Last week, I took a quick trip to Austin to see my kids and some friends, and my cup was full. I hadn't seen Mars and Indigo in a good while, and it was so fun to hear about their latest adventures and work dramas. I also threw together a last-minute gathering of friends; I told a handful of Austin folks that I'd be at an ice cream shop (Amy's - the best!) on Sunday night and I'd love to see them. Old and new friends showed up, and Reader, I haven't laughed that hard in a long time! You know...
4 days ago • 1 min read
Support from parents and caregivers is crucial for the well-being of transgender and nonbinary youth, providing a solid foundation for their development and health (Trevor Project, 2024). Research by the Family Acceptance Project found that families who support their children's identities "help promote self-esteem, overall health, stronger relationships and help to protect against suicidal behavior, depression and substance abuse." This is why Parents of Trans Youth exists! We know that the...
8 days ago • 1 min read
I get lots of nasty comments on my social media content, but sometimes they honestly make me think. First of all - RUDE, Norma! Second, this comment actually has a couple of very interesting layers. At one time, I also used the word "weird" for something that I felt pushed the boundaries of what I thought was appropriate or the norm. And that was my judgement of other people and behaviors. But having trans children, learning more about the LGBTQ+ and transgender communities, and becoming...
12 days ago • 2 min read
I’m nominated for Pride Houston Ally Grand Marshal, and I'm really excited and honored! Voting was supposed to end yesterday, but it was extended to April 3 at 11:59pm tonight! Can you vote for me for Ally Grand Marshal one last time? Anyone, anywhere can vote. Just click a button - you don't have to give any info. When I win, I’ll be walkin' in that parade for all the Texas parents of trans kids who have endured so much for so long. Please share, and THANK YOU! Please vote for me! Mandy...
15 days ago • 1 min read
March 31st is Trans Day of Visibility; be on the lookout for celebrations and acknowledgments all over the place. It's a special day to celebrate trans lives and elevate their voices. BUT many trans folks don’t want to be visible, perceived, or scrutinized. So … thanks to Tuck Woodstock of the Gender Reveal podcast, March 31 is also Trans Day of Having a Nice Snack! Last year, I celebrated Trans Day of Snack with a post on social media setting up a little mutual aid. Reader, my phone was...
18 days ago • 1 min read
Indivisible is hosting a free virtual training event on March 30 from 7:30-9pm EDT in partnership with Advocates for Trans Equality and Parents of Trans Youth. Deepen your understanding of systemic oppression and violence facing trans people while honoring the leadership, resilience, and contributions of trans and gender-diverse communities. Explore how to practice accountable allyship and inclusive leadership that centers trans voices in movement spaces. Register for the event Indivisible is...
22 days ago • 1 min read
What are parents looking for when they apply to the Parents of Trans Youth Community? “Parent support and ideas for helping my amazing kids feel unconditionally loved.” “Ideas about how to make a difference more broadly than just parenting my kid.” “I just want to feel less alone and terrified.” “Support, friendship, empathy, connection, validation.” "A place I can talk about my feelings with people who understand.” "Community has been the one thing that has kept us moving forward with hope....
25 days ago • 1 min read
This week, I gave a presentation to PFLAG Manhattan Beach/South Bay; they wanted to hear all about what's new at Parents of Trans Youth and "how I'm still standing in these unprecedented times." At the top of my list is intentional joy. For me, laughter and silliness are crucial, and I try not to take myself too seriously. Halloween 2025 When watch TV, I choose funny shows to balance out the dystopian shows I watch with my husband. I'm currently enjoying Broad City 👇 We laugh a lot in the...
29 days ago • 1 min read
Parents of Trans Youth has a busy couple of weeks coming up! Here where you can find us: PFLAG Manhattan Beach/South Bay March 18, 7-9pm PDT (Online) - Virtual Transgender + Gender Expansive Support Meeting My presentation will be first, and the support group is after. All are welcome! RSVP required via email or DM: rsvp@pflagmanhattanbeach.org Trot for Trans Visibility March 21, 8am-4pm CDT (Houston) - Family-friendly fun run, trot, walk, or sashay. Fun run registration Parents of Trans...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read