My Many Birthdays

August 6, 2010, I learn finally who Lee, ChoHee was as I visit the orphanage in Seoul where I spent the first six and a half months of my life. A few weeks after my return, I continue to learn more about my Korean name. When I was at the orphanage, I was told that the orphanage named me, however, upon further review of my file by some friends who read and speak Korean and who know more than I do about what certain things in files mean, it appears that my birth family named me. Lee, ChoHee, my name of origin. I am fascinated!

October 5, 2010, I was driving home from a friend's Korean dance and drum studio after having an amazing home cooked Korean meal and sharing a night of conversation and food with friends new and old. It struck me as I was heading south on Cretin Ave., a usual route home for me, that tonight was my last night of being what is now my former legal name - a name I had had for 32 years. I felt sad. As much as I am and have not been that person for a while now, it was and always will be a significant part of my identity. It was the second name I was given in my life when I arrived in Minnesota.

October 6, 2010, approximately 10:45am, I, Shawyn Lee, am born at the Ramsey County Courthouse. It was a quick and painless delivery and many were witness to this glorious day! Although I have lived as Shawyn for the past 2 years and 2 months, I finally was able to have my name legally changed. Now, I wait for the official court documents to arrive and then I can begin changing my name on my ids, bank accounts, insurance, etc. Shawyn is the third name I have had - a name that I intentionally gave to myself as I felt it is an accurate and complete representation of who I am in terms of gender identity and expression and in terms of my Korean identity.

October 6, 2010, I also celebrate a year of being alcohol free. A year ago, after not even being able to finish a Mich Ultra by the river on a late fall night, I didnt even realize that would be my last drink. I think a few days or a week later, I made the decision to remain alcohol free for the rest of my life. Here's to year 1!

I hope the rest of 2010 is full of good things and wonderful surprises...like maybe somehow legally procuring a massive amount of money!