Jeannie: Coming of Age

By Janis Elizabeth

 

Prologue

What a whirlwind the past seven months had been for me. Because of a confession that I had made to my sister one quiet weekend while Mom was away, I had gone from being Gene Marin, a nice, pleasant teenaged young man with a unexceptional personality and no girlfriend, to being Jeannie Joy Marin, a lovely young lady who is a student at Manor Hill Girls School, a cheerleader who is popular with her classmates, and is now enjoying a steady relationship with Robby.

I did not care that her parents had named her Roberta when she was born or that she had gone by the name Bobbi for many years. All I cared about now was that, as Robby, she was my steady "boyfriend" if you will. So far, I had enjoyed my time as Jeannie. I loved being able to wear feminine things, applying makeup and doing my hair. There were so many events to look forward to during the coming year. As Jeannie, I planned to enjoy each and every one of them to the utmost.

 

 

Chapter 1

The New Year brought with it the second semester of my junior year at Manor Hill. Upon returning to school after the break for Christmas and the New Year, Rachel, Amy, Sarah and I compared notes on what had happened to us during the holiday break. As expected, I received some good-natured teasing from my friends when they saw Robby's ring on my left hand. After teasing me for a time, I received hugs of congratulations from them. Amy even told me I was lucky to have a special boyfriend.

As part of the Manor Hill Spirit Squad, I was on the sidelines, cheering our basketball team on. I loved wearing my uniform and feeling the short skirt brushing my legs as I jumped about during the games. I also liked the way my panties would occasionally show when my skirt flipped up during one of my jumps. All too quickly though, I found that the basketball season was over. Our team had a good year, winning more than we lost, but it was disappointing in that we did not make the private school playoffs this year. Even though we cheered for the school's lacrosse team during their few home games in the spring, we knew that the end of basketball season was, in essence, the end of the year for cheerleading.

February, the traditional month of love, brought Valentine's Day and a lovely evening with Robby. Our school didn't really do anything special to observe Valentine's Day. However, Robby's school, my former school, did. Each year, the Valentine's Day dance was held in the school gym, usually on the Friday nearest to February 14. This year, since Valentine's Day fell on Friday, we enjoyed the dance on the correct evening.

The night before the dance, I had sat on my bed in a red satin, waltz-length nightgown and painted my fingernails and toenails with a really red nail polish. I loved the wet look that my nails took on when dry after using this polish. They almost seemed to sparkle and glow. I wanted to make sure that I did not wait until the last minute to do them. At school the next day, I received some good-natured teasing from my friends about my nail color. I just smiled and said that I wanted to have my nails match the special color of the day, especially since Robby and I were going to the dance that evening. They all hoped I would have an enjoyable time at the dance and said I simply had to tell them all about it on Monday. I smiled and said that I might not want to tell them EVERYTHING.

As soon as school ended that Friday, I hurried home and took a quick shower. After drying myself off and using the scented bath powder, I wrapped my towel around me and returned to my room. I put on my red satin garter belt, red satin panties with white lacy hearts all around and my red satin bra with my breast forms filling the cups. I also used my normal sanitary pad to give me the look in the front of my panties that I enjoyed having. I sat on the edge of the bed and drew my red stockings carefully up my legs and attached the tops to my garters. It always felt nice to be aware of the tautness of my stockings tugging against my garters. After I checked to make sure my lingerie and stockings were neatly in place, I put on a quilted robe and furry slippers and went to the kitchen to have a quick bite to eat with Mom. While we ate, we talked about the dance and I think Mom could sense how thrilled I was to be going. After dinner, it was back to my room to finish getting ready.

I had been sleeping with my hair in rollers for the last few nights, so my hair had some curl in it. I now carefully brushed it into a nice outward flip before I applied hairspray. I then did my makeup using various shades of red for my blush and eye shadow. The color of my lipstick, naturally, matched my nail polish color. I carefully applied several creamy coats to my lips before blotting them gently on a tissue.

My red satin full slip fell to just above my knees and was adorned with lace all over. I slid it carefully down onto my body, being aware of my freshly done makeup and neatly done hair. I then put on my red four-inch pumps. I always thought my legs looked nice in stockings and high heels. Since my dress was a full-skirted, knee-length creation, I was also able to wear a nice starched crinoline. I gently stepped into it and fastened it securely around my waist. Lastly, I put on my red satin dress with long sleeves and a straight neckline. At that moment, Mom came in to see if I needed any help. As she zipped me up, I thanked her for the finishing touches. I put gold hearts in my ears and a simple gold heart locket around my neck. I then sprayed some of my White Diamonds in several strategic places.

As I picked up my red clutch purse and sheer red wrap, I heard the doorbell ring. Mom let me answer the door since it was probably Robby arriving to pick me up. As I opened the door, I saw Robby standing there in her black tux, wearing a white shirt with a red bowtie and a red cummerbund. I smiled and told her I was impressed that she knew how to tie a bowtie. She laughed and showed me that it was pre-tied and all you had to do was to place the attached strap around your neck and under your collar and then fasten it.

The rest of the evening was fun. I simply loved being held in Robby's arms whenever we slow danced. She seemed to enjoy touching my satin covered body also. It was interesting to meet kids that I had known since elementary school who did not recognize me as my former self. After the dance was over, we both agreed that, since we were dressed up, we would not stop for our usual burgers and sodas. That one item didn't detract from the joy of the evening. Robby and I had a wonderful time.

 

 

Chapter 2

Another grading period ended and again the "Four Musketeers" of Amy, Rachel, Sarah and I were the only juniors that earned all A's and were on the Distinguished Honor Roll. As usual, we made our way to Mrs. Willingham's office to receive our congratulations. Rachel and I wore our uniform jumpers and blouses. Amy and Sarah had worn their uniform skirts and blouses that day. Mrs. W. said that each one of us that made the Distinguished Honor Roll all four quarters of the year would have a photographic record posted in the school's Honor Wing in recognition of our outstanding scholastic achievement. She also said that the four of us presently had the inside track on being the class valedictorian when we graduated next year, if we maintained our studies and academic achievements at their current level. When I looked at her questioningly, she said, "Jeannie, at Manor Hill, the class valedictorian is determined by the scholastic performance during the junior and senior years. While we would like to think that good academics begin earlier in one's schooling, we only include the two years prior to graduation." I smiled and thanked her for telling me.

As we were about to leave, Mrs. W. said that she had one more bit of good news before we could go. She informed us that each of us had been selected for the National Honor Society. Induction ceremonies would be in May. Each girl should wear a knee-length, short sleeve white dress, nude stockings and white heels of no more than two inches height. Although we calmly accepted this information while still in her office, as soon as we were outside, we behaved like typical teenage girls, squealing with joy and hugging each other.

When I got home, I immediately called Sharon at college. She was very happy for her little sister's academic accomplishments. She also said that she was glad that I was finding my true path through life and enjoying my newfound femininity as Jeannie. As she spoke, I blushed over her nice words. Even though we were talking on the phone, Sharon knew I was blushing and told me to be gracious and accept the compliments and kind words. Just before I said goodbye, I assured her that I would.

I couldn't wait to tell Mom the good news. As she walked in the door, I was simply bubbling over with enthusiasm. I must have sounded like a verbal run-on sentence, because Mom had to have me slow down several times before she could finally understand what I was saying. Once she was able to understand me, she smiled and hugged me. She asked if I wanted to go shopping, both for a dress for the induction ceremony and for a prom dress since I had two junior Proms to attend this year. I asked her if I should change out of my uniform first. Mom assured me that I looked lovely, even in my school uniform, and not to change. We grabbed a quick salad for dinner and then went looking for my two special dresses.

Our first stop was to a bridal and formal shop located about fifteen minutes from our house. Mom parked the car and we went in amid this array of silk, satin and lace. Kim, the sales associate was very helpful as we told her what we were looking for. She showed us the different styles of gowns including several with full skirts that would require crinolines, skintight sheath gowns and the full-skirted gowns that did not require crinolines. There was also an array of colors as well as necklines from the plunging necklines designed to show cleavage to the high straight necklines designed for modesty as well as style. As we looked, I saw one gown that really caught my eye. It was an ankle-length, sleeveless satin sheath with a fuller skirt and a straight neckline in dark green. Mom carefully looked at it and said I should see how it fit and how I would look in it. Kim led us to one of the many fitting rooms where I could try on this lovely gown.

I took the gown and made my way to the fitting room with Mom following a few steps behind. Once inside, I removed my uniform jumper and blouse. Carefully, I removed the gown from the hanger and slid it on. Mom popped in just in time to zip the back of the gown for me. While it fit beautifully, it seemed too long.

Kim entered the fitting room and sensed my disappointment before I had said anything. After asking me for my shoe size and the desired heel height that I wanted with the gown, Kim disappeared for a few seconds, returning with a pair of white four-inch pumps in my size. I slid them onto my feet and then looked in the mirror. Not only did it fit beautifully, including the length, it looked lovely on me. The heels had made the difference and made the length of the gown perfect. Mom nodded her approval as I walked around in the gown and heels. When I asked about the shoes, Kim assured me that, in a week, they could be dyed to match the color of the gown. She also said that they carried matching satin evening bags. She also suggested that, with a sleeveless gown, I should consider elbow-length satin gloves. She asked if I would like to try a pair to see how they looked with the gown. When I said yes, Kim disappeared again, returning shortly with a pair of white gloves, which she helped me put on. She also handed me a dark green satin evening bag with a gold chain. The total effect of the gown, the shoes, the bag and the gloves was wonderful. I looked and felt absolutely radiant.

Mom said we could get the gown, the gloves, and the bag and have the shoes dyed to match. As I started to remove the gown, Mom told me to carefully hang it up but not to put my school uniform on just yet. After unzipping me, Mom and Kim stepped out of the fitting room. I first took off my heels before removing the gown. I stood in the fitting room in my lingerie and stocking feet, replacing my new gown on the hanger. In a few minutes, Mom returned with several white dresses. It seems that the salon had a small selection in my size of white satin dresses that would be suitable for the induction ceremony. I looked over the ones that Mom had brought and selected one to try on. It had a fitted bodice with a lace overlay, full skirt that fell to my knees, a straight neckline and short, puffy sleeves. I quickly tried it on and loved the fit, the feel and the look of the dress. Mom also thought it was very nice and said we should get it.

I removed the dress and placed it back on the hangar. While I donned my blouse and my uniform jumper, Mom paid the bill. I was surprised at how easily we had found my two special dresses. I hoped the next time I was in a bridal salon, with Sharon, that our search for Maid of Honor and wedding gowns would go as easily.

 

 

Chapter 3

Springtime arrived and brought with it the promise of several exciting events. With Easter occurring so late this year, I was able to wear a lovely mint green spring dress to church that Sunday. I also wore a lovely gold cross on a chain that Robby had recently given me. Robby and I attended services together, as we had been doing for quite some time. Afterward, we met Robby's Mom and my Mom, Sharon and Matt for Easter Sunday dinner at a very nice restaurant. During the course of the meal, Sharon and I made a necessary trip to the ladies' room where I used the facilities in a manner befitting of a young woman. Before we returned to the table, Sharon and I checked our hair and makeup in the mirror while chatting and giggling like a couple of schoolgirls.

May turned into a busy month on my calendar. First, there was the Honor Society induction ceremony at school. I carefully did my hair and makeup before putting on my new white dress and a pair of white two-inch pumps. The dress felt nice to my touch. Since she about to graduate, Sharon was home from school and assisted me with my preparations. She, Mom and I had a light dinner before departing. I was almost too excited to eat. Robby had a commitment with her Mom to go to a viewing, or she would have been there. I missed having her with me.

At school, I quickly found my friends. Rachel had on a lovely sheath, Amy was wearing a full-skirted dress with a slight vee neckline and Sarah was in a belted sheath. Each girl had her hair and makeup done to perfection. The ceremony was impressive as the current members of the Honor Society told us what it meant to be a part of this organization and what our duties and responsibilities were. A candle, signifying the light of knowledge in the world, was placed before us. In turn each of us lit our own candles from it signifying that we had gained our knowledge from the light. After our candles were lit, we then took the oath that made us the newest members of the Honor Society at Manor Hill.

Afterwards, many pictures were taken by all of the proud parents. Each parent wanted their own child's picture and then wanted a picture of the group. Mrs. W., smiling knowingly, chatted briefly with Mom and Sharon, telling them what a credit I was to the Manor Hill Girls School. I glowed within, as I was pleased to hear her say that, as were Mom and Sharon. As we were ready to depart, the "Four Musketeers" giggled as we hugged each other and said we'd talk again on Monday.

The next two big events for me were Robby's prom at Forest County and my prom at Manor Hill. Fortunately for us, they were on consecutive Saturdays so that we didn't have a conflict or have to make a choice. For each Saturday, Mom had made a beauty salon appointment for me so that my hair and makeup would be professionally done. For Robby's prom, which was first, the stylist did my hair in a nice outward flip. Since Forest County's colors were dark green and gold, she pinned dark green and gold streamers in my hair as a finishing touch. The streamers would definitely complement my gown. I loved how I looked as I went home to dress. Putting on my gown, I was careful not to mess up my stylist's wonderful work. For jewelry, I wore pearl earrings, a pearl necklace and, of course, Robby's ring. With my gloves on though, it was covered but obviously not hidden.

Robby arrived promptly and handed me a lovely wrist corsage adorned with the ribbons in the colors of Forest County. I slipped it on my left wrist and then we posed for Mom's pictures. Robby told me how pretty I looked, especially with the streamers in my hair. She looked great in her tuxedo and I told her so. Three couples had gone together to rent a white stretch limo and it was outside waiting as Robby and I emerged from my house. I held my bag over my right wrist and carefully lifted my skirt and ducked my head to get into the back of the limo. It turned out that I was the last one to be picked up. The other girls wore full-skirted satin and taffeta gowns in pink and white, respectively, with a starched crinoline under the skirt. We chatted as the limo drove us to a restaurant where we had dinner before the prom. Later, it was on to the ballroom of a local hotel where the Forest County prom was being held. As we entered, I noticed all of the lovely gowns that the girls were wearing. Robby told me that I was the best-looking one there. I smiled at her kindness. Robby and I danced throughout the night. Other than my aching feet, I was sorry to see this night end, although I hoped we would relive the experience, even if on a smaller scale, next Saturday at my prom. Both the corsage and the hair streamers were saved for inclusion in my book of memories.

For my prom, the stylist had given me a more sophisticated up do. This time, she omitted the streamers from my hair. Last week, for Robby's prom, I felt that she had done my hair and makeup flawlessly. This week, I felt that she had done a better job on my hair and makeup, if that was possible, than she had done the previous Saturday. Again, at home, I dressed carefully. After putting on my satin lingerie and heels, I put on my satin gown. I hoped Robby wasn't going to be disappointed in seeing me in the same gown two weeks in a row. She wasn't, as evidenced by her smile when I walked into the room. She said I looked lovelier tonight than I did for her prom last week. I blushed over her wonderful words. After posing for pictures, it was off to a fancy restaurant where our class was holding a combined dinner and dance. Our table consisted of the "Four Musketeers" and their dates. Each of my friends looked lovely in their gowns. Amy wore a light blue column dress with spaghetti straps. Rachel wore a gold satin strapless with a full skirt. Sarah wore a lavender satin gown a neckline that also revealed some cleavage. I seemed to be the modest one. For the second time in a week, the wonderful evening ended all too quickly. As Robby kissed me good night at my front door, I wished that my life could always be as wonderful as the two weekends. I dreamily went inside with stars still in my eyes. I smiled at Mom and slowly made my way to my room and got ready for bed.

 

 

Chapter 4

The last big event in May for me was Seniors Day. It was a time when the senior class had the class picture taken while wearing all white, floor-length dresses that could be no more than six inches off of the ground. It was also a day of fun, when the juniors dressed up as little girls and did the bidding of their assigned senior. For her junior year, Sharon had worn a pretty pink satin party dress covered with ruffles and lace and pretty, ruffled pink satin panties. It was now my turn to wear the same pretty dress and panties.

While I wore my satin lingerie underneath, I did not wear my garter belt or stockings. Instead, I wore lacy white anklets and black Mary Janes. The feel of the starched crinoline under the skirt of my dress was nice. My dress had short, puffy sleeves, a full skirt and a sash that could be tied into a big bow at the back of the dress. Mom helped me tie the streamers properly. She then helped me position a big pink satin bow in my hair. Naturally, Mom took pictures of her little girl before I left for school.

At school, most of the juniors chose to wear pretty little girl party dresses. A few chose different outfits, such as little girl one-piece rompers and playsuits. My friends and I covered the rainbow of colors. Amy wore light blue, Sarah wore pale yellow and Rachel wore light green. Their dresses were similar in style to mine. We stood off to the side while the seniors posed for their class picture. There were one piece and two-piece white dresses in a variety of styles being worn by the seniors. The only similarity was that they all were no more than six inches off of the ground.

Once the picture was completed, we were paired up with the senior whom we would serve. The only restrictions on the seniors were that nothing could be ordered that would result in harm in any way to the junior or would cause the junior to violate any laws or school policies. Other than that, it was viewed by all as a light-hearted means of bidding the seniors farewell while we juniors waited our turn to take our rightful place as leaders of the school.

As luck would have it, I was assigned to serve Paige. I had been on my guard near her since the first day at cheerleading practice when I felt her soft touches briefly on my feminine bottom. Nevertheless, I put my nicest smile on my face and walked over and curtseyed before her. Paige was pleased to see that I would be her attendant for the day. I followed her from class to class, carrying her purse and notebook, so that she would be free to chat with her friends. During lunch, I picked up Paige's tray and brought it to her at her table. I then stood behind her while she ate. After lunch, I took out her hairbrush and carefully brushed her shoulder length brunette hair. Her style had the ends turned under and I made sure that I kept them that way.

So far, Paige had made no overt attempts to inappropriately touch me. I was starting to relax. However, after the last class, Paige was walking slightly behind me, when I felt her hand through my dress again on my bottom. The next thing I knew, Paige had pushed me into a dark corner near the lockers. She embraced me and kissed me passionately on the lips, while fondling my bottom through my dress and crinoline. Although I was enjoying the taste of her lipstick, I was totally surprised by her actions. As I tried to get away, Paige told me that she had been attracted to me from the first day she had met me at cheerleader practice. She said that if I would just lose some of my inhibitions, we could have a wonderful relationship. As I broke free, I reminded her that I did have a steady boyfriend and that was the relationship that I preferred. Paige simply sighed and told me I didn't know what I was missing. My parting remark as I left Paige in the corner was that I was happy to miss whatever she was proposing. It took me several days to get over Paige's "assault" on me. I did not even discus this incident with either my family or friends. However, Paige would have been very surprised had she but known what I had hidden under my skirt.

 

 

Chapter 5

The school year ended soon afterwards and the "Four Musketeers" had achieved the Distinguished Honor Roll all four quarters of the year. Mrs. W. told us that our pictures would be taken upon our return to school in the fall. On the last day of classes, Rachel, Sarah, Amy and I hugged each other a lot, laughed some and cried a little over being apart all summer. Each of us had different plans for the summer that would keep us from getting together. We promised each other to keep in touch while we were apart and exchanged email addresses. With one last big hug, we departed, saying we would see each other in September.

There was one pleasant surprise for me just before school let out. One Sunday, after church, Mom and Sharon had Robby and I come back to the house after church to eat. After the meal, Mom vanished into the kitchen for a few minutes. When she returned, she was carrying a small birthday cake with one lit candle. I had forgotten that this was the one-year anniversary of my birth as Jeannie. I was serenaded with the strains of "Happy Birthday." Sharon told me to make a wish before I blew out the candle. I smiled, knowing what I would wish for, and proceeded to blow out the candle to the cheers of all. What a wonderful surprise it was.

The summer itself was also wonderful. Elaine Rogers, Robby's Mom, again hired me to be a lifeguard at the community pool. This meant spending most of my days in one of my lovely new feminine bathing suits. This year, Mom had gotten me the ones made from a special fabric that allowed me to tan all over. While I loved having feminine tan lines last summer, I so enjoyed having an all over tan this year. Maybe next summer, I will consider getting a real summer job, or maybe I will do one more summer at the pool as a lifeguard.

Elaine and I talked often in our free time. She had become more and more accepting of Robby behaving as her son instead of her daughter. On more than one occasion, she told me in confidence that her knowing of my situation made it easier to deal with and accept Robby's transition. She said that Robby seemed so much happier now than she had ever seen her. This was apparent in her grades. Elaine was so pleased that Robby had made the Honor Roll the last three quarters of the school year. Robby missed making the Distinguished Honor Roll because she had received B's in English.

My relationship with Robby continued to develop. During the week, Robby worked at a local automobile dealership as an apprentice mechanic while I was working at the pool. In the evenings, we would talk on the phone, sometimes for hours on end. On weekends, we went to the movies, had cookouts, went for walks in the park, attended open-air concerts and fireworks displays and, of course, attended church. It was so nice spending all of my free time with Robby.

Just after the Fourth of July, Mom and Sharon reminded me that we needed to start looking for our dresses for Sharon's December wedding. I didn't understand why we were starting to look so early. In continuing my education in all things feminine, Mom explained that you needed to start early so that you could find the proper dress and have any alterations taken care of prior to the wedding date. The selection and fitting of one's gown was not something that could be left to the last minute. Once she clearly explained this, I grasped the reason so much better.

In the first two bridal salons we visited, we saw some exquisite dresses and gowns. I was in heaven being among all of this silk and satin and lace. However, nothing in either salon really caught Sharon's eye. The saying, "The third time is the charm" proved to be correct for us. In the third salon, Sharon found the dress of her dreams. It was an ivory satin gown with the straps off the shoulders. It had a vee neckline and was fitted to the waist and ending in a flowing skirt. The back closed with over 30 pearl covered buttons. Sequins and seed pearls covered the bodice of the gown and the detachable six-foot train. The skirt had satin ruffles completely around the base and would require a starched crinoline to be worn underneath for the proper fullness. When Sharon tried it on, she loved it. She had brought her four-inch heels with her so that she could see whether the length would be fine. To my mind, Sharon looked beautiful in the gown and her heels. Janet, our sales associate had Sharon step up on the platform so that the length could be checked. It did need some minor alterations, though. After taking the needed measurements and making note of the alterations, she helped Sharon from the platform so that she could change out of the gown.

While I helped Sharon change out of her gown, Mom looked over their selection of Mother of the Bride dresses and had found one that she liked. It was a long dusty rose dress and jacket. The dress was sleeveless with a slight rounded neckline. Mom tried it on and found that it fit perfectly. When Sharon and I came out from the dressing room, we saw Mom looking at herself in the mirror to see how the dress looked from different angles. We offered our opinions, saying how nice it looked. Mom agreed and decided that it would be the dress she would wear for the wedding.

All attention was now focused on finding my Maid of Honor gown in a style that Sharon liked and in a color that matched her chosen color scheme. Since it was a Christmastime wedding, Sharon had wanted me in a dark green satin gown and her three bridesmaids in the same style gown only in red satin. She expressed her desires to Janet, who went searching for the perfect Maid of Honor gown. In a few minutes, she returned with three different styles of gowns. While none of them was in green satin, she assured Sharon that each style could be ordered in the desired colors. She even had color swatches available for each style so that my sister could see if the colors for a given style were what she wanted.

After carefully looking over each gown on its hanger, Sharon selected one that she wanted me to try on. Although this one was in royal blue, I saw the green swatch and felt that the gown would look beautiful in that color. I carried the gown back to the fitting room with Mom following me. Sharon realized that I had not brought heels with me. She asked Janet if we could borrow a pair of four-inch heels while I tried on the gown. Quickly, Janet found a pair in my size and handed them to me.

I went into the fitting room and removed my shirtwaist dress and low heels. I slid the four-inch pumps on my feet and then removed the gown from the hanger and slid it over my head and down my body. Mom was there to zip up the back and to help straighten out the skirt. I walked out to where Sharon was waiting and posed for her. She had me turn slowly around so that she could see all aspects of the gown. Finally, Sharon asked, "What do you think of it, Sis?" I said that it felt lovely and the green color would be beautiful. Sharon agreed and said that the gown was ideal for her Maid of Honor. The gown was a full skirted, short sleeve satin gown with a rounded neckline. The gown I was wearing didn't need any alterations, which meant that all that we only needed to order the same size in the dark green satin.

Janet asked if Sharon was considering wearing gloves and having her attendants gloved also. Sharon thought this was an excellent idea and asked what type of gloves would look nice. Janet said that elbow length satin gloves are always proper. She could get them in white, ivory or black. Janet also pointed out that with her attendants in red and green satin gowns, the black gloves would be a striking contrast. At that point, I went back to the dressing room and changed back into my shirtwaist dress.

We left a deposit to cover Sharon's wedding gown, my Maid of Honor gown, Mom's dress, three pairs of four inch heels, dyed to match Mom's and my dresses and two pair of elbow length gloves, one pair in ivory and one pair in black. Sharon had the information for her bridesmaids and told Janet they would be in shortly to order their gowns. Janet said we would be called for our first fitting when the dresses arrived.

As we walked out of the bridal salon, we chatted about the upcoming wedding. Sharon asked if I thought Robby would be willing to be an usher since Matt wanted another usher to properly match up with her bridesmaids. I said I thought it would be all right but that Matt should ask Robby and see. On the trip home, I was off in another world picturing Robby and I in a wedding setting. It was a shame that this dream wedding wouldn't be ours.

 

 

Chapter 6

Labor Day arrived far too quickly this year, signifying the end of summer and the return to the routine of school. With the shopping for gowns and Sharon's trousseau, fittings, wedding planning, summer job and my time with Robby, the summer literally flew by. Additionally, Sharon's three bridesmaids and I had started to plan a surprise bridal shower for her in November. The bridesmaids were girls that Sharon had been friends with since grade school. They had remained friends throughout high school and into college. I wondered if, in the future, Sarah, Rachel, Amy and I would remain as close as Sharon and her friends and be in each other's weddings in the same way.

The first day back at Manor Hill brought the realization that we were now seniors. In a sense, we ruled the school. However, the beginning of classes soon dissuaded us of that notion. After the first day of classes, Miss Bliss, the cheerleading coach, welcomed back all of the returnees to the Spirit Squad and introduced two new members. The squad readily accepted both Ellen and Renee, first year students at Manor Hill. After we practiced some, we went and picked up our cheerleading uniforms. I simply loved the white satin blouse, the form-fitting sleeveless vest in light blue with a white script Manor Hill across the front and the short light blue skirt with white box pleats that comprised the uniform.

During our first week back, Mrs. W. reminded the "Four Musketeers" that we were to have our pictures taken for the school's Honor Wing. She asked if we minded giving up our lunch period on Friday, so that we could have the pictures taken. We all said that it was acceptable.

On Friday, we reported to Mrs. W's office at lunchtime. We had made sure that our hair and makeup were all right and that our uniforms appeared to be neat. Since it was an unusually cool day, each of us had worn our uniform skirts and blouses with our blazers. Mrs. W. led us to a paneled spot in the Honor Wing where the photographer was already set up waiting for us. She took three shots of each of us and then, at Mrs. W's request, posed us for a group shot. One picture of each of us, along with the group shot would be placed on the wall with our class and school year that we accomplished our academic achievement.

With Sharon's wedding on the horizon, the fall semester passed by very quickly. After the first marking period, the four of us again made the Distinguished Honor Roll. When there were home games, we cheered our team on. Once all of the alterations had been completed to Sharon's gown we picked up our gowns. Mine fit beautifully and looked as nice as I thought it would. It was now hanging in my closet, waiting for the day I would wear it as the Maid of Honor. Sharon had decided that each of us would wear a large satin bow with long streamers in our hair. Our bows would be satin and would match our gowns. Her veil would consist of a Juliet cap with a fingertip blusher.

Since the bridesmaids were away at college, it fell to me to address the invitations and to keep track of who was coming to the bridal shower and who was not. I also told all of the respondents where Sharon and Matt had registered, in the event someone wanted to get a gift from their selected choices. The day of the shower, Mom and I were supposed to take Sharon to lunch to celebrate her upcoming wedding.

Since this was the week of her Thanksgiving break, she would be home on Friday night. I had been chatting with Sharon about having a pajama party like we did on my first weekend as Jeannie. She thought that it would be nice. We could do each other's hair, paint each other's fingernails and toenails and just generally be two sisters enjoying the night prior to going out to eat the next day. After dinner on Friday night, I changed into a pair of pink satin baby doll pajamas. I kept my padded bra on because I enjoyed my feminine shape. Sharon changed into a waltz-length light blue satin nightie with a sheer nylon overlay. We proceeded to roll each other's hair, paint our respective nails and chatted incessantly until Mom reminded us that we should get some sleep. I gave Sharon a big hug, returned to my room, put my satin sleep bonnet on and climbed into bed.

The next morning, we removed our rollers, styled each other's hair, did our makeup and got dressed. Sharon wore a lovely black sheath with two-inch heels. I wore a satiny print dress with fitted bodice and full skirt and also two-inch heels. Mom wore a navy suit and a white blouse. We were off to the restaurant. Sharon was surprised when she walked in and was escorted to a small private room. As she entered, all of her friends yelled, "Surprise," catching her completely unawares.

Sharon received some nice gifts for the home at the shower. At the end of the shower, she hugged each of her bridesmaids and me, thanking us for the wonderful affair. When she hugged me, she whispered that she might be returning the favor some day. I smiled and blushed at the same time as she said it. In a little more than five weeks, Sharon would walk down the aisle and be married.

 

 

Chapter 7

The second quarter drew to a close and again the four of us had boldly gone where no one had gone before, meaning we all made the DHR again. Robby also had made the DHR at her school. The Christmas dance was another wonderful evening to be dressed up real pretty, have my hair and makeup done to perfection and be held by someone that I loved. Christmas was celebrated with Matt, Robby and her Mom at our place. However, we really didn't have time to bask in the glow of the holiday celebration. The next evening would be the rehearsal and dinner with the wedding on Saturday evening.

Friday was hectic, as we tried to get the house straightened up from the day before as well as make sure Sharon was packed, get ourselves ready and be at the church by 6:00 p.m. I helped Sharon pack, including the two new negligees that she had gotten specifically for the honeymoon. It was a struggle for us, but by 5:30, we were ready to walk out of the house. Tonight I was wearing a black sheath, just like the one Sharon wore to her shower. As I slid on my heels and checked my hair and makeup in the mirror, I felt good about myself.

During the rehearsal, the pastor explained when people were supposed to be where. I learned the slow, measured tread that all bridesmaids learn, so that I did not seem to be rushing down the aisle. The pastor explained when my sister would kneel, how I was supposed to hold her bouquet while she knelt, to have the ring ready when asked and be prepared to lift her veil at the proper moment. At the recessional, I was to turn and walk to the center, take the best man's arm and walk down the aisle. Robby was the first usher and she escorted one of the bridesmaids back down the aisle. The happy couple, as well as the parents and Sharon's attendants would be formed into the receiving line.

After the rehearsal, we went to a nice restaurant for the dinner hosted by Matt's parents. Robby and I sat together and listened to Matt's father tell a few humorous anecdotes on marriage and then propose the toast. Both mothers made sure that the party was over before midnight so bride and groom would not see each other until the wedding and thus avoid bad luck. Robby and I parted at the restaurant, since it would be impractical for her to take me home. I told her I would see her at the wedding and that I bet she would look handsome in her tuxedo. She smiled and said that in my satin gown, I would be the prettiest girl in the wedding. I smiled and then we kissed good night.

 

 

Chapter 8

Saturday morning was sheer pandemonium. Mom, Sharon and I vied for space in the bathroom at the same time. Additionally, two stylists were there to do our hair and makeup. Mom opted out of this confusion as she had her hair styled yesterday and all she needed was a slight touchup. I sat patiently, in my white, satin underwear, ankle-length full slip and my green heels, as my hair and makeup were done, watching as Sharon had her hair and bridal makeup done. While Sharon was finishing up, I went to put on my Maid of Honor gown. Mom was there to make sure I was careful as I put my gown over my head. After I was zipped, she helped me with my pearl necklace, pearl earrings and then sprayed some perfume on me. By this time Sharon had come back to her room to get dressed.

I walked into the room, admiring my sister in her white satin bridal lingerie. She was sitting on the edge of the bed putting on her blue bride's garter. She looked at me and told me what I pretty Maid of Honor I made. I removed her gown and crinoline from the protective bag. Sharon stood in her heels and stepped into the full crinoline. I drew it up around her waist and then helped her with her wedding gown. As I buttoned the back up, Sharon said that, while being a bride was wonderful, I should not rush into marriage until I was sure that it was with the right person. I also had to decide what I wanted to do with my life. After I had closed the gown, Sharon turned and hugged me. She said I was the best little sister a girl could ever want. Her stylist then came in and helped secure the Juliet cap to her hair and I straightened out her veil.

Mom came in to the room and made sure that Sharon had the requisite something old (Mom's lace handkerchief from her wedding), something new (the gown), something borrowed (a pearl necklace from one of her attendants) and something blue (the bridal garter). Mom then hugged both of us and said how proud she was of both of her daughters. Before any of us could start crying, we heard that the photographer and the bridesmaids had arrived. It was time that we posed for the wedding pictures. Sharon looked calm and radiant as she posed for one picture after another. The best ones were of Sharon and Mom, Sharon and I and then the three of us together. After all of the pictures were taken, it was into the white stretch limo and on to the church.

The wedding was picture perfect. I successfully walked down the aisle in front of Sharon without appearing as if I were rushing. I helped hold her bouquet as she knelt and lifted her veil without problems. As Sharon and Matt were declared husband and wife, we all beamed with happiness. During the recessional, I carefully held the right arm of the best man as we went out. I noticed Robby as she escorted one of the bridesmaids. I could feel my feet aching as I stood in the receiving line. After the receiving line, the photographer assembled us all back inside the sanctuary for the posed pictures. I don't think there was one possible picture that was left out. Sharon even suggested that the photographer take several of Robby and I together. I smiled at my sister, thanking her in a non-verbal way for having some pictures taken of me with my special Robby. The pose that I liked best was having Robby standing behind and slightly off to the side of me with her arms around my waist.

At the reception, the deejay introduced the wedding party. I enjoyed hearing a bridesmaid being escorted by Usher Robby Rogers. Then it was Maid of Honor Miss Jeannie Joy Marin escorted by the Best Man. We walked across the hall to polite applause. Of course, when Sharon and Matt were introduced, all of us greeted them warmly. At the head table, I sat to Sharon's right. Every so often, I would lean forward to catch a glimpse of Robby. Usually, I would notice her looking back at me.

There were the usual festivities after the meal. First, Sharon had all of the single girls assemble. She then turned her back and tossed her bouquet over her head. The tradition was the girl catching the bouquet would be the next one married. Although I was in the center of all of the girls, I really didn't make a strong effort to catch it. I was taking Sharon's earlier words to heart and wanted to wait for some time before I got married. One of the bridesmaids was the lucky girl to catch the bridal bouquet.

Next, Sharon sat in the center of the room and lifted her gown up to reveal her blue garter. Matt knelt down in front of her to remove it. He stood and tossed it over his shoulder to the assembled single males in the same manner my sister had tossed her bouquet. I watched in delight as Robby tried in vain to catch the garter. The one who caught the garter was then expected to put it on the leg of the girl that caught the bouquet. Fortunately, the fiancé of the bridesmaid that caught the bouquet caught the garter. There was good-natured teasing of him as he knelt down to place the garter on her leg. There was the traditional sharing of the first piece of wedding cake. I was glad that Sharon and Matt did in a civilized way, rather than try to smear it over the face of each other. Later, Robby and I sat at a table, taking turns feeding each other pieces of the wedding cake, perhaps dreaming of some future occasion.

As it grew late, I wondered if Sharon was going to change into a going away outfit. She answered that shortly after she had visited with the guests. She first hugged Mom and thanked her for everything. She then hugged me, saying how nice it was to have her little sister be her Maid of Honor. When I started to ask her if she was going to change out of her gown, she just looked at me and smiled knowingly. She said that she would let me in on a secret after she returned from her honeymoon.

As they departed from the reception, they were showered with rice from all of the guests. I caught one last glimpse of Sharon in her wedding gown as she entered the limo and headed on her honeymoon. Mom had a ride home with one of the neighbors, so this left me free to ride home with Robby. On the trip home, Robby asked if I would marry her as soon as we graduated from high school. I said that she was sweet to ask, but for now, I wanted to consider getting a college education first, so that I could get a nice job and be able to help out with our family income. I reminded her that some families needed both incomes just to live. Although Robby was disappointed by my temporary refusal, she seemed to understand my rationale behind it. Once we got to my house, Robby escorted me to the door, gave me a light kiss but begged of coming inside. She said that she was really tired and would see me later. I really thought she looked sad. I smiled at her to cheer her up as I turned and went inside.

 

 

Epilogue

Sharon's wedding, so soon after Christmas, set a nice tone to the holidays. It was nice to think that my big sister would begin the New Year as a married woman in a new life and a new phase in her relationship with Matt. As I observed them together, I thought that they seemed ideally suited for each other. Unfortunately, I did not detect the undertone that soon would be affecting me.

New Year's Eve was going to be a quiet time. Robby was coming over and we were going to simply watch the festivities from Times Square in New York on television, share some popcorn and kiss at midnight. After all of the rush and excitement surrounding the wedding, it was good to contemplate a calm evening amidst the New Year's celebration. I was wearing a plain white satin blouse, a light blue denim A-line skirt and flats as I heard the doorbell ring.

As she entered, Robby seemed to be somewhat preoccupied. As we entered the family room, Mom excused herself, so that we could be alone. There seemed to be a certain tenseness between us that I could not identify. At first, when I asked Robby about it, she just shrugged it off and said it was because she was tired. She said that, despite her outward appearances, she occasionally had problems with her monthly event. In turn this tended to tire her more. As the evening wore on though, Robby started to express what was really on her mind. She wanted us to get married within six months after we graduated from high school. As I did after the wedding, I tried to convince her that it would be for the best if we waited some time while I received my education and she became established as an auto mechanic, perhaps even with her own shop. However, nothing I could say would change Robby's mind. As we talked, she grew more and more upset with me, claiming that I didn't love her. I tried to tell her that I loved her deeply but that I just wanted to wait. It didn't seem to help.

Finally, Robby said that if I didn't want to get married right out of high school, then I should return her ring and we would not be going steady any more. With tears welling up in my eyes, I removed Robby's ring and returned it to her. She didn't stay long after that, leaving well before the ball fell announcing the start of the New Year. I was crying so badly after Robby left that I could hardly see clearly to get to my room. As I lay across my bed, wiping the tears from my eyes with tissues, I wondered how I would ever be able to go on with my life without my Robby. I didn't even get ready for bed. That night, I just lay across my bed and cried myself to sleep.

 

 

 

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© 2002 by Janis Elizabeth. All Rights Reserved. These documents (including, without limitation, all articles, text, images, logos, compilation design) may printed for personal use only. No portion of these documents may be stored electronically, distributed electronically, or otherwise made available without express written consent of the copyright holder.