Hi, all.

After unknown years of not realizing I was possibly exploring my gender identity, five from learning about HRT and what it means to be transgender, I am now finally transitioning.  For many years, I'd felt that parts of me could stand to have a more feminine look and HRT seemed to be the best way to do it once I found out about it on a random Google search one day.  At first, those five years ago, I had considerable trepidation about actually doing it.  Now that I'm actively doing it, my only regret is not having started sooner.  Not to mention, I turned 50 this year, and I felt that was as much impetus as ever to start.  I also have a great bunch of friends, of those I've come out to, all of them have been super supportive.  At least a couple of cis girl allies are willing to go so far as to materially help me when I start to really blossom, e.g. look for bras.

However, I'm still closeted as it's still very early on in my transition.  That said, I'm still presenting as my AMAB self for the immediately-foreseeable future.  I'd like a few more changes to take place before I actively consider coming out and going through the wringer of changing things at a legal level.  That and I'm still looking at figuring out how to deal with people who aren't so supportive (and I'm nearly 100% sure I have a few who are like this, sadly).

All that said, I can say I feel more at home in my skin, space and spirit than I've ever felt.  I know there's a lot to come and possibly stuff that can get me down, even if what gets me down doesn't actually exist.  I hope I can benefit from everyone here.  I also have a local gender health center here in the greater Sacramento area, which has been an indispensable asset.  In fact, it helped me get the gears going for getting insurance and a doctor.  Once those were in place, it was easy to get started.

Anyway, pleased to meet you all and I hope to hear from you folks soon!

--Holly.

Hi Holly 🙋‍♀️ Welcome to Susan's Place!  I'm Jessica a California girl in the Bay Area.
Having the support from friends is so helpful, I'm happy they are there for you.
It takes time on hrt to see the changes that many here are hoping for.  Everyone is unique, but if you want to get an idea of what you may expect by looking at your mother or sister.

I see you're new here, so I'll post some links that may help you get better acquainted with the site. Pay attention to the site rules they can be of great help and don't forget the link highlighted red.  It has answers to questions that are commonly asked.  Then join in on a topic you find interesting and learn and share.

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By	Standard Terms & Definitions	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar)	Cautionary Note
Reputation rules	News posting & quoting guidelines	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy	Membership Agreement

@ConfusedNyan
Dear Holly
    I am very happy to notice that you decided to join the Susan's Place site.

    I see that our lovely member and California Girl   @Jessica   has already welcomed you to Susan's Place.     

    Thank you for telling us a little about yourself... and as you get more involved in exchanging comments on various posts other members will be along to offer their thoughts and comments in response to any of your specific questions and concerns..

    This is the right place for you to be to find out what others may have to say that may have been in your circumstances and with your questions and concerns.
    There are a lot of members here that will be able to identify with your situation as you continue to feel free to share it.

    I also want to warmly WELCOME you to Susan's Place. 
You will find this a safe and friendly place to share with others and to read about others similar trials, tribulations, and successes.

    As you are certainly aware you can share with others and involve yourself with some give and take with other like-minded members.  When frustrated or if you have successes you can share it here if you wish and receive support from others and offer support to others. ....
     ***It's a very good chance that you might find that you will make some new friends here. 

    Please come in and continue to be involved at your own pace.
   
    There is information and important LINKS that  Jessica  included in her welcome message.  You will find information about the site that will help you navigate around and best utilize the features here.   
    Please look closely at the LINKS in RED, answers are there to many questions that new members ask.

Again, Welcome to Susan's Place.
Danielle

Hi, Holly, nice to meet you!

Congratulations on getting your transition under way.  I am glad you have support, both professional and personal.  That makes it so much easier.  You will find that there are quite a few of us over-50 folks on this journey with you.

I hope you find that the worst of your fears are unfounded.  Most people are either supportive or don't mind.  The others are in the minority.  It sounds like you have a good, posisitve attitude.

Hi Holly, love the name. That was a very nice introduction. My name is Monica (Moni for short) and I will add my 2 cents in welcoming you. Figuring out the order of doing things can get kind of complicated. I am happy for the fact that you see your path and you are working to get there. You are still a youngster. I transitioned at 57. Hope to see you around.

Hi Holly 

Welcome to Susan's Place    Glad to have you here, join on in the fun

Hugs

V M

Hi Holly,

*puts hand-up as someone over fifty who wishes they started earlier*

There is so much in the media about young people transitioning and issues in schools, it is easy to think that's where all the actions is. But there are plenty of late bloomers here.

Welcome.

~Dee.

Hi Holly, Yeah another late transitioner here too.  I am 58 and I came out at 55 and transitioned at 56.  There are two ways to look at this.

1.  If we were born 20 years ago we probably would be transitioning young and living most of our lives as our true selves.

OR

2. Think of all the people that lived 30, 50 or 100 years ago and more that were transsexuals and lived their entire lives and died without living as who they really were.

At least we are living our authentic lives while we are still here.

I am glad you found the courage and that you are here.