Stretching my legs

As this is my first post it will be more of an introduction. My name is Patricia King. You can call me Trish. I am 34 years young and am just learning to be who I am. I first realized that I was transgendered when I was about 13. This was before Google and back before we used terms like LGBTQQIP2SAA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Pansexual, 2 spirit, Asexual, and Allies) yes we are up to that many letters and clearly the times still aren't ready since I had to teach my dictionary half of those words. So I didn't know the name for it, I just knew something wasn't right. 

     As I grew up I dealt with my feelings quietly. Upon graduating High School, still confused about my identity and not sure what to do with my future I decided to join the Army. I didn't understand my gender identity and I believed that if I ignored it, or did more "manly" things maybe it would go away. So I did the most manly thing I could think of. I joined the Infantry.

     As life went on so did I. this was before the repeal of DADT (don't ask don't tell) so I was quiet about both my sexuality and gender identity. I married and had children. I was happy. I loved everything about my life....except the conflict going on in myself.

     That brings us to 2 months ago. I finally accepted that it wasn't my inside that was wrong. I am supposed to be the girl that I've always felt I am. I started to share my feelings with a few people and with their support I became comfortable with who I am.

     On January 3rd after much prayer and reflection I made a decision. I decided that I was ready to come out and transition. The turning point in my life was an email I sent that day to my mother. I fearfully waited for a response and then via text came the words I had prayed for. "I love you". later I told my father and again was met with confusion overpowered by acceptance. I also shared my news with my children.

     Since then I have continued to share with those I have felt safe to and eventually some who I was unsure of. For the most part I have been met with warm acceptance and love.

    That brings us to today. I set today, February first as the day I would start this blog. I am using this as an open online diary to keep track of my experiences and feelings. I welcome you to follow comment and share. I look forward to your support and am happy to hear suggestions and perspectives.

     I am still in the Army and they have not caught up with the times so transition will be a slow process. I pray that we will see change in the ranks soon. I have set a date of December 24th to be out everywhere but work. as for things like HRT (hormone replacement therapy) and other permanent physical changes I am still in prayer about when to begin but I am eager to make my physical transition match my emotional state. A good friend reminded me recently that at the point we accept our gender identity we are in transition, regardless of where we are physically.

    Thank you for tuning in. Like me, this blog will evolve over time. I am reminded that "it's a process". Please feel free to contact me. I am accepting of all opinions but of course I ask that you share them respectfully. I hope to post at least twice a week, and eventually as time permits will be adding "segments" to my blog. Have a blessed and wonderful day.

 XOXO

   Trish

"Nothing is too girly and nothing is too masculine. But I do love color, and maybe that's a little girly - especially pink." Stacy London