After monday's call from my GP I had some thinking to do. Last night I was in a pub where the owner was marking his 20th anniversary as the pub landlord. That event had me standing next to a couple who are retired teachers (having both taught my daughter) and with whom I'm involved with festivals & projects.

Of the couple, she was probing me about my trans journey and he was listening. I wasn't trying to keep the conversation private but the place was noisy enough to (mostly) mask what was being said. As it was, I wasn't probed by anyone else but I won't deny who I am or why that is so.

The male partner from last night was joining me this morning as one project had earned an interview with a local BBC journalist. The journalist was acting in a personal capacity by interviewing us for his twice monthly podcast, this did however mean a good quality digital recorder and mic setup. I had opted for comfort over conformity so arrived in a knee length grey/black mix jumper dress, skin tone leggings and black heeled boots. A little lippy and foundation finished the look.

I expected a comment but none was offered. The interview went well and it'll be available sometime in April. I had walked as it was under 10 mins distance but on the way back a car parked next to me and I was called by the driver, a local barmaid. She told me it was too cold for bare legs, then asked if I had tights on. When I told her I was in leggings she didn't believe me at first. But, no criticism was made.

Back home I decided that I should try to decloak as it won't be long before the connections are made - I've been in the closet for too long. So my Twitter & Mastodon accounts now have my legal name. I'm holding off changing my FB identity and won't be changing my professional FB page.

I have also received the first bank card in my new legal name. New girly glasses on Friday (the existing ones are from the femme range but are too unisex for me)

Shiraz