I have noticed that as I have moved deeper into my transition, my thought processes are shifting, and my identity as well. I used to think of myself as a trans. Now more and more I just think of myself as a woman. My new description of myself reflects this: "The Clubbing Cougar"  .

I certainly feel more and more comfortable presenting as and being accepted as a woman. Not sure I see myself as less trans though...

I wish many times a day that this would happen to me.

There are times where I feel natural - where my gender isn't an issue and I'm just happy being Suzi.

But I still "different" from other women.

yes, it happens... after a while... perhaps with some recurring lapse...

For me, the transformation started to happen when I found this one particular club in downtown Scottsdale. It is alternative lifestyle friendly, but it draws a sizable CIS / Straight crowd on the weekends when people go bar slumming in the neighborhood. I started running into large numbers of young CIS / straight women, who would treat me like just an older sister. The more you get treated like that, the more it takes hold inside.

Thank you April for what is an encouraging and "empowering" story to me.
I think the goal for every mtf here is to become, "just a woman."  Your story relates
hope for a successful conclusion to the often stressful transition state. Congratulations & hugs