I have been getting a little braver with each time I venture out as Leeanna. My angel Mike, gently encourages me , but doesn't push.
A few weeks back we went to visit several old churches. We were unlucky. On the first day all 3 were either shut of the road was closed.
The next day we went to visit Framlingham castle in Suffolk.
When we visit churches there are often only a few people around. I get a little nervous, but you don't get too close with other people. The castle meant going in via the ticket office. I was petrified, The woman at the desk told Mike that the lady with you can get a discount if she joins English Heritage today. This was the first time in my life that a stranger had referred to me with female pronouns. I answered no thanks in as soft and high voice as I could manage. There were a lot of people around. We went into the museum in the castle and exchanged a few words with one of the ladies who worked there as she let us up the stairs.
After a good look around we both needed the toilet. No J, K Rowling's were harmed in the use of said toilet. Then we sat out on the lawn and had tea and cake. I felt so good just being there as Leeanna.
We had a walk on the pier the next day. I did get a double take from one guy. I remember getting looks from a guy with his wife and kids once when we were out. I was worried about it , but it was windy and the wind blew my skirt above my knee and Mike assured me he was looking at my legs. I am hoping that the guy on the pier looked because I was smiling . I do smile at more as Leeanna.
The only downside is that it is becoming harder to go back to my normal life. I have booked another short break, but after that I will have to wait 4-5 months until Leeanna comes out again.
Mike was as ever, absolutely wonderful. Without him I would still be doing short walks in the dark hiding behind an umbrella. It's nice to know the whole world isn't anti-trans.
I know he reads these. Thanks Mike.
Comments
He's a star
From what you have said, Mike is an absolute star.
Being referenced as a female, like the lady in the ticket office did, is life affirming.
Just remember, most people see what they expect to see. "If it walks like a duck..." and all that. From the pictures that you have posted, yup, you pass the Duck test, miduck.
Great to hear that you are getting out and about, and, yes, I do get that it becomes more and more necessary. Been there, done that, had the op.
Lucy xx
"Lately it occurs to me..
what a long strange trip its been."
Thanks Lucy. Mike is a star.
Thanks Lucy. Mike is a star. I have driven while dressed, only very short distances. I worry about having an accident. He gave me advice on what to wear a while back. Look at what most women wear. I had a few skirts and dresses. Nothing short and silly, but dresses and skirts are rarely worn by UK women unless it is very hot. 95% of women wear leggings, jeans or slacks during the day. Anyone wearing a dress stands out a little.
Part of me thinks, that if you see someone coming towards you in a skirt that you automatically think female.
I wear leggings most of the time though as I just want to look ordinary, boring and blend in. The glasses I wear are just clear glass. I wear them to appear more "geeky". I am trying to go for "nothing to see here"
Leeanna
Looking good, Leeanna!
So glad you had time to be out and be yourself. :)
— Emma
No J, K Rowling's were harmed
Lovely phrase. We should use is as a motto.
Samantha
Or maybe . . .
No Rowlings were roiled.
— Emma
Or
No Rowlings were rolled.
Angharad
You’re looking good, hun!
And give my thanks to Mike.
Those first few times out really are scary. But it’s wonderful to have support.
My first real excursions were shopping at a grocery store and Walmart. Minimal interactions with people and low risk of anything bad. And when one man liked my boots and another said my legs were sexy, it boosted my confidence to the Moon!
But seriously, the hair looks good and your face looks nice!
Just give yourself time.
Gillian Cairns