Shelley Tells Us About “My Cat Fred Wears a Skirt”
Living the Crossdresser Life and Learning from Others
I reside in California, and I love it. I am reminded how much whenever I leave and experience what many other geographical locales and its people have to offer.
While those other locales may have scenic beauty, sites to behold and special food, being around some people as a crossdresser can often be a challenge. In California, at least for me, there are virtually no drawbacks. Well, one exception might me that my home is situated in the Golden State’s bible belt area. And for a crossdresser or transgender person that can often be a problem.
Yes, I do venture out to some extent with a touch of fem, but in my mind only part way. Some makeup, leggings, a fashionable low-cut top with a hint of a bra showing, booties, and a bit of jewelry. Plus, my natural hair is long, so I don’t need a wig. My appearance does attract a little attention, but not enough to cause a ruckus.
Recently, I’m watching my local news and see a story about an area author who has written a book featuring a cat who wears a dress. Someone, or something wearing a dress, who normally wouldn’t, will almost always attract my attention. As I listen intently, I hear about the author’s book signing at a nearby bookstore happening the next day. It just so happened, I was available to attend. And my wardrobe was ready.
Kristina Gidstedt and the book.
Two area women were taking action to support diversity in home and school libraries with of all things a newly published children’s book.
One day, Katrina Gidstedt and her daughter Emile were out shopping and saw a family with two little boys. Those boys were wearing dresses, and Katrina was in fear as she said that someone might approach them in the wrong way.
So, Katrina and Emilie used that moment as the catalyst to write a children’s book they call My Cat Fred Wears a Skirt. It’s a book about self-confidence and embracing who you are – no matter what people think.
According to Katrina, there’s Ted, a little boy, and his best friend is Fred. One day, Ted’s sister takes a skirt and dresses up Fred. Fred loves it. But unfortunately, someone saw Fred wearing the skirt and didn’t love it. As a result, Ted, not feeling very comfortable, takes the skirt off of Fred. Fred is immediately sad because he’s not able to be who he wants to be.
Kristina, who had been a third-grade teacher says it’s important for kids, as well as adults, to find happiness within their individuality. However, it’s also important for people to accept that. The co-authors hope to send that message with the book, one that communicates a sense of having an open heart and open mind.
Katrina is a proud mother of five and was an enthusiastic educator and administrator for 27 years. She started writing children’s books 30 years ago while working on her teaching degree. Over the years, she has been happily influenced by many amazing writers. Gidstedt is now excited to realize one of her own stories has come to fruition.
Page Wilson, the daughter of Kristina Gidstedt’s best friend illustrated the book. Wilson said it meant a lot to be part of the process, as the book’s message is something she’s passionate about.
“It’s just people living their lives,” said Wilson. “I think that more people should understand that.”
The author shared with me that she did not know how the community would react, but she was delighted to find that her book had gained widespread acceptance from the media and locals. Unfortunately, for such an event in this bible belt area, local law enforcement had to be present in the bookstore’s parking lot. So sad.
While I was waiting for my book to be signed, the person ahead of me happened to be a local educator. He purchased five books that were to be distributed at his place of learning. And as I looked around this small, quaint, mom and pop-type bookstore, it was packed with a great many supporters who came out to cheer on Kristina, Emile, and Page.
And yes, I was dressed for the occasion in all black — a sweater top, black leggings, and a cropped leather jacket. My choice of shoes were sandals with one-inch heels. Those shoes allowed me to show off my painted toes.
My Cat Fred Wears a Skirt can be purchased on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or through Amplify Publishing Group’s Mascot Books.
Category: FYI
