I visited my sister over the weekend. She lives over two hours away. We had been writing back and forth, but she hadn't seen me since I became Kate.
She has a big anniversary coming up in three weeks. I hadn't expected to begin living as Kate until after that, but I was ready sooner. When I began living as Katherine, I told my sister that I would come to their celebration as I am, I could resurrect my old self for the day, or I wouldn't come – her choice. (Be careful what you offer.)
Saturday was a bit awkward. My sister called me by my old name 95% of the time and asked me to come to the celebration as my old self. She even half-jokingly asked me to put on a false mustache. (I'd worn a mustache most of my adult life.)
Overnight I thought about it more and realized I wouldn't be able to do it. I decided I would have to miss the celebration, which was disappointing because I would miss seeing my brother-in-law's out-of-town relatives who I really like but rarely get to see.
My brother-in-law and I always get up much earlier than my sister. I told him I know I made the offer but I've waited for this for so long and it has been so hard to do, I just don't think I can go back even for an afternoon.
He must have talked to my sister, and perhaps she had thought about it too, because when she finally appeared she said she'd decided I could come as Kate. I thanked her and reassured her I wouldn't come in four-inch heels and a red dress. She called me Kate at least ¾ of the time for the rest of the day. We were much more relaxed and parted well. My brother-in-law, usually very reluctant to give me even a guy-hug, gave me a big hug as I was leaving.
I'm home again now, but it will take a while to decompress. It was a difficult but successful visit. I think those who have known us the longest can have the hardest time with our transition.
- Kate
