Oh, Jerica, how wonderful for you!

That was a BIG step.
For me, in the beginning I had to insist on people accepting me as Kate. I had a little bit of attitude about it. (I still do

, but it's different now - not so defensive.) Surprisingly, people were nice to me - as your pastor and his wife were to you - and so I could begin to relax. Sometimes it's hard to keep from ducking from the expected blow even though no blow comes. I'm so happy for you that it went so well and you could relax during the evening.

It sounds to me like you are easing into this journey of discovering who you are very well. I hope it continues with few bumps.
And you can come down from floating around the ceiling now, dear.

*hugs*
Kte