As you might take note, the subject line of this thread has graciously been changed by the moderators. Thanks again, Dena.
I have gone back and read the original entry and recall how low a time that was. While we all have many lows as we travel the paths we find before us, for me, that period was certainly among the lowest. Even yet, the circumstances that precipitated that low are not resolved as well or a fully as I would like. But, there is cause for hope that all will be well, sooner, rather than later.
In the mean time, my journey seems to have finally moved into hi gear. The effects of HRT are very noticeable. Of course, there is the breast development. My wife is teasing me about me being bigger than she is (not true, yet) and they get in the way of her putting her head on my chest the way she used to. Although I have never been particularly hairy, my body hair has thinned considerably. I see a softening of the skin and a less rugged look. Those changes were slow but are finally undeniably there.
After we came to terms with my need to transition and my wife's commitment to our relationship as I proceeded, things have developed on a couple of fronts. I have made swift progress with my document changes, The birth certificate applications are put together and all they need is a notary stamp and a postage stamp. I am planning to visit the DMV for the driver's license and the post office for the passport tomorrow. Won't be long before all that is in the rear view mirror.
In addition to my daughter, I am out to my employer and my wife's best friend. I still have one good friend to come out to in person before I begin making a general broadcast via email to my and my wife's families. But I am no longer really hiding. Used to wear a lot of over-sized drab shirts. If anyone notices the nail polish or the earrings, so be it. When the documents are completed, I will confront fitness center management about the gym locker room issue. In this small, rural, burg, I will likely be plowing new ground. I will be addressing that soon.
So, what I initially reported as a dire crisis has morphed into a saga. There are hiccups along the way, but I am pleased with the overall direction and happier with the speed at which things are moving. And I can see the end, I think.
My best wishes to all of you as you move along your own paths. May you find your destination to be gratifying and your arrival on time.
Stevi