Site News and Information => Introductions => Topic started by: Neuroflora on February 22, 2026, 09:35:05 AM Return to Full Version
Title: Hello!
Post by: Neuroflora on February 22, 2026, 09:35:05 AM
Post by: Neuroflora on February 22, 2026, 09:35:05 AM
My name is Grace, I'm 35 and I realised I was trans when I was 33, I've been coming to terms with it since then and now I'm really looking forward to becoming myself.
I used to use this site when I was a teenager so so long ago so it's nice to post here again, but I had such a bad experience coming out in person that it scared me away for over a decade, I think I knew then but it just took this long to do anything about it.
I've been seeing a gender therapist for 2 years and I feel it really helped especially as I've had to prioritize survival over living for now. I'm still figuring out how to be visible after hiding so long so I might be quiet at first. I'm working on trying to get my own style together and see what feels like me but it's early days.
And so now I'm looking to find friends and community as I move forward with this stage of my life. Thanks for reading!
I used to use this site when I was a teenager so so long ago so it's nice to post here again, but I had such a bad experience coming out in person that it scared me away for over a decade, I think I knew then but it just took this long to do anything about it.
I've been seeing a gender therapist for 2 years and I feel it really helped especially as I've had to prioritize survival over living for now. I'm still figuring out how to be visible after hiding so long so I might be quiet at first. I'm working on trying to get my own style together and see what feels like me but it's early days.
And so now I'm looking to find friends and community as I move forward with this stage of my life. Thanks for reading!
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Rochelle on February 22, 2026, 09:55:33 AM
Post by: Rochelle on February 22, 2026, 09:55:33 AM
Welcome, there is alot of information and life stories here. The members are very friendly and outgoing. You will get an official welcome shortly from the greeters.
It's nice to see you here.
Rochelle
It's nice to see you here.
Rochelle
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: tgirlamg on February 22, 2026, 10:00:54 AM
Post by: tgirlamg on February 22, 2026, 10:00:54 AM
Grace!
Welcome Aboard Sister!
You sound ready to make your life... your life!... Kudos on finding the courage to move forward!... Everything you seek is within your grasp... All challenges can be navigated and you will continue to gain strength and true liberation of spirit with each step forward... Amazing Discoveries patiently await you girl! May your journey be blessed! 🙏🌸❤️
Onward!
Ashley💕
Welcome Aboard Sister!
You sound ready to make your life... your life!... Kudos on finding the courage to move forward!... Everything you seek is within your grasp... All challenges can be navigated and you will continue to gain strength and true liberation of spirit with each step forward... Amazing Discoveries patiently await you girl! May your journey be blessed! 🙏🌸❤️
Onward!
Ashley💕
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Dances With Trees on February 22, 2026, 10:28:32 AM
Post by: Dances With Trees on February 22, 2026, 10:28:32 AM
Welcome back, Neuroflora!
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Pema on February 22, 2026, 10:41:29 AM
Post by: Pema on February 22, 2026, 10:41:29 AM
Hi, Grace, and welcome.
I'm so glad that you chose to work with a gender therapist and that it's allowed you to become your true self. I completely understand your desire to take it slowly and give yourself time to discover what is "your way." I really think that just freeing yourself to unfold naturally is the best way to find out who's in there.
We're here anytime you feel like sharing your experiences. Thank you for joining us.
Love,
Pema
I'm so glad that you chose to work with a gender therapist and that it's allowed you to become your true self. I completely understand your desire to take it slowly and give yourself time to discover what is "your way." I really think that just freeing yourself to unfold naturally is the best way to find out who's in there.
We're here anytime you feel like sharing your experiences. Thank you for joining us.
Love,
Pema
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Stottie Girl on February 22, 2026, 10:58:21 AM
Post by: Stottie Girl on February 22, 2026, 10:58:21 AM
Hiya Grace! Nice to have you with us.
It can be a scary world out there but know you have this board where you you can share with like minded souls.
There are quite a few Brits on here too so you can feel right at home!
It can be a scary world out there but know you have this board where you you can share with like minded souls.
There are quite a few Brits on here too so you can feel right at home!
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Charlotte Kitty on February 22, 2026, 11:17:48 AM
Post by: Charlotte Kitty on February 22, 2026, 11:17:48 AM
Hey Grace,
I'm Charlotte😻 and I'm pleased to welcome you to Susan's Place!
Thank you for introductory post. I'm so glad that, given some time, you have felt comfortable enough to make a post here. A few members have already introduced themselves to you, which is great. Everyone is very friendly so we will all do our best to ensure you are supported. Please take whatever time you need until you are comfortable to interact further at Susan's. There is no pressure, but we are indeed excited to learn more about you as and when you're ready.
We strive to make this a safe space where you can be yourself without judgement. A place to find information but also share your own thoughts, feelings and observations. No matter who you are, you are always welcome at Susan's Place.
When you click on the HOME button, you will see a page listing all of the various sub-forums by category and topic. Each sub-forum includes a description of what the forum is about, as well as any posting guidelines.
Please keep in mind when posting that this is an ALL-AGES PUBLIC Forum and the internet never forgets.
Do not post anything that you do not want to be made public.
I will add links below that are important for new and returning members.
Pay special attention to the links in RED.
When you reach 15 posts, you will be able to send and reply to private messages and you will also be able to add an avatar to your profile, until then if you have any questions about the Susan's Place site and the Forums, please feel free to contact, the Forum Admin Danielle Northern Star Girl at alaskandanielle@yahoo.com.
Once again, welcome to Susan's Place!
Kind regards,
Charlotte😻
(Forum Staff)
Please familiarize yourself with these resources.
@Devlyn @Jessica_Rose @Mariah @Northern Star Girl @Lori Dee @Sarah B @Neuroflora
I'm Charlotte😻 and I'm pleased to welcome you to Susan's Place!
Thank you for introductory post. I'm so glad that, given some time, you have felt comfortable enough to make a post here. A few members have already introduced themselves to you, which is great. Everyone is very friendly so we will all do our best to ensure you are supported. Please take whatever time you need until you are comfortable to interact further at Susan's. There is no pressure, but we are indeed excited to learn more about you as and when you're ready.
We strive to make this a safe space where you can be yourself without judgement. A place to find information but also share your own thoughts, feelings and observations. No matter who you are, you are always welcome at Susan's Place.
When you click on the HOME button, you will see a page listing all of the various sub-forums by category and topic. Each sub-forum includes a description of what the forum is about, as well as any posting guidelines.
Please keep in mind when posting that this is an ALL-AGES PUBLIC Forum and the internet never forgets.
Do not post anything that you do not want to be made public.
I will add links below that are important for new and returning members.
Pay special attention to the links in RED.
When you reach 15 posts, you will be able to send and reply to private messages and you will also be able to add an avatar to your profile, until then if you have any questions about the Susan's Place site and the Forums, please feel free to contact, the Forum Admin Danielle Northern Star Girl at alaskandanielle@yahoo.com.
Once again, welcome to Susan's Place!
Kind regards,
Charlotte😻
(Forum Staff)
Please familiarize yourself with these resources.
- New Members... Please Read this First (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,250343.msg2295001.html#msg2295001)
- Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,2.0.html)
- Site Policies and stuff to remember (https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,492.0.html)
- Membership Agreement (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,216851.0.html)
- Cautionary Note (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,82221.0.html)
- How to Contact Forum Staff Members (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,246913.0.html)
- Standard Terms & Definitions (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,54369.0.html)
- News posting & quoting guidelines (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,174951.0.html)
- Photos, avatars, & signature images (https://www.susans.org//index.php/topic,59974.msg383866.html#msg383866)
@Devlyn @Jessica_Rose @Mariah @Northern Star Girl @Lori Dee @Sarah B @Neuroflora
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Lori Dee on February 22, 2026, 11:22:14 AM
Post by: Lori Dee on February 22, 2026, 11:22:14 AM
Hello Grace,
I'm Lori Dee. Welcome to Susan's Place!
I am glad to hear you are working with a therapist. They can be very helpful. Not just for transition-related stuff, but also for other issues that can affect your quality of life.
Welcome back!
I'm Lori Dee. Welcome to Susan's Place!
I am glad to hear you are working with a therapist. They can be very helpful. Not just for transition-related stuff, but also for other issues that can affect your quality of life.
Welcome back!
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: ChrissyRyan on February 22, 2026, 12:37:46 PM
Post by: ChrissyRyan on February 22, 2026, 12:37:46 PM
Hi Grace,
Welcome!
Chrissy
Welcome!
Chrissy
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Alana Ashleigh on February 22, 2026, 02:19:45 PM
Post by: Alana Ashleigh on February 22, 2026, 02:19:45 PM
Hi Grace, glad you're here.
We're the same age, and about the same age when I realized I'm transgender.
Alana
We're the same age, and about the same age when I realized I'm transgender.
Alana
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Susan on February 22, 2026, 06:35:39 PM
Post by: Susan on February 22, 2026, 06:35:39 PM
Hello Grace,
Welcome back to Susan's Place!
It means something special when someone finds their way back to us after so many years. The fact that you were here as a teenager and have returned tells me something important — that even through everything that happened, some part of you held onto this connection and knew where to come when you were ready.
I'm sorry that your early experience coming out was painful enough to push you away for so long. That kind of hurt can run deep, and it takes real courage to step forward again after carrying that. But here you are, and you've done the hard, quiet work of these past two years with your therapist to get yourself to this point. That's not nothing — that's everything.
I love what you said about figuring out your own style and seeing what feels like you. There's no rush with any of it. After years of hiding, giving yourself permission to explore and discover is one of the most liberating things you can do. And you don't have to have it all figured out — that's what the journey is for.
You mentioned prioritizing survival over living, and I want you to know that I hear that. So many of us have been in that exact place. The fact that you're now looking toward actually *living* — finding friends, building community, becoming visible on your own terms — that's a beautiful shift, and we're honored to be part of it.
Take all the time you need to settle in. Post when you feel like it, read when you don't. We're not going anywhere, and neither is your place here.
Welcome home, Grace.
— Susan 💜
Welcome back to Susan's Place!
It means something special when someone finds their way back to us after so many years. The fact that you were here as a teenager and have returned tells me something important — that even through everything that happened, some part of you held onto this connection and knew where to come when you were ready.
I'm sorry that your early experience coming out was painful enough to push you away for so long. That kind of hurt can run deep, and it takes real courage to step forward again after carrying that. But here you are, and you've done the hard, quiet work of these past two years with your therapist to get yourself to this point. That's not nothing — that's everything.
I love what you said about figuring out your own style and seeing what feels like you. There's no rush with any of it. After years of hiding, giving yourself permission to explore and discover is one of the most liberating things you can do. And you don't have to have it all figured out — that's what the journey is for.
You mentioned prioritizing survival over living, and I want you to know that I hear that. So many of us have been in that exact place. The fact that you're now looking toward actually *living* — finding friends, building community, becoming visible on your own terms — that's a beautiful shift, and we're honored to be part of it.
Take all the time you need to settle in. Post when you feel like it, read when you don't. We're not going anywhere, and neither is your place here.
Welcome home, Grace.
— Susan 💜
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Ciara on February 23, 2026, 06:10:27 AM
Post by: Ciara on February 23, 2026, 06:10:27 AM
Hi Grace,
It's lovely to meet you.
Welcome ❤️.
Ciara.
It's lovely to meet you.
Welcome ❤️.
Ciara.
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Jillian-TG on February 23, 2026, 06:18:38 AM
Post by: Jillian-TG on February 23, 2026, 06:18:38 AM
Welcome and wishing you well on your journey
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Anne_lifetrip on February 23, 2026, 07:59:22 AM
Post by: Anne_lifetrip on February 23, 2026, 07:59:22 AM
Hello Grace,
Welcome it is lovely to meet you. ❤️
Anne
Welcome it is lovely to meet you. ❤️
Anne
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Neuroflora on February 23, 2026, 02:41:47 PM
Post by: Neuroflora on February 23, 2026, 02:41:47 PM
Thank you for all the lovely replies! I feel very welcome here.
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: katiebee on February 23, 2026, 11:33:53 PM
Post by: katiebee on February 23, 2026, 11:33:53 PM
Welcome back! I think you and I probably lurked on here around the same time, and came back around the same time. Small world!
Title: Re: Hello!
Post by: Sarah B on February 24, 2026, 12:01:50 AM
Post by: Sarah B on February 24, 2026, 12:01:50 AM
Hi Grace
My name is Sarah and I would also like to formally, Welcome you to Susan's Place!
I see that other members of Susan's have also welcomed you as well.
I'm really glad you found your way here and I'm grateful you felt safe enough to share where you are right now. Reading your post, what stood out most was how much work you have already done just to stay afloat. Spending years in survival mode takes a toll, so the fact that you sought therapy, stayed with it for two years and are now beginning to reconnect with yourself says a great deal about your strength. I was thirty when I changed my life around and my life has been amazing ever since. So what I'm saying is that it is truly not too late for you to pursue your dreams.
Several members have already expressed this, but it truly matters: there is no pressure here to move fast or have everything figured out. Many of us learned the hard way that this journey unfolds in its own time. You are allowed to take small steps, pause when you need to and simply observe for a while. This space is here whether you feel like posting every day or quietly read in the background.
Others also highlighted how valuable your work with a gender therapist has been, not only for gender-related questions but for your overall quality of life. That kind of support can be foundational, especially after years of putting your own needs second. A few people shared how familiar your story feels, how common it is to prioritise survival first and only later realise how much of yourself was put on hold.
Moving from surviving to actually living can feel strange at first, but it is also deeply healing. This theme of survival I had already expressed while talking to one of my nieces, this morning. There are three things you need to survive according to Maslov's theory. One you need shelter, two you need food and three you need clothes after that; "the world is your oyster" and you are in that position to move forward.
I also loved reading that you have begun exploring clothes and personal expression. That gentle curiosity about what feels right is important. You do not need to make big declarations or dramatic changes. Many of us started exactly the same way, quietly trying things, noticing what brings comfort or joy and slowly building confidence from there. Those small moments of matter more than they might seem.
Looking ahead, it might help to think about a couple of straightforward things. What are your plans going forward, even in the short term? Are you considering any specific next steps such as social changes, medical consultation or simply continuing therapy for now? And is there something practical you would like support with at this stage, whether that is information, shared experiences or just encouragement?
You don't need perfect answers. Just being here, telling your story and allowing yourself space already counts as progress.
Thank you again for sharing, Grace. I'm glad you are here and I hope you find warmth, understanding and connection as this next chapter unfolds for you.
Once you feel comfortable here, it would be appreciated if you add a little bit more about yourself in the other forums and threads. I would appreciate it very much as, I'm always interested in learning something new about new members.
In addition members of Susan's will more than likely discuss problems or issues that are similar to yours as most have experienced these issues as well.
Please keep in mind when posting that this is an ALL AGES PUBLIC Forum and the internet never forgets. Do not post anything that you do not want to be made public.
Take care and all the best for the future.
Once again, Welcome to Susan's Place!
Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
Global Moderator
@Devlyn @Jessica_Rose @Mariah @Northern Star Girl @Lori Dee @Charlotte_Ringwood @Neuroflora
My name is Sarah and I would also like to formally, Welcome you to Susan's Place!
I see that other members of Susan's have also welcomed you as well.
I'm really glad you found your way here and I'm grateful you felt safe enough to share where you are right now. Reading your post, what stood out most was how much work you have already done just to stay afloat. Spending years in survival mode takes a toll, so the fact that you sought therapy, stayed with it for two years and are now beginning to reconnect with yourself says a great deal about your strength. I was thirty when I changed my life around and my life has been amazing ever since. So what I'm saying is that it is truly not too late for you to pursue your dreams.
Several members have already expressed this, but it truly matters: there is no pressure here to move fast or have everything figured out. Many of us learned the hard way that this journey unfolds in its own time. You are allowed to take small steps, pause when you need to and simply observe for a while. This space is here whether you feel like posting every day or quietly read in the background.
Others also highlighted how valuable your work with a gender therapist has been, not only for gender-related questions but for your overall quality of life. That kind of support can be foundational, especially after years of putting your own needs second. A few people shared how familiar your story feels, how common it is to prioritise survival first and only later realise how much of yourself was put on hold.
Moving from surviving to actually living can feel strange at first, but it is also deeply healing. This theme of survival I had already expressed while talking to one of my nieces, this morning. There are three things you need to survive according to Maslov's theory. One you need shelter, two you need food and three you need clothes after that; "the world is your oyster" and you are in that position to move forward.
I also loved reading that you have begun exploring clothes and personal expression. That gentle curiosity about what feels right is important. You do not need to make big declarations or dramatic changes. Many of us started exactly the same way, quietly trying things, noticing what brings comfort or joy and slowly building confidence from there. Those small moments of matter more than they might seem.
Looking ahead, it might help to think about a couple of straightforward things. What are your plans going forward, even in the short term? Are you considering any specific next steps such as social changes, medical consultation or simply continuing therapy for now? And is there something practical you would like support with at this stage, whether that is information, shared experiences or just encouragement?
You don't need perfect answers. Just being here, telling your story and allowing yourself space already counts as progress.
Thank you again for sharing, Grace. I'm glad you are here and I hope you find warmth, understanding and connection as this next chapter unfolds for you.
Once you feel comfortable here, it would be appreciated if you add a little bit more about yourself in the other forums and threads. I would appreciate it very much as, I'm always interested in learning something new about new members.
In addition members of Susan's will more than likely discuss problems or issues that are similar to yours as most have experienced these issues as well.
Please keep in mind when posting that this is an ALL AGES PUBLIC Forum and the internet never forgets. Do not post anything that you do not want to be made public.
Take care and all the best for the future.
Once again, Welcome to Susan's Place!
Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
Global Moderator
@Devlyn @Jessica_Rose @Mariah @Northern Star Girl @Lori Dee @Charlotte_Ringwood @Neuroflora