Fashion: Spring Style
Still Stompin’
Interview: Tracey Horn
Show Off Your Leg Work
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CONTENTS APRIL 4, 2018
V2-14
PEACH ATL MEDIA, LLC 925B Peachtree St. NE, Suite 168 Atlanta, GA 30309 404.835.2016
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EDITORIAL
Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director mikkel@peachatl.com Rodney Belcher Graphic Designer
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From the Editor Spring certainly had us waiting, but now that it is finally here, we can all draw a sigh of relief and really get out and into the warmer (soon to be sweltering) season. In this issue, we got inspired by all the new Spring stuff and put together some cute outfits that will no doubt define your summer style in and out of the pool – lewks, henny! We also asked our fitness expert, Darren Floro-Bryant, to give us some good exercises to prep our legs (and booty) to be on better display now that the time for short shorts is upon us. Spring in Atlanta also means a slew of entertainment virtually flooding the city. STOMP! is one of the many shows at that will play at the Fox, and we talked to one of the performers about the show’s impressive legacy. Gregg Shapiro talked to Tracey Horn (formerly of Everything but the Girl), about her new and totally listen-worthy album, and if you’re into partying with a purpose, check out the upcoming Stars Party. And of course, our esteemed columnists and accomplished writers Branden Lee, Scott King, and Jamie Kirk all have great things to say in this issue. Check it out!
Darren Floro-Bryant Scott King Jamie Kirk Branden Lee Gregg Shapiro
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The content of Peach ATL Media is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice. The opinions expressed by any writer, advertiser, or other person appearing in the Peach ATL Media are not necessarily those of this publication, its management or staff. The information and materials appearing in the magazine are not guaranteed or warranted as to accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness, or suitability of the information and materials found or offered for a particular purpose. It shall be your responsibility to ensure that any products, services, or information available through Peach ATL Media meets your specific requirements. Peach ATL Media is not responsible for claims made by advertisers, content of information, changes, events, and schedules. The magazine contains information and material which is owned by or licensed to Peach ATL Media, including but not limited to articles, advertisements, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of Peach ATL Media may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher. Unauthorized use of Peach ATL Media may give rise to claims for damages and or criminal offenses. Your use of the information or materials in Peach ATL Media is strictly at your own risk.
6 | 04.04.18
Jerusalem House’s Stars Party & Silent Auction The one-night-only and one-of-a-kind fundraiser brings you the best of the Atlanta restaurant scene and an amazing silent auction benefiting the Jerusalem House. The party will take place at the fantastic Biltmore Ballrooms where you will sip Tito’s cocktails, savor delicious hors-d’oeuvres, and enjoy the Will Scruggs Quartet while bidding on incredible auction items from your phone. The stellar silent auction includes getaways, entertainment, dining packages, artwork, gifts, home goods, and so much more. The 5-star event benefits the Jerusalem House, which is a nonprofit that provides housing and supportive social services for homeless and low-income individuals, families, and children affected by HIV/AIDS. For tickets and to donate an auction item, go to 501auctions.com/starsparty (Host Committee (2 tickets) $100 & General Admission $26)
The What, When and Where! What: Jerusalem House’s Seventh Annual Stars Party & Silent Auction When: Thursday, April 12, 6-9 pm Where: The Biltmore Ballrooms, 817 W Peachtree St NW #400, Atlanta, GA 30308 501auctions.com/starsparty
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SPRING ESSENTIALS By Branden Lee Branden Lee is a writer andactor now living in Atlanta. Follow Branden on Twitter and Instagram @Brandeness. and watch Branden on his YouTube channel SexxxPerTease.
It’s been a long and dreary winter in Atlanta. Time to heat things up for Spring. If you want to have the most fun Spring imaginable, here are some essentials to make your adventures the best that they can be.
THE INTERNATIONAL SENSATION
3 PERFORMANCES ONLY!
APRIL 6-7 · FoxTheatre.org/Stomp 10 | 04.04.18
1. Uber/Lyft accounts Atlanta is a driving city, and most people have cars. You should never drink and drive. So make sure you are registered with Uber/ Lyft so that you can turn up without worrying about wrecking your life up. Plus these car service apps come in handy when needing to make a quick escape from a bad date. 2. An Enema Bulb Everyone has their anal sex preparation routines already intact, but if you’re not using an enema bulb, you need to. They’re cheap. Available for under $10 at any drug store or online.
All you do is fill them with warm water, and prepare to bottom. Plus they also make great gifts for your bottom friends. 3. Condoms Always have safe sex. Condoms are still an essential part of gay sex. HIV and STIs are still an imminent threat, and it’s easier to have fun without worrying about a burning sensation popping up in a couple of weeks. 4. A Brighter Wardrobe Winter clothes are always so drab and full of dark, dull colors. Spring is the time to treat yourself to some new outfits. Add some bright
colors and florals to your wardrobe. Maybe even some animal print. Stand out this Spring! 5. A Budget It’s easy to break the bank with all the constant brunches, happy hours, club nights, eating out, movies, vacations, etc. You never want to indulge and regret over-spending later. So make sure to make a budget of just how much you can freely indulge in festivities so that you can enjoy your Spring social calendar with no regrets.
peachATL.com | 11
Still Stompin’! By Mik Hyldebrandt
The international dance and percussion show sensation STOMP! performs at the Fox Theatre on April 6 and 7 (tickets at foxtheatre.org). Peach spoke to one of the show’s talented performers, Artis Olds (@Artis.The.Artist), about why the show is still going strong after nearly 25 years.
Why do you think STOMP! it is still so wildly popular? I think the answer is actually quite simple. Yes, we are doing some rather unique things with everyday objects while making beautiful music but, the show allows people to see themselves on stage. Life happens to all of us, and as performers, we get up there and portray characters in situations. It’s more of a journey, and at some point, everyone in the audience can identify with what they see on stage.
Is there a lot of pressure to perform this show to a certain standard? The creators of the show, Luke Cresswell, and Steve McNicholas, had a great vision and the original cast brought that vision to life. So, there is a tremendous responsibility, but I wouldn’t define it as pressure. It’s more like an honor. Hopefully, we can keep this amazing ride going for another 25 years!
This is a BIG production – how much time goes into rehearsing? This show is very real. We don’t use modified props; everything is functional. So, if it looks dangerous the potential for it to be dangerous certainly exists. With that in mind, being well-rehearsed is vital. After training to learn the show, which takes 4-6 weeks; 8-9 hours a day; 5 days a week, we typically rehearse about an hour a day, on any day that we have a show.
How physically strenuous is the show? The show itself has plenty cause for physicality; some 12 | 04.04.18
roles more than others. If you couple that with the “joys” of tour travel, it can take a toll. Personally, I think physical conditioning outside of the show is an absolute must!
What can the audience expect of the STOMP! show in Atlanta at the Fox? You should expect to leave the Fox Theatre and see music all around you! We’re going to have a great time, and I hope to see you there!
Have you performed in Atlanta before? How do you like Atlanta? I have; several times, actually! I wasn’t with STOMP at the time, but I do recall having VERY energetic crowds. We love that! Atlanta is an amazing city, and I’m looking forward to returning. I hope we get to come back and perform for an even longer stay, soon. Fingers crossed!
STOMP! sets a wildly different example of what a dance/Broadway show could be – what do you think the legacy of STOMP! is? We’ve been going for nearly 25 years, changing the scope of what live theater is “supposed to be.” STOMP’s legacy in short: We’re kinda dancers. We’re kinda musicians. We’re kinda actors. We’re kinda awesome! And we hope you keep STOMPING with us!
What’s next for STOMP!? We have about six weeks left on this tour, but you can always catch us, year-round, at The Orpheum Theater in New York City! For more information, visit us a www.stomponline.com. The STOMP! ensemble will perform at the Fox Theatre on April 6-7. Tickets available at foxtheatre.org.
Style Game ON Spring is here, and summer is fast approaching – so it’s time to pull together the looks that will take you through the warmer season.
1. Lyst Reversible Bomber, $99 2. Psycho Bunny Crew Graphic T-Shirt, $40 3. Publish Kael Shorts, $72 4. Publish Zyler Hat, $40 5. Oooh Yeah! Socks, $12 6. Spectrum Sunglasses, $30
Photography and Styling: MH & RB All clothing courtesy of Boy Next Door Menswear
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1.French Connection Kast Tile Twill Shorts, $88 2. French Connection Kast Tile Twill Shirt, $78 3. French Connection French Car T-Shirt, $44 4. Rider Sunglasses, $30 5. Supawear Wieners Swim Shorts, $62.99 6. Oooh Yeah! Socks, $12
All clothing available at the Boy Next Door Menswear location on Piedmont and on boynextdoormenswear.com. peachATL.com | 15
1. Andrew Christian Glam Flamingo Tank Top, $35 2. Andrew Christian Massive Camo Swim Shorts, $59 3. Tribe Riviera Brief, $65 4. Tribe Monte Carlo Trunk, $69 5. 2EROS Morocco Swim Brief, $59 6. 2EROS Acacia Swim brief, $59 7. Supawear Ice Cream Swim Shorts, $62.99 Photography and Styling: MH & RB All clothing courtesy of Boy Next Door Menswear
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Wrinkled beyond Recognition By Gregg Shapiro
Photo: Walt Disney Pictures Opening in theaters mere days after Disney won its umpteenth Best Animated Feature Oscar (for “Coco”), Ava DuVernay’s catastrophically boring, abysmal and embarrassing film adaptation of Madeline L’Engle’s beloved Y/A novel “A Wrinkle in Time” (Disney) is not the studio’s first attempt at bringing the story to the screen. A mostly-ignored version came and went in 2003. Perhaps someone should have taken that as a sign that L’Engle’s tale of good triumphing over evil might not be meant for a cinematic interpretation. Instead, “A Wrinkle in Time” joins such costly Disney duds as “John Carter”, “Tomorrowland”, “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” and “The Lone Ranger” as one of the worst live-action movies ever released by the studio. At least it’s not a musical (see “Newsies”, or better yet, don’t). Among the generous liberties taken by screenwriters Jennifer Lee and Jeff Stockwell, NASA scientist parents Mr. and Mrs. Murry (Chris Pine and Gugu Mbataha-Raw, respectively) have two children (not four as in the book); daughter Meg (Storm Reid) and adopted son Charles Wallace (Deric McCabe). Meg is very close to her father and shares her parents’ love of science. Her kid brother Charles Wallace, on the other hand, is so creepy he practically defies description. After a particularly embarrassing presentation at NASA where Mr. Murry (not Dr. Murry, for some reason) is ridiculed for his tesseract concept, which involves traveling through space via your mind, not an over-priced rocket ship, he disappears. It turns out, he can actually tesseract (and overact, too)! Papa Murry’s absence is felt particularly strongly by Meg who goes from being a star pupil at school to the bottom of the heap. She’s unpopular and bullied, leading to aggressive behavior. But that doesn’t stop cute classmate Calvin (Levi Miller) from attempting to interact with Meg.
However, things are about to change in unexpected ways. Via Charles Wallace, who possesses psychic abilities, the siblings are visited by three spectacular beings – Mrs. Whatsit (Reese Witherspoon), Mrs. Who (Mindy Kaling) and Mrs. Which (Oprah Winfrey) – who promise to reunite them with their father. The bizarre trio of Mrs. are the most annoying trinity since the Sanderson sisters in “Hocus Pocus”. In her initial appearance in the Murry’s backyard, Mrs. Which is presented as a giant, leaving some of us waiting for her to ask “Does this planet make my ass look big?” Through a combination of tacky and laughable special effects, Meg, Charles Wallace and Calvin are first transported to the planet Uriel, where they meet guru Happy Medium (Zach Galifinakis providing some desperately needed comic relief) and then to the frightening sphere known as Camazotz where the evil IT rules everything and everyone. Camazotz is where Mr. Murry is being held and where IT briefly takes control of Charles Wallace. As the millions who have read the book since it was published are aware, there is a reunion and a hard -won happy ending. Good triumphing over evil is one of the timeless (and not especially original messages) sewn into the shiny fabric of DuVernay’s film. That would have more meaning and impact if “A Wrinkle in Time” was a better movie. But it’s not. It’s terrible. Winfrey, Witherspoon and Kaling look like they are flailing, desperate for direction. Not even a new Sade song (“Flower of the Universe”) or Chris Pine can smooth out the mess that is “A Wrinkle in Time”. It’s not too early for Winfrey and DuVernay to start writing their Razzie Award acceptance speeches.
peach rating: 0/5 Peaches: Rotten peach
18 | 04.04.18
New world Record:
An interview with Tracey Thorn By:Gregg Shapiro
It’s not too soon to say that Record (Merge), the new album by Tracey Thorn (of Everything but The Girl fame), bowing in early March, is one of the best records of 2018. The nine songs are the perfect combination of thought provoking lyrics and emotions, most of which are set to irresistible dance beats. The only complaint listeners could possibly have is that at just 36 minutes, it all ends too soon. The solution is to listen to it again and again. I had the privilege of speaking with Tracey shortly before the album was released.
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Gregg Shapiro: Tracey, when I interviewed you in 2010, we talked about the song “Hormones” from your album Love and Its Opposite, in which your daughters were featured. Can you please say something about the way that motherhood figures prominently on your new albumRecord, in the songs “Go”, “Babies” and “Sister”? Tracey Thorn: I’ve returned to that subject again, which is obviously such a big part of my life. Other people’s lives (too). It seems to me a really rich topic. In “Babies”, I’m partly talking about contraception. I’ve loved being a mother precisely because I could choose exactly when I had my babies. Taking an honest look at that subject, which I hadn’t really heard written about in songs much before. In “Go”, I’m talking about watching your kids grow up and leaving home. That can be a really difficult experience, but it’s also an entirely natural part of the process. You have to try and make your peace with this notion that that’s part of it; helping them grow up and leave and become independent adults. “Sister” is a song about female solidarity, in general. I specifically refer to how I feel, perhaps more and more as I get older, this bond with other women where we almost blend and become each other. I can feel myself as I get older becoming more and more like my mother, almost to the point where I feel like I am my mother [laughs]. I feel closer all the time to my actual sister. Especially, at this moment, I feel very close to theoretical sisters [laughs] as well. GS: Dance music is more dominant on Record, especially on the songs “Dancefloor”, “Queen”, “Babies”, “Guitar” and “Sister”. TT: Very early on in the writing and thinking about this record, I knew I wanted to make a very positive, upbeat record. I knew I was going to be approaching some topics I wanted to talk about directly. There would be some anger and strong opinion expressed in some of the songs. I thought the best way to convey that, without it starting to get dragged down by the subject matter in some cases, was to just really link that with an upbeat record. I always like it when you get records that have a good dance-floor element to them, but are also lyrically strong. GS: “Dancefloor” contains shout-outs to disco classics “Shame”, “Let The Music Play”, “Golden Years” and “Good Times”.
TT: I suspect that all of us take to our hearts the dance floor anthems that we hear at a certain age, when we’re going out. For me, those songs represent the kind of records that used to be played when I was at parties or discos when I was quite young. That means they have a strong resonance for you. Things that I hear as an adult, I hear them in a different way. I suspect that people who are out there now hearing contemporary dance music for the first time, that’s going to have that same impact on them [laughs]. GS: “Dancefloor” also reminded me of your song “Oh, The Divorces” in the way that it incorporates references to infidelity – “we talk of our affairs” and “who’ll be the next to fall”. Is this something that has become a fact of life among your friends? TT: Yes. That song is written very much from the point of view of someone of a certain age. When I sent the recording to the producer Ewan (Pearson), I said, “You’ve got to think of this song as being about a kind of yearning for the dance floor. It’s not aboutsomeone who’s 19 years old, going out clubbing every weekend. It’s probably someone much older for whom the dance floor represents this golden age; freedom, liberation and escape. That’s the feeling we wanted to get into the song. Almost romanticizing the dance floor. It means so much. Perhaps as you get older and you don’t go there as often, you express this yearning for it. GS: “Face” is also a musical examination of relationships. What kind of effect has social media had on the way you establish and maintain relationships? TT: [Laughs] well, I feel very lucky. I haven’t had to conduct relationships in the era of social media. In that song I’m singing as an imagined character. What it would be like now to split up with someone and get them out of your life completely, but you can’t. Every time you go on Facebook or something, there they are. You see every detail of their life. In that song, I imagine this woman singing, it’s late at night, she’s had a few glasses of wine, looking and looking at this ex-partner’s photos. I thought it would be an interesting subject to write a song about.
GS: I found the techno-folk tune “Smoke” to be one of your most overtly political statements. Would you agree? TT: It’s me writing about London and how much I’ve always loved London. But I can see how much it’s changing in the same way that other cities are changing. I grew up just outside London. All of my ancestors before that had lived right in London. It was only my parents’ generation who moved out after the war. Growing up in the suburbs, I dreamed of getting back to living in London. As soon as I could, I moved back. To me, it represented a place of greater freedom and all the things you wanted a city to be. The political side of it is my worry that if it starts to squeeze out anyone who can’t afford to live there, then a city becomes less and less diverse and that kills its very life blood. GS: In addition to the years you spent collaborating with your husband Ben Watt in Everything but The Girl, you have continued to be an artist who collaborates with others, from guest artists on Record such as Corinne Bailey Rae (on “Sister”) and Shura (on “Air”), to John Grant, Jens Lekman and Massive Attack. What do you think it is about you that makes you so good at playing well with others? TT: [Laughs] that’s interesting. I like it because I always think you come out sounding a bit different. It’s why often do agree to sing on other people’s records or ask other people to help me when I’m making a record. As soon as you bring someone else into the room or as soon as you put your voice on someone else’s record, something new happens. It’s not the same as you doing it on your own. It becomes unpredictable. You bring in an element that you’re not in complete control of. You’ve got another human being who’s going to bring some ideas and the way they sound to it. To me, that’s endlessly fascinating. You can come up with something completely different. GS: Finally, the aforementioned “Queen” is practically a gift to drag queens worldwide. Have you ever encountered a drag performer doing you in their act? TT: I feel like I have. I feel like someone has sent me something like that. A clip of someone doing one of my songs. But I can’t remember which song. It was a couple of years ago. I’d love it if “Queen” would become an anthem [laughs]. That’s fantastic!
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EASTER AT OSCARS PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt
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Aaron is an artist, author, and creative consultant who grew up in Atlanta and now lives in Midtown with his partner, Craig, and their two dogs, Maddy and Toby. For over a decade, Aaron has been traveling the world speaking about his story, art, design, and how they all intersect. His book, Love as an Art Form, came out in 2017 and in 2018, he is focused on expanding his art business and working with more designers to create custom art for clients. Check out aaronleeharris.com.
Aaron Harris
MORE LOVE FOR ALL Love as an Art Form: 30 Days to Deeper Love is a glimpse into the journey of Aaron Lee Harris asking the question “What does love require of me?� The art contained in the book chronicles his journey over the years to deeper love for God, himself, and others through his art. This book has been a labor of love for Aaron and he knows this book will encourage you, challenge you, and move you. Will you take the 30-day challenge for deeper love?
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Leg Work
By Darren Floro-Bryant
The good news is, it’s never too late even if you skipped leg day. Leg muscles respond quickly, and there are many ways to help them develop and grow - some even with body weight alone. Squats, lunges, wall sits, calf raises, and butt (glute) exercises can all be done at home, at the gym, or outside while enjoying the weather. If you want bigger gains or more development, these same moves can be enhanced at the gym, in a fitness class, or by adding some additional resistance equipment and training.
Leg Exercises
Before attempting any of these moves, engage your core, keep your shoulders back and down (no shrugging), chest up, and back straight.
Squats
Start with your feet planted hip-width apart, toes slightly turned out in a natural stance. Start bending at the knees, stick your butt back, chest up, and heels firmly planted on the ground. Your weight should stay on your heels, not your toes. Squat down until your thighs are parallel to the floor, and keep your back flat throughout the move. The movement should be similar to sitting down on a chair. Straighten back up to the standing position by driving your heels into the floor, keeping your chest up. At full standing position, be sure to keep your knees slightly bent to avoid hyperextending.
Lunges
Start with your feet hip-width apart toes pointing forward on both feet. Keeping your left foot in place, take a large step forward with the right leg by lifting the knee and extending the foot out in front of you, stepping down onto the floor and softly landing on the heel. Your left knee should be bent, and lower to the floor. Don’t let your right knee go past your toes. To get back to the starting position, lift your toes on the front foot and push back up with the heel of the front leg. Repeat with the left leg.
Wall Sits
Start with your back against a wall, feet about a foot and a half away from the wall. Similar starting stance as a squat,
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When it is cold outside, a lot of focus is put on the upper body when training. We often forget about our greatest assets: our legs. They seem to be an afterthought because they are covered up and as they say “outta sight, outta mind.” Well, I’m here to shine a spotlight on these overlooked, neglected pillars of strength just in time to show them off!
but now you’re leaning back against a wall. Slide your back down the wall and stop when your thighs are parallel to the floor, like you’re sitting in a chair. In this position, curl your toes up in your shoes, keeping your heels driving into the floor. Flex the muscles on the top of your legs and resist pushing your lower back or tailbone into the wall. Hold in this position for a set amount of time, and then slowly push yourself up to the standing/leaning position.
Calf Raises
Find a step or ledge to use as a platform. Place the balls of your feet on the edge of the platform. Ideally, find a spot where you will have something to hold onto for balance. Lower your heels slightly down past the platform, then lift your whole body up onto the balls of your feet, pause, and then lower back to the neutral or starting position. Repeat.
Glute exercises
Lay on the floor, on your back. Bring your hands, palms down, by your sides on the floor. Bend your knees, so your feet are flat on the floor. Press your heels into the floor as you drive your hips up to the ceiling, squeezing your glutes at the top of the move. Then lower your hips and glutes back down to the floor. Repeat.
Adding Resistance
As mentioned, all of these exercises can be done with just your bodyweight or intensified by adding different forms of resistance. For best results and to help reduce the risk for injury, please consult with a fitness professional to learn proper form, technique, and different variations to help maximize results.
Darren Floro-Bryant has worked as a certified Group Fitness Instructor, Fitness Coach, and Personal Trainer for more than 25 Years. He also owns DFB Fitness and Foundation Fitness, operating out of Gravity Fitness. DFBFitness.com / FoundationFitness.co.
THE DRAMA OF
Dvořák’s 7th Symphony LGBT NIGHT + POST-CONCERT RECEPTION Use code “ATLPRIDE” & a portion of proceeds will go to Atlanta Pride
APR 14
ASO.ORG
Teenage Dreams
Love, Simon, The Way We Were, and the LGBT Rescue Fantasy By Scott King
“Hey, dude. Dude!” “Yeah?” “Why are you wearing a pink t-shirt?” “So that I’m not naked.” Howls of laughter. “Ugh! No, I mean why don’t you wear a more masculine ...” He couldn’t even finish. He knew that he had been had. By a very sharp tongue. I was proud of him for at least trying to articulate his point, that men shouldn’t wear pink shirts. It wasn’t very becoming of their attempts at gender conformity. His name was also Scott, and he was also gay. I’m almost completely sure that he knew this. I’m also almost completely sure that he was having clandestine gay sex with a guy named Brandon, who sat in the back row of our chemistry class and was bisexual. Brandon always chatted with this girl in her Prince t-shirts in 1997. This girl, Jennifer I think, she was so badass. She let me borrow all three discs of “Emancipation.” Everybody keeps trying to break my heart. Everybody, except for me ... Brandon and I had become flirty, dangerous friends. He was queerbaiting the F out of me, telling me that he was bisexual and asking me if I was gay. I was and I was out to my friends, but it was so conspicuous the way he was asking me, I would just turn away and dooble guitar hero caricatures on my notebooks. Totes masc. I was ashamed for saying no when he asked me directly, but Brandon was not exactly somebody who was to be trusted. He was a live fucking wire. He was sweet and funny and weird and fit, and his hair was cut kind of like a clown’s, but he had a strong jawline and pretty green eyes. He wore clunky shoes and tight pants and polo shirts and sport coats that he bought at a thrift store but they still fit. I was a grunger in jeans and Tori Amos t-shirts and jackets that said things like, “Plumbing!” My hair was short and platinum blond. As I got to know Brandon a little better, I realized that he wasn’t dangerous. I just had to tame the monstah. So
34 | 04.04.18
we set it up that he would buy us alcohol for my friend’s senior prom and then he would hang out with us for a bit at the house. I was really excited. We got back to the house and of course he wasn’t there nor was the alcohol or the money that we had given him. I was pissed. I was traumatized I was burning up. I didn’t see Brandon all summer. I figured we’d have a good laugh about it the next fall, or not. But he never showed up. In July, he had driven his Chevy into a telephone pole. He didn’t make it. Looking back, I wish I had been there for him. I wish I had forgotten about the money and just said hey dude I’m gay, too. It’s okay. We can be friends, and we can be there for each other. You don’t need to drive around messed up on pills thinking that you’re not worth anything because you’re queer. Of course, nobody talks like that. What does all this have to do with “Love, Simon,” America’s most beloved feelgood lgbt coming-of-age film? Well, the truth is, it’s not all that feel good. It’s not all pathos and knowing smiles and empathetic hugs. Among the plot twists and the emo feel-good moments, there is howling, poignant drama. There’s heartbreak and neurosis and loneliness and that burning pit in your stomach that everyone is going to know your dirty secret and laugh at you. Then you grow up, and you realize that they will laugh at you. A nervous laugh, because you scare them. Because you’re free. Because gay dudes are hilarious. When people wrong you, its okay to hold their feet to the fire. It’s also okay to hold out a hand. Sometimes people just need to be rescued.
Scott King is an Atlanta-based writer, consultant, and political activist. He enjoys tennis, hiking, rock concerts, and having drinks with friends. He is currently working on a novel about a hooker with a heart of Bitcoin.
My Grass is Green Too By Jamie Kirk
With all of the focus on social media and the attention given to how many “likes” a picture has or has not received, it can be very easy to be envious of others. When you scroll through Instagram or Facebook (I can’t be the only one), you literally can feel that your life is passing you by. Unfortunately, when we do this, we are not honoring all of our hard work and could be viewed as being ungrateful. It is very easy to compare what we don’t have, against what others appear to have and get down in the dumps. We don’t stop to think that our ordinary life is being compared to filters, lighting, Photoshop and about 1,000 re-takes to get the best pic to post. Normal lives seldom get do-overs. We get one shot. We don’t get a chance to fake giggle or pretend to be in a conversation with someone; or my favorite: the-perfecthair-selfie-laying-in-bed saying “Good Night All.” That just doesn’t happen. Everyone has heard the cliché ‘the grass is not always greener on the other side.’ But sometimes it is. Some folks take a vacation monthly, qualify for low-interest rates, have well-behaved pets, and their car interior does not have ONE stain. 36 | 04.04.18
But for every scenario above, they could be using companion passes; their new home could have passed down from a family member, training for pets that cost over $2,000, and car payments that often fall behind. It is important to water our own grass, but keep our eye on our neighbors. I say that because sometimes we do need the motivation of others successes to push us out of our comfort zones. When we are looking at our own situation by comparing parts of our lives to others, we just have to keep it in perspective. Things are seldom as good or as bad as we think. And they are almost never as good or as bad as others observing think they are. It is important that we stay the course of our own life and shoot for VSOP (virtual signs of progress) at all times. Stepping up our own game will help us avoid comparison, prevent anxiety, curb over-spending and allow us to trust the process of our own life - whatever that may be.
Jamie Kirk works for a software company and is a certified spinning instructor. He also enjoys yoga, swimming, bicycling and running. He aspires to start a blog about what we put in our bodies not only fuels our body but our mind and spirit as well. Follow Jamie on IG @tysonsdad
friday, may 4
jack white
david byrne • fleet foxes • courtney barnett • japandroids franz ferdinand • jimmy eat world • the black angels • rival sons the brian jonestown massacre • waxahatchee • ezra furman • the frights lillie mae • marlon williams • rolling blackouts coastal fever
the ghost of paul revere • welles • the war and treaty l.a. witch • liz brasher • *repeat repeat • amasa hines
saturday, may 5
queens stone age OF THE
the war on drugs • cake • manchester orchestra • matt and kim the distillers • parquet courts • circa survive • greta van fleet chicano batman • andrew w.k. • jacob banks • torres • broncho • bully charly bliss • mikky ekko • bayonne • the night game• teenage wrist the sherlocks • stop light observations • sun seeker
tickets on sale now at
SHAKYKNEESFESTIVAL.COM
the national
sunday, may 6
tenacious d • vance joy • nathaniel rateliff & the night sweats Lord huron • the voidz • all time low • black rebel motorcycle club alvvays • sir sly • the menzingers • basement • lukas nelson and promise of the real parcels • alice merton • mt. joy • the wild reeds • post animal • frankie rose
marshmello
friday, may 11
dillon francis • ludacris • g jones • herobust • quinn xcii london on da track • space jesus • minnesota • manic focus
CENTRAL PARK
atlanta, georgia
marvel years • thriftworks • buku • jack harlow
zedd
saturday, may 12
excision • playboi carti • san holo • borgore • whethan • K?D shiba san • ookay [live] • wolfgang gartner • bonnie x clyde louis futon • the him • bleep bloop • phantoms kidswaste • loosid • halogen • vandal rose
kygo
sunday, may 13
seven lions • louis the child • kayzo • troyboi • tokimonsta autograf • yehme2 • medasin • brohug • ofenbach • dr. fresch unlike pluto • billy kenny • parker • midnite panda
tickets on sale now at
SHAKYBEATSFESTIVAL.COM
Apr 4 – Apr 11
ABETTERBUZZ & WOOFSSpring Thaw Stomp at The Fabulous Fox Thaw out from Winter with ABETTERBUZZ at Woofs for a beer bust and raise money for Lost-n-Found Youth! Get the newest tees, tanks, and hats from the Spring lineup and enter raffles for fantastic, furry prizes. Portions of clothing and food sales will go to Lost-n-Found.
Saturday, March 31, 10 am Emory Clairmont Campus STAFF PICK!
The international percussion sensation is an explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique show that appeals to audiences of all ages. Tickets at atlanta. broadway.com.
Friday, April 6 The Fox Theatre
MR TURK Launch Join Peach for an exclusive MR TURK launch event at the TRINA TURK boutique in Phipps Plaza. Meet and greet with the MR TURK designer, Jonathan Skow, and enjoy light bites and cocktails while you shop the new men’s collection. A 20% discount is offered on all purchases made during the event, and MR TURK will generously donate 10% of the night’s proceeds back to Joining Hearts.
Thursday, April 5, 6:30-9:30 pm Phipps Plaza (Trina Turk boutique)
DIRTY CHAI: A Sunday Tea Dance
Back To The 80’s Drag Queen Bingo
The Sugar Water Sisters are serving you a steaming cup of DIRTY CHAI! - A new monthly dance party filled to the brim with disco, drag, and feel-good at the Bakery! $10 advance tickets at Eventbrite.
A favorite bingo night is returning with a blast from the blast and in support of PALS Atlanta – and at the new location at LIPS Atlanta, the bingo night is reaching new heights!
Sunday, April 8, 3-8 pm
Tuesday, April 10
The Bakery Atlanta
Lips Atlanta
38 | 04.04.18
TWISTED AT ATLANTA EAGLE PHOTOS: Keith Bailey
40 | 04.04.18
A BE T T ERBU Z Z W IN T ER T H AW AT
WOOFS B E N E F I T T I N G L O S T N F O U N D YO U T H 2018 SPRING GEAR RELEASE & BEER BUST A P R I L 7, 6 -1 0 P M | P H O T O S BY J U S T T O BY
ABET TERBUZZBRANDGOODS.COM
t ha nks T H A N KS TO AL L OF OUR F RIEN DS A N D S P O N S O R S! S EE Y ’AL L N EXT YEA R !
ATLANTA PRIDE FESTIVAL Oct. 13-14, 2018 | atlantapride.org
Grab a coffee, coffee take a survey,
change the world.
Making a Difference is Easy.
Take the 12th Annual LGBTQ Community Survey
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EASTER DRAG RACES AT OSCCARS
PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt
44 | 04.04.18
Good Boys take their Mothers to Einstein’s...
& Bad Boys take their Mothers to Joe’s On Juniper!
Either way, make her proud and take her out this Mother’s Day! visit www.einsteinsatlanta.com to make a reservation
EASTER DRAG RACES AT OSCCARS PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt
PLEASE CHECK OUT FACEBOOK AND OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE PHOTOS
MIDTOWN 1
Monroe Dr. NE
14
Amsterdam Ave.
NE ve . tA
Piedmont Park
on
11
dm
6 12th St. NE
18
Pi e
Juniper St. NE
14th St. NE
7
9
2
10th St. NE
10
. NE
19
oe Dr
e. NE Piedmont Av
Juniper St . NE
Peachtree St. NE
3
Monr
Charles Allen Dr. NE
12 W. Peachtree St. NW
15
16
4th St. NE
8
13
BARS Amsterdam Blake's Bulldogs Friends The Model T My Sister’s Room Ten Atlanta
5
Dining 502 Amsterdam Ave NE 227 10th St NE 893 Peachtree St NE 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE 699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE 66 12th St NE 990 Piedmont Ave NE
9 10 11 12
10 th & Piedmont Campagnolo Einstein's F.R.O.G.S
clubs 13 Atlanta Eagle
306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
14 Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE
spa/bath 15 Flex Spa
50 | 04.04.18
991 Piedmont Ave NE 980 Piedmont Ave NE 1077 Juniper St NE 931 Monroe Cir NE
fitness
retail 8 Barking Leather
4
Ponce De Leon Ave. NE
Ponce De Leon Ave. NE
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Ponce De Leon Pl. NE
Spring St. NW
17
76 4th St. NW
16 17 18 19
G’s Midtown Henry’s Joe's on Juniper La Hacienda
219 10th St NE 132 10th St NE 1049 Juniper St NE 900 Monroe Dr NE
billards/Darts drag dancers leather non-smoking area Patio
’ Cheshire 23
ansley 21
37
ge
R
on
Piedmont Park
ir .
BARS 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1086 Alco St NE 1931 Piedmont Cir NE 2425 Piedmont Rd NE
Dining 24 Las Margaritas 25 Roxx
1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd 805 Lambert Dr. NE, Suite A 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd
clubs 28 Heretic 29 Jungle
2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd 2115 Faulkner Rd NE
Fitness 30 Gravitee Fitness
2201 Faulkner Rd NE
Spa / bath 31 Manifest 4 U 42 The Den
32 33 34 35 36
Burkhart's Felix's The Hideaway Mixx Oscar's
2103 Faulkner Rd NE 2135 Liddell Drive NE
1492 Piedmont Ave NE 1510 Piedmont Ave NE 1544 Piedmont Ave NE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
Dining 37 Cowtippers 38 Eclectic Bistro
Retail 26 Barking Leather 27 Southern Nights
NE
38
tC
BJ Roosters Opus 1 Tripps Woof's
e. nt mo ed
39
d.
BARS 20 21 22 23
41
Pi
28 20
25 rid
Av
ge Rd Brid hire
.
24
B ire
E
Ches
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35
29
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Dr
h
Rd
40
32
oe
dm
es
ll D
36
nr
Pi e
Ch
idde
31 er
Mo
Manchester St. NE
Piedmont Rd. NE
22
42 L
kn
27
33
. NE
26
ul
IX
34
x Rd
Fa
BL
Le no
30
Lambert Dr.
PU
St.
.
A l co
1600 Piedmont Ave NE 1425 Piedmont Ave NE
Retail 39 Boy Next Door 1447 Piedmont Ave NE 40 Brushstrokes/Pleasures 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
Fitness 41 Equilibrium Fitness
1529 Piedmont Ave, Suite L
NOT SHOWN
The Cockpit Atlanta Mary's Sister Louisa’s Church Swinging Richards Lips Atlanta
465 Boulevard SE 1287 Glenwood Ave SE 466 Edgewood Ave SE 1400 Northside Dr NW 3011 Buford Hwy NE peachATL.com | 51
A snapshot of Gay Atlanta’s favorite destinations. View their ads in Peach ATL & visit their websites for weekly event listings.
Bars & Clubs
OSCAR’S
MIDTOWN
1510 Piedmont Ave NE
AMSTERDAM 502 Amsterdam Ave. NE
EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD
ATLANTA EAGLE
THE COCKPIT
amsterdamatlanta.com
atlantaeagle.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE
BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE
FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl.com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
MODEL T modeltatlanta.com 699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com
oscarsatlanta.com
thecockpit-atlanta.blogspot.com 465 Boulevard SE
MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE
SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch.com 466 Edgewood Ave SE
SWINGING RICHARDS swingingrichards.com 1400 Northside Dr NW
Dining MIDTOWN
66 12th St NE
10TH & PIEDMONT
TEN ATLANTA
communitashospitality.com
DEKALB LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE
Retail MIDTOWN BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
CHESHIRE BARKING LEATHER barkingleather.com 805 Lambert Dr NE
SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE
ANSLEY BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1447 Piedmont Ave NE
GCB & PLEASURES
tenatlanta.com
991 Piedmont Ave NE
brushstrokesatlanta.com
990 Piedmont Ave NE
EINSTEIN’S
1510 Piedmont Ave. NE
einsteinsatlanta.com 1077 Juniper St NE
Fitness
FROGS CANTINA
MIDTOWN
CHESHIRE HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road
frogsmidtown.com 931 Monroe Dr
G’S BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com
communitashospitality.com 219 10th St NE
URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness.com 500 Amsterdam Ave NE
CHESHIRE
2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE
HENRY’S
OPUS 1
132 10th St NE
graviteeatl.com
JOE’S ON JUNIPER
2201 Faulkner Rd NE
joesonjuniper.com 1049 Juniper St NE
Spas/Baths/Adult
LA HACIENDA
MIDTOWN
1086 Alco St NE
TRIPPS 1931 Piedmont Circle N
WOOFS woofsatlanta.com
henrysatl.com
lahaciendamidtown.com
GRAVITEE FITNESS
900 Monroe Dr NE
FLEX SPA
ANSLEY
CHESHIRE
76 4th St NW
BURKHART’S
LAS MARGARITAS
CHESHIRE
lasmargaritasmidtown.com
MANIFEST 4U manifest4u.org
2425 Piedmont Road NE
burkharts.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
THE HIDEAWAY
1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE
ROXX 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE
1544 Piedmont Ave NE
ANSLEY
MIXX
COWTIPPERS
mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
cowtippersatlanta.com 1600 Piedmont Ave NE
flexspas.com
2103 Faulkner Rd NE
THE DEN thedenatlanta.com 2135 Liddell Drive NE
DEEP TISSUE SPORTS MASSAGE by Reggie
Private studio in Inman Park $100 for 60 minutes no up charges Licensed Professional
404-536-3340
ADVERTISE In Atlanta's newest and
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FULL BODY MASSAGE by Walter @ 404-872-5671 (8th St. @Monroe Dr.) Only $40..Shave too License No. MT003122
Hot Tub and Swim Spas
60% OFF RETAIL AquaLivingStores.com 404-382-5329
10 THINGS THAT’LL TAKE YOU FROM SPRING INTO SUMMER BEFORE YOU KNOW IT, IT’S HERE!
Photo: PR, SikSilk, ABETTERBUZZ, Herschel
1
2
3
4
5
Floral Tanks
6
Statement Tees
7
Medium-Sized Bags
8
Short Sleeve Shirt
9
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Swimwear
Slip-On Footwear
Cut-Off Shorts
54 | 04.04.18
10
Layer Top
Sunday Funday = Playmates and soul mates...
MISERABLE MONDAY
MAKE MONDAY YOUR B#TCH! feel better faster with Intravenous (IV) Therapy
20% Off Your first visit Promo code: davidmag 404.939.7666 | replenishIV.com | Hours: 10am-6pm 549-6 Amsterdam Avenue NE | Atlanta, GA 30306
Atlanta:
678-528-2525
18+ MegaMates.com
peachATL.com | 55
Text your Peach Pits to 256-60-PEACH, or e-mail mikkel@PeachATL.com Illustrations by: Jerel Ely
Easter has passed and he still doesn’t have all his eggs in one basket
“Don’t kill my vibe, don’t touch my weave” is my new motto and I want it on a crop top.
How is it possible that the Atlanta weather forecast can have a heatwave, a blizzard, a rainstorm, and the end of the world all in one week?
I’m panicking! I’m at the airport and I can’t find the Facebook check-in line! I guess aging is also about just how ugly you are willing to look when stepping out in public
I’m in a good place right now, and there is absolutely no space for you here.
So, does sub/dom role-play ever involve anything useful, like putting a collar around somebody’s neck and having them paint a wall or mow your lawn or something? Asking for a friend.
Girl, he wasn’t that cute. The next time you want to give to charity, WRITE A CHECK!
Maybe she’s born with it? Maybe she’ll take down a sitting President?
56 | 04.04.18
ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)
LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)
Perhaps you should suspend your inhibitions for the time being and let your dreams guide you. For instance, you might try asking that guy or girl out that you keep seeing outside the coffee shop. Who knows what might happen?
Your surroundings are currently changing, Libra. Perhaps your circle of friends has already undergone a major change. You accept whoever comes along. You may not realize it, but your attitude is completely different now than it once was. Good for you!
TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)
SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)
This is the type of week you enjoy. The climate is positive and the energy is flowing. It’s as though you have a magic wand (you know you probably do). You give it a wave and - presto - the day’s tasks and chores are done!
You’re demystifying the concept of talent. You used to look enviously at other people and think, “I wish I had a natural ability like that.” It’s a matter of hard work, belief in oneself, and bravery in the face of risk. You can do it, too!
GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)
If the world collapsed today, you wouldn’t bat an eyelash. You’re perfectly content sailing along on cloud nine! The source of your bliss could be that new person in your life. Are you passionately, intensely, wonderfully in love?
Are you thinking of going into business for yourself? Being self-employed doesn’t automatically mean you will have more freedom. Think about it. Base your decision on reality and not fantasy.
CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)
You may have had some emotional disappointments lately, but this week will restore your faith in love. All you need to do is take action. You’re more likely to get results from yourself than from other people.
Within the next few days, you’re likely to gain access to dimensions of perception you never suspected.. Investigate what these worlds have to offer. What you learn will help you cope with your sensitivity.
LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)
Put on your traveling shoes. Fear of the unknown may have prompted you to postpone certain trips. You claimed you were too busy, but no one really believed this, not even you. It’s silly to avoid life, go out there and get to it.
Often fiery temperaments like yours are drawn to fight for great causes despite the better judgment of more down-to-Earth people. As a result, you have great leadership potential that may emerge this week.
VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22)
PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)
Something is currently compelling you to be more of a world citizen than usual. Comfort yourself with the knowledge that your world is simply changing and expanding. It will stabilize again on another, higher plane.
Your optimism is likely to receive a little boost this week. A memorable emotional encounter may be the source of some extra zeal. Or you may derive great satisfaction from being part of a group. The outlook is nothing but positive!
58 | 04.04.18
WHAT happened was . . .
What Happened Was... Trouble in the love department? With sex? Or just people in general? Send us your queries, questions, and problems, and we’ll give you the answers served straight up and with a little ice.
drives me nuts. I hate that I feel this way, but I can’t help it, and he is not helping either. What should I do?
I’m new to anal sex, but I really want to explore some more. The last guy I was with was a little rough with me, so I had bleeding for a few days, and he made comments about me not being clean enough and being too ‘delicate’ because it hurt me. How do I get better at this?
Dear Just a Jealous Boy
Sincerely Want-to-Learn Dear Want-to-Learn From the sound of it, that last guy you were with needs to learn how to be a better top! No matter what you do, you shouldn’t get hurt or get shamed in any way. That’s just not cool in any way. Obviously, he went to too hard too quickly, and you suffered the consequence! It’s foolish to believe and expect that anal sex won’t involve little ‘messes’ at times. It’s great that you want to explore more despite your bad experience, and there are measures you can take to make it a better experience for yourself. First of all, you need to establish a few ground rules with your next sex partner; tell him you are somewhat inexperienced and that you need him to go slow and be respectful. Next, you need to learn how to clean yourself out. Buy a shower head or a squirt bottle made for that kind of cleansing. Whatever you do, don’t go overboard, and look online for more detailed guides on how to clean out. Finally, you can train your tolerance to getting something ‘up there.’ You can buy a ‘trainer set’ of butt plugs that can help you stretch a little and make the feeling of having something up there even more familiar (and better!). Also, it’s a good idea to watch your diet and think about eating more fiber (perhaps a supplement), so your bowel cleans naturally when you use the bathroom. Yeah, it’s a lot, but the prep pays off – and hopefully, your next experience won’t be such a turn-off!
I love my boyfriend, but I’m struggling with feelings of jealousy. I often feel he is distracted and isn’t giving me the proper attention by being on his phone texting and being on social media. He says he is not doing anything, but on the other hand, he doesn’t do much to relieve my building anxiety and jealousy. Sometimes, he will even ‘pretend flirt’ with people when we’re out just to make me jealous, and it
60 | 04.04.18
Sincerely Just a Jealous Boy Jealousy can be really hard to deal with. Sometimes it’s merited, and other times it is not. It all comes down to trust. And trust is a tricky bitch! It seems like your boyfriend tends to play little trust games with you to get a jealous reaction out of you. It also sounds like you attribute your boyfriend of doing things he shouldn’t, which prompts a jealous response from you. You need to start communicating, or these behaviors are going to spiral out of control and cause some serious damage between the two of you. Talk to your boyfriend about how his actions make you feel. Let him talk about how he feels and why he does it. The only way to handle this is through being honest with each other and building trust. Once the trust is there, the jealousy will also take a backseat.
I found out that a guy that I’m starting to see is sending dick pics left and right to guys. I think it’s kind of hot, but it is also starting to get a little annoying because now everybody seems to know that he is very well endowed – and they probably have a photo of it as well! He is very sexually free and doesn’t think this is a bad thing at all which is great and all, but I would like a little privacy and get to a point where I feel like it’s ‘all mine.’ How do I deal with this?
Sincerely The D is Mine, Mine, Mine Dear The D is Mine, Mine, Mine The situation you are in does represent a fine line scenario. Since you are just starting to see this guy, there isn’t that much you can do at the moment – you let him be him, and that’s the person you are getting to know, whether you like it or not. Once ‘finer feelings’ (and yes, that’s a Kylie reference) start to develop the game changes because that is when both of you need to start respecting your partner’s boundaries. Would you like him to stop sharing pics, then he should listen. On the other hand, he could also say that that you need just to accept that side of him, and you should respect that too. In either case and any given scenario you need to respect the fine line of not overstepping your partner’s boundaries. NEED ANSWERS? REACH OUT TO US, AND YOU WILL GET THEM! SEND YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS VIA OUR EDITOR AT MIKKEL@PEACHATL.COM.