And hey, I should write about a fun weekend I had.
First off, it was a play party. I haven't been to one since pre-pandemic, so I was both excited and nervous! I have missed them.
And even better, this event was BIPOC (Black, specifically) only. I didn't have to worry about being the only Black person in the room dealing with racist microaggressions.
This particular event is a series, and I've been kicking myself since I missed the first one of the year-- I grew cold feet at the last minute. But this time, I deployed a hack when I want to go to an event, but social anxiety was in danger of getting the best of me: I volunteered. I feel better when I have something to do. I took care of check-in, and I like doing something like that so I can greet people and introduce myself more organically.
The attendance was much smaller than the last one but the vibes were immaculate, as the kids say. I felt very welcome and safe. While I didn't play beyond icebreakers (Kinky Bingo) and Jenga, I had a great time. There was even a cuddle puddle while I got my voyeurism on!
I also want to point out something noticeably different from all previous play parties that I've been to. It was... community focused. Everyone-- and I mean everyone-- introduced themselves, their pronouns, and their goals for the night. There was a board where you can post your desires and contact info. It wasn't just a crowd of cliques and people in their own bubbles bumping into each other.
We were encouraged to interact with each other in a level all parties involved were comfortable with-- whether it was just talking or negotiating a scene.
I felt seen. It was a little scary, being perceived like that, but once the jitters wore off I think I prefer it now. Play parties are nice if you just want to play. But, it's nicer to have a community and culture aspect I've been sorely missing.
Will I go to this event again? You bet your ass I will. Once the next one is scheduled I'll drop whatever I have going that day. :P