Amanda,
If you follow through on your own advice you will not have regrets. Just do explore yourself, take your time and know that you are truly transgender before doing anything that is not reversible. Also I totally agree with Kaitlyns comment that "the driving force for transition is that you are a woman. End of story." There is no other reason that should warrant taking hormones or undergoing any surgery that can impact the rest of your life. Also perhaps you should explore what has changed that where before you said you were a crossdresser now you are newly trans. I don't think these issues need to scare the hell out of you but you have to take them very seriously, explore them and I'd go as far as saying to seek professional help from a psychologist who deals with transgender issues. I believe then you will find the answers that are right for you.