My Life As Most Of You Know It

I found myself conversing via email the other day with an old friend. We've known each other since junior high and thanks to the wonders of the internet, our paths crossed again several years ago. We chat via email a few times a month and while I haven't seen this person in years, I would still classify her as a friend.

I had some exciting news to share with her on Monday and as I told the story I realized that somewhere back when we reconnected via the world wide web I had failed to completely explain what path my life had taken since I had left California. We had talked many times about our kids, homes and jobs, but there were parts of my life that I think are so ordinary, I just never thought to mention them. I have reconnected with several friends from my past. I never think to tell my people what kind of car I drive, or what kind of house I own. I don't think to mention that I am still a blonde or that I wear Nike tennis shoes. In the same respect, I rarely think to mention that I am also gay.

There was a time when I was afraid and didn't divulge information about my personal life out of fear. However, now that is not the case. It's not because I am embarrassed or ashamed, it's simply that I just don't think to mention it. It's such a small part of who I am, such an inconsequential part of my being, that it never occurs to me to warn people.

I am "out" in all aspects of my life. At home, at work and in my community, so sometimes it slips my mind that in my world you DO have to tell people otherwise they will assume you are straight. (Especially, if the last time they saw you, you were married and had a baby.)

So… for those of you who never asked if I was involved, for those of you that assumed I was straight, and for those of you who really never cared one way or the other, I am gay.

I am in a long term relationship with an amazing woman named Lisa. Who happened to ask me to marry her on Sunday. So… we are very happy and know that our friends will be very happy for us.

If you have any questions, comments or even concerns I would be more than happy to hear them!

Happy Halloween!