The Boy Years

By Lian Brook-Tyler

I contemplated long and hard about sharing this photo I found yesterday because it’s one from my “boy” years (edit: it was for about 10 years, not just a short phase) when I was repelled by anything that seemed girly or feminine, which I’ve spoken about but haven’t ever shared photographic evidence of.

I notice it feels strangely vulnerable to do so.

I look like a total blend of my son and my daughter.

And I absolutely ADORE #throwbackthursday, it appeals to the autistic ritual-loving, day-theming part of me. I only have two days of the week without a defined theme/vibe - Tuesday and Thursday - so I especially appreciate that Thursday does at least have this focus!

All of which have provoked some interesting conversation with my family over dinner tonight, including…

“…but you can tell your face is a girl’s.” (Apparently not given I was frequently mistaken for a boy).

“Just don’t share it if you don’t feel comfortable with it.” (That isn’t often the right place to make decisions from.)

So I said I would share it and also share this background.

“Why?”

I guess it’s just what feels right.

So here I am.

Bless my heart.