Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Is it just me or as a group do we look young for our age?

I'm curious about this... becuase I'm always surprised here when I find out
someones real age. I've always been told that I look very young for my age no matter what
age I was. In my twenties I was always carded when buying alcohol. In my thirties and now forties
people guess me about ten years younger than I am.

And if you agree do you think it's becuase we have taken better
care of ourselves than the average male or is it some kind or weird TS marker?

Amanda

A weird TS marker, no doubt!!

And the effects of estrogen after a few months of HRT enhances that weird marker. :D

QuoteI was always carded when buying alcohol.

I was carded into my forties.

QuoteAnd the effects of estrogen after a few months of HRT enhances that weird marker.

Yes... HRT most certainly does...I look younger after just three months.

But just to be clear I am asking about pre-HRT... before the facial fat
changes from HRT. The woman that I've seen here pre-HRT look
very young for their age.

Amanda

When I was younger, I looked like I was in my mid to late 30's <I did my best to appear that way>

Then when I gave up the fight... Suddenly <once again> I looked allot younger than my age...

Up until this last year people thought I was like 17 or 18... <almost 10 years younger than I am>  Now the average guess is about 5 years off... but last year was hard and it really shows on my face.

So true...even before HRT I looked younger then my age. HRT enhanced that by another 10 years. I guess we as a group are lucky in some ways. :icon_yes:

I've always looked very young for my age. I was carded all the way through my 30's. HRT sure doesn't make things better. It is the fountain of youth and I swear I look like I'm 19 some days and I just turned 40.

I'm 30 and I still get carded buying alcohol.  I usually respond with a comment like "Oh, bless you."
The doc I saw for a laser consult today was a little surprised at my age.  She thought I was still in my mid twenties. 

The words I hear often are "baby face". I got that recently at a restaurant when we were chatting with some older people at the bar while waiting for a table and I was discussing something that happened long ago. The people didn't believe I was old enough to know about whatever it was we were discussing. I told them my age (about 44 at the time) and they said no way! and that I had a "baby face". Yep, heard that before.

Now that i've discovered more about myself (androgyne) maybe it IS a weird marker.... why not? i've got the female elbows and the equal length fingers  :laugh:

We certainly do!   The wonders of estrogen, I suppose!

tink :icon_chick:

         People keep thinking I'm 10 or more years younger.  I don't know why, though.  I'm not kidding.  I've been having to explain to people that I'm not some kid.  I don't think I look young, but whatever.

         I've been wondering if it because we use our faces differently than the cisgendered males.  More eye movement or whatever it is that's considered female.  On us, it may just give the appearance of eternal youth.

         If this gets out, we'll be finding cisgendered people suddenly want to be like us.   :laugh:

Definitely.

In my case I'm 27 and look about 17. I constantly get asked if I'm 18. It's REALLY annoying because I have a lot of schooling and experience, and to have that overlooked because I don't -look- my age (and rather, like some young punk kid who couldn't possibly have much experience/knowledge), and then not be taken seriously (or patronized) is just frustrating.

But yes, I've noticed we look much younger than our ages. It's both a good and bad thing.

At least when I'm 80 all the 60 year old honeys will be on my jock...

Quote from: discarded on May 13, 2008, 08:34:24 PM
At least when I'm 80 all the 60 year old honeys will be on my jock...

We didn't need that visual.    :P

Quote from: Rebis on May 13, 2008, 09:21:05 PM

Quote from: discarded on May 13, 2008, 08:34:24 PM
At least when I'm 80 all the 60 year old honeys will be on my jock...

We didn't need that visual.    :P

Im 60 and at the moment dont want to be on anyones jock.  :laugh:  But yes for some strange reason I could be persuaded that there is a valid corelation in younger looks. I was still being carded at 30 and have been told many times that I look younger than I am. Prior to starting HRT I wore a beard so I wouldnt have to shave and that actually added age to the looks. The HRT after 8 months seems to have enhanced the effect also.  :-\  I dont know, the idea sounds good though. Oh and and as an afterthought Im rethinking the jock proposition too.  :-*

Hugs

Wendy

Peeps be thinkin I'm 16 all the time. But im 19 :"J

I get carded at the theater allll the time but I don't care. Looking young only helps with passing n _n;

Ya'll sure do.

I know I look 12 :)

Everyone still thinks I'm 18-19 at 22, but lord, I've seen myself age the last 8 months because I haven't given myself enough sleep. My whole life I've been sleep deprived and it's finally catching up with me, so I'm trying to fix it. It gives my coworkers frequent outs to excuse why they invite everybody else out to drink except for me  ::)

A weird TS marker because I still get asked if I'm excited about high school graduation every year about this time. Guess I look like a teenager.

I think it's both the fact that once on HRT, the second puberty effect makes us look a lot younger somehow and even before HRT like in my case, we just look and seem so much younger than we are.
Part of it may be a physical manifestation of a psychological effect - until we've successfully transitioned we don't really grow up. I don't think one can really mature into an adult of the opposite gender. Like it or not, our gender is a big chunk of our core being and how the hell can a little girl ever grow to be a man or vice versa?

I thank my skin and youthful appearance to:

1) Exfoliating twice a week with a good soft bristle brush and Lancome exfoliator since I was 16.

2) Using Pre-Moisturizer, Lancome, Primordial Cell Defense every morning after face scrub & dry face

3) Chanel Retexturizing Line Correcting Cream (since I was 29, used lighter moisturizer since I was 21), switching to Lancome this month (need to save $)

4) My most important, can't live without, MD Formulations "Illuminating Serum" with 10% glycolic acid. Put on at night. I love this stuff!

I'm sure HRT and lack of facial help post HRT, but I got comments that I looked mid 20's before HRT so I think it's mainly due to good skin care.

Also, not smoking, not drinking, drinking lots of water and not much junk food (ok, the OCCASIONAL bag of Sour Patch Kids!), and STAYING OUT OF THE SUN!!!!

I can attest to Meghan's youthful appearance. Often I forget some six or seven decades separate our chronological age.  :-*  :icon_giggle: :icon_joy:

That said, people often tell me I look 18 or 19! I had a waitress once sit and stare at my driver's license and start asking me questions like what street do I live on! Sheesh!

Hi Lacitychick21 well that was right nice of them, looking at your avatar I probably would have guessed that age as well. Well when I was down in Asheville North Carolina a couple of years ago, I was till smoking then, I went into this service station to buy a pack of butts and the Girl behind the counter asked my ID, she was serious. I told her well now isn't that a wonderful compliment then another girl showed up and said, just give her the cigarettes would you. Ahhh well I had my name in the lime light for a couple of minutes there anyway. Well that's one thing that will never change, I love attracting attention.

Cindy

I look really young. I'm 29 and most people guess early 20's or 25. I get carded lots, and I've been accused of using "my older sisters ID" before. It's been a few months since someone asked me what grade I was in (I get that from time to time, and I got it before transitioning).

--natalie

Hi hon, don't kid yourself, HRT has a way of softening the facial skin which will make you appear to be a few years younger, depending on the person and their age. and yes there are the few who need to go through FFs in order to get closer to their target gender. That time at the gas station was just one of those amusing things that sometimes happens, in reality I do not look that young, but I have had some folks clock me to be ten years younger or so then I am. I can't really say how old I appeared to be before HRT, I didn't realy pay much attention to how I looked like before. I just know those days were an experience I wouldn't want to go through again. now I am in good shape health wise and I work with girls that are probably young enough to be my daughters and I have a good rapore with them, always did anyway. One can get into some much more interesting and invigorating discussions.

Cindy

i am in my 30's now and I get carded all the time.  People always guess that I am 10-12 years younger than my actual age. 

QuoteIt's been a few months since someone asked me what grade I was in (

yea... I had forgotten that little insult... that drove me crazy :)

Amanda

Yep quite right Amanda it was an insult when we were younger and trying to pass ourselves off as older. I was carded for going in bars until I was 25 years old when I was finally starting to grow facial hair and couldn't wait for it to grow faster, "yuk!! grrrrrrr."  But once you get past, hmmmmm lets say 40 years old then the wishing is reversed and begin wishing we were younger looking, oh well such is life, at least I am a woman who looks ten years younger and no facial hair, "yuk, yuky yuk!!!"

Cindy

As a guy I always looked young for my age (like 40 looking like 30) .....

When I started HRT, beard removal, growing out hair, trimming eyebrows, it knocked even more years off me as a "guy" in the space of just 6 months ....  :) ....

I never believed the "discount" years would hold post transition but they absolutely did, guess my skin is firmer and less wrinkly than a woman of my age, my body more toned and slimmer, my mental attitue .... well I'm a teenager discovering the life I've missed ...  ::) ...

So sure the avatar is me a week or so back .... my true age is (husssh) 50 .... (my internet age rarely gets updated !) .... go figure ....  ;D ....

Laura x

I would guess you as mid thirties Laura. :)

Amanda

Hi Laura Eva B, Yes it is exactly as you describe it. I mean for myself I gained weigh for the first time in my life, most it is fatty tissue where most of it in the right where it is supposed to be. The tummy, well I am working on reducing that. Much of the excess muscle tone is gone, not that I ever had much anyway to start with. My arms and legs and hips are much more of the feminine in appearance, I believe that most of these changes was brought on by estrogen 

Quoteis firmer and less wrinkly than a woman of my age, my body more toned and slimmer,

Of course yes. I do realy believe that transitioning has been kind to us, Well speaking for myself I feel much more at peace with myself, body mind and soul in synchrony with one another *as one*, the way it was meant to be.

There has been a very drastic change in me mentally and physically. I have never been an aggressive person well even less so now I am quite tolerant of people, I work with them on a nearly a daily basis because I care for them, Even if one of them tramps on my toes, I will not react impulsively. I would sooner forgive them then waste of my time and energy fighting with anyone,  I love that space of peace that I have developed. Ok this is only one micro part of my life and I think I will stop here. This is only a tiny part I have watched grow within me in the past 8 years.

Cindy

Of course we look younger than our age.  Lots of new female fat under my facial skin.
'Trans' Fat......gotta love it!

Seriously.....I have always had a baby face, and been taken for about 10 yrs younger than my actual age.

Bev

I have always looked young for my age, and until recently hated the fact.  Now I'm not so sure I mind it.  Getting carded in your 40's is downright funny.

Kristi

The only thing about my face that makes it seem older, are the high cheekbones, and I guess some other things too, like all of the open pores from shaving (I can't wait until I'm rid of the hair... I hate it...)


But some things about me seem young. My eyes are a bit bigger when I'm not angry at everything, my hairline hasn't receded at all, and my voice is kind of immature (which I prefer...)

Quote from: Nero on May 14, 2008, 12:33:28 AM
A weird TS marker because I still get asked if I'm excited about high school graduation every year about this time. Guess I look like a teenager.

This one drives me nuts.....

And before going full time I was asked if I was looking forward to summer vacation... And like others, I was never taken seriously on my jobs... till I turned evil and brought the full force of my stare and voice into play....

One of the last jobs I did before going full time, the people I was working for wouldn't listen to me... and right before lunch I finally exploded... Ripped something they were trying to pry off a wall right out tossing it aside. I brought my glared at both of them <my eyes turn vivid green when I'm angry> and bellowed at them <Yell is to nice, but I didn't scream either... just raised my voice to booming>  "I  AM NOT SOME STUPID KID... I AM NOT A TEENAGER, I KNOW WHAT IM DOING SO YOU CAN EITHER HELP OR GET THE (EXPLICIT)ING HELL OUT OF MY WAY!!! YOUR AN IGNORANT OLD MAN (the boss) AND YOUR A DRUNK MORON (his helper) AND IF YOU REALLY WANT MY HELP THEN DO AS I SAY.

Till that point they thought someone had sent a gay kid to help them on the project... after that I made them both look bad in front of there clients... I was never called to work for them again <but the client did>

Carded for beer, accused of using my sisters ID... before I got a new ID before full time accused of using my brother or dads ID...  Now I don't have the trouble so much... Im assumed to be in my mid twenty's <as I said, last year played hell on me and it shows in my face>

I sure like your new pic lynnER.

QuotePart of it may be a physical manifestation of a psychological effect - until we've successfully transitioned we don't really grow up. I don't think one can really mature into an adult of the opposite gender. Like it or not, our gender is a big chunk of our core being and how the hell can a little girl ever grow to be a man or vice versa? Nero

Does anyone else feel like they have not grown up? I've thought that for a long time... like I'm still a kid somehow.

I mean... I'm successful and I do "adult" things... I always do what I commit to... responsible... always been that...
I just feel like sometimes I'm just a little kid. Weird I know.

QuoteI sure like your new pic lynnER.

I'll second that... very nice Lynn :)

Amanda

Hi Amanda, there is nothing wrong with feeling like a kid on the inside as long as you can still carry on your adult duties.

I am 62 years old and I still feel like a mischievous little kid inside, Wing Walkers suck. Actually the good natured part has been an asset for me working as a social worker, even better with kids.

LynnER hon I admire your courage to stand for what you believe to be your rights. Even though I have always hated aggression *of any kind*, but there are times when I had to put my foot down so to speak. I have had to do so a few times in my life but it takes a lot out of one which is not normally in their nature.

Cindy

Prior to transition people would say I was my age or maybe a year more... Nowadays people assume I'm in my early 20's rather than my actual age of 29.

Most people think I am mid to late 20's....I am 39. I think a lot of it is the facial hair removal as well as the estrogen. I love it!! People are always amazed when I tell them my real age. ->-bleeped-<-, I still get carded on occasion for ciggarettes (I know, I know I should not smoke...its not to often though ;-))

Christine

Quote from: AlwaysAmanda on May 15, 2008, 01:35:51 PM
Does anyone else feel like they have not grown up? I've thought that for a long time... like I'm still a kid somehow.

I mean... I'm successful and I do "adult" things... I always do what I commit to... responsible... always been that...
I just feel like sometimes I'm just a little kid. Weird I know.

I so do!

I'm 28 (almost wrote 27. Oops) but I feel like I'm maybe 15 or so.  I've always attributed it to a stunted social growth that affects people who stay in school for too long.  Always being in the 'student' position sort of prevents you from being a full grown adult in some respects.

I don't want to really become an "adult".

Its just this rigid, half oxidized piece of cubicle garbage.

I used to kind of have a Peter Pan complex of some kind, but I think there's a middle ground for me. Staying mentally flexible and uncorroded as much as I can, yet still having good knowledge and experience all at once. If I ever look like either of my parents, someone put a bullet in my brainstem, please...

I would have to agree with this statement based on what I've experienced myself. I think HRT definitely is a contributing factor. I am 30 now and people usually guess 24-27. 6 months into HRT and I get carded more often now than when I was 27. There might be a genetic component but I am not certain as my brothers express it differently. Both are younger and the middle one looks older than I do (yeah, still involved with my family right now as I have not told them anything and they haven't asked. It isn't for financial reasons or anything but pure cowardice I assure you). This definitely could be something to look into.

I'm almost 27 and continually shock people with my age. Although I don't get carded much because I tend to be very regular at bars so after the first couple times at a new place I tend to be well known and not carded. Although the funniest one happened last year. I went out and forgot got to put my ID or money in my pocket so I arrived at the door with nothing but keys. I'd known the guy at the door for years so I just explained the situation and promised to pay for this week next week. Walked in went up to the bar and asked the guy for a glass of water. Go figure I got some new guy and he responded "I need to see some ID." *jaw drops* you want ID for a glass of water?!?! "Yes I have to ask for it." Fortunately at this point the wife of the guy that let me in walks up and says he's ok give him his water. Around here you have to be 21 to drink alcohol but 18 and older can go in. Since I was asking for water I can only guess he thought I was under 18. lol

I have always looked young for my age. Once I started HRT that became even more so than before. It's funny considering that even though I am now just over 30 that I STILL get carded at liquor stores. :D The last time I was in there, the woman behind the counter said to me "you do not even look old enough to be in here" hehehehehe (although the only reason that I go in there is for my aunt when she does not feel like going in because her hair may be messy or something.  :o) I stopped drinking just before I started HRT since mixing alcohol and hormones is a very bad idea.

I'm 29, 30 in August. My brother is four years younger than I am, but he always got taken for the oldest, people putting him around 27-28, and usually placing me between 21 and 23.

~Simone.

Posted on: 23 May 2008, 08:31:49

---

As to the idea of not having "grown up" properly as my biological sex ... YEAH. That's for sure.

~Simone.

I'm 33 and will be 34 in July with HRT and my weight loss I been told I look a lot younger. When I started to look my age is when I turn 28 that when my body hair and my facial hair started growing more rapidly I use to only shave like once a week. Which I think shaving is horrible for the skin and made me look my age. I can't wait for laser.

Anna

Yep, this is definitely the case for me both before and after transition.  I think the age gap was even more significant before transition though.  For instance, when I was 26, I was in a musical and played a 16 year old.  It also caused some awkwardness with my ex-wife who was about 9 years older than me, and a lot of people thought I was her child!

Now after transition, I'm currently 30 and I have yet to have anybody guess my age right even though I tell them ahead of time they won't guess right.  I think I've had about 10-15 people try and guess so far (and a couple of them even did it professionally).  Just about everyone guesses I'm in my mid-20's, which works out well since my boyfriend is younger than me, and yet I look younger than him.

I'm not on estrogen yet, only anti-hormones.

Apparently I don't look old or young for my age. Cause i was at the doctor today, and a girl an I started to talk, I was wondering how old she thought i was (And somewhere I was hoping she guessed it wrong aka younger.) She said: I think you're 22
She was completely right, I became 22 this may  :D

Hi Veerle, Well you are still young and I have always believed that this is an asset to anyone planning on undergoing transition. It certainly is not the easiest thing for someone to go through, but when you do and you come out the other end you will still have most of your life left to live as  Veerle, and you will be quite amazed as to the effects HRT will have on your physical body.

Cindy

Well, I'll just say I look a lot younger than I am and always win the "Guess Your Age" prize at theme parks. Unfortunately, as a female, I am also much less emotionally mature than I have been as a male. I wrote an article explaining my perspective on this phenomenon.

You can see the article I wrote for GenderEvolve by going to this link:
http://genderevolve.com/features.html

Looking under "Trans Life"

At the article "Lifespan Development and Aging in Transgendered Persons"

Quote from: feliciahawthorn on May 24, 2008, 12:27:40 AM
Well, I'll just say I look a lot younger than I am and always win the "Guess Your Age" prize at theme parks. Unfortunately, as a female, I am also much less emotionally mature than I have been as a male. I wrote an article explaining my perspective on this phenomenon.

You can see the article I wrote for GenderEvolve by going to this link:
http://genderevolve.com/features.html

Looking under "Trans Life"

At the article "Lifespan Development and Aging in Transgendered Persons"

Than you, I enjoyed your article.  I see it more from a social psychology perspective.  A large part of the reasons for my presentation are based in impression management.  By causing people to believe things about me by the use of costumes and props I can exercise a level of control over there reactive behaviors towards me.  I believe passing is the result of visual cues, the combined weight of which define gender in the minds of others.  Being read when reality fails to meet the viewers expectations (age, dress, mae-up, etc.) creating a state of psychic disequilibrium. (cognitive dissonance).

While I would love to have been a beautiful young woman but my transition came long after I could successfully play the ingenue.  A stylish and somewhat hip middle-aged woman is my reality and that's the role I assume.  Because of my experience I'm acutely aware of the linear and finite nature of my lifetime.  I can't relive my youth.

QuoteWell, I'll just say I look a lot younger than I am and always win the "Guess Your Age" prize at theme parks. Unfortunately, as a female, I am also much less emotionally mature than I have been as a male. I wrote an article explaining my perspective on this phenomenon.

You can see the article I wrote for GenderEvolve by going to this link:
http://genderevolve.com/features.html

Looking under "Trans Life"

At the article "Lifespan Development and Aging in Transgendered Persons"

That is a great article and sums up what I feel... a rush to cram about 40 years in the next 20. I've not seen
that web site before... looks like a lot of good things to read. Thanks for sharing that Felicia.

I think Cindy Jackson is an inspiration for anyone older than 40... she is mid fifties and looks
maybe 30-35. And she started out average looking and now after a lot of work is beautiful
in my opinion.

http://www.cindyjackson.com/photo_album.php (http://www.cindyjackson.com/photo_album.php)

Amanda

"Wow!!" She is a very pretty woman for being in her fifties, I would never have guessed it. She's been all over the place and been with all kinds of celebrities, I believe that achieved much in her life and should be an inspiration to us.

Well I ain't done traveling yet. Y'awll have a wonderful day, may God bless.

Cindy

Quote from: Claire de Lune on May 24, 2008, 01:39:11 AM

Quote from: feliciahawthorn on May 24, 2008, 12:27:40 AM
Well, I'll just say I look a lot younger than I am and always win the "Guess Your Age" prize at theme parks. Unfortunately, as a female, I am also much less emotionally mature than I have been as a male. I wrote an article explaining my perspective on this phenomenon.

You can see the article I wrote for GenderEvolve by going to this link:
http://genderevolve.com/features.html

Looking under "Trans Life"

At the article "Lifespan Development and Aging in Transgendered Persons"

Than you, I enjoyed your article.  I see it more from a social psychology perspective.  A large part of the reasons for my presentation are based in impression management.  By causing people to believe things about me by the use of costumes and props I can exercise a level of control over there reactive behaviors towards me.  I believe passing is the result of visual cues, the combined weight of which define gender in the minds of others.  Being read when reality fails to meet the viewers expectations (age, dress, mae-up, etc.) creating a state of psychic disequilibrium. (cognitive dissonance).

While I would love to have been a beautiful young woman but my transition came long after I could successfully play the ingenue.  A stylish and somewhat hip middle-aged woman is my reality and that's the role I assume.  Because of my experience I'm acutely aware of the linear and finite nature of my lifetime.  I can't relive my youth.

Thanks Claire, you make a number of excellent points. I agree that we can't relive our youth but also have to make the best of what we have left. Take care.

Posted on: May 26, 2008, 12:42:39 AM

---

Quote from: AlwaysAmanda on May 24, 2008, 04:25:21 PM

QuoteWell, I'll just say I look a lot younger than I am and always win the "Guess Your Age" prize at theme parks. Unfortunately, as a female, I am also much less emotionally mature than I have been as a male. I wrote an article explaining my perspective on this phenomenon.

You can see the article I wrote for GenderEvolve by going to this link:
http://genderevolve.com/features.html

Looking under "Trans Life"

At the article "Lifespan Development and Aging in Transgendered Persons"

That is a great article and sums up what I feel... a rush to cram about 40 years in the next 20. I've not seen
that web site before... looks like a lot of good things to read. Thanks for sharing that Felicia.

I think Cindy Jackson is an inspiration for anyone older than 40... she is mid fifties and looks
maybe 30-35. And she started out average looking and now after a lot of work is beautiful
in my opinion.

http://www.cindyjackson.com/photo_album.php (http://www.cindyjackson.com/photo_album.php)

Amanda

Thank you Amanda. Actually the GenderEvolve site has gone dormant over the last six months or so. It would be nice to get some new blood into the organization if you or any of the others here would be interested in joining.

I think Cindy Jackson is pretty incredible too and an indication that life does not end at 50. Take care.

Quote from: cindybc on May 24, 2008, 05:02:31 PM
"Wow!!" She is a very pretty woman for being in her fifties, I would never have guessed it. She's been all over the place and been with all kinds of celebrities, I believe that achieved much in her life and should be an inspiration to us.

Well I ain't done traveling yet. Y'awll have a wonderful day, may God bless.

Cindy

Yeah, I shared that link with the wife. She could not believe that she could look so hot at her age LOL... but the fact that she has it going on is pretty cool....

Cindy Jackson shows me that none of us needs to look our age and it's not too late in your
forties and fifties to be the cute, vibrant, attractive women you should have been in your twenties and
thirties.  If you take care of your skin and body and don't give up on yourself you can look like you
feel young probably into your sixties or further. I know several women in their 50's that
are as hot and young looking as they were when they were 25. They exercise, take care of
their skin, eat right, wear young trendy hair styles and you could never guess they were 50 plus.

I really think SO many men and women stop caring about life around 40 as the first signs
of aging start to show and with just a little effort it can be delayed or prevented.

Amanda

Quote from: cindybc on May 24, 2008, 05:02:31 PM
"Wow!!" She is a very pretty woman for being in her fifties, I would never have guessed it. She's been all over the place and been with all kinds of celebrities, I believe that achieved much in her life and should be an inspiration to us.

Awl, not to be a party-pooper and all, but I've always thought she was one of those people forever chasing something she should have found WITHIN, rather than through an accumulation of "trophies" and surgeries. I see her more as a "don't let this happen to you!" *warning* than an inspiration for me, lol.

Not that I don't want to be pretty and all, but... well, if you took away all her trophy people and trophy encounters and trophy looks... what's she got left?

Or maybe I'm just jealous ;)

~Kate~

Quote
Awl, not to be a party-pooper and all, but I've always thought she was one of those people forever chasing something she should have found WITHIN, rather than through an accumulation of "trophies" and surgeries. I see her more as a "don't let this happen to you!" *warning* than an inspiration for me, lol.

Not that I don't want to be pretty and all, but... well, if you took away all her trophy people and trophy encounters and trophy looks... what's she got left?

Or maybe I'm just jealous  ;)

~Kate~

Kate you are so grounded... so real... so comfortable with who you are... lol... I'm SO jealous of you.

Me? I just want to be pretty and shallow... I'll take trophy looks any day over what's inside. LOL. Because
what's inside is OK, it's the outside that's the problem.

LOL... but I get your point... but it seems we are all chasing that perfect exterior... it's just some of us are
willing to go to extreme measures to achieve it. And some of us need those extreme measures... opposed to you
Kate, you are so lucky in that regard. :)

Amanda

Hi Kate hon, as for her *Cindy whatever her last name was,* looking 20 years younger, who wouldn't envy her, but to have a successful career which I did at one time nothing as grand as this lady but I felt pretty good about myself and my accomplishments working as a social worker. I am once again working on rebuilding myself to that position. I was also thinking about the traveling this kid *Cindy* has done, I traveled a lot when I was younger and I enjoyed it, and certainly don't regret any of that part of my life.

But surgery? I am not interested. I believe one surgery in my life time is quite enough for me. I never got FFS, I'm just happy with what results I got from HRT. I am not the prettiest looking mature female, but hey, I am 62 years old, "What the Hell!!!" I ain't never going to be a beauty queen. But hen I ain't dead yet either, nor am I about to give up the ghost any time soon. I love and enjoy life to it's fullest. I don't realy know what tomorrow will bring, but I pray it's all good. Just as you are in my prayers everyday Kate sweets.

I have some realy nice photo's of the Vancouver sky line and Stanley Park along with a couple of photo's of me and Wing Walker. You can find them in the Entertainment section,  *A photo sharing thread* Thanks for help from mods.

Cindy

I think a lot of us do look young for our age. I know I do at 39 I still get carded  every time I buy wine and have had folks ask me what  I am majoring in in college. LOL  When asked how I stay so young looking I just smile and tell them I get lots of beauty sleep. I don't know if thats why but I do love my sleep.

I don't know if I look younger but I sure feel a heeluva lot younger.  And that is what counts isn't it?  I start hormones June 10th.
Amber

It is because we are all just plain Gorgeous.

:icon_love:,
Janet

Quote from: AlwaysAmanda on May 27, 2008, 03:20:50 PM
Kate you are so grounded... so real... so comfortable with who you are... lol... I'm SO jealous of you.

Me? I just want to be pretty and shallow... I'll take trophy looks any day over what's inside. LOL. Because
what's inside is OK, it's the outside that's the problem.

LOL... but I get your point... but it seems we are all chasing that perfect exterior... it's just some of us are
willing to go to extreme measures to achieve it. And some of us need those extreme measures... opposed to you
Kate, you are so lucky in that regard. :)

Hey Amanda, I apologize for sounding condescending or like was implying anyone was "shallow" for wanting FFS.

I really DO get the desire for FFS and being pretty. I don't mean to imply that people pursuing such things are vain or shallow... not at all. What woman doesn't want to be pretty? Heck, I cry over it to myself everyday. I'm SO grateful that I apparently pass, and yet... we're never happy, ya know? Now I need to be PRETTY too ;)

But the thing is, I went crazy KNOWING I'd have to have FFS too in the beginning. Everyone thinks, "THEY got so lucky! HRT will never work well enough for me!" I have pages and pages of research, and even did a phone consult with Dr. Zuchowski. And while I'm not saying you shouldn't have it - by all means if it makes you feel great about yourself, go for it - but you may find that the "need" for it diminishes over time as HRT continues to change you. I "knew" I needed it too, but after those first few months of doubt, I just sorta stopped thinking about it. You start hearing "miss's" eventually, and FFS can suddenly get bumped way down your priority list, lol.

Still, I know, I know... people who knew me couldn't understand why I wanted to hair transplant so bad. "What hair loss?" they'd ask me, lol. But *I* knew it was there, I saw it everyday and it made me SO sad. So I fixed it.

Same with my teeth: I always had this nasty gap between the front ones. When I told people what I'd done (veneers), everyone asked, "what gap?" lol... but to ME, it was the most obvious thing in the world.

And yes, having done those things I am SO much happier and content ;)

~Kate~

QuoteHey Amanda, I apologize for sounding condescending or like was implying anyone was "shallow" for wanting FFS.

There is NO need to apologize... I took no offense... I did not even think it was condescending...  you're my friend
and I'll just IM ya and tell you how I feel if you piss me off... LOL. I think I may be getting that attitude that all of you
told me about months ago.

I'm happy to be shallow and vain if that is what this is. I do want to be thought of as pretty. I think every teenage girl
does. And I know there is something more inside... lol... I'm not just going to be a pretty timbo :)

I'm trying really hard to listen to all the advise that says "wait" for FFS... I know that's the right think to do. But as you say
we are our own worst critics... I see my nose and I can't stand it, just like the gap in your teeth.

Amanda

yes, I battled long and hard not to have FFS because I thought I was giving in to the stereotypical view of women's beauty, and in the end, I had to admit, that if it is, then I give in.
I also began to feel the same dysphoric feelings that I felt 10 years ago before I began to live as a woman.  The picture I have of myself on the inside, just does not match what I see in the mirror.
The journey through genderland is sometimes filled with surprises.

Posted on: May 29, 2008, 03:27:28 PM

---

Oh, about the hormones, yes, they have allowed to to look younger and more feminine.  After 10 years on estrogen many folks comment on the quality (luster and smoothness) of my skin.  I have found that vitamin E oil works wonders too.

Quote from: AlwaysAmanda on May 29, 2008, 12:22:48 PM


I'm happy to be shallow and vain if that is what this is. I do want to be thought of as pretty. I think every teenage girl
does. And I know there is something more inside... lol... I'm not just going to be a pretty timbo :)  >:D

I'm trying really hard to listen to all the advise that says "wait" for FFS... I know that's the right think to do. But as you say
we are our own worst critics... I see my nose and I can't stand it, just like the gap in your teeth.

Amanda

Your nose is like the gap in her teeth?!!!

OK, I need to ponder that one for a bit and get back to you!!  :laugh: :laugh:

Sweetie, you are "shallow and vain" and that is one of the very loveable things about you!!!  >:D >:D

Just kidding.

To want to look good is pretty natural to a lot of women, although I'm not sure every teenage girl wants to be pretty. I've known a few who could probably not give a 'damn' less.

I think we all just wanna be accepted for who we are. Some find that in looks and others in intelligence, personality, athletic ability and a host of other things. Human respect seem a very high priority I've discovered among women, men, girls, boys and those who don't feel they have been any of those human categories.

And, most of us are, indeed, our own worst critics when it comes to looks. TS women and men probably are more acutely aware of that than are many others. You are no different in that respect.

HRT will not change the way you feel about your nose. That's a given, it changes no bone or cartilege.

But, other things may well change somewhat. Giving yourself and your face and body a bit of time may not be what you want to hear, but it's a pretty good idea. I have known a few women who had breast implants done and then started to 'grow' again after SRS and had some difficulties with the 'growth.'

But, your comfort-level is the important thing; the important thing for us all. We can all be full of advice, but if it doesn't help you, it may not be the best advice for us to give.

Hugs,

Nichole

QuoteThe picture I have of myself on the inside, just does not match what I see in the mirror.

I'd like to have a dollar for every time I've thought that or said it... I'd be rich... rich I say :)

QuoteI see my nose and I can't stand it, just like the gap in your teeth.

LOL... that was not my best writing I guess.

QuoteI think we all just wanna be accepted for who we are. Some find that in looks and others in intelligence, personality, athletic ability and a host of other things. Human respect seem a very high priority I've discovered among women, men, girls, boys and those who don't feel they have been any of those human categories.

Acceptance? Umm... lets see...

intelligence... check... seem to be able to function
personality... check... not too boring or abrasive
athletic... check...  I get by
pretty.... FAIL... all I've ever seen is that ugly guy in the mirror

So for me that's the missing piece to feel accepted by society. It might not be politically
correct, it might upset the feminists, but it makes ME feel good... and that is what this
is all about. I'm not doing this to make a statement... it's not I'm TS accept me as I am. I'm doing this for ME.

QuoteHRT will not change the way you feel about your nose. That's a given, it changes no bone or cartilege.

But, other things may well change somewhat. Giving yourself and your face and body a bit of time may not be what you want to hear, but it's a pretty good idea. I have known a few women who had breast implants done and then started to 'grow' again after SRS and had some difficulties with the 'growth.'

But, your comfort-level is the important thing; the important thing for us all. We can all be full of advice, but if it doesn't help you, it may not be the best advice for us to give.

Right... all the HRT in the world will not give me a pretty nose. The only thing that holds me back is that changing a
persons nose is an art and changing it before HRT has made it's changes seems like I'd be working in the wrong order... the
surgeon needs to see the canvas to match the nose to it.

QuoteBut, your comfort-level is the important thing; the important thing for us all. We can all be full of advice, but if it doesn't help you, it may not be the best advice for us to give.

Maybe it's not.. but I like to hear it, becuase then I have options to think about. I've gone back and forth several times and right
now I'm waiting, I'm not sure how long, but I am waiting. Thanks Nichole :)

Amanda

Ok, check on intelligence as evidenced by what's below.

QuoteRight... all the HRT in the world will not give me a pretty nose. The only thing that holds me back is that changing a
persons nose is an art and changing it before HRT has made it's changes seems like I'd be working in the wrong order... the
surgeon needs to see the canvas to match the nose to it.

Just keep working it out, sweetie.

Nichole

Quote from: Virginia87106 on May 29, 2008, 03:36:20 PM
yes, I battled long and hard not to have FFS because I thought I was giving in to the stereotypical view of women's beauty, and in the end, I had to admit, that if it is, then I give in.
I also began to feel the same dysphoric feelings that I felt 10 years ago before I began to live as a woman.  The picture I have of myself on the inside, just does not match what I see in the mirror.
The journey through genderland is sometimes filled with surprises.

Posted on: May 29, 2008, 03:27:28 PM

---

Oh, about the hormones, yes, they have allowed to to look younger and more feminine.  After 10 years on estrogen many folks comment on the quality (luster and smoothness) of my skin.  I have found that vitamin E oil works wonders too.

Just saw this thread now, I do agree with you Virginia, it is a bonus, after years and years on estrogen I think we do look young for our age, Im 51 but sometimes Im mistaken for a woman in early or mid 40s, Im not complaining, I do get nice comments on the smoothness and quality of my skin, I have a small confession, I did have botox treatment around my eyes about 4years ago, but didn't repeat it, my avatar photo was taken only a year ago, I'v a new hair style since then, I let my hair grow a little as it looks a bit short in that pic.
Its only natural, I think every woman wants to look young, feel young and be pretty. I'd like to think I did my best.
p

Hi Virginia, welcome to Susan's. In your avatar pic I see a very beautiful elegant and confident looking lady. Well I believe, speaking for myself i would have to say that as women we become much more self conscious about our appearance which I think is quite normal. One must remember the greater percentage of members here are young ladies some are still kids and I have found them to be very intelligent and wonderful to talk to, not to mention very pretty to.

Anyway do I consider myself to be pretty? Or will I ever reach such a goal? I am 62 years old and I do have photos of me posted in the  "A photo sharing thread" I am just happy and grateful that I have changed enough through my 8 years full time of HRT that I don't remember when I was last time I addressed with the wrong gender. I guess I'm kind of the den mother here, "hee, hee, hee."

Cindy



Posted on: June 03, 2008, 06:03:30 PM

---

Hi Pretty Pauline, nice pic, and well since you have managed to make a pretty big impression with your trnasitional story. I geuess I finally get the privilage to see this magnificant ladies picture. ;D

Do please visit the "photo sharing thread"

Cindy 

Quote from: cindybc on June 03, 2008, 06:15:04 PM
Hi Virginia, welcome to Susan's. In your avatar pic I see a very beautiful elegant and confident looking lady. Well I believe, speaking for myself i would have to say that as women we become much more self conscious about our appearance which I think is quite normal. One must remember the greater percentage of members here are young ladies some are still kids and I have found them to be very intelligent and wonderful to talk to, not to mention very pretty to.

Anyway do I consider myself to be pretty? Or will I ever reach such a goal? I am 62 years old and I do have photos of me posted in the  "A photo sharing thread" I am just happy and grateful that I have changed enough through my 8 years full time of HRT that I don't remember when I was last time I addressed with the wrong gender. I guess I'm kind of the den mother here, "hee, hee, hee."

Cindy



Posted on: June 03, 2008, 06:03:30 PM

---

Hi Pretty Pauline, nice pic, and well since you have managed to make a pretty big impression with your trnasitional story. I geuess I finally get the privilage to see this magnificant ladies picture. ;D

Do please visit the "photo sharing thread"

Cindy 

Dear Cindy
I would never take you for 62, I thought maybe the ''6'' should have been a ''5'' you are a very super sweet person, there are a lot of young girls here very intelligent and really tell it straight, ''the den mother'' that goes back to your free sprit days, you always take an interest in everybody in a very good kind and helpfully way, its amazing with people you never get to meet but feel you get to know them.
Thank you for your kind complements, ''as women we become much more self conscious about our appearance'' your certainly right there, my avatar pic was taken at a nephew's wedding a year ago, 2 of my 3brothers got drunk, they are the best in the world, but they made no effort, men can be untidy and get away with it, I was feeling sentimental that day, just thinking of my Mom, during my transition all them years ago, my Mom insisted I wear pink on special occasions, use to say ''I was pretty in pink'' LOL! so thats why I wore pink that day, just for old time sake.
Thank you for taking an interest in my story, I'II certainly take a look ''photo sharing thread'' and learn how to post more photos.
P

I'm constantly taken for fifty or younger, and I'm almost 67.  Could be good genes, could be HRT, could be some combination of the two.

Thank you so much for the compliments Pretty Pauline. Yes we do like to look nice and it is very much an instinctive desire for us women. I certainly have acquired many new instinctive desires.

But my favorite emotion is caring and loving of others. I have always been the rescuer most of my life.

I do pray I will see you around this board again soon. You mom was right, you do look good in pink. I am rather disappointed that we are not getting any warm weather here yet, I love wearing sun dresses. You take care of yourself hon, OK?

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hi Kay Henderson hon, first I wish to welcome you to Susan's. I beleive you are quite right you know. The estrogen does a very good job on us elderly folks too. I just pray that I can still crank out at least another decade of making people stare at me. Most people here don't like that, but I love it, I like to be able to attract attention. Not because they know what I am or nothing like that. I believe that in some way they feel my energy. I had this happen to me in that small town I lived in before in Ontario. Now they are starting to do the same here in Vancouver town BC.  ;D  Well they at least get back a nice smile from me as well, sometimes stopping to chat with them. I dislike just walking by someone smiling at me I feel that the least thing I should do is say "Hi."

Cindy

Maybe we look young because we have removed a major stress from our lives.  A sense of peace can do wonders for removing wrinkles!

Chaunte

i'm 413 years old but look 25.  that should tell you a lot.

Quote from: Virginia87106 on May 29, 2008, 03:36:20 PM
Oh, about the hormones, yes, they have allowed to to look younger and more feminine.  After 10 years on estrogen many folks comment on the quality (luster and smoothness) of my skin.  I have found that vitamin E oil works wonders too.

I think a large part of it is improved skin care.  I have a daily routine that involves gentle scrubs, toner, moisturizers and sunscreen.  I do it in the morning and in before bed.  Avoiding direct sunlight on the skin is another thing that helps.  If I want a tan, I'll get a bronzer!

Quote from: Natasha on June 14, 2008, 01:28:16 AM
i'm 413 years old but look 25.  that should tell you a lot.

Heavens, girl, you're still a young'un!  I tell my students that I am 3.7 billion years old.  I climbed out of the primordial slime - labcoat intact! - just after the last Great Bombardment.

Mine was just a face and necklift.

Well a girls gotta try all she can to look young.

Buffy

One part of me doesn't want to buy into the agist society we live in, so I've waited a long time to put my two cents in.  But yesterday my came up once again with another susans member.  And it was brought up the day before at SexySpring.

Starting about age 15 or 16, people would ask me if I was 25.  People continued to assume I was 25 until I was 35 years old.  (Talk about being "ageless!")  By the time I reached 45 people would peg me at 35.  Today the assumption is that I'm in my 40s.

Taken in 2007:

This is a great thread.  I have always thought that how young I looked was actually intimidating to people, because of how "old" I acted.  Other than my hair loss and being 36, I know I still look like I'm in my early-to-mid twenties.  I guess you could say it has something to do with being TG'd.   ;)

Aeron

At 16 I was thought of as 12, at 18 thought of as 12, now at 22 I still get carded going into places requiring you to be 18+.

Quote from: trista on June 20, 2008, 08:01:00 AM
At 16 I was thought of as 12, at 18 thought of as 12, now at 22 I still get carded going into places requiring you to be 18+.

Hee!  The last time I was carded was at a liquor store.  I was 48.  I thanked the clerk so enthusiastically!

I still get carded once in a while at 40 (maybe its just flattery, who knows :-),
so I think I win the looking younger than my age prize HAHA.

But, its not just estrogen, its in the genes too.
My father's been in the sun all his life and he's 79 and has barely
a wrinkle.

Also, my very high cheekbones (just under the eyes) and very little
fat on the cheekbone (fat cushion)
helps drape the skin better. The fat cushion
has a tendency to fall with time dragging your face down (gravity and all)
and mine's so small it sticks.

I've got 1/16 american indian blood (MicMac from New Brunswick in Canada)
which explains the cheekbones  (no other explanation works).

The midface is the one that tends to age you first, so in my
case I'm set since I don't even have a line from my nose to my mouth
at 40 :-). My father's 79 only has lines of someone 40.

I've always been told I look younger
And I'm glad,
because it means I'll still be looking young into my later years :]
xoxo
Ali

Hi Keira hon, I am Iroquois by about 4th generation removed and I lived in Shawnaga reservation four five years with my last partner. It was quite common at one time for the French, especially during the fur trapping era, to take a native lady for their wives. I knew many native folks who were descended to French Canadians, some still bearing the french last name. Interesting history, supposedly why this was a common as it turned out is it got pretty lonely for the french trappers out there alone in the wilderness and since they traded allot with the natives it was quite common for them to take up a native lady for a wife. There is much history on this and not at all all bad. I got the cheek bones but I kind of missed on the size, I measure 5' 3" Some of the native girls at the women's shelter call me peanut, that is meant as a compliment. Nic names are common among native folks.

Cindy   

It's amazing, no?  All the transsexuals look younger than they are.  I guess anyone in puberty is bound to be on the young side.  Just to look at me, you wouldn't believe I'm really 75!
Also, I'm raelly slysdexic.


Bev