It has been a while since I last posted on this site and I figure I am due for a post. Besides, things are finally changing for me and for the better (I think - but more than just a hope things will be better for sure). I will retire from the Army in 75 days and yes, I am counting the days (and hours and minutes)! Most of that time will be spent on leave. I finally acknowledged myself about 4 years ago and ever since I accepted myself I put the mark on the wall for moving ahead on this journey once I retire. I had bumps along the road, some self induced and more than a few from outside my ability to avoid, but I am looking forward to the next phase of the journey, wherever it leads. I finally started growing my hair out (amen) and my off duty wardrobe is almost exclusively comprised of female clothing. The first day I am officially retired I will get my ears pierced. I am already "out" to most of my family members though my father and one of my sisters does not know (yet). For me, the next big step is to stop hiding behind my wigs and to show the real me. So here it goes, the real me: