Halloween Hell

Even as kids, Twin and I both abhorred Halloween. Our older brothers for weeks would try to coax us into enthusiasm with tales of huge bags of candy treasure awaiting us. Big deal! We both still hated the prospect of going out in the cold, dark night and having to ask complete strangers for something sweet. Then, add to that fact the thought of passing others on the sidewalk wearing horrific costumes, some of them even bloody. No thanks, no way! Put on some wicked disguise for all this madness? Hell, no! We both knew from an early age that we preferred to wear less, if anything at all. A costume? Why bother?

Mom and Pop tried their best to generate excitement around this barbarism by supplying us with pumpkins to decorate and an assortment of weird clothing to choose from. That didn't work, either. Showing us the bags of treats they were providing for others and asking the two of us if we wanted the same likewise produced a negative response. With all the goodies that you're giving away to others, are we really that poor to be forced to go out and beg the same?

By the time Twin and I started the second grade, the entire Halloween ritual was a trauma from our past. That year, the family simple realized and accepted the fact that nothing would coerce us into participating in this pointless charade. Of course, the argument that since we both had to communicate trick or treat in sign language let all the neighbors know precisely who we were didn't hurt our case in the least. After all, weren't we the only Deaf twins in our neighborhood? That goes to prove: educate a young mind and you'll truly be amazed at the results.

From that year until this, Twin and I have avoided Halloween hell. During Deaf residential school and university, we attended the parties; however, never in costume. For our adult lives, the Halloween socials we've been to, whether jointly or individually, have been nude and body paint solved any disguise issue. We've been zebras, dalmatians, etc., for as long as we both can remember, except for the time that Twin was especially creative and painted himself as a tiger (he dropped a hefty dime on orange paint). Personally, as long as I can do it naked, I'm cool. Body paint is not a problem.

That is, until 2010. This weekend. This Halloween. All this old shit has returned to bite me on my ASSet. Our sweet and dearly beloved younger Cuz has always been a Halloween fanatic. This past January, he and his BF purchased a townhouse in Virginia Beach, VA. They are hosting their first Halloween party in their first home. This BIG event is Saturday night and of course, we have to be there. Cuz is very specific that everyone must be nude but with a costume of some sort. Torso, genitals and ass must be exposed and body paint alone isn't acceptable. Quite the bitch at his first ball!

Add to the mix my current beau. The man that I've shared my dreams, hopes, body and soul with for the past eight months. He's just as much a Halloween addict as Cuz. Truthfully, they were both discussing Halloween before the dawn's early light on the Fourth of July! They are both serious Halloween junkies. This only proves the fact that opposites do attract.

In order to keep peace in the family and my man's piece where we can both be happy, I've resigned myself to having to once again indulge all this Halloween bullshit. The things we endure in the name of love! My costume? Look at the picture. Me in a hat, and that's it!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Thought Day

I'm doing something today that I rarely do. I let the job know that I'm sick and will not be in. I'm using a sick day for a mental health day. Sometimes, you just need to sit back and reflect, alone with your thoughts, so that tomorrow, you'll have a better idea of where to go from here. For me, this is one of those days.

Yesterday, one of my staff members informed me that just a couple of hours before, he'd tested positive for HIV. Normally, this wouldn't have been such a big deal. However, TB, my current employee, and I have a history. It began ten years ago when he was still a high school student and I mentored an HIV teen peer education prevention group for the American Red Cross. TB was one of the first teens to take the weekend long training, became certified in the Red Cross HIV prevention education curriculum and actively participated in prevention education. He was very effective in both group presentations and street outreach education.

After graduation from high school and while attending a local college, he continued to volunteer to assist me with education and helping with the peer group. Despite his innate fear of flying, he attended the Ryan White Conference for Youth and HIV for several years. We would always laugh how he never overcame his dread of being airborne.

He's worked in my after school program now for almost five years. He still provides HIV prevention education to middle school youth at his work location using the Red Cross Act Smart curriculum (designed for specific age group youth). He continues to assist me in volunteer education for the Red Cross whenever he's available.

With the nature of our relationship, the news of his status has been a very difficult pill for me to swallow. Thus, my need for a mental health day. Now, I managed to keep it all together when he shared the test results with me. It was afterward that I lost it. It's a shame when anyone tests positive for this disease. It's poignant when an educator seroconverts.

I'll spend the day alone and work through it all. Get a new perspective and move on. Tomorrow is another day.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Bullying Awareness Update

This past Wednesday, October 20, was designated Purple Campaign/Spirit Day, in order to focus attention on the current, highly-publicized, suicides of GLBT teens as a result of bullying/harassment/intimidation. This grassroots movement grew from an initial Facebook posting in response to the rash of teen deaths. This effort marked the first time that mainstream America united in reaction to these tragedies. The reaction was overwhelming and attracted long overdue general media coverage (a medium that has virtually ignored this crisis in the past).

The support for this call for action was amazing. More than several hundred public school districts announced plans for the incorporation of anti-bullying regulations (many specifically addressing sexual orientation issues) into there zero-tolerance policies. An almost equal number of mental health/public health professionals have come forward and publicly stated that bullying is a growing concern and needs immediate attention. Scores of health practitioners have labelled it an epidemic within our society. At least, some people outside of our same gender loving community are waking up and smelling the coffee.

For years, even decades, we of the queer culture in this country have recognized this problem. Until now, we've been unsuccessful in bringing it to national attention. Currently, we have some measure of public support and it would be a shame for us to drop the ball at this time and allow this topic to quietly disappear off the radar. As an SGL man, I realize that we have a full plate before us: ENDA, DADT, gay marriage among the top items for concern. But, what about the self-destruction of our youth? As adults, do we abandon or protect them? Young lives are at risk. I hope that we don't let this momentum stall on our watch.

Parallel to the Bullying Awareness/Spirit Day activism on Facebook is the YouTube It Gets Better initiative. Thousands have posted videos with their messages of encouragement to GLBT teens. Many are from prominent pop culture celebrities. There are a few from different venues that captured the eyes of mainstream media journalists. These include President Barack Obama, current Secretary of State and former First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and Bishop Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the USA. This is the very first time that a sitting U.S. president has publicly spoken on the topic of gay youth suicide. It also occurred during the Fifth Anniversary of GLBT History Month. That, itself, is historical.

As for my efforts, the photo with this article shows my garb (yes, it was a workday and I had to be textile) for Bullying Awareness. True to my earlier promise here, I wore a purple ribbon, as did all of my staff. Most of my office co-workers did the same. I attached to each purple ribbon that I distributed to staff and co-workers a card explaining that purple on this date represented a stand against bullying and harassment of all people. My cause is an end to this type of abuse towards all.

For the past several years, the two after school recreation programs that I supervise serving 13 to 15 year old teens have offered an anti-bullying component in program offerings. This year, I have mandated that my five programs that serve youth ages 5 to 12 years old also include the anti-bullying designed for the 10 to 12 year old age group. It is apparent that this information needs to reach a younger audience. In 2011, the prevention activities for children ages 7 to 9 years will be added. Far too many have ended their lives all too soon.

Each tiny step in preventing this tragedy is a move in the right direction. If everyone helps in some way, hopefully, together, we can stop the abuse.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Nude Novice Notes: Cameras And Photos

Within our culture of nakedness, there is an understood and unwritten caution concerning cameras and photographs at nudist events. Despite the uniqueness of a particular Kodak moment and the enthusiasm of finally having the freedom to express our naturist essence, it is important to note that not everyone is thrilled about being in front of a camera. Actually, some nudist resorts, clothing-optional travel destinations and social nudity groups forbid photography completely and attach serious consequences to any infraction of this rule.

What we all need to remember is that each of us are at different levels of comfort being publicly nude. Some of us aren't as honest and open about this aspect of our lives as are others. A few of us are still experimenting with social nudity to determine if it feels right for us. Among our midst are those who are just naturally camera-shy and dislike being photographed, period. Then, there are men who choose to remain closeted and secretive about both their nudist lives and their sexuality, for whatever the reason. We are simply who and what we respectively are.

There is no universal definition of nude pride, queer pride nor for nudist comfort. That resides within each of us as individuals. In order for all of us to enjoy our naturist time together, we all follow certain principles and respecting the rights and privacy of others is one of these guidelines. This permits equal fun for everyone and no one is offended nor upset.

These courtesy rules apply to most all indoor socials, especially those held in private homes. If you want to take pictures, always consult your host and the sponsoring organization prior to the function. Most nudist social clubs have published procedures regarding this situation. When in doubt, it's always best to ask in advance. Just don't pull out your camera and expect everyone to smile.

Most nude and clothing-optional accommodations have posted policies relating to digital and photographic devices. Again, if any question remains, it's always best to ask beforehand. It isn't worth the last minute drama of a trauma.

One more note, once approval is obtained for bringing along a camera, please, think before arbitrarily beginning to take pictures of one and all. Always get permission of everyone within lens range before you take their photograph. Allow those who don't want to participate the opportunity to opt out. This way, all present have a great time.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

TGIF! Building The Future

Oh, yes! Another Friday is upon us and I am full of anticipation and excitement about this upcoming weekend! Not that I have any special social nudist activity planned for Saturday or Sunday; because, I don't. At least, not at the moment, nothing concrete. If the weather temperatures cooperate, then maybe my man-of-interest and I possibly will take a nude fall foliage hike on private property with another Deaf, queer, couple. Aside from that, nothing else looms on the horizon. Time to devote to my current love interest, AE, and me.

That, my naturist brothers, is the beauty of this time free from work. This particular weekend is the only one this entire month that we, as a couple, have almost completely to ourselves, save for the potential naked walk in nature. Neither of us have any professional nor social obligations (nudist or clothed) to attend. We, as a couple, desperately need to spend some quality time alone. Just us, together, at either his apartment or mine (naked, of course).

We appreciate, recognize and understand this need for privacy. In order for us to grow and move on together, we must have space together. If we're going to be a couple, we have to emerge and evolve as one. That connection, that evolution, that union doesn't happen by itself or overnight. It can't be produced by magic, although it is both magical and mystical. The joining of souls requires committment, communication, honesty, intimacy and sharing.

We are cognizant of this reality and are willing to take steps to ensure that it happens. We realize that we both want more than a quick fuck between the sheets (carpets, tablecloths, towels or whatever). The fast fuck may be fine; but, it ain't love and in no way equals being in love. All of us know the bottoms up/tops in ritual as being only physical satisfaction, empty and providing only temporary gratification. It is absent any emotional pleasure or reward. A good fuck is a good fuck. That's fine and momentarily, might even be all that's necessary. However, a lasting relationship needs constant effort as it is an ongoing work in progress.

My man and I want to build. We want to develop, to know and, ultimately, to grow as one. We need to further explore the "us" of being a "we." We've already created a comfortable and satisfying domestic and sexual relationship. We have achieved intellectual companionship. AE has let me know that after almost eight months of being an item, we perhaps we should start thinking about making our two households singular and ours. That, among other things, is the task at hand for us this weekend.

All of you have a great weekend, my friends! Be safe and be happy!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Mixed Message? The Answer

This billboard sign, sanctioned by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Louisville, KY, is posted within three feet of a building that abuts a public commuter parking lot. The edifice that is leased/owned or rented to a private business. This establishment caters to a clientele seeking female flesh/skin/strip entertainment. This is the marquee that hangs above the main entrance to this facility. You must be at least 18 years of age or older and provide photo identification in order to access this theater.

I'm amazed that this contradiction remained throughout the time that Cuz and I were in Louisville. Did no one else even see this mixed message? Given the current pedophilia crisis involving the Catholic Church throughout the world, I'm surprised the Archdiocese of Louisville approved the location of this advertisement. Upon graduation from a Catholic school, is all your daughter qualified to be in this lifetime is a stripper? How does this mixed message reconcile itself with the extreme and uncharitable homophobia espoused by the Vatican? Catholic girls can but the boys can't? It's okay to get done but just not by the clergy? As long as someone gives you cash it's all good?

No, I'm not Catholicphobic. I'd feel the same regardless of the faith community involved. If you are a true Roman Catholic and at peace with yourself, then be the best Catholic that you can be. That is your human right. I support that right completely. You are entitled to your individual beliefs and are free to practice your faith. I honor and respect that privilege.

I do despise, oppose and reject hypocrisy. I am a strong advocate for our youth and concerned and critical of the mixed messages that we adults send to them. Simply practice what you preach and don't be a hypocrite about it. If you want to dictate your brand of morality, then at least have the decency to have some morals. Don't be hypocritical and moralistic at the same time. It doesn't help your credibility.

Some may argue that the billboard is placed at that particular location to remind the wayward of their potential indiscretion. That's bullshit and we all know it. If that were indeed the case, then why not place it at eye-level for all to see? Regarding the urges of the flesh, do we really look to the sky for Divine Inspiration?

Peace! get naked. Enjoy!

Mixed Message?

There is something seriously wrong with this picture, both figuratively and literally! It is blatantly offering a confusing and contradictory message for all to ponder and question. Please look carefully and closely. Do you see it? If not, then take another moment and check it out again. Trust me on this, guys, it's there and in plain view. All that you need to do is pay attention and think. I've already given you a clue with my title for this article. Can you find it now?

While in Louisville, KY, earlier this month, Cuz and I both encountered this scene. We were taking a walking tour of the area adjacent to our respective hotels. At almost the exact same time, we noticed the contradiction in images and meanings. We laughed at the sight before us. Fortunately, I had my camera available as Cuz directed my photography and outlined this entry.

Neither of us know precisely how long this view survived. What we do know is that it was accessible from Tuesday, September 28 through Sunday, October 3, 2010. Obviously, most local commuters and residents were comfortable or oblivious to this scenario. How about you?

Later this week, I'll publish the answer to my question. Until then, can you find it?

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Nudity Comes To Reality TV

"The Nak'd Truth" is a new reality TV show that is being filmed at the nudist resort, Caliente, Pasco County, Florida. The site is near Tampa. The casting begins next month and the creators are looking for seven people to work at the resort for a month, nude, of course. The requirements for anyone interested in auditioning are simple: under the age of 35 and completely new to the nudist life. During the 30-day shoot their jobs will range from lifeguard to social director. After the first evening together, cast members must remain naked for the remaining 29 days.

The show's creator, Harris Solomon, was quoted in The Tampa Tribune interview, "Caliente caters to a younger clientele and that's what we're looking for." "The Nak'd Truth" is targeting the 18-49 year old audience, reality televisions most sought after demographic. Debbie Bowen, vice-president of marketing for Caliente, stated in a media release that: "We are the largest and most luxurious clothing-optional resort for young people in America and probably the only place where this series could be filmed."

Now, this is television, which is regulated by the FCC. So we all know that this means some restrictions will apply. Camera crews will film the cast from the side or from the chest up. The genital regions will be blurred. This reality nudity show will probably feature less skin than other TV offerings.

Any one interested in auditioning (remember, you must be a virgin nudist), can email the casting director at: casting@calienteresorts.com. Include a brief biography, reason why you should be included in the cast and a recent photo (nudity not required).

This story was published today in both The Miami Herald and The Tampa Tribune. Both articles are accessible online.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Queerstory Month Nudestory Man Of The Month

Walt Whitman, was born on Long Island, New York on May 31, 1819. He was primarily self-educated and never attended university. He rapidly became internationally recognized as a modern American poet when "Leaves Of Grass" was first published in 1855. At the time, the book of poems was highly censured by many because of sexual content. During his lifetime, Whitman was more popular abroad than here in the USA. He died in Camden, New Jersey on March 26, 1892.

Queerstory:

Almost all biograpthers and historians agree that Walt Whitman was either bisexual or gay. He is known to have romantic relations with at least two women during adulthood. The younger men he was involved with included Peter Doyle, Bill Duckett and Edward Carpenter. Mr. Carpenter, in 1924, described in detail his erotic life with Walt Whitman.

When Oscar Wilde visited Whitman in 1882, he wrote to a friend: "I have the kiss of Walt Whitman still on my lips."

Many journalists at the time wrote that Whitman suffered from the disease that good Christians did not discuss.

Nudestory:

Walt Whitman advocated nudity as a healthy lifestyle. Like others of his time, he frequently referred to his outdoor nudity as an air-bath. In his autobiographical memoir, "Speciman Days", he wrote an entry: A Sun Bath-Nakedness. In this article, he instructs: "Is not nakedness indecent? No, not inherently. It is your thought, your sophistication, your fear, your respectability, that is indecent. There come moods when these clothes of ours are not only too irksome to wear, but are themselves indecent."

And his observation is just as true today as it was when he wrote it. Good job, Walt Whitman! GLBT History Month 2010 Nudist Man of the Month.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Purple For Bullying Awareness

Since July, 2010, there have been four documented high school student suicides and two collegiate suicides directly resulting from peer bullying due to GLBT sexual orientation. This statistic is a national disgrace and tragedy that is finally gaining mainstream media attention. It took the desperate act of a Rutgers University student leaping to his death off a bridge to bring this serious problem into the limelight. The indifference to this issue of gay youth suicide and abuse/harassment is a sad commentary on the American journalists profession in particular and the American public in general.

As this country's queer culture, we've all known about this dilemma encountered by our same gender loving teens. Some of us are survivors of bullying. Unfortunately, the populace and its' news providers never took notice. Regrettably and sadly, the number of acts of suicide at last forced this horrific matter into public scrutiny. Now, public and private education professionals and public mental health professionals are scrambling to develop prevention curriculums and anti-bullying strategies in reaction to this situation. Once again, too little and too late.

There is a growing Facebook group that is promoting a Bullying Awareness Day. This movement is sponsoring a Purple Campaign and has designated Wednesday, October 20, 2010, as its' action date. On this day, all who support the bullying awareness initiative is encouraged to wear purple clothing (any article) as a visible demonstration of anti-bullying advocacy. Personally and professionally, I endorse this grassroots effort. I will participate. Abuse, bullying, harassment and intimidation of anyone, for whatever reason, must stop!

This proposed activity does have more than a few critics, even from our own GLBT community. Some argue that it is more reactive than proactive. Others assert that only those persons who are in the loop will understand the significance of wearing purple on this date. In other words, we're preaching to the choir. Many people believe that there just isn't enough time to inform the public-at-large about this event. A few offer that purple is an unattractive color and should be ignored for this alone. I understand all save the last of these concerns and acknowledge the validity of them all.

However, we are dealing with a public health crisis here. At last, the broader population is seeing the need to address this threat to our youth. I propose a compromise that will enable us all to be proactive and also permit an educational opportunity.

Practically all of us recognize awareness ribbons. Pink for breast cancer awareness, red for HIV/AIDS awareness, etc. This upcoming weekend, I'm buying purple ribbon and safety pins and making purple awareness ribbons. On October 20, I'll take a basket of them to the office along with a sign announcing purple is for bullying awareness. I will also personally distribute one to every staff person that I supervise (a current total of 38). I will proudly wear one myself. I invite all of you to join with me in this endeavor.

To those fortunate enough to be nude all day, there are a few alternatives for you, also. Use purple body paint to make a purple ribbon wherever you desire. Or, you may take a strip of purple ribbon and tie it around your penis as if it were a cock ring.

Please take a stand against bullying on Wednesday, October 20, 2010!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

One Nudist's Queerstory Month Pride

For most members of our community, October is GLBT History Month. Since 2006, this is the time when we honor those who have come before us, those who are living among us now, as well as ourselves. I wholeheartedly accept, embrace and own this along with the rest of our GLBT culture. I also like to personalize these opportunities in order to take them to the next level. This is my individual way of making the situation meaningful and productive.

June is GLBT Pride Month and October is our history month. Two times during the calendar year for us to pause and take pride in our past and present. I'm a part of all this and I'm cool with it. However, there's still an item of my persona that needs to be addressed and recognized here. That fact is that I am a gay nudist.

For years, the term queer was considered a pejorative label and a word of hate and spite. An unwanted and unwelcome epitaph. A tool used to cause and inflict degradation and shame. I prefer to capture and reclaim this title with both dignity and pride. It is me, it is mine and it is what and who I am. I am queer. I am not like those who despise me. And for all that, I am eternally grateful. The bigotry and ignorance of others is not appealing to me!

I'm also a naturist/nudist. I love being naked and am very honest and open about that aspect of my life. I suffer no guilt in the truth of my nudity. I enjoy every chance I have to express this part of me. The only time that I'm totally alive and free is when I'm nude. Whenever possible, I add a nudist element to every pride commemoration. In doing this, I"m making the moment personal.

What enables these concepts to work for me is the incorporation of both queer and nudity. This union allows me to keep it real. As an individual member of our broader GLBT culture, I can do this pride thing. By adjusting this celebration to suit me, I'm creating this idea that I am able to identify and feel. I have my own special place at the communal table. This is where I belong.

The combination of queer and history is queerstory. My own queer story or heritage. Similarly, join nude with history and nudestory evolves. My own nude story or heritage. Both of these labels help to define me as a person and my worldview. A queer nudist man and how I perceive the universe. This is my pride.

Each of us determines what best suits our needs and describes us. We choose according to our respective levels of comfort. We are free to decide what word fits us and to reject the ones that don't. What is most important is that with our choices we experience and feel the pride in who and what we are.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Just Rewards

All of my brothers and I are volunteer CPR/First Aid Instructor Trainers for various chapters of the American Red Cross. Two siblings (including Twin) and I hold certifications as Instructor Trainers in the HIV/AIDS Prevention Education (multiple cultural curriculums) for the same organization. For all of us, this is simply a natural progression from childhood into adulthood. Our parents instilled in us the values of safety awareness, social responsibility and community service. Being obedient sons, we followed their example and teaching.

Personally, I know that I have the sometimes annoying habit of carrying this role to the extreme. Far too many acquaintances, co-workers and friends inform me that I tend to preach rather than teach. I'm aware of this shortcoming and am trying to make amends. More than a handful of my circle have remarked that they have noticed some improvement in this arena.

Regardless, I still react strongly when I see blatant disregard of public safety. Human life is too fragile and too precious to be put at risk. Stupid is stupid, no matter what the excuse. What I experienced firsthand while driving on Interstate 64 East to Virginia Beach this past Friday morning is beyond inexcusable. So, I mount my pulpit once more.

I initially spotted this yellow Jeep, top down, in my rear view mirrors. This driver was not only frequently changing lanes; at times, this person was straddling two lanes for quite some distance. I knew, all too well, to keep an eye on this situation as this vehicle rapidly approached mine. My natural sense of caution activated and I merged to the far right hand lane in order to gain some reaction time as he got closer to me.

Too soon and too quickly for any safety considerations this fool was literally on my ass. I had his Jeep logo and grille work dead center in my mirror. I drive a Hyundai Accent and this fool is practically fucking me with his front end. All this time, I'm in the right lane for slower moving cars. WTF? Pass me and get on with your being an idiot!

After a couple of minutes of buttfucking, this moron decides to pass. As he does, he gives me the middle finger with his right hand all the while holding his cell-phone in his left and talking away. Neither hand is on his steering wheel! He's pissed at me for driving in the right hand lane and impeding his ignorance, irresponsibility and reckless endangerment of the lives of others! Was I angry? Hell, yes! But why develop an attitude? What good would come from that?

This senseless buttface continues his erratic and unsafe driving pattern. For the next twenty miles or so, we all, in every traffic lane, had to frequently apply brakes to adjust to his foolishness. This maniac was thoughtlessly risking each of our lives, not to mention his own, due to his distracted operation of a motor vehicle. All of this over one or maybe several phone conversations!

Eventually, all lanes came to a dead standstill. After perhaps five minutes, we began a slow crawling progress. It didn't take long for us to see the cause of this delay. Two state police cruisers had pulled over the yellow Jeep. A number of motorists were extending their hands with a thumbs-up gesture as they passed. Yes! Mr. Yellow Jeep Driver was receiving his just reward!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Naked October Moments

Here in the Mid-Atlantic states this weekend promises to be almost perfect! It is also a three-day holiday and I'm so thrilled about that I'm taking today off from the job and driving to spend some time with Cuz in Virginia Beach. Twin is coming from Philadelphia tonight. A naked family gathering! This is perhaps one of the last weekends where the weather and temperatures will permit outdoor nudity and we plan to take full advantage of this.

Personally, I love being nude in nature. The feel of the sun warming my body, hanging out and feeling my cock and balls bouncing between my thighs. When strolling naturally outside, I honestly believe I have an extra boost in my gait and a surge of energy throughout my being. Of course, there is the environmental benefit of having my handsome brother nudists all around me. Yes, the joys of natural social nudity! Who can ask for anything more?

Of course, I'm bringing along my camera. During the cold winter months, nothing does the soul better than to review and recapture the memories of outdoor fun in the sun. Then there's the trip to Haulover Beach in Florida during February for Twin, Cuz myself and our partners. That should help make winter just a bit more doable!

Happy Columbus Day weekend! Be safe! Be prepared! Purchase your condoms and water-based lube now, before the magical moment arrives!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Surprise!

I wasn't planning on an entry today, but I received a pleasant surprise on opening my inbox at dqn.nova@gmail.com that I wanted to share. An internet friend, RM, who lives in Trinidad and Tobago, sent me a note here. We lost contact perhaps eight years ago.

He read my blog and wanted to get in touch. I've thought about him many times but when my home PC crashed in 2002, I lost all my addresses and didn't have any other means to contact him. Of course, once I read his letter, I dashed another off to him. I look forward to our renewed friendship.

One of the benefits of blogging here. I need to ask if he's a nudist now!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Through The Eyes Of Children

Wednesday evening of last week, while in Louisville, Kentucky (see previous blog post), I accompanied Cuz to the gala opening of the Idea Festival. He teaches; but, not art. He's an amateur artist as are four of his students whom he mentors. That all had pieces that were selected for inclusion as part of this festival. The primary exhibition was housed in the Center for the Performing Arts located on Main Street in the downtown area of the city.

The particular entry that I'm offering here was showcased at one of the satellite sites for the event. This submission was featured at the 21C Museum and Hotel located midway between the principal exposition and the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. As you can see, it depicts four multicultural youth basking in their own nudity, free from inhibition and shame. It's evident that they are revelling in their collective innocence and nakedness. This display occupied prime space at the entrance to this gallery.

Their childhood enthusiasm and exuberance in their natural state is to be admired and respected. Their energy and joy in being who they are with no guilt is obvious to all who behold. At this point in their lives, they haven't yet suffered the intolerance of our puritanical legacy. These little ones are simply being themselves: children.

Now, my question for you is this: Wouldn't this world be a much better place if we could retain all the dreams, hopes and joys of our childhood? To recapture and to treasure the ability to view the world with the awe and wonder of just being alive and being ourselves. Once again to live happily, honestly and naturally; free from the burdens of deceit, distrust, hatred, judgment, materialism and prejudice.

True, as adults, we all have duties and responsibilities. I'm not advocating that we ignore those. My point is to remember to incorporate the simpler pleasures of childhood into our adulthood as well. Where is it written that our lives need to be shackled with the confining and restrictive practices of modern society? Let's live our lives for ourselves and not others. Think about it for a moment.

Sorry! Somewhere between the hotel, airport and home I lost the card with the artists name.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

October Is GLBT History Month!

Since 2006, Equality Forum has maintained www.glbthistorymonth.com in honoring the diverse and rich history of the GLBT global community. This site features images and biographies of the heroes and heroines of our same gender loving culture. During October, every day commemorates a different person and her/his connection to our history as a people. As of today, Sharon Farmer, George Eastman, George Washington Carver and Eric Alva are the 2010 honorees. Check the site daily to stay updated, current and perhaps learn something new about our heritage.

This site is ideal for educators, historians and anyone else interested in fostering diversity awareness. Also available on the website are daily videos, a weekly Trivia Challenge and, towards the end of October, a final Rainbow Challenge. Posters and other resource materials are offered as downloads.

Happy GLBT History Month, 2010!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!