes clung to my body. It was strange how I could feel the clothes move against every movement. It felt incredible.

Rachel, great to see you! It's been a while! How are you doing?

I'm doing a little better, thanks for asking, Julie.

Julie, this is my daughter Donna. Donna is starting Dance classes down the street next week. I thought some yoga would get her stretched out and prepared.

I thought you told me you had a son!

I blushed instantly.

I do! She winked at Julie. He's had a lot of issues with the loss of our family and the kids at school. So Donna and I decided to change things up a bit. I couldn't have him lying around all summer. And Donna hates sports, so here we are!

I see! Julie said with a Cheshire grin. He'll need a mat

Of course! Mom selected a hot pink yoga mat for me and paid for it.

When we walked into the yoga room, I was blown away by the pretty women in their tight yoga outfits. I saw Charlene first. She was the most beautiful woman there. I tried to say hello, but nothing came out.

Donna! I didn't expect to see you here! Welcome! Charlene exclaimed and kissed my cheek. You look adorable sweetheart!

Hello, I said in a stunned manner.

Girls, this is Donna! I pierced her ears yesterday!

Without warning at least a dozen older girls and women were oogling over my hair and earrings.

She's a doll! One woman said.

She's adorable!

Ohh I have to get my ears done now! Said another woman.

Mom, can I get three? Another girl said.

I could feel myself blushing like crazy.

I was lined up in the back row. Mom was on my right and Charlene was on my left.

Charlene, Rachel! Would you please move up front with Donna? I want to make sure she can see. Ladies, would you mind swapping places? Julie asked.

No problem Julie! They said.

Ohh great! I was hoping to stay unseen.

Julie called outeach position. I watch carefully try to copy each one. It felt impossible to to move with her grace. Julie spent almost the entire class assisting me with every position. I felt so embarrassed by.the attention she gave me.

After an hour of embarrassment, it was over. My face was blushing red with humiliation. I thought, good it's over, we can go home now! I was very wrong.

Rachel! A moment please? Julie asked.

I watched mom talking to Julie. Mom was smiling. I had a really bad feeling about this. Mom stopped and talked to Charlene for a moment. Charlene and my mother were both smiling.

I'd love too! Sounds like fun! I heard Charlene say.

I didn't have to wait long to find out.

Come on sweetheart, let's get something to drink!

Charlene came with us. Mom drove us to Starbucks.

I got a strong-tasting Iced tea, while Mom and Charlene had fancy coffees.

As we sat down I started slowly drinking my Iced tea. I was avoiding trying to have to talk to either of them. I had a feeling I was in for another surprise but I wasn't going to go looking for it.

When you have been dodging bullies for a year and half, you learn very quick how to read everything around you. You learn not to provoke or leave yourself open to verbal or physical attack as much as possible. Staying quiet and keeping low isn't a solution, but it keeps things from getting worse more often.

Your mother has a wonderful idea Donna! How would you like to spend Friday and Saturday night with me this weekend? Charlene asked.

This was an opportunity I wasn't prepared for!

Uhh, sure, I guess!

Then it's settled! Mom said Charlene will pick you up around 10 tomorrow morning. In the meantime I'm going to drop you off at yoga class in an hour and I have to run a few errands. Julie will watch you during class. Just behave and do your best and I'll pick you up after class is over.

Another yoga class? I thought to myself! Maybe military school would have been a better idea. What did I get myself into. My head was spinning again.

I have to use the restroom. I said.

I'll go with you! Charlene said in her cheerful voice. Getting my yoga outfit off and my gaffe and panties took more effort than I imagined. I sat down on the toilet to pee, it was too hard to stand with the tight clothes. I was finally finished and started washing my hands.

You need to freshen up cutie! Let me help you! Charlene said sweetly.

We were alone. Charlene talked me through using the eye pencil and lip gloss.

I know this is a big adjustment, Donna. But there are a lot of advantages to being a girl. Just give it chance. I'll help you! You can always talk to me. I think you are beautiful. I can't wait for tomorrow. We are going to have a lot of fun together!

If you say so! I said in my defeated voice.

Cheer up! It's going to be a great weekend for us! I promise!

Okay! I tried to sound more positive. Inside I wasn't so sure. But being around a beautiful woman like Charlene was something I was looking forward to.

Mom took me back to the studio. Julie had me in front again. Just like before she helped me through the entire class. She didn't try embarrass me. She was very encouraging. I did a little better but it was clear I had a lot to learn.

Mom was gone for over two hours. I ended up going through class three times. I was still struggling but I was beginning to get the routine down.

Come on Donna. Let's go go home!

Music to my ears! I thought to myself. I was exhausted. When we got home I just wanted to take a shower and go to bed. I was almost certain my mother had other ideas. I was right!

When we got home there was a new pink hamper in my room for my dirty clothes. While I wasn't thrilled about the color, I feared more punishment if I said anything.

I heard the water running in the bathroom. I figured it was mom in her bathroom. It was the hall bathroom.

Get a towel from the closet and put your clothes in your hamper, honey. You need a bath!

I'm fine with a shower, Mom!

Nonsense, you worked hard today. You need to soak your muscles! Mom said.

I went grab a towel in hall closet. All of the old towels were gone. They were all replaced with big, fluffy, oversized, pink, purple and yellow. I grabbed a yellow towel.

When I entered the bathroom it smelled like flowers. The bathwater was pink. I noticed several new bottles of body wash, shampoo and conditioner and skin moisturizers. I had the look of shock on my face again.

Get in! Mom ordered.

But the water! It's pink!

Those are the bath salts. They help soften your skin and relax sore muscles and joints. Get in! It won't hurt you!

I took off my towel and got in. The water was warm. Soon I felt my body relaxing.

Relax and enjoy yourself. I'll start dinner and check on you in a few minutes.she said.

Okay. I said in my voice of defeat.

I sat there trying to think of a way out of this mess. The longer I soaked the better I felt. I could actually feel some energy coming back. Mom left a loofah in the tub. I started washing myself with it. It felt great on my skin.

I don't know how long I was in the tub. But when mom came back, I could smell something cooking in the kitchen. The smell cheered me up a little. A hot meal!

Mom drained the tub and I showered and washed my hair.

Mom bought me a blow-dryer and a flatiron for my hair. She showed me how to dry and style my hair. It was a little tricky but I didn't do too bad

It's alright sweetheart, you're going to get lots of practice! She said.

Get a nightgown on, dinner is almost ready!

Don't ask me why but I put on my pink nightgown and lipgloss and walked into the kitchen.

You look adorable! Mom said smiling.

There's that word again "adorable"! It gave me the chills when I heard it.

Mom made baked salmon, spinach and stewed tomatoes. It was actually really good! I ate everything and had extra spinach and tomatoes.

This is really good, Mom! What kind of fish is it?

It's salmon! I don't usually buy it, but it was on sale. I'm glad you like it. She smiled a genuine smile,it was almost like she was proud of me.

We watch TV again. Mom and I watched Hairspray together. It wasn't too bad. Seeing John Travolta dressed up as the mother was funny. Those kids could really dance too! Just like before, I felt that warm feeling and fell asleep next to my mother.