April fools! There really will be a second issue!!

April is upon us with all the foolishness we can get up to. I for one plan to kick up my high heels and enjoy this warmer weather with a little outdoor bondage. (Thank goodness for gags!! ) I'd really like to hear (and publish!) a good outdoor scene to inspire us all to get out there and enjoy ourselves. Won't you share your story with us?

I had planned a old tried-and-true topic for this newsletter, and with recent events I think it's all the more appropriate, even if a little over-done and over-spoken of. I'm talking about that word I love, "Community".

Really, what inspired me to write about it was the great outpouring of support I got from you all at the last munch concerning this newsletter. Me being the big strong Domme and all, I couldn't let you see the little tear in the corner of my eye from all your good words. BDSM has always been about helping each other, in so many ways. You guys really epitomize that, I think.

When someone in our community needs help, we rally 'round. I know how deeply you guys give, whether it be time, effort, or in some cases, your hard earned cash. I hope that never stops. I hope you all realize how deeply we are connected, and how much we need each other; from the tiniest little practitioner to some of the greatest, most generous, and helpful mentors like Tom and Jess. From the person you really don't know who smiles at you at the munch and gladdens your heart, or gives you a really cool play idea you just *have* to use, to the teachers and mentors who give so freely of their time and energy to help any who ask. When someone gives, we all benefit. When so many give, it can really make an amazing difference to one in need.

Spring for me is a joyous time, full of promise and renewal. The planet reforms itself. It forgives old scars, it brings new life, it bursts into joyous giving at every turn. Flowers, fruit, birdsong, warm breezes. This is what I wish for all of you: a newfound hope, a renewed vigor, a community of earth helping seed helping animal who in turn helps earth again. We truly are all connected. We truly are all one. Reach out to friend, neighbor, stranger; locally, in nearby cities, in other states. Forgive old wounds. Forge new ties. Help make "us" a stronger thing.

I'd like to borrow the closing line of someone I truly respect:

Peace.