John and Lisa on their 25th Wedding Anniversary 2017
Let me start by saying that I am at a place in my life where authenticity is at a premium. Therefore, you can expect a lot of raw honesty in what I have to share. I have been married to my soul mate John, a retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant for 26 years, more than half my life. We have two amazing sons (one also a former Marine) that we could not be more proud of.
As the New Year rang out in 2017, we had just moved to our farm. It was where we would expand our Animal Sanctuary, prepare for grandchildren and of course, grow old together. It was all coming together just as I had dreamed it would. I mean, we made it through all the things that usually end marriages right? The early years, the 7 year itch, 2 kids, 20 years of military service, bankruptcy, three surrogate pregnancies and a midlife crises. We were safe right?
As our 25th Anniversary was rapidly approaching, we decided to go do a little window shopping for ideas. To be honest, I don’t remember what store parking lot we were in. I only remember turning off the car and looking over to see John crying. My heart sank and I immediately asked him what was wrong. I could only make out that if he told me, our lives would never be the same and he would lose everything.
I decided to write this blog because frankly, I could not find anyone on this world wide web that seemed to be able to give me any advice I found relate-able. Was it really possible that no one out there shared the same story? I needed desperately to connect with others and to know I was not alone. Someone to tell me from experience that not only was it possible to make it to the other side of this with my family intact but also to be happy.
Thank you for taking this journey of truth and reflection with me. I hope to enlighten others about the struggles and triumphs of an every day transgender family. I have learned that I can not only keep my sanity but my family as well.
It is not fine, but it will be.
Lisa
Flowers from John and Lisa’s 25th Anniversary. Photo by @thewipplersphotoco
Beautiful beginning my dear!
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So awesome… can’t wait to continue this journey with you!
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Can’t wait to read more Lisa. So proud of you.
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Thanks for taking us on your journey!
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Beautifully written and emotional.
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Lisa – you are going to have such a positive impact by sharing your journey. Thank you for fully showing up.
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