Even though I've been here since the end of February, I realized tonight that I've never posted a newbie intro.
If you don't know what a late bloomer is, it's someone who awakens to their sexual orientation later in life. In my case, much later. I'm only just realizing what the heck is going on with me now... in my mid-late 40s!
One advantage of being so old is that I won't disappoint my parents by coming out. They are both long gone. Other friends and family have been open-armed and welcoming. As a "femme" (I think?) I am learning that coming out is a daily occurrence because most people can't tell I'm not straight.
As part of this process, I'm seeing a therapist who specializes in late bloomers like me. I also joined a support group for married women who discover they are attracted to women. (I've been separated since 2008. We are still very close but finally mailed the divorce papers last month.) Both of these resources have helped me immensely in dealing with my new reality. And also with my sense of urgency and worry that it's all too late for me. I'm an optimist by nature and am consciously choosing to focus on the positive. At least I didn't wait another year, right?
Most recently, I connected the dots and noticed a pattern among the women I've been attracted to: they are all butches! I don't know if that makes me a femme or not. I'm not exactly a girly girl, but I'm no tomboy either. I'm still learning my way.
So far I'm finding this is a great community. Please friend me if you think we have anything in common or can support each other. Although... I'll admit I'm partial to butches aged 45-55 in the Pacific Northwest.
I've really enjoyed spending time here, getting to know people. Thanks for the warm welcome.