Happy Birthday to A Gay from A Gal!

A Gay and a Gal, 1989

I think it was March of 1988 when I met Kevin.  Over the next two years, Kevin was responsible for more fun times than a gal should have, typically while sitting around doing absolutely nothing. He also introduced me to streaking and for that, I am so grateful!  In May 1990, I got my diploma and hugged Kev good-bye.  He was headed to Puerto Rico to teach in a private school and I was returning to Virginia Beach to look for a job and plan my wedding.  As he walked away, I remember thinking, "I bet I will never see that guy again!"  Then my friend whispered, "Oh my God!  He was crying!"  Hmmmm, was there more to this friendship than immature humor and nudity?

Oh boy, was there.

For the last twenty three years, Kevin and I have grown up together.  I can't think of one important milestone in my life that Kevin wasn't a part of.  He was there for both my weddings (and in both of them!), the births of my children, various moves, birthday celebrations, reunions, and holidays.  He has loved my children in a way that only a select few of my actual relatives have.

More telling though, were the low moments when he showed up without having to be asked.  After my dad died and I plunged into a grief unlike any I have ever experienced, he took me to New York where we went to see "Spamalot," followed by an evening in a gay piano bar in The Village.  When I was in the low days following my divorce, not only did Kevin stay on the phone with me for hours while I cried, he left work and showed up at my doorstep because he was so worried about me. Come to think of it, Kevin has loved ME in a way that only a select few of my actual relatives have.

Those moments were when I realized that even though Kevin should in no way be able to relate to my life, much less be able to have any insight into it, he gives fantastic advice.   It has been crazy fun sharing that with all of you.

Happy birthday, Kevin--you never looked better!