Belated greeting

[Calliope]

I have really appreciated the (overall) forum in helping me form my thoughts as they evolve ... I did that poll on the CD forum and, jotting down a few reuminations, saw how my self-perception as a woman has little to do with clothes at all ...

http://www.crossdressers.com/forums/showthread.php?p=562367&posted=1#post562367

Lately the word 'crossdresser' seems absurd to me because there's nothing left really to cross (no 'male' clothes remain, it's just slacks [to placate my family obligations] or skirts). My face looks the same everyday.

And, getting closer to the San Fransico area (1 week) I have been thinking a lot more about 'the next step(s)' - getting the facial hair zapped permanently, hormones and a name change. My kids will keep me moving slow but I see the movement as ~

Inexorable.

So I say hello to this particular forum. I intend to more listening than my usual blathering (remind me of that if needed).
DT

[GypsyKaren]

Welcome to our little corner, it's nice to have you join us. Feel free to chime in whenever, I look forward to your input.

Karen

[AmberTG]

It's quite the strange trip, isn't it, from wondering what's going on in your head to finally knowing who you are.

[JenniferMint]

I have been thinking a lot more about 'the next step(s)' - getting the facial hair zapped permanently, hormones and a name change. My kids will keep me moving slow but I see the movement as ~

I'd say if you want to get your facial hair removed permanently, just do it, it won't bother your kids. Even some cisgendered men get permanent facial hair removal just so that they never have to shave again.

Facial hair removal is possibly the second-slowest aspect of M2F transition (with HRT being the slowest), so starting it early is best.

[Calliope]

Thanks for the warm hello. Luckily for me, the missus' new job at Google offers health benefits immediately instead of the 3-month trial period most IT companies mandate. I didn't realize facial hair removal was such a protracted process, whatever, I think my youngest daughter will be in day care for the mornings. Thanks again.

[cindianna_jones]

Welcome to the dark side!

Moving to the bay area is a good plan if you are planning to go through transition. There are all kinds of resources and the culture of life here is varied. Although you will find the occasional bigot, most just let people live their own lives.

Yes, hair removal is a very tedious process. It took me nearly three years to finish... and I'd still like to go in for a couple more sessions some day. When you make the move, hook up with one of the organizations. Attend their meetings. The world will open up to you.

And... enjoy it. So many of us tear ourselves into pieces over the change. Don't let it get you down. Look forward to each step and every inch of progress. It is a wonderful thing!

Cindi

[cindianna_jones]

Oh.. and I almost forgot. If you'd like to access another resource on line where there is tons and tons of support, with many more people in our situation, PM me.

This ain't the only game in town!

Cindi