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This is the last year I can claim to be a 40-something.  And, actually, I'm pleased when people show surprise at learning my age.  I'm enjoying being young, playful and energetic.
I can also claim to be 4 years old, since the public date of my transition was January 1, 2000. Transition has a special meaning to us transsexuals, marking when we begin living full-time as women -- our true selves. People have interesting reactions when they learn that I started my life as a man -- some are surprised, some aren't. Others are appalled, perplexed, or delighted. I receive support; I receive rejection. Life goes on.
For the most part, being transgendered is not the biggest issue in my life. I am blessed with a wealth of love and support from those closest to me -- my son and daughter, my friends, my co-workers -- as well as my ex-spouse. Consequently, I can turn my attention to the usual problems facing a divorced, female, computer professional. And that's all I really want out of life anyway.
This is not to say that I disassociate myself from my past or my transgendered status. In fact I take a bit of pride in who I am. It surely is a gift to have experienced life on both sides of the gender divide; so few people have had that opportunity. Most have not an inkling of the subtle and not-so-subtle differences between two gendered cultures. Those who are interested can learn more about the transgender aspects of my journey.
But right now, all I'm trying to do is put my life in order.
Last year (2003) I bought a house, which still requires considerable attention on the repairs and maintenance front. A friend reminds me that I will never be caught up with work on the house.  She's right, of course. This is the first time I've owned a home by myself, and I am enjoying the freedom of setting it up the way I want.  Putting my home together has been a slow but satisfying process.
I continue to maintain commitments to a number of volunteer activities. I've actually cut back on my commitments to some extent and am trying to establish balance in my life. Still, I want to help others, and reaching out is a way I experience growth.
I lead a busy and rewarding life. I'm afraid my list of projects is way too long; I could be busy for decades.  But I will organize, prioritize -- and find balance.
Overall, my life is going very well. I cannot remember a previous time when I felt better. People constantly tell me I seem happier, which I am. I am also enjoying being single. Intimate relationships involve a wealth of energy and compromise on my part, and at least for now, it is a joy to indulge my own desires exclusively. Yet I can be open to the idea of sharing my life with someone -- should that exceptional person appear on my doorstep. While I don't foresee anyone in my near future, it wouldn't be much of a journey if I knew everything in advance, would it?