The gay talk

There are milestone talks every parent has (or should have) with their children. Today, my 10-yr. old received the "gay" talk. She's been hearing the word on TV lately; the first time was a month or so ago when Margaret Cho announced that Dancing with the Stars has "gone gay."

Me to husband as we're heading out the door to go to the mall: You look like my dad dressed like that.
Husband: Oh yeah?
Me: I think if my dad were still alive today and still dressed the same way, he'd be mistaken for a well-dressed gay man.
Daughter: I heard what you said about your dad, what did you mean?

[pause, deep breath]

Me: Honey, there are men and women who are attracted to each other, like me and daddy. And then there are men who are attracted to other men.
Daughter: [giggles]
Me: And then there are women who are attracted to other women. The term "gay" refers to men who are attracted to other men, or women who are attracted to other women. The men are also referred to as homosexuals, and the women, lesbians. Some people think it's really weird, and some people think it's really wonderful, and those two groups argue about it a lot. I think as long as everyone is happy and not hurting anyone they can like whomever they want. Do you have any questions?
Daughter: OK, no. Can we go to the mall now?

...and off we went. Me, daughter, and my well-dressed husband.