The married male & female couple I have been dating for the past year (yes we are a threesome) went on vacation to Las Vegas for the week, and a family reunion there. I know many people love Vegas but it's not my favorite place, especially in record setting July heat. I quit drinking in 2003 and I don't gamble. The more open-minded part of their family wants to meet me, several have traveled from east coast or midwest so I decided to head there for just a day.
I'm on the airplane right now. I used to fly a huge amount (mostly international) but switched jobs within the company and haven't traveled much in a year (the change was unrelated to transition). I am not out FTM at work and my previous air travel was as a male. Or more recently, a different looking male with a feminine hair style - purple highlights.
I have found TSA Seattle very respectful and professional, huge improvement compared to earlier years. At security they checked my male ID and didn't bat an eye about MTF - sincere smile and wished me a great flight. Starbucks inside the terminal, they addressed me as ma'am and treated me just like any other customer. On board, same with the Delta crew - everything as I'd hope for.
I had a great seat but gave it up when a little girl sat down and I noticed her mother a couple rows back. I've done things like that in the past, but today felt very different - I felt a closer connection to the mom wiith her young child. Not as a parent but as a female.
Las Vegas in summer is hell on earth. Gambling? Meh. I eat and go to Cirque Soliel. There are a couple of conventions Balley's in May. Genderfest in Sept.
That's called slaying it, Kendra! Glad everything is going well, enjoy your trip!
Hugs, Devlyn
Hi Kendra,
It's always good to hear success stories. So far in my travels I can only remember hearing "ladies" when I was out with Jane, Devlyn and p (Patty) and chalked that up to being with those lovely ladies. I haven't had any problems with my public appearances at all though.
Someday I'll be 'ma'amed for myself. *sigh*
Hugs,
Laurie
Laurie you did inspire me. I will admit I had a brief hesitation getting dressed this morning - literally which closet to use, should I at least pack a male t-shirt and generic shoes just in case. And then I thought about you Laurie as you drive cross-country as your true self. My only carry-on is a small clutch-purse with minimal makeup, phone, keys and cards. No luggage.
I'm on the flight back now. Met their family, more warm and accommodating than I thought was possible for this type of gathering. Not a single awkward question or comment even though everyone there knew ahead of time I am transgender and in a very non-traditional relationship. Met their parents, siblings, an aunt, a younger cousin - several generations and age groups.
I've run around locally in Seattle this way but today is the first time I've consistently heard nothing but female pronouns all day in every situation.
After I was upgraded by Delta to first for the return flight I was expecting my first sir of the day, because the cabin crew has a printed list and mine is still Mister male. When the flight attendant looked at the list, greeted me and asked about drinks etc. - they simply asked without using a gender. No hesitation, no confusion. Very civilized.
The only difference I can think of is I must be carrying myself with more confidence, getting used to myself. Just one professional voice lesson so far (weekly now for awhile) but I already feel less self-conscious about my voice - might be from knowing I can do something about it, even if it's just a small improvement.
Quote from: Kendra on July 07, 2017, 09:46:21 PM
I'm on the flight back now. Met their family, more warm and accommodating than I thought was possible for this type of gathering. Not a single awkward question or comment even though everyone there knew ahead of time I am transgender and in a very non-traditional relationship. Met their parents, siblings, an aunt, a younger cousin - several generations and age groups.
I've run around locally in Seattle this way but today is the first time I've consistently heard nothing but female pronouns all day in every situation.
After I was upgraded by Delta to first for the return flight I was expecting my first sir of the day, because the cabin crew has a printed list and mine is still Mister male. When the flight attendant looked at the list, greeted me and asked about drinks etc. - they simply asked without using a gender. No hesitation, no confusion. Very civilized.
The only difference I can think of is I must be carrying myself with more confidence, getting used to myself. Just one professional voice lesson so far (weekly now for awhile) but I already feel less self-conscious about my voice - might be from knowing I can do something about it, even if it's just a small improvement.
Congrats on your successful visit. So glad you were accepted. That's the way it should be, isn't it. We are still the same people we have always been, just repackaged and enlightened and for once in our life, fairly happy.
Sitting in male mode at the Starbucks near my place this morning I caught myself jealously admiring women as they walked in, and then remembered how much better I felt yesterday.
The main reason I am not full time is I still need to come out to my parents (might sound ridiculous at my age, but I have reasons to hesitate there). And at work, which I expect to be relatively painless and smooth. And HRT hasn't changed anything yet (because I am about to start). I am running out of excuses. I know what I need to do.
Hi Kendra,
It sounds like you had a wonderful trip all the way around. I am flattered to have had a small part in it. The only way we become comfortable with are get past these difficult things we need to do is to jump right in and do them. I know all about doing Laurie in private and safe environments, but it wasn't until I began living Laure in public that I have been able to really begin to become Laurie. Until I did Laurie was but a costume I donned when I could.
Kendra we all have those very difficult comings out to do. They do not get easier and someday you will have to come out to your parents. When you do it will be a relief for you regardless of the outcome. At that point their acceptance is out of your hands and you are no responsible for it. You are responsible for how you let it affect you going forward. Do not try to predict their response, it frequently is not what we think it is going to be. I hope it goes well when you tackle the chore but if it does not remember you are only responsible for the telling and what you do after regardless of their reaction. You have your life to live and did your part.
I look forward to arranging a visit with you sometime after I get home. I will happen.
Hugs,
Laurie