Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Hello.

I have been here a long time and I just now was thinking it may be good to have my own blog to share about my transitioning.  I am unsure what to share or emphasize or where to start, so I guess I will simply begin.


I was fortunate when discussing transitioning with my doc. 
At that point I already had gender counseling for over a year.
I wanted proper medical supervision of my medical (pharmaceutical) transition as well as with continuing my social transition, and I was very happy that this all worked out.

I remember giving my doc my therapist's letter for starting my MTF HRT.  It has all worked out well.  Since then I have had regular blood tests, physicals, mammograms, and therapy sessions (now, as needed.)  Prior to the HRT I used food sources of estrogen for over five years.  I had some positive results.

Although I have had issues at work as my appearance changed over time, now I have a wonderfully understanding work situation, and I am grateful.  I am pleased I can work not only appearing as a modestly but femininely dressed woman, I am treated as a woman.

I think over time, as I was slowly changing my appearance as I could without, then with MTF HRT, there was wondering what was going on with Chris.  After I received my HRT start letter and my doctor was helpful, the HRT comforted me and I noticed some small changes.  Over time I found my breasts enlarged, mostly in what I think were three growth spurts.

My work blazers began fill out to my body changes nicely.  It was so nice to look down and not see flatness any longer.  Over time I wore more feminine clothes without as much concern although I am not body beautiful.  Sure I can get noticed in not the best of ways some days but that is part of transitioning.  It is nice when other women give me compliments on my average middle age conservative appearance too, that is refreshing. 

I can have a noticeable breasts to waist curve, depending on what I wear; but, my hips just do not seem to have widened much at all.  I have noticed more fat and rounded thighs but not a nice rounded bottom that I wished I had, along with wider hips.  I wished my breast to waist ratio was wider too.

I prefer wearing my own hair, which at times goes from a blunt cut one length Bob to a pretty pixie and then back again to more of a Bob style.  When I wish to have a long hair look I wear a nice wig.  I enjoy using hair adornments.  It is much harder to look masculine with a Bob cut, but with the Pixie, well, lots of guys seem to wear that hairstyle; however, on a woman it does look feminine. I enjoy going to a hair stylist for a feminine cut.  She has been so nice. 

I try to have my face look nice, paying most attention to foundation, my eyes, and lipstick.  For sure I go light with cosmetics.

I used to crossdress but I eventually realized that I am transgender.  With my therapist, I came to accept myself as okay.

Hugs to all,

Chrissy

About time you started a blog!!!!Sounds like you had a good "journey" and are now living as you should.

Finally, The Story of Chrissy! Welcome to your new blog, and thanks for sharing your beginnings with us.

You have been here longer than many of us, encouraging others in their journeys. It is wonderful that we get to share in yours now.

This is your home, so decorate it as you see fit. Yes, we focus on our transition journeys, but there is more to life than just being transgender, gay, non-binary, or whatever. We have other interests, hobbies, challenges, and some even have jobs. This is your space to discuss any topics that you are comfortable sharing about.

Thanks again for starting this blog!

Big Hugs!

Thank you for starting this, Chrissy. It's interesting and helpful for us newer folks to have this perspective of the people who've been around here for a long while.

My one comment is that this:

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on December 14, 2025, 10:00:41 AMalthough I am not body beautiful.

is just one person's opinion. That person is the one who's opinion counts, but it's still only an opinion. Beauty takes infinitely many forms.

  @ChrissyRyan 

Dear Chrissy:

You have been a registered member here on the Forum for almost 8 years... I am so very
happy to see that you now have started your own Blog thread here on the Forum.

You can consider your Blog thread as your HOME here on the Forum where your readers and
followers can  find you to leave their comments and to share with you. 

Also your Blog thread is your shared personal journal that you can use to write down your thoughts
and comments as you navigate your journey and your life endeavors.

I have some older Blog threads here from several years ago that I still go back to
read what I had shared...  great memories of my trials and tribulations as I documented
my own journey. 

I also keep a personal "old school" pen & paper journal for my eyes only... complete with
colorful doodling and snapshot pictures. 
On a cold and rainy night I can be found in my comfy chair in front of my warm fireplace
reading over some of my past writings... sometimes with tears in my eyes and sometimes
with a smile on my face.

As you feel free to share your story you can find comfort in knowing that when you
share your heartache, trials, difficulties and unpleasant experiences that test your
resilience and strength... that you have like-minded members and friends here that will
be at your side to offer their shoulders for you to lean on, and their ears to listen.
On the other hand, when you share your successes, accomplishments,and happy moments we will
rejoice with you and help you to celebrate those good times in your journey.

I look forward to following your "The Story of Chrissy" Blog thread and I also am
eagerly looking for your future postings around the various threads on the Forum.

My warmest HUGS ... and happy Blogging and Journaling
Danielle [Northern Star Girl] 😃
      The Forum Administrator

Thank you to each of you for your nice comments. 

Have a wonderful weekend!


Chrissy

💕 Hi Chrissy!

Your own blog!... How wonderful! Well done sister!!!

Onward!!!

Ashley 💕

Dear Chrissy,

Wow, I've seen you start so many thread on this forum.  It never occurred to me that you didn't have a blog of your own.  There's so much about you scattered amongst so many un-related posts.  I'm looking forward to seeing how your blog develops.

I do have a question for you, if you don't mind.  You said you used food sources for estrogen sources 5 years prior to starting HRT, but you never said how long ago you started HRT.  Please don't feel obligated to answer, I'm just a little curious.

Warm Regards,
Paulie.

YAY CHRISSY!!!

I am so glad that you started your own blog.  It sounds like you are living your dream and finding the joy you deserve. I am looking forward to hearing more about your journey as it unfolds!

Hi Chrissy

It is really nice to see you tell your story.  I am sorry I have not got around to replying to you sooner on this momentous occasion.

After reading your first blog story I noticed the care you took with your doctor and therapist and with proper medical supervision shows how much you value your health and it is great to see how that steady approach has helped you and how settled you now feel at work.  Your honest reflections on body changes and on finding your own style speak to a growing comfort in your skin and your journey toward self acceptance takes real courage.

Thank you for sharing all of this.  After being here for so long and offering kindness and encouragement to so many others, it is lovely to now hear more of your own path.  I am really looking forward to reading more as your blog grows.

Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
Global Moderator
@ChrissyRyan

Thank you ladies for all your kind words.


Chrissy

When it comes down to it, going full time takes courage, at least for me.
I spent some weeks away from home being my newer self, and that became easier each time.

Transitioning is not easy.  Yes, it is easier for some.  There are hardships. 

It is working out for me now and I really enjoy being me.  I dislike having to present as a male any longer for anything and I hope I can stick to my guns and not do it ever.  We shall see.  Sometimes I just see a good reason to do so.  You might also.  But it is not what I wish to do.

I feel natural as a woman.  I have been in MTF HRT for about five years and my body may not change much from this point on.  But that is okay.  I have had some changes that I like.

Do have a really nice day everyone, I hope you do.

Chrissy

Merry Christmas, Chrissy!

I, too, sometimes go out in "guy-mode" because it is necessary. When I am prospecting, especially alone, I do it for a few reasons:

My men's clothing is more durable for mining operations and doesn't require a lot of fashion sense.

If someone sees me, they do not think I am a woman alone in the woods. I do not need help, nor am I a potential target.

I am usually very busy, so I don't have time for flirtation or small talk with someone who might want to chat me up.

Being in guy mode discourages that. I am not comfortable presenting like that, but I am usually too busy to think about it. I can always reward myself later with a bubble bath.

😁

Quote from: Lori Dee on December 24, 2025, 10:50:14 AMMerry Christmas, Chrissy!

I, too, sometimes go out in "guy-mode" because it is necessary. When I am prospecting, especially alone, I do it for a few reasons:

My men's clothing is more durable for mining operations and doesn't require a lot of fashion sense.

If someone sees me, they do not think I am a woman alone in the woods. I do not need help, nor am I a potential target.

I am usually very busy, so I don't have time for flirtation or small talk with someone who might want to chat me up.

Being in guy mode discourages that. I am not comfortable presenting like that, but I am usually too busy to think about it. I can always reward myself later with a bubble bath.

😁

This makes great sense.

Merry Christmas Lori Dee!


Chrissy

Happy xmas x

I am staying home this evening instead of going to a party.
I really did not feel all that welcome.  I am skipping the requested androgynous look for that get together.

But there will be other parties.

Have a nice evening everyone!


Chrissy

I took a nice lavender bath this afternoon.  Those are so relaxing and I like the nice scent.

You should try one if you have not had this pleasure.


Chrissy

I also gave myself a manicure (not professional, just self done) and my nails are a pretty lavender today.  I guess I have a lavender theme today.  Even my cashmere cardigan is lavender!

Chrissy



Gosh, this is my 17,000th post.  There would likely be 50,000 more if there was no server crash here,as  many messages were wiped out for so many people.

Perhaps I "talk" too much!

I usually do not wear a long wig but today I wanted to.  I also have a bow in the back.  I do not wear the bows when going to work with long hair as it is more of a younger look.  But I like it and I am at home today.  Long hair gives you some different possibilities for looks.  I often change up from draping my hair some on both sides down the front and then more in the back.  Or just on one side down the front.  Here's a cheer to hair adornments! 

Chrissy

Hi Chrissy

When you provide insight into your life, like the above post and other thought provoking questions in other threads, the above post yields the following for me:

I dislike having to present as a male any longer for anything + It is not what I wish to do + I feel natural as a woman = You are a female, so go live your life as a female.

Chrissy, reading about your few weeks away really resonates with me.  I know how you feel.  Just like my two Christmas holidays, one for a couple of days the other for over a week, I was happy and content with not a worry in the world.  Honestly I could not get enough of it.

Those times showed me what felt right deep down and why going back would be so hard.  When you say you enjoy being you now and that presenting as male is no longer what you wish to do, it sounds like you have found where you belong.  I hope you can stick to your guns and keep living in the way that feels natural to you.  I wish with all my heart that you can find the peace you so richly deserve.

Oh!  You also have a really nice day too.

Sarah
xoxo
PS  I can see that you have had a nice day!

---

---

Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
Global Moderator
@ChrissyRyan

Merry Christmas to all!


Chrissy

Quote from: Sarah B on December 24, 2025, 02:48:40 PMHi Chrissy

When you provide insight into your life, like the above post and other thought provoking questions in other threads, the above post yields the following for me:

I dislike having to present as a male any longer for anything + It is not what I wish to do + I feel natural as a woman = You are a female, so go live your life as a female.

Chrissy, reading about your few weeks away really resonates with me.  I know how you feel.  Just like my two Christmas holidays, one for a couple of days the other for over a week, I was happy and content with not a worry in the world.  Honestly I could not get enough of it.

Those times showed me what felt right deep down and why going back would be so hard.  When you say you enjoy being you now and that presenting as male is no longer what you wish to do, it sounds like you have found where you belong.  I hope you can stick to your guns and keep living in the way that feels natural to you.  I wish with all my heart that you can find the peace you so richly deserve.

Oh!  You also have a really nice day too.

Sarah
xoxo
PS  I can see that you have had a nice day!

---

❤️🎁🎊🎉🎉🎉💕💕🎉🎉🎉🎊🎁❤️

Merry Christmas and a

Happy New Year

Chrissy

❤️🎁🎊🎉🎉🎉💕💕🎉🎉🎉🎊🎁❤️

I wish all your dreams come true.

---

Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
Global Moderator
@ChrissyRyan

Sarah, 


You are so sweet!

Hugs!


Chrissy

Chrissy, I'm glad to see you have your own blog now. I'm looking forward to reading it. 😎

Quote from: Alana Ashleigh on December 24, 2025, 04:15:07 PMChrissy, I'm glad to see you have your own blog now. I'm looking forward to reading it. 😎

Alana,

I am sure most of my posts would be rather uninteresting to most people!  I hope you will find the posts that turn out to be exceptions though!  Thank you for your kind thoughts.


Chrissy

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on December 24, 2025, 02:36:05 PMPerhaps I "talk" too much!

Definitely NOT.

You bring us all sunshine and cheer. When you go quiet, we start to worry if the End of the World is near.

😁

Hi everyone!

I hope each of you had a nice Christmas and are enjoying this holiday time.

I also hope you are getting good weather.  I know some parts of both coasts of the USA have or will have bad weather.


Chrissy

For me, a perfect Christmas season needs to have COLD and SNOW ...
... and their is plenty of that here.

It was 73 degrees here on Christmas Eve. I heard a lawnmower running.

You can have the cold and snow, Danielle!

Hopefully, our people on the East and West coasts will be okay.

It almost hit 50 here in Chicago today. I was running errands and had my hoodie off. 

You sent the cold this way-------------

It's a lovely 41 here...had to convert as I work on degC!

We don't get much below 0c anymore as winters are getting warmer every year. Don't know if global warming or something else.

Quote from: davina61 on December 27, 2025, 03:34:28 AMYou sent the cold this way-------------

Davina,

I think the cold will go away for you soon!

Chrissy

Today my outdoor thermometer reads minus -39 degrees (F)  =    -39.5 C
 
It is now lightly snowing.

Short winter days and very long winter nights:
Sunrise:  11:05am    (in about an hour from now)
Sunset:    2:39pm

It will be warming up later today with a "high" that
is forecast to be  minus -34 degrees (F)  =    -37 C

It's so great to see your blog here, Chrissy, and to learn a little bit about you! Thanks for sharing.

It's in the high 30s (F) in the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. today. I was just outside, working on our little "endless" swimming pool, which will be heated up to 88º in time for an early evening swim. Temps in the mid to high 50s are on the way for Monday.

Quote from: Courtney G on December 27, 2025, 02:03:03 PMIt's so great to see your blog here, Chrissy, and to learn a little bit about you! Thanks for sharing.

It's in the high 30s (F) in the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. today. I was just outside, working on our little "endless" swimming pool, which will be heated up to 88º in time for an early evening swim. Temps in the mid to high 50s are on the way for Monday.

Thank you for your nice words Courtney.

Chrissy

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on December 27, 2025, 01:02:06 PMToday my outdoor thermometer reads minus -39 degrees (F)  =    -39.5 C
 
It is now lightly snowing.

Short winter days and very long winter nights:
Sunrise:  11:05am    (in about an hour from now)
Sunset:    2:39pm

It will be warming up later today with a "high" that
is forecast to be  minus -34 degrees (F)  =    -37 C

I thought us Chicago girls were tough to survive winter here. -39f. Omg, that's cold.

Happy New Year, Chrissy!

Quote from: Dances With Trees on January 01, 2026, 07:45:41 AMHappy New Year, Chrissy!

Thank you.  Happy new year to you too!


Chrissy

I hope all of you have a pleasant year.

It would be nice if your transitioning goes very well.

I hope your relationships are most understanding.  Be kind no matter what, sometimes compromises are really a good thing for all involved.   Genuine caring goes a long way.

Be all that you can be!

Hugs,

Chrissy

I had a pleasant lunch today.  It is nice to eat out with a friend.

I was good, I only had an appetizer.  It was a big one though.  Yum.


Chrissy

No matter how many friends we may have, it's always nice to have a meal with a friend. Catching up on each other's lives helps us all stay connected. With all that's going on in the world today, a casual conversation with a friend can be a nice break.

Happy New Year, Christine!

Love always -- Jess

The first time I got feminine eyeglasses the optical technician had a slightly odd smile on her face.  Some guy who wants to look like a female she must have thought.  Well of course, as I came in looking much like a guy, so that was somewhat expected.  I did get good service.

But they were nice to wear.  That was like ten years ago. 

Do you remember the first time you went in to get eyeglasses that have a female style?

Now I come in as a woman and do not get that reaction.  Again, one would hope so!


Chrissy

I received a reminder from a radiology center to setup an appointment for my annual mammogram.  Be sure to do this as often as your physician wants you to get one.  I have had dense breast tissue and had to go back but all turned out well. 

I always get a small pink ribbon to wear the rest of the day when I am at the check-in counter.


Chrissy

I try to choose light frames with a unisex style (similar to Lori's). But I know the look you're talking about and saw it on the pharmacist's face when I stopped in for my monthly HRT prescription.

Mine was at the VA. They all knew about my transition (it is in my medical records). I couldn't find a frame to fit my face, and one of the ladies helped me find some that fit.

Now, I don't care what style they are as long as they fit and are comfortable. The frame I tried on and selected was a brown color. These are the rose chrome that I like. I don't know who selected the color, but I love it. I noticed that in some light, they are rose colored metal, but in others, they look more purplish. I still like them.

Lori,

I am glad you like your eyeglasses.  I have tried many frames, inexpensive to a bit more than I really wanted to spend, and some tinting.  Some metal, some plastic, some unisex, some female, some seemingly very bendable even!  I have not got any manly looking glasses though in about six years.  I also have not bought any of those "smart glasses." 

Chrissy

I loved getting my first feminine frames! I got my name changed on my records at the store on the same day, so the lovely staff member that served me knew I was trans. We chatted makeup tips, how she loved my name choice and  then helped me choose glasses. I got the cat eye style ones of course!

To be honest most people I've come across in these situations have been lovely. Most of them love my open bubbly personality, chatting away and just seeing a trans person grow.

Regarding mammogram I think the NHS here says after 5 years on hrt to start. Now I'm female on my medical records I expect I'll get an invite sometime.

Just noticed you finally made a blog, Chrissy. Therefore I am obligated to poke my nose in and give you a big hug. <3

Quote from: Charlotte_Ringwood on January 10, 2026, 05:05:14 PMRegarding mammogram I think the NHS here says after 5 years on hrt to start. Now I'm female on my medical records I expect I'll get an invite sometime.

I had my first one before I started HRT. The VA wanted to check to make sure I didn't already have something that estradiol would exacerbate. Then I had one every year until 2023. My Primary said I could switch to every two years. I had one in 2025, even though all is good and nothing has changed, now they want one every year again. They need to keep an eye on us old folks.

Quote from: Sephirah on January 10, 2026, 05:11:11 PMJust noticed you finally made a blog, Chrissy. Therefore I am obligated to poke my nose in and give you a big hug. <3

Thanks Lauren.

I will not have much of interest to say here but sometimes I might.  Who knows when though. 
I am kind of boring, unlike you or Lori Dee or Sarah or about most everyone else here.

Chrissy

Chrissy!

You are most definitely NOT boring.

I love the way you see the world. I wish everyone could see it the way you do. You have a way of making even little things that might annoy us seem temporary, and that the future ahead of us is bright.

You just stay private about your personal life, and there is nothing wrong with that. Sarah is the same way, and so are many of us. Maybe you could share some of your interests. What do you like to do when you are not at work? It doesn't have to be exciting or complex. Simple things are important too.

My best friend in South Dakota enjoys making crafts. They are nothing special, just small trinkets made out of everyday items. She enjoys coloring. She doesn't have artistic skills to draw, but she is very good at coloring. I have a picture she did hanging on my living room wall.

What about games, or movies, or TV shows? I bet there are many things that you enjoy that others enjoy too. But this is your space, so you use it as you want to, not what anyone else does with theirs. Just don't ever think that you are boring, because you are not.

Just keep letting us know that life is good. Remind us to have a kind and gentle manner. Because we all need that kind of reminder from time to time.

Any thing but boring my dear, I look forward to the word association and try to be random! Life is life, tell it how it is even if its just normal daily stuff coz that what everyday life is all about.

Each day we should work towards becoming more loving, more kind, just, and pay attention to our relationships. Besides most importantly honoring God each day, we have things that need to get done, each with various levels of importance and urgency (those two characteristics, importance and urgency, are NOT the same). 

Transcending those tasks is our relationships.  People are important.  Life is too short to not cherish them.  You do not have to be romantically or sexually involved to show love.  In fact, there are various types of love.  Agape love is sometimes difficult to embrace when you feel slighted or hurt, yet it is what God gives us unconditionally.  So always try to show love. 

Real love comes from a mindset of wanting to do what is best for others, it comes from the heart, as well as your mind, because you have to want to, you have to purposefully demonstrate love in thought and in your actions. 

Unfortunately many in the world hurt others, their actions are far from love.  Treat others in all the good ways you would want them to treat you.  This does not mean everyone will think and do everything the way you do it, and agree with you about all things, far from it. 

However, try to remember that no act of kindness is too small.  Be grateful.

Maybe today you can make someone's day, and bring a smile to her or his face.  Make it so.


Hugs,

Chrissy

This is a beautiful thought, Chrissy!

Thank you for sharing it with us.

Hugs! and love!

I was thinking on how people can easily take some things for granted.

When you enjoy a wholesome meal, there are many with not enough nourishment.
When you have a roof over your head, there are many who are homeless, not by choice.
When you have clean, good clothes to wear, some people do not have that.
When you are in good health, there are many who have health issues.
When you have a job or otherwise can afford your expenses, many struggle to make ends meet.
When you are of sound mind and can think clearly, others are experiencing significant mental issues.
When you have friends and are not lonely, there are many who are lonely.
When you believe in the Lord and have salvation, there are still many who are lost and have not been saved.

We should always be thankful and grateful.  We should always be good, kind, have compassion for others, and be thoughtful.  Let us all make that so.


Chrissy

I am, good health is top of my list. Thankful for my 3 kids and their children, I have a nice flat and also get to do my hobby . The universe will provide if you let it.

I'm thankful for all I have got and have made for sure. I vowed to be independent after losing my home twice due to reliance on others.I just wish I was sound of mind. At least I'm functional even if quite a tortured soul. I'm mostly glad  I can keep my boyfriend and 3 cats with food and a roof over their heads. That's what makes the work struggle worth it. They are my world and want to keep them safe and happy.

Chrissy, sorry for being so late to your blog! I agree with everyone here, you are not boring!  You proved that with your recent entries:

"Each day we should work towards becoming more loving, more kind, just, and pay attention to our relationships."

and

"I was thinking on how people can easily take some things for granted."

You share your wonderful heart with all of us, and that is never boring!!!

Big hug,

Emma

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on January 16, 2026, 10:07:02 PMWe should always be thankful and grateful.  We should always be good, kind, have compassion for others, and be thoughtful. 

Chrissy,

What you wrote is so true. It was something my parents taught me to believe. I try and live it every day.

Ellen

Thanks, Chrissy, for such beautiful and loving thoughts.

Quote from: Emma1017 on January 17, 2026, 07:54:22 AMChrissy, sorry for being so late to your blog! I agree with everyone here, you are not boring!  You proved that with your recent entries:

"Each day we should work towards becoming more loving, more kind, just, and pay attention to our relationships."

and

"I was thinking on how people can easily take some things for granted."

You share your wonderful heart with all of us, and that is never boring!!!

Big hug,

Emma

Thank you Emma!


Chrissy

I did a lot of cleaning this week.  Did some more today after a walk.  Everything looks nice.

I am glad it's all done.  Took a shower and my hair is drying.  I think I might watch a travel show.

Chrissy

Having a clean home is very satisfying. It can appear to be a daunting task initially, if only because it seems to be a never-ending chore. Although it requires dedication and time, the results are usually worth the cost.

Enjoy your show, Christine. You earned it.

Love always -- Jess

You can always pop over and clean my flat!! I do try and keep it tidy but some days I am too tired to do things like dusting.

The cleaning is something that makes for a more pleasant environment.
I usually clothes wash something about each day and dishes every other day. Bathrooms each week for sure and whenever needed.  Sweeping and mopping and countertops as needed, at least each week.     
I wash and air dry my bras once a week.

Dusting is done as needed, I do reach out to the ceiling corners and all along where the ceiling and walls meet to keep them cleaner. 

I would not say it is fun work but work that should be done.

Have a nice Sunday everyone!


Chrissy