“I don’t mind that they’re struggling with it,” Biddle said. “That’s fair. I’ve been struggling with it for years.”

Thomsen said his friends and family have been very supportive, at least for the most part. And he fully understands the awkwardness that comes with the change.

“When I went to my cousin’s wedding back in the fall, I was excited, because it was my first time seeing the family as Braxton,” he said. “I had my suit and my tie on, everyone was hugging each other. Then when we were sitting at the table, I heard them trying to talk about me. They were saying, ‘Him, I mean her, I mean him.’ It was kind of funny. I still love them no matter what, but I know it was awkward for them.”

It’s not rude to ask a transgender individual what pronouns they prefer, whether that be he or him, she or her or the more neutral ze or zir — along with a host of other selections. It is generally considered rude, however, to ask about body parts, surgery and other things unless you are a close friend, much as it would be for non-transgender individuals.

Despite the drawbacks and issues they face, though, both Biddle and Thomsen said they’re much happier coming out and transitioning.