I live in Midwest (Indiana USA) suburbia.  My neighborhood consists of nicely maintained houses sitting on 1/3 acre lots.  My wife and I have lived here for 15 years and we're still the new neighbors who live in the Swan's house.  I see these people when cutting the lawn, walking the dog, Halloween, and the occasional block party.

How do you come out to these folks?  Suggestions?

I never bothered to come out to people I didn't regularly deal with. Living in an apartment complex, the turnover was high enough that I think other than the management, I only told one person. One or two others may have noticed but as we only knew each other by sight I didn't worry about it. Had a conversation been started on the subject, I would have discussed it.

What does your wife think?

Like Dena, I didn't bother coming out to people who weren't really significant in my life. All of the neighbors figured it out...two of them are friendly and supportive, and actually act as if nothing changed. Two are bigots and discussed with my ex, in front of my children, how horrible I am for transitioning with children. Two others couldn't care less. I've lived on this cul-de-sac for almost 25 years.

I was having drinks with some neighbours, the subject of Drag came up in random conversation, and as nobody seemed upset by the topic, I took the opportunity to raise my own situation. They were all cool, so no more sneaking out!

Quote from: Mia on November 06, 2016, 12:27:52 PM
Two are bigots and discussed with my ex, in front of my children, how horrible I am for transitioning with children. Two others couldn't care less. I've lived on this cul-de-sac for almost 25 years.

Actually, telling my children was my greatest fear. But, as usual it was unwarranted as my kids, being brought up by Mom and me were taught people are different, each one unique like fingerprints. The more you invite acceptance, the better your life becomes. When I explained the pain I've carried all my life, they immediately thought to comfort me. As for neighbors, they have their own lives to live, they chose their own direction. You have the right and obligation to live your life by your terms.

Just tell one, they fill the rest in before you get home if they are anything like my neighbours.  OK so maybe they were not that bad and it took a bit longer, but end of the day i only had to come out to one couple in my neighbourhood, the rest all started turning up to offer their support the next time i was out working in the front yard.

Mow the lawn in your bikini and let them make their own discoveries.
What I mean is, just act normal and don't try to hide who you are. Let the neighbors make a move, if they don't, then they already know.

I also didn't bother telling them either. Those who knew my past knew enough and the greater share knew nothing and that is how it remains to this day. The house I own is probably not much bigger than the property size you mention. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Dena on November 06, 2016, 11:22:49 AM
I never bothered to come out to people I didn't regularly deal with. Living in an apartment complex, the turnover was high enough that I think other than the management, I only told one person. One or two others may have noticed but as we only knew each other by sight I didn't worry about it. Had a conversation been started on the subject, I would have discussed it.