Well another day, and another dollar short! How about that Love Bug virus huh? I hope none of you had to go through that horror. Naturally the one-day my body decides to pick itself up and to attempt my e-mail this virus happens. What do you think about the changes in the site? Do you like them? Does the RealPlayer video feed work well for you? How is your download time? What else would you like to see? Please write with comments, we welcome and encourage YOUR input! Write: CUSTOMER SERVICE

Whew, so many questions so little time. I ask these questions because as always I am behind on e-mail due to my disease and arthritis making it hard to type, but CMC and I are curious about your impressions of the changes made and planned.

For the first time since April, when I wrote my dedication to Pamela Satterfield Argo, I sat down at the computer. I was able to see the brilliance behind David and Mike's hard work and the new additions Richard has made on Thom TV. I am so excited about the direction the site is taking. With live video or taped footage I do not have to worry about typing what I feel but tell it to you from my mouth to your ears. I have created new folders that I hope to update frequently. The one thing that we have finally "ACED" is our ability to update text. I have prayed for more patience, particularly about the site's updates. I sometimes become frustrated when I have typed something personal and want to share it with you and am told it will be posted by the end of the day and for whatever reason it is not. David and I have fought, I have driven poor Mike insane, and Richard feels somewhat disillusioned. I want to come clean and say I am sorry. I never thought the day would come that my site would have such an impact on so many people. This has humbled me in more ways than you could ever imagine. A friend told me recently; a website with high traffic has power. It took me time to understand what he was trying to convey. I never started the site for influence or "power", only to inspire and enlighten people through and from my experiences. This is how we educate each other. Humor is always welcome and when we are truthful is always present. What my friend said is on occasion some folks might take each word literally. It is necessary for me to clarify that I am not "preaching to anyone". Please remember everything I write is drawn from personal experience. My experiences will not necessarily be yours. Take the positive, learn from the negative and balance any choice you make for yourself, please.

By adding the new technology like video clips and sooner than you think a "Live" (broadcast) video feed from my home there will be nowhere for me to hide behind words or body image. It will be just like it has always been, my life written and posted on the site. Experiences raw, and personal. I can't deny anymore that I am living with AIDS. Through this site you will see what has happened to me not only emotionally but physically as well. So before I start on a tangent and tell you what is up in my life "TODAY," I will tell you "What's New" and what is planned for implementation in the near future.

First, you will have noticed by now the redesign on the "homepage" and the new additional folders created. This is a breakdown of most of these changes in the WWW.THOMCOLLINS.COM site.

1. What's New:

This is where you will visit to check for recent posts, and other changes throughout the site. You will find a link to Richard Carter's site created not only me, rather for the Gay Community. This site includes Thom Chat, HIV/AIDS inspiration/education, and humor.

2. DOUBTING THOMAS FOLDER:

This folder I created just for my personal stories of triumph and tribulations. I wanted a folder that I could journal my feelings into that could be read and hopefully help someone in that situation concerning the topic I may choose. For instance my early struggles with friendships and AIDS was one of the first topics I chose and it is time to update once again so look for it soon.

3. THE OTHER SIDE:

This folder created for my companion to express his emotions. His issues living with HIV/AIDS, gay fatherhood, and various experiences in the "system." I typed the introduction and had him post a picture of us to start but this area is totally up to him.

4. NO GOD, NO PEACE. KNOW GOD, KNOW PEACE!

This folder was to bring me back to sharing my spiritual roots with you on a personal level. I have a hard time when I empty my soul onto a computer on one topic and end up sharing a plethora of feelings all at once. So this helps me stick to my love for CHRIST and how he works in not only me but in all of you. I hope you enjoy the video clip of The Miracle Maker with Thomas and his doubting ways.

Also, please check out Cathedral of Hope. Those of you looking for spiritual awakenings and connection I strongly encourage you visit this site. You can enjoy the services in your own home through the Internet. One of the largest gay churches in the United States, Reverend Piazza is a gifted man expressing thoughts on God and Gays.

5. Hanging With Rolex:

What can I say, this is the area you can go to and laugh your butt off. Rolex, (our non-human primate buddy), is everything to us. Our darling Capuchin "Rolex." In his folder see "live video," "clips" and still images that show his lovable personality.

6. THOM'S PHOTOS:

This one speaks for itself! My work as a model and AIDS activist.

7. THOM'S MCCAM:

In this new area we are working overtime to bring you the latest in LIVE BROADCAST, streaming video and streaming multimedia clips. I must say the technology has improved tremendously. I am impressed how Mike and David working together have brought this in a short period of time. (Remember our budget is something less than, -$00.00!) I will share my experiences with Live, real time broadcasting. If you do not understand or have any problems with the video players and formats, please write Customer Service, describe your problems and they will work to help you resolve. All the players are free for download if you do not already have them on your computer.

8. BARBIE WORLD:

For the kid in me this folder was created. It is no secret that in my days as a male dancer/model, I also loved playing in drag. Since my disease has progressed I needed an outlet for my creative energy. No longer able to go to the gym due to medication side effects, HIV/AIDS, neuropathy and arthritis, my obsession is now an "over the top hobby". I have taken childhood dream, playing with dolls to a "new level." This area is a serious area Barbie Collectors. You will see clips of my version of "Barbie Theater." In addition my cherished collection given to me by friends here in the states as well as from overseas. (Check the David's "The Other Side" for his notions on this!)

9. MEMBERS ONLY:

This area is for paid members only. If you want to know more about this area click on the membership site and it will explain in greater detail. I don't want members to think this is not a priority for we have had issues with the server that the site is on. For members we are providing updated and more interactive area for you, your patience is greatly appreciated. (This will be worth the wait!)

Well, I have updated you once again on what is coming and what was. I hope you enjoy the site and take something positive from your time spent reading into my life.

GOD BLESS YOU,

THOM COLLINS