Reply To: Permission to shave my legs but not the reason you think

[Venus Envy]

I had worried about dark painted toe nails for doctor’s visits. I’d take off the polish before going. I did once and didn’t have to take off my socks. So next time, I leave it on.
Shaved legs were already established, but that seemed easy.That was a big step to go out in shorts, but either nobody’s noticed or nobody has cared. I worry about beach with family, but we have two girlfriends at the beach that are cool with. A day or two visiting with them will normalize it,I think.

ARNP does most of my exams. That’s good.
She goes out, says take off your pants and socks. There i was. Realized just face it. I only pull my socks down to my ankles. She comes back in. I say there’s something you need to know.
She gives me a very interested look and says Have you ever gone out dressed?
No
So I tell her about how my many years of excess alcohol were to escape the shame of crossdressing. Now I’ve quit drinking and am much more comfortable.
She says Mental health affects physical health. You’re taking care of your mental health. That’s important.

Next visit I’m sock less. She says they’ll be in for an EKG. You can put your socks back on. I ask who will do it. It’s a nurse. I decide not to put my socks back on.
EKG nurse comes in starts putting on electrodes.
“I have a surprise”
What?
Have to point out my toes..We talk about it. Her divorce involved too much alcohol as well.

I come back for a flu shot. She brings in release paperwork on a clip board. I take it. There’s a sticky note that says “You Don’t Know Jacque” OPI.
Bust out laughing.
“I saw somebody wearing it and I thought it would be a good color for you. So I asked.

I’d hidden it for so long and now I find super allies!

Male physician usually comes in for a check after she finishes. Now I’m emboldened by such gg support and am prepared to own it.

Small steps I know, but it’s compared to nothing for 60 years.

In for a surgery check up yesterday.
Went in with clip earrings, fairly subtle lipstick and mascara.
Assistant does my intake questions, no reaction.

PA comes in. Doesn’t see my face at first. Then she does. Her eyes get wide for just a second. Then it’s business as usual. I had been face to face with waitress at lunch.
She’s college age and showed no sign that any thing was amiss, so to speak. A wonderful feeling!

Breaking barriers, mostly my own.

• This reply was modified 1 year ago by Venus Envy.