This was my second vacation since my transition, the first was last fall at the beach. I found out I was much more comfortable in my new skin, so to speak. I was not nearly as self-conscious as I was at the beach, just more at ease. I don't know how many read my journal post about losing my daughter but the cruise came at just the right time to help me get past that as well, at least for the most part. The acceptance I felt from everyone I met was a great boost to my self-esteem.
Our table mates were 3 other ladies from Alabama and they took me for what I am, just another woman. We are now all friends on FB and plan to take more trips together. I just felt so wonderful whether playing Black Jack with the mostly boys or out with our new friends.
Once you truly accept yourself others will too. The only thing I didn't really like was men staring at me as I was passing them by on the ship. My friend Michelle told me "look you are beautiful so just own it". Once I adopted that attitude it didn't bother me nearly as much. I did notice my posture is somewhat better when I walk as a proud woman instead of a beaten down male that never quite fit in.