A Jerry Curl review of 2011

[Editor’s note] This year I did some things, went some places, saw some shows, I met some boys, and knocked a few back at Magnum.

I built some new friendships and strengthened some old ones. I met and learned a lot from monogamous gays. They took me to Epcot, and a spirit-lifting gospel Drag brunch that “will drive you to your knees”, and made me drink Patron.

I discussed Broadway shows and acting dynasties ‘til 1am. I talked about upcoming weddings and brutal breakups. I drove drunk friends home and sober friends crazy. I listened to the excitement of others moving out or moving away-- all the while being quietly and painfully jealous.

I wrote and I sang. I played and prayed. I flirted and flounced. I asked for a lot forgiveness.

I also climbed a rock wall and took a Duck Tour. I reversed my policy on gay pride parades and went to 2 of them. I got a lot of beads for my troubles.

Jerry Curl turned 4 in relative obscurity, but I remain ever prouder. I learned the mysteries of the phonetic alphabet and the miseries of Statistics. I finally got my Mac and that IKEA bookshelf I wanted.

I collected 18 Disney Vinylmations and completed my collection of canonical Disney films. I met Mary Poppins and read through Patti Smith's life with Robert Mapplethorpe. I discovered Adele and fell in love with Roberta. I got reacquainted with Rosie O’ Donnell and the Muppets. Unfortunately, I also had to say goodbye to Amy Winehouse and Elizabeth Taylor.

I was a sailor and a pen-pal. I had an impromptu birthday party and a health scare. I had an incredible vacation in Chicago where I saw Rufus Wainwright in concert. I also saw Barry Manilow and Dolly Parton. Kylie Minogue and Lady GaGa, too.

I laughed plenty and cried rarely. I may have had my troubles with math, and monogamy, and Ann Curry… But I’m very happy to report that 2011 was a banner year in my book of tales.