I think it's funny how everyone thinks they live in a "non-accepting" location.
To offer some perspective, I have never seen a cross dresser in San Francisco nor anywhere in California unless we were out together. I have seen more cross dressers in Idaho (3) than in California! My point is that we cross dressers are still quite unique. The average normal has not seen a cross dresser in real life. Every occasion is a unique experience for them.
I think acceptance by the normals is based on them having an understanding that the world is not just full of normals. This does not mean that I will be welcome anywhere I go, but I certainly do not expect to be tarred and feathered. I think our attitude while out is the primary influencer in being "accepted." The normals may not get it, but if you behave like you belong and are comfortable with yourself, the people around you feed on that.
