All hurdles cleared for transition

[Jenn2716]

Hi everyone,
It's been a while since I posted but that's mostly a good thing. I've been really focusing on starting my transition and so far so good.

As far as coming out and getting the support of others, I think I am doing really well. First off, my wife is staying with me and is totally supportive of my transition. It took a lot of discussion and alot of tears, but she is sticking by me and that is awesome. Next, I have told my parents and my brother and they are also being very supportive. They were surprised to say the least, but they just want me to be happy and if that means living as a woman, so be it. My wife told her parents and brother and sister. Her mom is worried about her, but everyone else is accepting and supportive. About 60% of our friends know and they seem ok with it as well.

Now as for work, I don't plan on coming to work as female until the fall. But I decided to tell my boss and the 3 guys I work closest with that I'll be transitioning this summer. We often run into each other outside of work and I wanted them to be prepared. Everyone was very accepting and I forsee no problems at my place of work.

So as for physical changes, all I've started so far is laser hair removal. I've had two treatments so far and things seem to be progressing nicely. I will probably have to get some electrolysis in the end because I'm noticing a lot of blonde hairs. Other than that, I've let my hair grow past my shoulders and I'm working on my voice. As for hormones, I won't be starting them for while. My wife is comfortable with me transitioning, she just wants to take it slow. I can respect that, though I am anxious to see a doctor about hormones.

I finally feel good about myself again. I'm just anxious to get to living full time. I don't know if its because I still go to work as a guy. Or if its because I haven't changed my name yet. Or if its because I'm not taking hormones. But I feel like even though I have accomplished alot so far, I feel like there are alot of big steps ahead. It's only been about a month, so maybe I just need to give it more time and try to relax a little.

[Veronica_Jean]

It sounds like you are moving along a path that is right for you.

We all get anxious and want to go running for the end, but everything in life that is worth having is worth waiting to get.

Good luck!!

Veronica

[Carole Cross]

I know how you feel about being anxiuos, I have been given a refeeeal from my GP to see a psychiatrist and I am still waiting for an appointment two months later. I haven't started laser treatment yet but hope to arrange my first session this week.

It;s nice to hear that your wife and friebds are supporting yoiu and I wish you good luck on your transition. :hugs:

[Jenna1561]

Hi Jenn,

I am so very happy to hear that everything is starting so well. That your wife is supportive, is absolutely the greatest news a married person entering transition can hear. Family and friends accepting is also wonderful.

You are so young (I know it may not feel so, but trust a 48 year old, you are) with a supportive wife, take it slow just as she wants. You probably would love to jump right in and make the transition, but keep to her steady pace, you don't want to push her away. And I know you know better, but this is just a reminder, don't do or start anything she doesn't know about ahead of time. Deceiving her will just push her away. And even if you do everything she wants and on her schedule, she is a woman and she may not be able to mentally and emotionally make a full transition with you. I hope she is one of those amazing women who can make the transition along with their partner.

You look great in your avatar and while we haven't met, I think you'll make a public transition easily. It may be an initial shock for your co-workers, even the ones you've already told, but just take your time and exercise patience at work.

There are a lot of "big steps" ahead of you. I'm happy to hear you've started laser and I know the anxiousnees associated with starting hormone treatment; those are both big steps, as is changing your name. Think them through with your wife, include her in the planning and establishment of a timetable and ALWAYS consider her feelings as well as yours. That's probably the best way to keep her on your side.

I'm envious of you starting at a young age and wish you the absolute best.

Love and Hugs,

Jen

[Jenn2716]

Hi ladies,
Thanks for the kind words. Rest assured, I am definitely being completely open and honest with my wife. She and I are planning and working this transtion together. I would never do anything without telling her and she knows that as well.

I'm working towards presenting as female everywhere, all the time outside of work. I think by the time fall/winter arrives I may be ready to transition at work as well, but we're not putting any firm timelines in place. We're just taking it slow and try to pace ourselves. Not too fast, not too slow. For now I'm just doing the laser, work on losing weight and be the best Jenn I can be.

I do feel very lucky to have such supportive family and friends. I'm sure I'll have awkward times here and there, but so be it.

Btw, I want to say thank you to all the lovely women here who have shared their experiences and thoughts. This community has really done wonders for my own self acceptance and confidence. I wouldn't be here without you.