I'm starting on Monday

[Tamika Olivia]

So... hey Susan's! Been a while! I think I've been AWOL for 6 months or so. I had been focused on life stuff, but recent changes in the political spectrum made me want to connect with every other trans person that I can. Also, I've got a big thing happening.

As of this morning I'm out in all aspects of my life. Family, friends, extended social universe, and now work. I am going in as full time Tamika staring Monday. I'm nervous and excited and overjoyed and terrified and determined... so good mix?

I need to lose weight. My gut is my most obvious masculine feature, and it is one within my control. I have a nice (if small) collection of clothes to wear. One of girl friends hooked me up with some of her stuff. I'm going to get my eyebrows done this weekend, and will get my hair done shortly after.

I'm flying by the seat of my pants, as I have done every step of the way. I've no specific questions, but am in need of any general tips or tricks for the first few months of RLE.

That's what's happening with me. How has everyone here been?

[stephaniec]

congrats and good luck

[Dena]

Yes I remember you and you have come a long way. I am sure like many when you first joined the site you thought you were facing a near impossible task but you are now living as your self in the world. Try not to make yourself so scarce in the future.

[Tamika Olivia]

I will definitely try!

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[autumn08]

It's nice to see you, Tamika! Good luck! 

After going through the stages of grief, because of recent politics, I also feel the need to be more bold. Dog whistles of hatred were made unambiguous to everyone and a part of me still can't believe how little effect they had on so many otherwise good people. I'm not shocked by the tribalists, but by good people, like my best friend's grandpa who just wants to make his own wine and tend his garden, who were willing to roll the dice, because it viscerally felt better than contemplating what was right and they were able to view minority groups like ours as distant others.

As a result, I no longer feel I have the right to defer fully claiming what is mine.

[Sophia Sage]

I'm flying by the seat of my pants, as I have done every step of the way. I've no specific questions, but am in need of any general tips or tricks for the first few months of RLE.

Transition can be very expensive.  Make yourself indispensable at work.

People (including the good and well meaning) are going to screw up your name and pronouns. It's going to hurt. 

You might get feedback on "being a woman."  Consider it carefully. 

Don't offer to bring up the subject.  Just go on being yourself. 

And finally, let go.

[spx_1112]

Good luck. Hugs Shannon