READER:
Retiring? Wait! What? That doesn't look right. WTF Emily! Who the hell is this Liz K person? Did someone hijack your account? Is staff messing with you again?
ME:
Nope. Nothing like that Hon. I'm retiring Emily Alt. She had a good run but she's not me. She'll be a fond memory of when I was still figuring stuff out.
Most of you know I'm trans. Well into transition. Lots of things happen when you transition. One of them is a legal name and gender change. That's happening. I got the court order last week.
My legal name is Elizabeth. You can call me Liz. And no, I won't tell y'all my last name. I don't want trolls showing up on my doorstep. Liz K will do.
READER:
But why not keep Emily Alt? That's who you've been for so many years.
ME:
Good question. 'Emily Alt' was a name I chose long ago when establishing my online identity. Back then, I identified as a CD and never thought of it as a potential legal name. Once I understood that I was trans, it became clear that I needed a new legal name. I got serious about it early this year.
Although I'm fond of 'Emily Alt', it's not the name I wish to legally bear for the rest of my life. In essence, it has always been just a screen name for me.
There is one place you'll continue seeing 'Emily Alt'. My username. That can't be changed. And I'm not dumping 5 years of memories for a new username.
READER:
Oh.
ME:
I invite y'all to start using 'Liz'. It's okay if you forget. I hope you like my new name!
Liz
Hi Liz! 💕
Hello Liz!
I'm happy for you Liz. It's a magical moment when you legally become the new woman or new man that you are.
Awesome Liz , congrats !
Alexis