Confused about the opening for this blog? Well, don't be concerned. The big, little change, has to do with getting a new drivers license...with my NEW pic on it! Yes, that's right. I'll no longer have to worry about being stopped by some over-zealous public servant, and having to explain, however patiently, why I don't look like the picture on my license.

I hadn't even thought it was something I COULD do, or would be allowed to do, but I checked and found that I could, indeed, have a new picture taken and placed on my license.

It's not a name change, but it is one more step toward a complete life as Cathy. The name change is going to be problematic, since I've been reliably informed that it's going to cost between 800 to 1000 dollars to accomplish. There might be some cheaper ways to get it done, but I'm still researching them. And I thought the orchiectomy was going to dent my bank balance! Sheesh!!

Oh well. At least now, my picture reflects the real me, and nine months into my RLT, I'm still making forward progress, however slowly.

Other things in my life could definitely be better, but this is not the place, or the time to talk about them. I am at peace, and feeling good about myself. I know, now, that I am worth something, and worth being loved. That's a whole new thought pattern for me, and I have all of you, and one person, in particular, to thank for this new understanding of who and what I am, and what I'm worth.

To all of you. Be proud of who you are! Be proud of what you mean to others. Each and every one of you is special, each in her, or his, unique way.

Life is indeed good, if you'll let it be. Even in adversity, even through heartbreak, there are still lessons to be learned and treasured, and people to whom you matter, even if you don't know it.

I've been through a lot in the last nine months, but symbolicly, that time period is significant, in that it's given birth to a new, better person.

Look out world! Cathy is out and about, and damned proud to be associated with all of you! I hope I'll never let any of you down!

Huggles 'n love from me, the new and improved,
Catherine Linda Michel