Hello, everyone. I hope the following suffices for an introduction:
I am a 24 year old graduate student. About a year and a half ago, I realized that a large portion of my thoughts had been occupied with daydreaming that I was female, and shortly after that I started crossdressing. Upon reflection, I realize that I had been having such thoughts with increasing frequency for a few years now, starting noticeably in college (I graduated in 2010). Shortly before I started crossdressing, I began researching ->-bleeped-<-, transsexualism, and gender identity online, and began trying to figure out my (rather confusing) feelings about my own gender. I came out to my fiance after I began crossdressing, explaining to her how, throughout the week, I often (but not always, which is the confusing part) feel a strong desire to be of the opposite gender. She was, I am happy to say, very supportive, and our plans for the future remain on track (so far-- some of them rely on my passing some pesky doctorate qualifying exams). She is the only person I have come out to; I am pretty shy, and I do not at all relish the idea of telling other family or friends about how I feel, even though I may well have to tell them eventually. In fact, it took me a couple of months just to work up the courage to post on this forum. My next step, I suppose, should be to work up the courage to talk to a gender psychiatrist.
In the meantime, I hope that posting on these forums from time to time will help take the edge off of dealing with this thing. It has certainly been helpful to read other people's posts and see that I am not alone in having these feelings.
Hi taraignota,
A big Aussie welcome to Susan's. You have certainly come to the right place. We are all family here, travelling in the same direction, all singing from the same songsheet (albeit the base baratone over in the FTM section :D )
You are still young, with plenty of time to work through your thoughts and feelings. And you thought a Doctorate was hell? Take as much time as you need, it's not a race. There is a lot of info and resources here to keep you busy for a while. There is also a considerable wealth of experience you have the privilege to draw from.
Hope to hear more from you in time to come. In the meantime, be safe, well and happy.
Lotsa huggs
Catherine
Hi Taraignota, it's nice to meet you! I think you should spend lots of time here and post frequently. This place is good for you! See you round, hugs, Devlyn
Hi taraignota, I am also relatively new to the forums...good luck on your journey and welcome! :D
Hi Taraignota,you came to the right place.Hugs,Rachael.
Thank you for sharing your story with us even though you were afraid. We all know how hard that first post is and applaud your courage.
About your fiancé, she can be you BIGGEST ally, but you need to be sure that she is in the loop about everything. Communication is going to be key right now. You need to be totally open and honest to her about your feelings so she has time to adapt and isn't blindsided. You can make your love last, but you will have to work for it.
Welcome to Susan's, Taraignota. I went through similar events over six years ago. Today, I'm a happy transgender woman. In time you wll sort out many things. This site will help you.
:)
Hi Taraignoya :) Welcome to Susan's
I wanted to bring this introduction back to the top of the page, because taraignota's significant other (AnOwlForTara) has joined our ranks with her own introduction.
I am happy for the both of you.
Hi Taraignoya, :icon_wave:
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Hi there and welcome from a fellow newbie here! ;D