There has been very little time, of late, to be online.

Thursday and Friday were spent preparing the house for the celebrations the end of the month. Also the intensive shopping spree in which all the difficult to find items were tediously and meticulously procured.

The gown Michael is to wear for the collaring ceremony will have to be let out a bit as he is slightly thicker in build than am I.

I needn't tell you, the fitting went over like a lead balloon, especially as Michael was unaware of the attire and the fact that the traditional gown, worn by myself at my collaring as well as by several previous boys at their ceremonies, is in fact a lovely shade of crimson pink.

The mouth dropped open, the brow furrowed, and there was an 'uh uh, no way' uttered. Ms only smiled and said if he wished to become beta he would not only wear it, but wear it with gratitude and honour. He agreed, but with great reluctance.

The caterers have been round a second time as the first choice Ms had made for the evening's cuisine has proven impossible to accomodate. It does seem odd. I might have thought She would choose to use a different caterer but the Owner is a longtime friend and thus a new menu was chosen.

Naturally Michael takes an oath to Ms Victoria in the ceremony and a secondary oath to myself, but Ms has decided to require him to display a few of his talents and also to write and memorise a piece, prose or poem, to recite.

He had requested that the talent be running, which is laughable as one could hardly be expected to accomplish such a thing in the ballroom before an audience, but Ms has stated that he will sing something of Her choosing. She will decide this weekend and after it is passed on to him, he and I will work on it diligently until the day arrives.

The invitations were sent out the beginning of last week and already we have nearly complete assurance via RSVP that all invited shall attend.

Despite his distaste at the mandatory apparel, Michael is getting quite excited as the day draws nearer. He is ready to receive the marks that will be given him; a tattooed emblem set in the interior of his lower lip, and a strike brand of Ms Victoria's personal seal on his inner right thigh. He seems to look forward to these rituals most which I suppose is not surprising.

He has a bit of nervousness surrounding the ceremony itself and truly this is not without cause. Many of the guests are incredibly stern with regard to Female Superiority and would not be amused by unorthodox behaviour in a male. Michael's natural tendency to 'cheek' would be seen as uncouth and improper; very unbecoming a collared submissive.

Also it may be noted that not all of the Dominants share Ms Victoria's passion for youth. Many of the submissives, in fact most, will be over the age of 40.

This ceremony is a solomn act that should be approached with great humility and gratitude by the boy being accepted. He knows he must be on his very best behaviour so as not to shame his Mistress. Both Damon and myself have had a hand in grooming the boy for his special day.

Very exciting days to come, indeed.

It is also worth mentioning here that Michael's aunt, Ms Grace, has decided to take up residence in Miami again. She states that she misses her friends and her church activities.

Naturally Ms Victoria understands, and though we will all miss her daily presence, her fine 'soul food' and baking, as well as her gift for storytelling, we will bid her a very fond farewell. Michael is taking it well at present but will likely need comforting when Ms Grace does take her leave.

Ryan