I started my transition in December of last year, with no plan (dumb move). I had worked at it step by step, starting with simply carrying a purse and progressing to the point where I didn't feel comfortable unless I was dressed and made up as femininely as posibile, in age apropriate skirts or dresses and heels etc.
The other day I was running errands for a friend of mine, after doing some yard work for her. I was wearing a sleevless t-shirt, bib overalls and work boots and had me face done with light make-up. I have fairly large arms and hands and have a pegasus tatoo on my right bicep, so I knew I was going to be read, while in town. At this point, I'm pretty secure in who I am and sure of the path that I'm on, so this propect didn't really bother me.
During the coarse of the errands, I had to return some mechandise, with no reciept. To get an in store credit, I had to show the girl my I.D.. I have not had the picture, which resembles a smaller version of Stone Cold Steve Austin, retaken yet. I handed it to the girl and she said "No, Maam I need to see YOUR I.D." I smiled and said "Sweetie that is my I.D., I'm just wearing my hair and make-up a little different than when that picture was taken." She looked back at the I.D. and then again to me and said "Oh, ok." and continued on with the transaction like it was no big deal.
Before this experience, I had it in my mind that to PASS I had to cover my arms and dress super femmy. Now I realize that even though I LOVE being a "primpy girl", as my GG friend says, it is not nesassary to do so, to function in the work a day world. I also think that it helps in passing that I carry myself with dignity and confidence and I believe a smile goes a long way too.
