I went to my first social ever, in London. No drama, welcomed and everything. Two of the attendees were CD (or trans, I don't know).
Good things
1. Somewhere to go weekly amongst LGBT people, whilst I work things out.
2. The two CD changed from drab to female clothes. This is exciting as I could change whilst there and be seen and accepted. I'd be initially embarrassed as nobody has seen me dressed but that would soon pass. I'd not feel ashamed. I'm thinking simple shoes, holdups, skirt+top or dress, a simple necklace and a beanie hat to soften my face a bit.
My wife was ok about it. CD has been on the down low for a few weeks (just underdressed, no chitchat about it, only clear varnish: nothing in her face) as she's so stressed and I need to find work.
I hope to go back next week.
PS "being seen" isn't vanity, its personal development/growth, not having to hide away, being seen authentically, not hiding away'