Hi Nancy Thank you for your reply. It's disheartening that you live in an area that is 'conservative'. I understand that you are taking things steady given the situation you are in and your safety is paramount.
When I read your reply, I immediately thought, that maybe you could go away for a weekend and be yourself! As they say "there are more than one way to skin a cat". It's also good to hear that at least you are on hormones and they will not masculinize you anymore.
Yes be careful in what you do. However, since you are around family and friends they will not notice the subtle changes that are occurring to you. Some of those changes could be increasing your HRT dosage, continue to grow your hair and just wear it as a straight pony tail or plait and work on your facial hair.
If they ask you questions or remark that something is different about you. Then think of a plausible excuse, for example, I like long hair.
Something that may be of help. I just wrote a reply to another member called 'anonymous24'. The actual thread is called "A question regarding transition", one of my replies can be read by clicking this link:
My Reply.All the best, take care and I hope everything goes well for you. Oh one question, what are you studying at college?
Love and HugsSarah BOfficial Greeter@NancyDrew1930