Michelle;
I would not worry about getting a backward slap for doing things your way, Some people here forget that gender is in the mind, not in the body, IF you choose to express your gender in what you wear or how you present, that is your choice and it is not a crime, yes there are bigots in this world who will make try to make your life miserable, but in reality is it any different then sexual,racial,nationality,economic or religious bigotry ? No , its the same wolf in sheep's clothing, the only difference i it's happening to you at the moment. If you want to present in public be prepared to face bigotry, take pride in knowing that you in your way are paving the way for future tg's to have a better life.