Brad

Brad, age 5

Norwell, MA (1984)

I don't have any recollection of this photo being taken, but I had that tapestry up until a few years ago when it got lost in a move. I loved it! My Mom used to say I was always a happy child.

I sucked my thumb until I was 9, and I loved playing with dolls.

I think I mortified my Grandmother when she took me shopping for my 4th or 5th birthday and I insisted that I had to have a Cabbage Patch doll. But I loved it.

I loved playing dress up, baking, cleaning, and making crafts.

My Mom had a "cleaning lady" come to the house and I always followed her around with a mop or a duster. I loved cleaning!

My older sisters were into dirt bikes and wrestling. I never understood their interest.

What is funny to me is that I never felt "different" exactly. I was different, but I didn't feel it. When I began to have sexual feelings at about 11 or 12, it seemed utterly natural to me to be attracted to other boys.  

Years later it turns out one sister is gay - and the other is closeted? I wish I could find the video of me playing Ms. Conchita in a home cooking show called Conchita's Kitchen. A wig, a dress, make up, and double fudge brownies.

My parents never tried to sway us from our interests and I think for that reason we were blessed.