Obviously, I should have come to the Introduction thread to say hello before I started dropping in on the conversation of others. Sorry, I'll try harder next time.
The truth is, I haven't interacted with the Trans community very much for the last 10 years. It's not because I don't support everyone and the issues that are important to the community, I do. It's just that I... "moved on", for the lack of a better term. I wasn't trying to distance myself from anything or anyone, but despite spending roughly 5 years transitioning, life around me didn't pause while I was struggling to get my newish life in order. All the family and financial responsibilities I had were still there and I was just as responsible for them during and after I transitioned. Since I like food and shelter, I had to take a serious crash course in getting my ->-bleeped-<- together and making a living. Faced with that reality, I redirected my attention back to work and thankfully things worked out alright (That last bit was my gloss over all the details moment).
Anyway, through some kind of Voodoo magic, I was finally able to complete my journey by having GCS about 4 weeks ago in Indianapolis. I posted about that adventure and how emotional and humbling it was to finally end a very long, long Journey. During my recovery, I started reading through the forums here at Susan's and reflecting on my own experience, which is not unique, I might add. It's quite amazing to read so many posts and recall that moment when you were struggling with the very same issue. The best part, however, is seeing how much support and openness there is on this site by both its members and the moderators. In the end, It's rekindled my spirit and quite unexpectedly, given me something I needed.
So...Hello everyone!