Yes, it is quite odd and damaging! There are so many better things to focus on.

I loved that guy in his tutu. Really cracked me up.

Even though this happened over 3 years ago, it is still hard. He was definitely the hardest grief I’ve experienced. I couldn’t keep completely losing it in front of Tigger so sometimes when I knew I needed to absolutely bawl and not have to worry about triggering his sadness, I’d step in the shower and lose it. He was a one of a kind pup.

You also almost had me in tears about Pepe. At the same time this isn’t really saying much since I’d definitely be the first to cry over being out of beer, not because I like beer, but because I cry over almost everything! Regardless, it was still very touching.

When (or if) I have a son one day, I want them to know and be every one of these!

Glad you enjoyed it and got some good laughs, too. Definitely planning on more Negroni writing.

I’m with you, Adam. In fact, it has even bugged me in the past when gay friends would call me “girlfriend” or something. I have a female friend who used to call me that and “sister,” and it just grated on my nerves (and I knew they weren’t meaning it to be mean or offensive). Just because I like guys doesn’t make me a girl!

Definitely seeing a good trend that way. And kids are speaking up which I love even more! I see some stores getting away from gender-specific toy aisles as well which is a great start.

Thanks!

It definitely is strong in North America. I see it all the time on Facebook. A guy will be joking and have a “girlie” shirt on or expression, and his friends will comment “gay” and so on. Aussie men are definitely not as hung up as North American men in terms of putting their arm around you or something, but there definitely is that unstated atmosphere of being “a proper bloke.”

Thanks for the great compliment, too!