Metra Issue 977 - MAY 2024

Go Ahead . . . Take that Trip!

In the midst of our busy lives filled with routines and responsibilities, there’s something incredibly liberating about releasing our inhibitions and taking a spontaneous trip. This act of stepping away from the familiar and embracing the unknown can be a transformative experience, opening doors to new adventures, experiences, and personal growth opportunities. By letting go of our fears and preconceived notions, we create space for spontaneity, excitement, and discovery.

Taking a spontaneous trip is a bold declaration of freedom and an invitation to embrace the unpredictability of life. It encourages us to step outside of our comfort zones, explore new landscapes, and immerse ourselves in unfamiliar cultures. Embracing the unknown can be both exhilarating and empowering, as it

challenges us to adapt, learn, and grow in unexpected ways. It’s a journey that invites us to live in the moment, savoring each experience and appreciating the beauty of spontaneity.

Releasing our inhibitions and embarking on a spontaneous trip offers a much-needed break from the stresses of daily life, allowing us to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate our minds, bodies, and spirits. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from our routines and reconnect with ourselves, gaining clarity, perspective, and renewed energy in the process. Whether it’s a weekend getaway to a nearby destination or a longer journey to a far-off land, the act of letting go and embracing spontaneity can lead to memorable experiences, lasting memories, and a greater appreciation for the beauty of life’s unexpected twists and turns.

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Affirmations

John Stanaszek Board Member

How long have you been with Affirmations? I am currently in my 7th year and 3rd term of serving on Affirmations Board of Directors.

What is Affirmations to you? Affirmations is a welcoming and safe harbor for all, no matter your sexual orientation, gender identification, age, race or religion. When I came out nearly 45 years ago in the Kalamazoo area, there were no organizations like Affirmations. As I approached retirement and had served on other non profit boards, it was important for me join Affirmations Board and do my part for the LGBTQ+ community.

When you’re not working, what do you do for fun? I retired from a 40 year career in the Retail Banking industry four years ago. So I am fortunate to spend my free time golfing, gardening, cooking, walking or swimming in Lake Huron at our home in Northern Michigan. When my husband and partner of 31 years is not working, we spend time up north and travel together.

What’s something you want everyone to know about Affirmations?

Affirmations is here for the entire community. We currently are home to a local church, a theatre group, youth and senior programs as well as dozens of recovery, support and social groups. We welcome you to visit the center and see all the great things our staff is doing.

If you could know the answer to any question, what would it be?

What will the next Powerball winning numbers be. While money can’t buy happiness, it would be great fun to give it away to worthy causes and individuals.

Camping for Tenters & RV'ers

30 Log Cabin Rentals

9 Room Bunkhouse

Vintage Trailers & Rentals

Large Heated Pool

Open Air Clubhouse Pavilion

Poolside Big Top Party Tent

Popular Scheduled Events

Popular nature trails for nocturnal exploration

Shower Your Way - Private, Locker Room Style or Outdoor

The Campit Store (the everything store)

Toy Store/Tool Box - Adult & Leather Novelties

Volleyball & Horseshoes For Rates, Reservations and Details: www.CampitResort.com

The “goodbye process” can help and heal a couple

When you believe your relationship is over and it is time to move on separately, feelings of anxiousness, fear, sadness, anger and stress are common. You are entering into an unfamiliar and potentially overwhelming journey that may change at least two lives drastically.

When I work with a couple who believe their relationship is over, I use a technique I call the “goodbye process,” which helps them reflect on their life together, begin accepting the relationship may be over or seeing clearly there is a chance for reconnection, and, if the relationship is over, learning how to say goodbye in a healthy way that allows for the healing process to start.

The “goodbye process” is an opportunity for couples to get in touch with the positives in their relationship that have been buried through the years by disconnections, lack of communication, kids, finances, work and many other reasons that have moved to the forefront and sidelined their love for each other.

Through this exercise, which will take some time, couples may discover a renewed commitment and connection with each other as they uncover the strengths in their relationship and all of the good reasons why they have been together.

However, I caution couples that they must be fully aware that the purpose of the “goodbye process” is to explore their future, not necessarily their future together. They should not assume their relationship can be saved. This can be difficult for many couples to accept.

I also emphasize that this process will take time. There are no fast fixes or resolutions to issues that have deepened for many years. Both parties must be committed to exploring

some time seriously thinking about the messages they want to share about their relationship – the negatives and the positives.

If it is time to say goodbye, this step can be very therapeutic and healing if it is managed in a healthy and constructive way. Being honest and open can be difficult; it takes a lot of courage to speak freely, openly and constructively, but not hurtfully. If it is handled with empathy, the couple can feel ready to move on with their separate lives because they said their goodbyes in such a healthy manner.

I conduct a “goodbye” exercise in which each person says their goodbyes to sad and hurtful memories as well as happy ones, and negative as well as positive experiences they’ve had together. They say goodbye to this memory or experience and announce that they are leaving it in the past. Each partner listens and acknowledges these, mirroring what their partner said to them. This goodbye exercise continues until each person has shared the messages they want to convey and announces their final goodbyes: “ I am released from my past with you and am looking ahead to my future.” As the facilitator of this process, I work right alongside the couple through this entire exercise to ensure it remains calm, respectful, non-accusatory and constructive.

Ending a relationship is one of the most difficult steps a couple will take in their lives, but with the right approach, it can be an opportunity for growth and new beginnings. I have found the “goodbye process” can help couples move forward with fewer wounds and faster healing.

GAY SLUT ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR SEX VACATION

Travel often gives us the courage to try something (or someone) out away from home. Be it first-time fisting, organizing an orgy, or encountering electro-play, travel does a great job of opening us up.

Your vacation (and holes) might be filled with Squirt.org hookups - letting that slut flag fly. Others are about bottoming at bathhouses or cumming at kink/fetish events. Upon arrival,

check local Cruising Listings to see what’s happening at bathhouses and cruising hot spots updated in real-time by our members!

Regardless of your rendezvous daily.squirt.org has your back for slut specific travel tips. Plus porn scenes and stories inspired by our Global Cruising Club member’s hottest moments on our site, and loads of sexy content for guys into guys.

SATURDAY'S: BOYZ NIGHT OUT UNDERWEAR CONTEST

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ARIES: Brace yourself, Aries! With four planets moving through Taurus and activating your 2nd house, pleasure, sensuality, and beauty dance their way to the forefront of your life. Not only is Venus highlighting this part of the chart this month, but the conjunction between Uranus and Jupiter here also will bring unexpected financial gains your way. Whether it’s a steamy night of car sex followed by fried chicken at the drive through or a candle lit full body massage under the full moon, unexpected twists of pleasure are in store. Once the Sun and Venus move into Gemini at the end of the month, don’t be surprised if you’re ready to move onto the next exciting thing, so you better enjoy the pleasures as they come your way!

TAURUS: It’s a Cinderella-Going-To-The-Ball MOMENT, Taurus! With four planets activating your natural 1st house (including the only conjunction between Jupiter and Uranus we will see the rest of our lives), you have full reign this month! Whether it’s a full-body transformation from the fruits of your labors from diet and exercise or a new signature hairstyle or fashion pivot, others will surely notice the transformation. During this time you will be radiating with such intensity that you may ask yourself if you stepped into another dimension. If you were looking for confirmation, this is it, because the stars are blessing you in a way that should have a lasting effect! You’re on the up and up, Taurus, so shine on, Goddess!

GEMINI: The first half of this month brings you into a period of profound introspection, Gemini, as the four-planet stellium in Taurus activates your natural 12th house. Whether it’s healing a deep-rooted trauma from childhood or simply taking a step back from your day-to-day musings, you’re in for healing and a much needed spa day for some R&R. While slowing down isn’t exactly your favorite thing, thinga will begin picking up toward the end of the month when The Sun and Venus both move into Gemini, activating your 1st house! This will be a period of rebirth after what may be an incredible period of restoration. The results will certainly be fruitful and you can rest assured that you’ll be rejuvenated and ready to take on the world in a whole new way!

CANCER: If you’ve been asking yourself, “What’s gotten into me lately?” well, surprise-surprise, there is a four planet stellium moving into your 11th house, Cancer! You may be finding yourself becoming more part of the group than ever before, acting out with a sense of humor and grit, and taking on the world with a whole new shine. The conjunction between Jupiter and Uranus in this chart will expand your social circle, and as Venus moves through this sector of the chart, romantic love may enter stage right! If you’re already in a relationship, you may find you and your partner are more open to sexy and progressive new ways of relating to each other! Throw out the rule book, Cancer, because you’re meant to learn with some real hands on experience, and the results are going to be SPICY!

LEO: It’s a BIG career moment, Leo! Whether it’s a promotion, switching jobs, or having a significant career expanding moment, your 10th house is in full bloom. The conjunction between Jupiter and Uranus will progress things very quickly into a positive progression, meanwhile Venus appearing in this part of the chart should also bless you a positive public image and overall hotness in the public eye! Later in the month, the Sun and Venus both shimmy into Gemini, bringing a positive expansion into your network with the possibility of broadening your horizons toward new and innovative ways of interacting with others. Whether it’s joining a swinger’s club or simply getting back on the dating apps, put yourself out there, Lion!

VIRGO: It’s lightning in a bottle this month, Virgo! With the four-planet stellium in Taurus activating your natural 9th house, you can expect some serious blessings. Mood boosting nervous system rejuvenation paired with an adventurous thirst for adventure may have you booking an international flight, stepping outside your comfort zone with a new opportunity, or simply gaining a new lease on life. You’re sure to experience excitement and have an open- mind with this transit. As Venus moves through this part of the birth chart, you’ll find the sex and romance you have during this time to be particularly rewarding. Later this month, the good luck and joy should spill into career activities as the Sun and Venus enter Gemini. Get it, baby!

LIBRA: Change is the name of the game this month, Libra, as four planets are transiting your 8th house of transformation, sex, and death! Not like death-death, but like, major life shifting choices death. Prepare yourself to take the plunge into uncharted territory and welcome in new ways of being that will not only shift your day-to-day, but also activate your sexuality in a brand new way. The shifts here will be felt on a deep level, and whether it’s unlocking a new kink or simply opening yourself back up to the cradle of desire, you’ll find yourself invigorated! As this web of sensuality unfolds, it will big for positive gains later in the month as the Sun and Venus both enter Gemini, activating your 9th house for adventure, good luck, and unexpected joy!

SCORPIO: This is an incredible turning point in your relationship story, Scorpio, as there is a four-planet stellium activating your natural 7th house of romantic love, business partnerships, and relationships! Whether it’s a new lover or life partner entering stage right or a professional relationship that has a profound effect on your life, stability will come in the form of an actual relationship. As the chemistry begins to flow with this person, you’ll find very quickly that the initial attraction has legs to stand on, and you’ll deepen the relationship once the Sun and Venus both enter Gemini toward the end of the month. The conjunction between Uranus and Jupiter in Taurus are blessing you, Scorpio, so don’t be afraid to open your heart!

SAGITTARIUS: It’s time to get shit done, Sag! With the

four-planet stellium in Taurus activating your sixth house, there is a laser focus on strategy, action, and results! Professionally, this can be a very fruitful period, however, the work that you’re getting done today will reveal itself in the fruits of your labor over the coming months. And as you’re in the zone, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to see your relationships beginning to open up as the Sun and Venus enter your 7th house of relationships! Whether it’s literally opening up a relationship, getting back into the dating game, or simply focusing more on a partner or someone you love, it’s a beautiful time for establishing a deeper connection with the ones you love. Your heart smiles this month, Centaur!

CAPRICORN: It’s time for the big STAR moment, Capricorn! With four planets transiting your 5th house, now’s the time for creative projects, love affairs, and all things self-expanding! Don’t be afraid to let your ego sing and to step into the person you’ve been building over the last 14 years! With Pluto transiting Capricorn since 2008, you’ve been through a serious journey of self-discovery, and the conjunction between Jupiter and Uranus in Taurus opens the door for new opportunities in regards to your personal journey of self-love, self-acceptance, and success. It’s the perfect moment for you to get back into the dating game, have passionate and meaningful sexual connections, and feel like your heart is giving you a big hug. Smile, goat! You deserve it!

AQUARIUS: With Pluto moving over your 1st house and the four-planet stellium in Taurus activating your 4th, things are getting renovated in your personal life, Aqua! Whether it’s moving, getting married, or simply spending more time at home and reflecting, the focus is away from the workplace and resetting your moods, groves, and even possibly your moves in the bedroom. Regardless, you’ll find your cerebral mind takes a back seat and welcomes the magic of the heart in a whole new way. After, home is where the heart is, and while you redefine what home means to you, you may just find that the answer can’t be found by thinking about it, but instead home is something that is created, felt, and loved. Beautiful, Aqua!

PISCES: It’s time to turn on the spotlight and grab a microphone, Pisces, because you are the center of social hour this month, baby! With four planets transiting your natural 3rd house of community, networking, and communication, you’ll be schmoozing your way through all sorts of new and exciting positions! (And yes, that can include sexually, baby!) With Uranus and Jupiter aligning perfectly in a conjunction, it’s very likely you may drop into a new community that feels like home or you may return to an old group of friends or home and feel the rejuvenation of being with your kind. Regardless, once the Sun and Venus move into Gemini, you’ll feel an extra special connection with the ones you love. It’s time to shine with an open heart, Pisces!

There’s a sense of safety knowing PrEP can reduce your chance of getting HIV by 99%. See what other Michiganders say about it and take the next steps.

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It was about 7 years ago this May – I personally look forward to May and what tends to follow, minus the rain. The April showers do bring the May flowers though! Generally Memorial Day I tend to gravitate towards cookouts and family events, we have a cottage up north. This specific year I decided I’d hangout with friends instead as I never attend those types of get togethers. I decided I’d make some pasta salad, grab a decently priced bottle of wine, and join cookout festivities.

I arrive at my friend Paul’s house and head to the backyard, when I arrive, I see so many people. I nearly went into a panic trying to decide if I should stay or if I should go. What was I getting myself into? I am a little shy, some would say timid. I walk up to Paul; he introduces me to far more people than I could try and remember. A few people came up to me with drinks in hand, some shots even. Entirely out of my element I sat down the pasta salad and handed the wine to a guy named Kevin and proceeded to consume a drink that I was offered.

Upon completing my first drink I then wanted another, you know the drill! Within no time I had

a few drinks and was being more social. I even joined in on some of the slip-n-slide madness that was setup on a hill. I didn’t think to bring a change of clothes, I didn’t know there would be any water activities. Paul and myself are about the same size so he told me to just go to his room and grab something to change into. I start walking to the house, make it to where I thought was the right bedroom.

I go into a bedroom and shut the door, got the wet clothes off and decided I would sit on the bench at the end of the bed. I got on my phone, walked to what I thought was the closet, and opened it, there was a connecting door to this door. I open the second door to what I again thought was a closet and was greeted by two partygoers, friends or whoever completely nude and wearing bunny masks, I looked around the room and saw a sling, rope, and a bench. I couldn’t tell if it was a dream or reality at the time, but I passed out and the two in the room had a polaroid camera and took a photo of me, in the sling, with bunny ears.

Lets just say this picture made its rounds.

The most diverse and intergenerational Sapphic party is Go Girl! Saugatuck and this inclusive women’s weekend celebrates its seventh year this May 31 – June 2 exclusively at The Dunes Resort. Burlesque, babes, words and wonder all in a double header of shows.

Doubling down on their 7th year means they’re launching double the programming and events. Miami’s Yoli Mayor, the “Cuban Adele” from American Idol and the outrageous dangerburlesque troupe of Tamale Rocks and Safety Third appear all weekend!

Reigning GoGirl! Showgirl Oshun Hathor is a rising Michigan Them Fatale star and their dancing will be highlighted between spoken word and the “Curvalicious Crew” led by award-winning poet C.C. Carter who’s opened for Maya Angelo and Nikki Giovanni.

Go Girl! Saugatuck is produced by queer comedy veteran Mimi Gonzalez who recognized a dearth of women’s weekends and created Go Girl! Saugatuck. And for the third year, the town and weekend will be extra full, coinciding with Saugatuck/Douglas Pride events. www.gogirlsaugatuck.com

Spring is in the air. With that comes the blossoming of new flowers, trees, and baby bunnies… all that jazz. It’s also that time to download those apps (like Squirt.org).

When looking for that perfect garden to plant your seed, remember that there are several ways to stay safe this season. If rubbers aren’t your thing, consider getting on pRep. That will keep you safe from that pesky House In Virginia.

But if pRep isn’t in your routine, be sure to use a condom, or other form of protection. Living with a House In Virginia may not be a death sentence, but it certainly isn’t something you want sneaking up on you.

Let’s sew our oats this season, but let’s do it safely boys!