Since Several weeks ago, I outed myself to relatives via Email, I have

[Kimberly Marie Kelly]

had essentially only positive responses, everyone tries to call me Kimberly. Only one relative a cousin of mine had a minor negative comment as told to me from another cousin of mine. The one cousin said all the right things but then finished his statement with "Well, it doesn't really affect me as he lives in another state, it would be different if he lived in my state or town." implying that he'd be ashamed of me if I lived near him and other people knew he was related to me. He's the only negative out of say 30 people I've emailed.

Not to say that all the people I've emailed have responded, but I'd say a good 20 or so have responded positively. Some of the email address's were expired or undeliverable or simply they have not rersponded.

With the acceptance of many of my relatives and friends, I have become more comfortable with my being and have ventured out into more public venues. This last weekend I was visiting my Aunt and Uncle and went to an Applebee's restaurant as Kimberly. I'm sure people read me as I don't wear a wig anymore, letting my hair grow, its thin I have a bald crown in back, but I otherwise present feminine. I am me Kimberly. So my journey continues. Kimberly :battingeyelashes:

[Jessinthesprings]

I am so happy for you. And I must say only one negitive response is surprising. I tend to think you have a great group of family and friends.

[Teri Jean]

Hi Kimberly, I'm happy that you are getting support and as for the cousin I wouldn't be surprised he would be the negative one normally. Have fun and I wish you the best.

Huggs Teri

[SirTrey]

That's really great, Kimberly, I'm happy to hear that....All too often, we don't get family support, so to get that many positive responses is fantastic! :thumbsup:

[AllisonR]

Kimberly, good to hear that you let everyone know about YOU. I wish you good good good luck, darling, and that you can continue in your journey and reach a higher plane. Me? I am a CDer with no plans to transition. Told my children (3) and their spouses. Each have children who haven't been told as yet, if ever. So far, my daughter and my youngest son's wife, along with a very good friend have all been so very supportive and loving. Much love is shared with these great women (which is why I love women and try to live as one). Youngest son and oldest son & wife have not responded since we spoke on the phone. They all seemed to be "ok" with my news and even thanked me "for my honesty", which doesn't help if they don't want to speak to me or call me by my name. Ok, I understand that they'll have to take it slow with my grandchildren but to not hear back from them? That hurts! Kimberly, if you only have the one "negative comment" from a long-distance relative, consider yourself very lucky. You have friends and relatives who care about you, who support you and you have your sisters here on this site to help you to continue to live your life like you should.

Love and hugs,
Allison
"I may never be the girl of my dreams...but never-the-less, I'm a Girl!"

[Veronica_Jean]

Kim,

Always glad to hear good news! I am very happy that you have begun to feel comfortable just being yourself. I know it is the best feeling ever!

:hugs:

Veronica

[Melissa A.]

Very good, Kimberly. it takes courage to put yourself out there and I'm happy you recieved so many positive responses. Keep it up!

Hugs,

Melissa:)

[Angel.Marie76]

continued best wishes as you progress in your jouney! :-) Having last month come out to my parents, but that so many other of my friends and other people know (and whatever random public that see me the more I get out), I've been concerned that when the rest of the extended family finds out that they'll perhaps not have the warmest reactions. I can only keep my fingers crossed, and I wish the same for you! :hugs:

[Carole Cross]

Congrats Kimberly, it;s great to know that your family are accepting and, as I have found, it also gives you extra confidence in yourself and that you have made the right decision. :hugs:

[denise413]

Congratulations on your progress. That is brave of you to come out to so many people. That is really great that so many responses have been so positive. Obviously, it should not be a surprise for most of us that not everyone will be on our side. The most important thing is that you are comfortable with yourself. This is a sure way of knowing who is truly on your side and who you should no longer be wasting time with. Keep it up! :)