Browsing Tag

nature

To Be Queer and to Be Outside

Posted on August 15, 2019

Texas is rich in natural beauty. Because the state is so large, it boasts several different kinds of terrains and climates—breathtaking views of mountains, canyons, hill country, and plains. This beauty often feels like Texas’ best kept secret, as it may not immediately come to mind when people think of the state. I've lived in Texas my entire life and I'm just now appreciating the stunning nature found here—and how it heals me as a queer person living in this…

A Product of the Environment: How My Passion for Nature Helped Me Embrace My Identity

Posted on April 25, 2018

A photo of Christine Mansfield in her natural environment.

“You can’t do that!” Don’t worry, those aren’t the words of a pessimistic friend or an unsupportive family member. No, those are the words of pint-sized kindergartener me, telling a grown man at the park (who was part of a pack of motorcyclists, I might add), that he could not throw trash on the ground. I don’t remember the incident myself, but I’ve been told that my mom’s friend, who was watching me at the time, was terrified of what…

Top Four Queer Swimming Holes in the South

Posted on April 18, 2018

A photo of queer swimming hole Hippie Hollow.

As summer closes in, I’m struck by the overwhelming desire for a queer swimming experience, a place where we can all gather and connect with the water in a joyful way that simultaneously quenches the heat and the need for community. But I hesitated. Do places like that exist in the South?…

nature

To Be Queer and to Be Outside

A Product of the Environment: How My Passion for Nature Helped Me Embrace My Identity

Top Four Queer Swimming Holes in the South

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