I've been out to my wife, kids and grandkids for a few years now, but my wife's extended family didn't know about my real self - until today. We went to my mother-in-law's for Thanksgiving, as she will probably not be around any more next year. It will be a blessing; she has dementia and is getting very near 100 years old. After talking with my niece, who lives with her and has known about me for a couple of years now, we felt that it would be OK to be me. With my wife's blessing, I went there as myself. Not a single odd look, second glance or ugly word from the 40 or so people who were there at various times over the day. It was as if nothing had changed, other than how I was dressed. I even had some telling me I looked beautiful. I was dressed in a nice outfit. I practically floated home; I feel like I'm the luckiest girl in the whole wide world tonight. I almost didn't say anything here, but a friend pointed out that sometimes we can live vicariously on other people's good fortune. I remember doing so myself back before I was able to be me. I owe the people here so very much for the support I've had, and the friends I've made. I could not have done this without all of you, and the stories you have posted. I love you all.