I am sitting in the Portland airport, waiting for my delayed plane and reflecting on the wonderful eight days I’ve had.

I got here on the 9th to spend time with Kate McCombs, one of my favorite people in the entire universe. We needed to hang out again so badly. We were able to run a couple of her Tea and Empathy workshops while I was in town, which was the main point of popping out here.

The trip turned into so much more, though.

Kate is so much my person. She and I found each other because of Chronic Sex. She loves to tell people about how I would be a persona someone would create to catfish her – because we are so damn similar. It’s not often you find someone interested in Star Trek, feminism, sexual expression and freedoms, the ethics of everyday life, loving on animals, platonic cuddling, communication and empathy skills, and so much more.

Thanks to her, I even found a non-fruity tea I like.

We got to spend time with Stella Harris and JoEllen Notte, watch Dan Savage from afar, and Kate introduced me to Dirty Lola of Sex Ed a Go Go. JoEllen and Lola both knew who I was and it was such a surreal feeling.

Okay, breathe, Kirsten. These world-famous people know who you are and what you do. It’s totally fine.

I basically had the most amazing time.

PS: You can read more about the personal side to my visit over at Not Standing Still’s Disease. I tried pot for the first time while here and I talk a little more over there about that experience.

I really feel like I’m coming into my own, growing as a force that traverses both the chronic illness/disability and sexuality communities. After this trip, I feel very grounded and determined.

This is what I want to do with my life.