JayM

It's either "bring it on" or I go and cower in a corner somewhere  

Oh gosh, there are plenty of people I haven't told. It's a little daunting when I think about it. But your comments always help me. Thank you.

Yes, that support means so much that it's hard to put it into words.

I probably will have to change the blog name, you're right! I hope you won't charge me commission for that idea 

It looks like it will be Deed Poll for me too. The Passport Office suggested it has to be 'enrolled' Deed Poll, as well, which seems to make a mockery of having quicker, easier and cheaper ways available to do it  

How about a caterpillar AND a butterfly? LOL

You're right, I know - and that's the thing I need to get my head around properly - that it's their problem, not mine. Thanks, Eve.

Thanks, Eve. Your comments have helped a lot. 

Thanks for your comments. I am seeking a therapist, but it has helped enormously just to write this stuff down. I can see a way forward now. 

I will work on becoming myself from now on. I even came out on Twitter today by including the fact that I'm trans on my profile. That just told a bunch of people who didn't know. Next week I'm coming out at work and I will be talking to my manager and the HR department about transitioning.

​I think I agree with you, now more than ever before. It's only since I started writing this blog that I realised how much it would mean to be recognised as male. Fortunately, I have found support in areas I didn't expect, and it feels good. Thanks for your comments. Regards, Jay

Hi Stephanie

I'm based in Manchester, England, and I consider myself lucky for that, because I live a stone's throw from Canal Street, which you may or may not have heard of. Every year, we have the "Sparkle" festival which is a celebration of and for trans* people. There is a lot of support in my area, as I've only recently realised, and I do have support at work as well as in my personal life. The good wishes I've received from people on this website has been almost overwhelming. I'm feeling far more confident today than I did just a few days ago. Thanks for your kind words. Regards, Jay

Thank you for your comments, Karen. I have been told many times not to think of myself as a freak - and I must stop doing it - so I will take on board what you say about just having fewer options when it comes to relationships. I need to start thinking more positively. Thanks for reading.