I'm in a long slow transition (at 55yo). This is for a variety of reasons which aren't relevant to this question. I'm at the stage where my hair is longish and shaggy feminine, my wardrobe is 80% woman's, my interests and many of my mannerisms are distinctly feminine (this according to my best friend and wife). It's been this way for a few years - previously I was a bearded, buzz cut, dad and wannabe male role model - ugh what a thought, but anyway.
I have made many more female friends now and denigrated many of my old male friendships (gently, of course). I am always found at family gatherings hanging with the girls - talking food, people and happenings. I love all of these changes - slow as they've been. I've seen a therapist consistently and am now on the verge of HRT and electrolysis/laser. BTW: I've had natural B boobs since I was 13. So boobs on me are no shocker to my circle (in spite of the emotional pain they caused while trying to be a man).
So I'm only officially "out" as trans to a only few people in my close circle. The forest is so close to the trees that I can't tell how people think or perceive me. What I'm wondering is: since I've taken a long slow change approach and not an abrupt path, how many people around me will shrug and say "oh, I knew that was coming, it was obvious"? Or is our concept of male and female so ingrained in our relationships, will there still be astonishment and shock? What was your experience?
I'm trying to make my transition almost a non-event by implementing changes slowly. An evolution.
Thanks,
Lauren
