First off, I was thinking about this -- how much I too do NOT really like the word "hobby" to describe what I feel is "me"
I feel comfortable and relaxed while en femme and it just feels right. I realize i also enjoy the comfort and feel of women's clothing and I think that feeling is further accentuated by the way seeing myself as a woman makes me feel.
That said, here are 3 definitions of "hobby" cited on dictionary.com
Hobby
1. an activity or interest pursued for pleasure or relaxation and not as a main occupation.
ride a hobby, to concern oneself excessively with a favorite notion or activity.
2. An activity or interest pursued outside one's regular occupation and engaged in primarily for pleasure.
3. A subject or plan upon which one is constantly setting off; a favorite and ever-recurring theme of discourse, thought, or effort; that which occupies one's attention unduly, or to the weariness of others; a ruling passion.
After looking at these definitions, I can see where others have a valid use for describing their activity as a Crossdresser as a "hobby". As I have read on this forum that is just what it is for some -- they are comfortable being male but have a desire to explore the feminine side of themselves on occasion. IMO some CDrs do NOT desire to go out or to be viewed as a woman -- just enjoy the feel and comfort of womens clothing with possible sexual arousal.
For me . . . I feel being a CD is much more than a "hobby" for me in that I think I am becoming more used to being dressed and feeling like a woman more than just "on occasion" and not just for pleasure -- being feminine is becoming a part of me. Hopefully this makes some sense and these are not just serious "Pink Fog" ramblings.
The New Year has been a great change for me in that I finally have aired my feelings with my SO and that has brought on many changes in me. My SO is accepting of the new me but is struggling with the changes just as I am struggling to maintain some sort of balance. I have jumped into this new exploration of my feminine side with both heels I realize am still trying to find my "face" that is why I say being a CD'r for me is more of an attitude or new state of being rather than simply a "hobby". But this is simply my little opinion
Just thought I'd add a voice to this thoughtful thread
Thanks to all you sisters for the support and kind words
*hugs*
Jacie