ACCEPTANCE: DOES IT REALLY EXIST?

Here we go again.

A topic that some people will choose to ignore even exists. Acceptance.

Societal acceptance, acceptance among and with those you call family or friends, acceptance with coworkers, those in the community you interact with often.  Yes, there are differing variables to each group somewhat, but the overall gist is the same.  

How well do people in general actually accept those persons who are different from them?

A person may have a disability, may be missing an appendage, may have burns or scars, maybe even simply having tattoos or piercings, and that person is shunned by a majority of what's called "normal" folks.  

How does that make you feel? How does that make that PERSON feel? Ever thought about that?

We all have people we know who have different sports teams they love, friends who may be atheist, or muslim, coworkers who are obsessed with Pokemon Go etc.  You may even know people who are into things that you may have been taught are taboo or a no no. Could be BDSM, it could be uusual hair color or styles, eyebrow or nose piercings. We all understand that people are different and that that is a good thing! 

We don't have to agree with them on everything. We don't have to do what they do, go where they go, support what they support. BUT, we should be accepting.  If a person is not hurting others, or involving themselves in illegal things like being a drug dealer, a thief, beating their spouse and so on, why then are we so quick to judge and single them out?

Here's a peak into the folks I know. In my fold I have people who are lawyers, doctors, nurses, veterans, first responders, clergy, old, young, educators, musicians, bikers, felons, fathers, mothers, artists, writers and a lot of others that fall somewhere in between. OH, and I have friends who are, wait for it.....nudists.  Yep, they feel more comfortable for many different reasons being in a clothes free lifestyle. Weird, you say. Not so much. Just different. Does everyone I know accept me fully with all my issues, and uniqueness? Nope! Do most of them accept me? Yes Sir! 

Before I continue, this will be a 2 part post and here's why. The point of this post is to raise awareness of what acceptance really looks like and why it is important. My goal is to be able to share in part 2, some photos of me with some people that know me and who are accepting of MY nudist lifestyle. It is not to single anyone out, or any of that. It is simply to show that there are in fact, good people out there who will accept your differences, including being a nudist. 

Look, I get it. Nudism isn't mainstream in America like it is in Europe and elsewhere. However, with the rise of equality for all, i.e. LGBTQ, Transgender, racial equality, shouldn't nudists fit in that somewhere? I'm not saying let's vote to have everyone naked anywhere in the country 24/7. We aren't ready for that as a people. Being able to be friends with and get along with folks who practice nudism where they can, aint nothing wrong with that. lol.

I ate breakfast at one of my favorite local spots this morning.  The staff knows we well. I've been going there for years. I took a leap of faith and asked if anyone would be interested in being a part of this blog post. I explained why and a little about that topic. It was a no pretty much as the answer, but hey, if you don't ask, you don't know.  I value them as servers, cooks, and appreciate their excellent service always and I also enjoy their company. 

I'm hopeful that others will join in and help with this blog post, and I am confident others will. If they choose not to for whatever reasons, no biggie. I appreciate the consideration. 

I will be talking to more folks this coming week about being a part of the part 2 post and will be writing it as soon as it is doable.  In the meantime, hang in there, be kind\to one another, and remember, everyone is different and that is a very good thing!!

So Goeth the Gramps

 Welcome back!  

Man has it been far too long! I'll spare you the details of where I've been, what I've been doing largely, but for now...

Let me jump right in and get to writing this new post. 

As you MUST be well aware of by now having seen my previous posts, I am a nudist individual. Some of that is by choice and some of that is due to the medical need to be Au Naturale thanks to sensory processing disorder. That's neither here nor there. 

So, this past year has been most interesting. I've taken on a new venture with a friend. It is a recording studio. Since I am a long-time musician, writer, singer, and sound guy, it really made sense. We've had a couple folks come in and record with us, others come do regular jam sessions, and another few who are just very curious. Our venue is definitely atypical. We don't do that standard booth, headphones in a closet where you are isolated like a kid in time out. We have an actual live stage for bands/artists to perform on WHILE being recorded. The atmosphere is unreal and unmatched. 

The studio is great.  The only downside at this time is, wait for it, there's no dedicated heat or ac YET. We have big fans we run when it's hot, and a big wood burning stove when it's cold. Works pretty well in both extremes. But, with my health issues, on those hot hot days, I am miserable!! I've forewarned my business partner that there will come a day when I may be up in the booth naked, simply because I have to be to survive. Florida gets hot, folks. LOL. That time hasn't come just yet, but it is fast approaching. 

*Most everyone I know is aware of my life choice and how I live and why. There are a select few I keep in the dark for the time being, more for my sanity than theirs. 

At home, with friends, family, I can be me and that is a glorious situation to enjoy.  At the studio, not so much.

And, yes, I am weird, and I do weird things. Hey, I am unique!! 

Most folks love it. As some would say though, " you are nuts!"  

Also, true. Back to my storied details. 

As part of running a recording studio, you have to network, meet new folks, secure clients, and hobnob, rubbing shoulder in the community. Having a combined 95 years of experience between Tom and me doesn't hurt. 

We have been fortunate to have met some very cool people. One of my favorites, who needs to get her butt back to sing with us again soon, is Tina. Full of life, funny, talented, a bit nutso like we are, and come to find out, pretty open minded. 

Tina... Well, she loves singing most anything that female country artists sing, some rock, and EVERYTHING ELVIS.  

I swear she is addicted to the King. 

After several months of being friends and connected, discussions evolved and more about my lifestyle came into play. This past week there was some banter back and forth, gifs exchanged and what not. Come to find out, she is pretty open minded when it comes to my penchant for being naked, and is utterly hilarious with her comments, emojis and responses. Kudos!

To say that running a recording studio is all roses and candy is a total misnomer. It is work. Sweaty, long, daunting, taxing on the brain and body, and just downright awful at times. 

Do I love it? You betcha I do. It has always been my dream to either play and sing professionally or help those who do by offering my services and expertise. I am the primary go to guy when it comes to setting up the stage, gear, mics, software, sound board and all the pedal boards, inputs and other knickknacks that come with music production. I would love to have another person on board who could do a lot of that for me, but that is not an option as of yet. 

There are days when I will go into the studio venue 5 hours ahead of a band or group coming, JUST to ensure that everything is working properly, and we are sitting on go once they arrive. Add in a 4-5 hour session, and an hour or 2 of post work once they leave and that makes for a very long day.

By the time I finally roll into the driveway at home, I am beat. One of my saving graces is the ability to walk in, set my keys and wallet down and just drop trouser and all. Coffee making, dog petting, wife smooching, and then hour or so to decompress must happen. 

Like I said, my sensory issues really ramp up in the heat and humidity around this area so long busy days at the studio often times push me to the brink of what I can stand physically. 

Wearing crazy outfits 

I'm sure doesn't help matters.

But, as I did Monday,         

no outfit at all definitely helped!

Dealing with flu like symptoms the entire day was rough in itself, and the humidity, and the fever I was running. The show must go on regardless of immediate circumstances.  

The group that came Monday was one of our usual gaggle of musicians who have their own band for the most part, minus a couple folks here of late. 

It went as well as it could. Some songs done well, and a few others that need some tweaking seemed the norm for the day. 

 

We aren't perfect but man is it enjoyable. I've contemplated often, JUST how many folks would actually still come and record or jam with us IF it was stated up front, "Hey, the sound guy is likely going to be naked. That's how it is. It is our place, a private studio and venue, and you are a guest and client."

Would that even fly? Would it be possible to find musicians who wouldn't care or mind and who might even LOVE the idea and follow suit, sans suit? 

My brain in constantly running 1000 mph night and day with just such subject matter in tow. Don't even ask me my thoughts on the duck billed platypus!! LOL.  That'd take a long conversation. Needless to say, there is a niche for just about everything these days, somewhere in America. Wedding chapels for dogs, nude car washes, bedazzling your vajayjay, support groups for those obsessed with bacon, book clubs for comic books, furries, you name it. Why can't there by a niche for what works best for me? 

Legit question I'd say. Perhaps I should just bite the bullet and toss the idea out there in the community and region and see what happens. What say you?  Yes or No? I value your feedback always, and especially as it pertains to this. 

I'm still not over this flu mess, and it is getting a bit late. Be on the look out for the next post later this week.

Be well. Rest thyself mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually. Catch ya on the flip side sooner than later.

Oh, and thanks for sticking around again! You are important, and I appreciate you!

Time for tans to Fall

Summer is gone, temps are dropping drastically and those days of warmth where enjoying outside activities au natural will have to be put on hold until warmer days return again. The tans of summer days filled with sunshine and warm breezes have already begun to fade.

As nudists, most all of us enjoy the good old outdoors. Gardening, yard work, building projects, boating, fishing, sunbathing are just some of the activities we usually look forward to doing during the warm and hot months of the year. Anyone knows, clothed or not, when you are in the sun, you get some sort of a tan and once you arent in the sun as much that tan tint fades. We nudists do enjoy an all over tan, lol. So now that the fall is upon us and winter will soon be knocking on our doors, those golden tan will be totally gone, what do we do? What can nudists who are so used to the outdoors do in those colder months?

Here are just a few ideas I'd like to share. Some are obvious, and others, maybe not so much, but all are great options to keep the nudist freedom going all year long.

Whether it's just you, or you and your partner, cooking is always a great experience: (and your pets surely won't mind)

Many cities now are offering nude yoga classes. I haven't been to one because I am far too clumsy, but friends go often and always express how amazing the experience is.

How about bowling? Yep, bowling! There are far more areas out there now that have nudist groups that plan nude bowling  nights than you may think.   You still have to don those ugly shoes but, hey.

We all like to eat and eating with friends is good so how bout a nude dinner with friends? Even incorporate watching a ballgame if you like. 

You can host a board game night, craft night with the girls, guys can watch a fight on the tube, couples can get together and play canasta. 

All these ideas are inside in the warmth of the indoors but still give the golden opportunity to still be you. This is just the tip of the cold weather thwarting iceberg. No matter what you opt to do, do something! Don't let mother nature keep you all bundled up for no good reason til spring brings warm days. You are a nudist! Live like you want to. 

Don't sweat the cold days, the snow, the winds, frigid rains and losing your tan. In a few short months, hopefully, the outdoors will be a welcoming place yet again for us to enjoy. For those lucky enough to have warm days year round,  well, the rest of us envy you a wee bit.

If you're like me, to heck with the cold. I'll sunbathe and enjoy my time no matter the temps!

Just a side note: those of you who are frustrated with Facebook and all the privacy issues, the farming out of your information, content and data, there is an alternative. It's called Mewe. Come check it out. They don't own your content, your privacy is never compromised, nothing is sold to marketers, and you aren't censored and you are free to express your views and beliefs on anything. It's a great social networking forum. If you come on over, let's connect!

https://mewe.com/i/gregorythomas

And it has begun...

New Year, New you.. NOT so fast!  With every new year there are always those pesky, hard to attain resolutions a lot of people try to adhere to. Not to be a Debbie downer, but I have refrained from making resolutions. I saw a post the other day that said, " one day does not make That much of a difference. If you weren't doing it yesterday, why do you think now will be the magic answer?" Valid point I think. Anyway, new year, new resolutions. As I said, I don't make resolutions, I make plans, plans that involve action. Those are ones that have the better chance of being successful.

So, what kind of plans have I made? Glad you asked, or didn't ask.  This post will be short as my plans are relatively simple.

1. I really need a new best guy buddy. The ones I have had in past years have basically all moved on with new families, careers and have even left the area. GUYS need guys in their life. Playing sports with, watching ball games, working on cars, camping, those types of things are integral to a man's healthy mindset.  So I am already working on locating and fostering some new guy friendships this year.

2. For too long there are a couple of things that I have put off. Whether it is fear of failure or just plain lack of motivation, I need to this year take a few more risks that could benefit my future.

3. I have always been a people pleaser. I've done so to a fault, sacrificing large parts of myself, stifling my own wants and needs and choices. This year that is changing. I still love people and will do my best to help those needing it, lend a listening ear, and will still bend over backwards when push comes to shove. However, I must take more time for Me, my needs and must stop the worrying over how anything I choose to do, endorse or partake in makes others feel.

4. Last on my list, and I know this is going to sound really ridiculous, but, I want to make a point to slow down each day more and enjoy things like reading the paper or having naked coffee. There is something wonderful about being good with your own self, feeding your soul, which also means feeding your naked self. It has been proven that being naked has health benefits and there are quite a few of them. So, coffee in my natural self reading the paper or a good book? You betcha!.

If you haven't experienced loving your body yet, I highly encourage you to take the plunge. It may start with not dressing right out of the shower, laying on your bed surfing your twitter and facebook feeds. Give it a try at least once. You might surprise yourself with how amazing and natural the feeling really is.

As January is marching on with the fury of a thousand wild horses, make some plans. Get them started. Change is a good thing and especially so when they involve you becoming a better you!

Peace for 2019 and encouragement for making changes for the best you possible!

What's your Angle

Nudists like to be around other like minded people. That is just a fact. Much like footballs fans, NASCAR fans, people in the same line of work, ones having same interests like to be around others like them. Since there isn't yet laws on the books that permit public nudity in the USA as a whole, many of us nudists share our daily experiences, life events via social media. That involves chatting, posting in groups where our friends are, and yes that Does mean sharing our nude selves.

Being enthusiastic and excited to share with others, even the most seasoned nudist can forget a few things, let's call them protocols. Nudists are by and large wholesome minded, morally upstanding individuals. When making posts to social media especially, we do our best to share pics and posts that go hand in hand with a wholesome, non sexual/objectifying way. 

I thought it might be a nice idea to go over just a refresher course real quick as to how we should go about our postings.  For me, seeing something usually registers better and more long term than just being TOLD something. So, let's get started! REFRESHER 101.

Tripods are awesome. Selfie sticks are pretty great as well. When it comes to capturing our selves, our activities, we won't always have a friend there with us, so what can we do? Set up a tripod, sure. Pray out arm is long enough to use a selfie stick, sure. Prop our camera/cell against a tree, um, maybe. Like in any art form, film industry, photography in general, angles play a huge role in not only the subject matter but also the context that is trying to be portrayed.  Let's look at some examples.

To make this simpler, I'll post a number of nudist photos and in your own head, decide if it is a thumbs up (appropriate) or thumbs down (not appropriate.) Then below them all I'll weigh in on my take from being a nudist for over 25 years.

Got your opinions yet? How bout a few more.

Okay, that should be enough of the good and bad to make the point of what thing we SHOULD be posting and sharing as nudists. 

The first pic, although it does have the woman's vagina closer to the camera than other parts, I would say it is an appropriate pic. Here's why. In the context of where she is, with a selfie stick, no one there to take pic for her, that may be as far as she can reach. She also is simply enjoying her time there on what appears to be a beach. Her face is also IN the pic. 

The next 3 in that section are perfect for posting and sharing. They show activity or just a normal non sexually suggestive or objectified center in the pics. The 5th pic in the first section, you know the shot from Down below looking up the woman's body? Yes her face is visible and that's good. However, at that angle, her vaginal region is the central focus our eye naturally is drawn to. There is nothing sexual about her pic, but again, to those who are new, or do not fully understand nudism, context and all those variables, the 5th pic should not be one to post and share. 6th pic uses a selfie stick. Well shot, within arms reach but fully captures the surroundings enough that the viewer knows what is going on. 

In the 2nd set of pics, 1, 3 and 4 are fine. Number 2, def not. There is nothing wrong with a man's penis at all. It is simply another part of the body. But again, making that the focal point in the pic can send out the wrong signal. That angle should be avoided. For those who are astute, you may be saying, "um but #4 is questionable." You have a point. Let me break it down for you.  Although the way the woman is sitting, with legs spread a bit, looking at the whole picture, and it's context, we can understand that that is a normal way we sit in such a situation. Her hands are in a good place, not suggesting anything inappropriate, just posing for a pic probably taken by a friend at the beach. Yes, some would say there is a grey area. In my nudist groups I would not have a problem with that pic because I see the whole thing, the big picture if you will.

As nudists, both new in the lifestyle or seasoned nudists, it is important how we display ourselves. Bringing others on board, friends, family, co-workers, takes them understanding and embracing the wholesomeness, family friendliness of nudism. Leading by example is what works. Sure as adults we are well aware that a penis, or boobs, or vagina is just another body part. We aren't stupid or prudish. Context...that is the benchmark. What you share with another person away from a group setting, that is up to you. In ANY true, legit nudist social media group/page/platform, we should all work hard to foster the right message.  I have one more pic example I'd like to share with you.

Okay....

This woman is smiling, obviously happy in her state of undress and is showing what a normal nude female body looks like. Being it is not a totally vag shot, the lines on is it appropriate or not can be a little blurred. For most of us, I don't think we would have a huge objection to her pic. In my groups, I would likely message this lady, and ask if she had another that had less of an angle from down below. It can be a little tough trying to frame yourself when taking a pic propping your phone without aid of a tripod, selfie stick etc. It takes some trial and error. For me, if I was planning on sharing and posting some sort of pic and one like hers was in the ones I had taken, I would choose another to use.

Perhaps that's just me. You will never please everyone. That is just impossible. The old adage, better safe than sorry I think is a good one to follow. If there is any question how a pic you post may be construed or taken, just refrain. Choose wisely, and your online group experiences will not only never come into question, but will also represent all of US, in the best light possible. 

Hopefully this post has jogged your memory and reaffirmed what you are already doing.  Go enjoy your day. Enjoy your time nude as God intended, and let's keep being great advocates for normalizing nudism.

Sometimes being "naked" is what is required

This is typically a nudist centered blog. Today, there is a slight exception, a play on words if you will. This year has been among the most trying I have had to face for many many reasons. We often live our lives thinking we know somewhat of what to expect, what may be coming down the pipe and we aren't too surprised by certain outcomes. This year, I made some decisions to stand my ground, fighting for what I believed was best. Sadly, some of those things I fought so hard for, backfired right in my face.

When disappointment comes, especially out of the blue when you think it has NO right to even be there, well, that's tough to deal with and overcome. This year I've had my life turned upside down, literally. Family trouble, health issues, 2 random small fires at the house, car trouble, job upheaval, you name it. It has really pushed me to the brink. Beyond my unwelcomed problems, my poor mother has had an equally full plate to contend with. My grandmother is 94 years of age and her health has been rapidly declining this year. My mother has been her caregiver and also caregiver to my grandfather who passed away a couple of years ago. Her life has been put totally on hold for the better part of 10 years now. She stays with my grandmother a good 22 hours per day, 7 days a week, with no help, no break. She is exhausted mentally, physically, emotionally, wondering constantly, "am I doing enough." Of course she is! Days get better, then worse, then way worse with no end in sight. My mother has had to keep up a big house for the past 20 yrs since my Dad passed. It is a huge undertaking. Since moving to the current house, our old house has sat vacant. I've worked on it quite a lot this year preparing it for Mom to move there sometime in the near future. She can't or won't totally move until Grandma passes out of respect for her situation. I get that and admire her loyalty. So in addition to her big house, being caregiver, working at our old house doing things she wants to have done, my mother is spread way too thin. 

What can you expect when you are doing way too much? Exhaustion, depression, divided interests?

All of the above. There is a beauty in having expectations. Where we fail is in not knowing when it is okay to step aside and regroup, ask for help, and be willing to change our expectations. My mother is a very stubborn, prideful woman. Good hearted to a fault. She will literally kill herself trying to please and help others. I am much the same way. So back to my year. Without going into detail, I now live alone for the time being, am not working, bills are very tight, health issues still are a daily concern. Cars are both older and falling apart with daily use, dogs are having issues with health and well being. It is a mess. So what can I do about any or all of this?  Well, here is where being naked is what is required. Now you guys and gals are smart. You know that I am not referring to an actually naked state of undress, right? Ha. As much as I do live that way, I am speaking of being naked, vulnerable, susceptible to changes, humility, saying I'm sorry, welcoming positive change. 

Just as a person can by timid, shy or hesitant in literally being naked, so are we when it comes to our behavior, attitude, and accepting the need for changes. It is uncomfortable the first few times you have to do it or when you haven't had to make those type of changes and admittances in years and years. That is where I have found myself the past several months. Errors in judgment, being stagnant and resistant to opinions and ideas that were not mine, and just being a stubborn ass have haunted me. Over the past month or so, I have realized my need to make positive changes in my life. From eating better, being more active again, exercising, opening my mind and heart to new ideas/concepts, admitting wrong and failure, all of these have led to a true change in my personal demeanor. People around me have begun to notice these changes for the good and are happy along with me. 

The whole point of becoming naked in these ways, is to expand yourself beyond borders of your own making. Moving being the limitations you yourself have created over the years can and likely will expose you to new things that can truly be healing and joyous. I am there now. I've had to say I'm sorry to some people. I have had to admit I don't know it all every day. I have had to accept criticism, counsel and chastising. Now I'm not saying just bow down and take any beating that comes from people who disagree with you. Not at all! It is paramount to stand up for yourself and what you believe in. BUT at the same time, learn to recognize those who are on your side, who want you to succeed and be an even better you. Those are the people who you should be open to their wisdom and spankings.

It is perfectly okay as human being to BE wrong now and then. What you do with that is up to you. I have chosen to swallow pride and admit that I can be wrong, I have been wrong, and to work hard to improve and learn from my being wrong this year. In doing this, I have begun to relearn who I am and what is truly important. It is amazing what we can learn when we open ourselves up in a naked way emotionally, physically, psychologically, spiritually. The path ahead becomes limitless  and full of untapped potential and blessing. Just today, I was able to meet with a company representative with a company that buys homes. Within 3 hours of meeting this very educated, professional younger woman, she sent my mother a cash offer for her big house. Contract has been signed and her house will be closed on in February. The stress, delay, worry is now over for her. I could not be happier. Sure there is a sadness saying goodbye to a home with rich history, memories and decades of life within its walls, but there is also the welcoming of a new chapter to yet be written. 

Not only am I thrilled for my mother right now with this off of her plate, I am also excited for me as well. You see, mother had told me, once her house sells, she is going to pay me for our old house. So with that money, I get to shop for a new truck which I desperately need! I know, that may not be as important to some, but for me, nursing a 16 year old vehicle along is exhausting and expensive. Having reliable, nice, appropriate for my needs truck is pretty darn important. Yes, I admit, I'm a little selfish wishing I didn't have to wait another 2 months but in reality, I am very blessed she is willing to pay me for the old house. 

To wrap this post up, let me say a couple of things. I can stand bare before most people whom I trust and admit things, be totally honest and transparent. Is it always easy? Heck no it's not. But it is necessary in not only maintaining those relationships, but also in fostering, growing and allowing those relationships new opportunities to deepen. We all need people in our lives who are on our side through thick and thin. Granted some people don't have that in their life. To them I say, stay the course, remain positive and be the best you that you can be. They will come. Like in the movie The Field of Dreams, Ray was told, "if you build it they will come" and come they did. Same applies. 

No one knows what tomorrow will bring. It could be disaster or it could be unparalleled blessing. Be willing to be "naked" and open to all that life affords, the bad and the good. Attitude determines our Altitude!!  Go be well, be the real you, cast off any mask that you wear, and embrace the goodness within you and those who love you. 

Whine while the Moon Shines

For the past month or so now, my beloved bulldog has started this thing where when it gets to be bedtime, he whines and whines, pawing at me. Got a new bed and I purposely made it high enough all the dogs are not able to jump up on it. Smart huh? Gives me the room I finally need  to try and get some good sleep. Being that he is my favorite, I've been hoisting is big fat butt up on the bed most nights and he settles right in. This past 2 weeks, that isn't working anymore. Bed is high enough that he can't really jump down so after a couple of hours, he'll slide over the edge on his belly and plop to the floor, and  off he trots. In about a half hour, he's back again whining to get back up. Okay dog, I get it. Maybe you had to go pee, maybe you were thirsty.

I love all my dogs dearly and Otis especially. Tonight, it has been a non stop barrage of whining, howling and nothing I did seemed to do would make it stop. Checked his ears because he will get ear infections now and then because of his being a bulldog. They were fine. Gave him ear drops anyway as a precaution and because, heck, maybe the one ear IS bothering him. No luck. He was in bed with for maybe 10 minutes and then determined himself to get  down. Went to pick his fat ass up and lower him down and for the first time EVER, he snapped at me. Whoa! This never happens. Otis is the most laid back, docile dog on the frickin planet! Got him down and off he trotted. I went on to bed, lights out, my other two dogs sauntered in and were content to lay on their dog beds beside mine. For the next 2 and 1/2 hours all I heard was Otis whining loudly from the other end of the house.

I lay in bed praying, "Dear God fix whatever is wrong so Otis will quiet down and sleep."At the end of 2 and 1/2 hours he finally gets quiet. I should be happy right?  Well.....My brain went into overdrive thinking, Oh God he's dead! SO I get up, wander into the kitchen and there he lies on the bean bag, sawing logs. Now before you all tear me a new one and preach about why haven't I taken him to the vet, I have a lifelong friend who IS a vet. David and his wife have known me since I was  a little kid and he has  very well known Vet practice here in town. I've reached out to him and was told a few things to look at:

1. Look for any signs of trauma.. well duh

2. Check Otis' belly to see if it is supple and soft or distended. Okay, check.

3. Watch him during the day for unusual movements, limp or other signs he may have an injury. Check

4. Feel his nose.  Ya, think? 

5. Take his temperature. Check.

6. Make sure he has water etc.  They have a big self dispensing water thingy, eat on a routine, have the doggie door to come and go potty as they please. So again, check

7. Check his paw for thorns or bad irritation. That's a good one. Check

8. Keep track of when he whines and if you notice any triggers. Hmm, okay, slight check.

For the most part for a free advice giving session, I'll take it.  

Well tonight, about the time he quieted down, I had gotten on the magical world wide web looking up symptoms of his behavior. Low and behold there were a TON of sites addressing his issues! Who knew?  After wading through page after page for nearly 45 minutes, getting up to check  on him, making coffee, I was drawn to one particular topic which is older aged dogs and things they may start doing. Whining at night, pawing at you, pacing, restlessness. BINGO!! Now what is the cause I asked whimsically in my head.

Apparently older dogs can get dementia, and  also anxiety. The article pretty eloquently explained both and the criteria by which to see if that could be relevant to your dog. 

Some suggestions were of course, see your vet. Others suggested dog therapy, a doggy psychologist and what not. Okay vet I can see doing, a shrink? I don't know about that. Seems a little like hog wash to me, but won't rule it out. Fast forward a half an hour. Coffee is made, cigar lit, I walk over, bend down to love on the ole boy and he just flops on his side as if to say, "HA, hey sucker, rub my belly!" And I  do. At this point, what I am surmising is, since I am now back at work during the day for many hours, and he is not very motivated to get his lazy butt outside like his brothers, he is probably more of less ready to be awake by nightfall and wants attention from daddy. Once he gets his fill, even if that means whining like a failing water pump to do so, then he's content to go to sleep. Since I've been up over and hour now, he hasn't budged. I've been in the kitchen purposely banging around, opening and closing the back door, clinking coffee cups, spoons and hasn't roused yet. 

I am working with horses some now at the new job and they, like dogs, are like people. They all have needs psychologically, physically and emotionally. As a nudist guy, I have always found my therapy in playing music, writing songs, writing my blog posts among other things. My dog can't do any of those things. People however, can. 

We can do things to burn energy, heal our minds and inner self both of which promote therapeutic results.

We can: 

And....

And...

And...

And.. If we are needing a little less active therapy,

So, WE have a lot of options. Our pets may not. Since my work schedule is starting to normalize a little bit now, and my dogs are starting to adjust to my being gone more every day, I think it's time to make a concerted effort to spend more time with them, especially Otis in the mornings before I head off to work. Is it a guarantee that his nighttime behavior will improve or disappear, no. But it's definitely worth a shot and more fair to all of them, especially him, if he is having some anxiety at night and just needing more daddy time. So, once I get back to bed here soon and hopefully get some sleep, come morning, it's "Wake up old lazy boy, we are gonna go outside and do stuff." Unlike people, sadly, dogs are very forgiving and have the agape love that knows no end. I love that about them so so much. We as human beings can learn a great deal from their loyalty, forgiveness and unparalleled commitment to being there for us nearly all of the time. 

As you go about your day today and in the days to come, try and be a little more DOG-MINDED. Loving on people for no reason, having their back, being submissive more and less argumentative. I betcha it will make you not only a better person, but a happier one!

Go enjoy some nude time this week and refresh your mind and heart. And, if you have pets, take them with you when you can. They won't care if you're bare.

I admit it

Happy November! Fall is showing her face now and then and that makes me So happy. I love summer but the humidity and heat here in Florida can really take a toll on you. 

Alright. Let me get right to it. I ADMIT IT!  What on earth am I admitting to now? Ha, good question. I am not one to admit to a whole lot, especially if it involves me making a poor decision, not handling something well or what not. But, in this case, I'm admitting because I think it's for a good cause and purpose.  

How often do we as nudists so long to bring friends and family over to "our" side that we tend to push a bit too much? I know I am guilty. This year I made the decision to be much more vocal in my admittance of being a nudist. Those who know me locally know little about my depth of love for nudism. They know enough to call me insane, crazy and just plain nuts. There may be some truth to those labels but NOT because I am a nudist.

to bring over from one belief, view, or party to another They tried to convert us to their way of thinking.

to exchange for an equivalent 

I hate the word convert. For me, that word is such a demanding and arrogant word. Sway or convince seems much more palatable.  In my quest to expand the awareness among those I know, I have used the social media platforms much more often. Facebook we all know frowns on most everything nudist relater. Twitter is pretty darn tolerant surprisingly, and Instagram, well, they are mediocre I'll say. 

Here is the game plan I've been trying to use.

Facebook: I will make more posts that jokingly allude to things like skinny dipping, no tan lines, comments about going to the lake which is actually Hidden Lake here, our local nudist spot. I also have some nudist friends that I have added on FB and will comment on their posts more often. There are a few in my friend garage that have caught on. Some have messaged me asking, "so you're a nudist? Why?' Open door!!  A few others like my friend, we'll call her Sally, she may comment on my posts and others with some comical reply that points to my lifestyle. I think it's cute and clever. She is definitely not a participant and likely never would be, but she does accept me for who I am.

Twitter: I have only a few follows there, mostly people from high school. These are people who I either haven't seen in decades or have seen just a time or two since. The first time I posted my naked butt, man did I get quite the reactions!  But all but one has stuck around. I've also shared articles on Twitter about nudism, the wholesomeness of it and all of my followers there are supportive and accepting that hey that's just how Gregory is. I love that! I have since posted full frontal nude shots and for the most part, all are supportive.

Instagram: This is a bit more complex. I have friends on there who I know personally, have spent a lot of time with over the years, and others whom I've met through social media, a few high school friends and also two cousins as well as nudist friends from my mewe groups and others. The initial approach on Instagram was to ease everyone into the idea of me being bare and okay with that. I believe my first shot at that was a photo of my lying on the beach sans clothes with a couple of textile volleyball players in the background. Sure, you saw my bare butt but other than that, nothing too shocking. My friend Sally was the first to comment, something along the lines, "you are too crazy!" I think I commented back, "Don't knock it til you try it."  My high school people didn't say a whole lot BUT all but 2 stayed with me. As time went on, I would post things about nudism, being clothes free, body acceptance. More and more likes started to come in. Since then, having added more nudist friends, MY people have really stepped up. Got message just the other day from guy I went to school with and he said I was very brave and he loved my posts. I have just in the past month or so shared photos with my um, bat and balls blurred. Great responses. I seldom get comments or likes from all my people, but I do know they are seeing my posts and choose to stick around. That gives me hope. 

Mewe: (which is my favorite by the way)  Mewe is a very open format. They do not censor, police your posts, send the posting police running after you and they do not farm out your information to advertisers or own your content. Excellent!  So on Mewe, I do not have but maybe two local friends on there at this point. Trying to get people to either come over to mewe from Facebook or at least make an account there has not been successful, YET! On Mewe.com I have a couple of nudist groups that I have had for a couple of years. In fact one of my groups was the very first nudist group ON mewe. Since there have been a lot of groups that have followed suit. Now, on that social media, I can honestly and openly share whatever I like about nudism, my lifestyle, my daily activities and outings. It is fantastic! The interactions available are unparalleled in my book. The friends I have there are all nudist minded with the exception of one, maybe two persons. I promote mewe as often as I can without getting dinged by the FB police. The beauty there lies in the fact I can be who I am, as I am and everyone is cool with it. 

Now as far as the rest of social media or face to face encounters, I may not come right out and say, "Hey bob! Good to see you, oh by the way, I'm a nudist!" If I see an open door, sure I'll go through it boldly and proudly. I was brought up in a very conservative home and nudeness wasn't frowned upon but it darn sure wasn't endorsed either. I remember at around age 12 I got the urge to go sit in the sun nude. I told my mom I was gonna go outside. She came out a little while later, took a gander at me all sprawled out and pretty much just said, "You enjoying yourself?'  I sure was! I think at that point is when I really realized how amazing my body out in nature and the sun really was. It wasn't until after college when I got my first place that I was able to really enjoy time sunning and sitting out on my back deck.  That's not a bad thing, however, I think I would've loved much more if I had grown up as a nudist. 

My advice is this and it's simple. I think we can judge fairly well who among our friends and family will be open minded enough to not run for the hills if you tell them you are a nudist. Then there are others we automatically know will have a holy hell fit. There are those on the fence as well. Being familiar enough with your circle is the key. For those who aren't nudist or may seem to be more straight laced, drop hints in conversations. On a hot day out with them at the beach or river, say something about skinny dipping for example. It may get just a laugh or even an Are you serious?  Both are acceptable responses. You have opened the door. 

To the ones more open minded, extend an invitation to go to a resort or somewhere with you where you know you can be nude and they won't object. They may even join in! I have seen that happen. 

For a lot of people unfortunately, there is body shame, low self esteem and their own lack of acceptance of their body. For men this happens but way more so for women. To overcome that, gently remind these persons that nearly everything they see in magazines or film or tv, has been doctored, photoshopped and made to look amazing. THIS IS NOT REALITY!  Encourage them, compliment, be supportive but do not push! Forcing nudism on anyone even as a playful act will cause so much damage. My ex had a lot of self esteem issues, still does somewhat. But, doing as I have suggested worked with her. She now rarely is dressed and loves it. She isn't one who will be around a crowd and really enjoy it but she has. 

If you look for those open doors, offer opportunities, encourage, educate and inform people whether they be friends, family or perfect strangers, differences can be made. True, none of your people in your circle may even lose their clothes even for a day, let alone come over to our side. That's okay. Having them accept us as we are, respect us, that is paramount. To those who abandon us and leave the fold, that's okay too. Some people are so deeply set it their ways and have been brainwashed by the media, religious beliefs etc. that they will never realize the wholesome joy of nudism. Let them be. They know where you are and who you are. The ones who truly love you, will one day fully accept you. My people have and I am so so thankful.

No matter what you do, just be you. People always appreciate real people who do not hide behind masks and pretend just to satisfy another person or group. Be true to you!  As you head out tomorrow, hold your head high and be confident in your nudist lifestyle. There's not a better way to be.