I called the plumber to fix my tub faucets.  He came and fixed them but had to order a part to fix my toilet.  He is just one plumber at a company that employs several, but he is usually the one they send.  He came back today to finish up the toilet.

He asked if I was *oldname*.  I said that I used to be.  We had a nice talk.  I am the first transsexual he has knowingly met.

He said that when he was here the first time he thought I was a relative – sister or something – but when he mentioned that he thought he'd been in this house before I told him he had.  *busted*  He said that later he began wondering how I would know he had been here before if I was just a visiting relative, and that's why he asked if I was *oldname*

Aaah, the joys of transitioning in a small town.

- Kate

Heheh, your success has been great, Kate. It's wonderful that some of us have had such successes and support... I just wish that everyone did. But at least there ARE many people out there who don't give a ->-bleeped-<- and are happy for people to be happy.

Today I finally got to see a friend of mine, who I've known for several years (used to work with her.) She was out for almost 2 months because her husband nearly died.

I caught her leaving her office.

'Are you free?'
"...generally"
'May I have a moment?'
"Sure.
...
Are you somebody's sister?"

I looked her straight in the eyes.

".......
Are you who I think you are?
...
OH MY GOD YOU LOOK GREAT!"

It was fantastic. She had had no idea before.

Autumn, how wonderful!  It is very reassuring when people recognize us but don't recognize us.

- Kate

Kate and Autumn...both these stories make the world seem like a brighter place.

Cool, Kate. You seem to live in a nice town. (Or maybe you just tell us the good stuff.)