I have lived for six years as a full time man. The past three years no one questioned me or confused my gender or anything. I am in construction, doing hard intense work, and it's awesome. I am a volunteer firefighter. I get fish a lot. I also have great friends.
It took a lot of pain and fear and hard work and dollars to get where I am. Now it's a matter of getting back on hormones and getting myself back on track emotionally.
But yeah, for three years I've made it in Wyoming, no one questioning me, everyone accepting me completely as a normal man. I don't even think about it much, what I am outwordly.
Congrats! I've been at it for 15 years and am just now going for surgery. You're right, it's not easy, but the reward of acceptance makes up for all the crap we have to endure to reach our particular place in life. Best wishes on the rest of your life. :)
From a sister firefighter/EMT congrats. I know how hard it is in our line of work. I am happy for you. one more obstacle overcome.