Went to my first academic gathering as myself. It was hard. Some of the people there have known me for ten years (it's a regular conference) and had a little trouble adjusting. A couple simply avoided me - which was disappointing, to say the least. On the whole, though, it was a good experience. Most everyone rolled with it, accepting me as Thomas without the 'really?' or asking personal questions.

Getting there, on the other hand, was something else entirely. Traveling while trans is no fun. I want to get my IDs changed before I do that again.

I hear you on the changing IDs thing. It is going to be stressful for me as well. Bureaucracy is slow and I have to keep living in the meantime.

I'm glad the conference mostly went well. Things like this will help build your confidence.

I was over at work to drop off some paperwork (I'm on sick leave for the top surgery) and someone I've met a few times didn't recognize me! Ha!

ETA: proves he was looking down, not up, the jerk