Getting Seen

"Oh my" does that sound familiar. Thinking or should I say dreaming of going out was always rumbling on my mind and never giving it a thought it would happen.  But like you just last Dec became a first for venturing out into this world. That first time is very similar to yours it began with  attending a local transgender group to which holds gatherings throughout my area. Wonderful gals who made me feel most welcome and very comfortable. Going with someone only made it better . Talking to some local gurls who are members hooked me up and it's been a wonderful time every time out. 2 hour drive certainly made up for some nervous situations but too was the excitement, to interact people on the streets and then walk in to and  meet a room full of total strangers. Pub setting, having drinks and chatting it up like lady's it can't get any better. Being treated well by everyone. My waitress she was wonderful to the door man and everyone else who I passed. I've reached for and did the impossible. Be confident , be safe, and always be aware of your surroundings. And have FUN!!!

Stephanie 🌹

Moments to remember .

My first step has been to go for a long driving trip.  I made the three hour trip for work and made two stops to change into different outfits.  It is kind of anonymous since you will most likely never, ever, see the other drivers again and in reality never actually interact with them on the road in any meaningful way.  The most 'heart in throat' moment was when I had to change each time.  Surprisingly, the drive itself was mostly just a fantastic and exhilarating experience.

Making contact with someone there is a good idea.  They should be able to put your mind at rest.  The local trans meet-up I go to do offer to meet first time people in the car park because they know that leaving the safe cocoon of your car and getting through that door can be scary.

Wear something that makes you feel great, and are comfortable wearing for a few hours.  You look lovely in your pictures so you'll be fine.  Hold your head up, smile, and open that door.

I've considered something of the sort.  Might I ask where you stopped to change?

I will keep it simple- Go Girl!

I am glad to hear you have made the decision to go out and am sure you will have a great time. Be yourself and enjoy the surroundings.

Report back and tell others how it went and hopefully encourage others who are in a similar situation to take that step!

Sandy

I'll definitely report back when it happens.  After reading all the wonderful feedback here excitement is definitely winning out over dread. 😉

What keeps going through my mind is that every single one of those girls (and guys? FtM?) have been through that first outing, too. I'm guessing it's a no-judgment zone. They know exactly what you're feeling and will do everything they can to make you feel at home. They know.

So update: I went on my first recon mission.  Went prepared to change and hang out but I've come to find out weekdays are pretty dead there.  Plus there was shopping to do so with 4 hours to go before closing afterward it didn't seem worth it to spend the hour plus getting dolled up and then the half-hour or so getting it all back off again.  But as a wise man once said: knowing is half the battle.  Looks like next week I'm going to do this for real.  Of course I'll continue to keep you all posted.  Thank you all for the sage advice and support; the feels are real. <3

Today's the day, ladies!  Nervous as hell but from everything my senses tell me it will be fine.  I'll keep you posted.

Have a wonderful time 😉, be safe.

If you go looking as stunning as you did in your floral dress in your pic of 6/10/2019, you will be belle of the ball!

Please report back and let all of us at CDH know how it went.

I'd say it went well.  I was basically by myself most of the day (which I expected; nothing wrong with quality time with a good book) but the evening discussion group was lively and thought-provoking.  I even dared myself to make the hour-long drive home and unload the car while fully en femme... darkness is a powerful confidence-booster.

I realize this is just the first tiny step but it was an important one for me.  It'll be a while (if ever) until I work up the courage to actually go in public for real.  If and when that happens I'll be sure to let the community know.

Thanks again ladies for your insight and support! <3