I must admit after thinking and analyzing and changing my mind constantly about whether I should keep Jonathan as male, I feel a strong sense of relief that everything is out in the open! One of my fellow Dreamspinner authors commented that admitting that you write m/m romances is a bit like coming out of the closet. I feel a little like that admitting I'm female, I think. But most of all, I feel relieved and much lighter in spirit. Thank you — to those who have commented here or via email — for your support and encouragement! I do think I've made the right decision, and I hope that my readers will agree.

However, I imagine that actually coming out of the closet and admitting you're gay to friends and family is 1,000 times more difficult that what I accomplished this past week. So please do not feel that I am belittling your courage and strength. In fact, I admire you for making the decision to live your life as you want, regardless of the possible loss of your loved ones.

Frankly, I could never imagine cutting off my child to support some religion or other reason; why would you have a child if you can stop all contact like that and never look back? Since I waited until my mid-30s to get pregnant, my child is a miracle to me and I will always love her no matter what happens in her life. I want to hug every teen close to me who has to face this kind of decision and let them know that there are many of us who support you and admire your strength. I wish I could bring them all home and love them like they deserve. Well, that's the Mom in me. Sorry for that brief rant!

Cheers to me, and cheers to those who have actually come out of the closet! We straight allies love you all!