Laurel,
I loved you posting "what happens when you don't pass"
With almost no exceptions, all of us that are transitioning have had disappointing and demoralizing experiences at one time or another.
Onlookers can be cruel with their stares and rude comments.
In my experience it is always best to not respond or react to those kinds of folks. Best thing to do is to continue on your way with your head held high and try to muster all the self-confidence and self-assurance that you can next time you go out in female mode. Since transitioning is a work in progress, try to improve in areas of your transitioning that you deem that may need work, clothing, shoes, hair, fingernails, makeup, mannerisms, movements, walking, sitting, etc, etc.
A lot can be learned by people watching at a busy mall, watch the females and the males and how they interact and move around.
Looking at your photos, I think that your clothing is just fine.... but you are not smiling. A nice smile disarms many onlookers.
I think it is sad that your partner is gone... perhaps she will return... hopefully.
Regarding your mom.... when I started my transition my mom, dad and other extended family members and some of my very best friends all but disowned me. When I called my mom on Christmas day she actually called me Danielle... that was the very first time...................
...so, all in all, there is always hope... the old saying... "hope springs eternal"
Thank you for writing and please keep us updated... looking forward to your next update.
Wishing you the best,
Danielle
