Blog description:The thoughts, observations and random moments of insanity (life) as seen through the eyes of a same gender loving male naturist. A little bit of humor included to add some sparkle. A tiny, gay-friendly (but inclusive), nudecentric space in this huge universe where all are welcome and encouraged to also share their respective thoughts and opinions. Totally irreverent without being hopelessly irrelevant. Be real, be honest. Get naked! Enjoy!
My blog address: http://NudistFriends.com/blog/deafqueernude
I've never been a Halloween enthusiast. As a naturist/nudist, I always abhored a costume as an instrument of concealment and conformity. It also felt foreign and strange on me. I didn't like the restriction and limitations it imposed upon me. Personally, even at the "trick or treat" age, it meant one additional layer of garments to burden my body. Why "dress up" when all I wanted is to "dress less?"
As an adult nudist, I know that there are other options available to me. However, even these seem restrictive and confining, if not uncomfortable. Hide my face, why? I've nothing to hide. I am me, naked and proud. Wear a mask, again, the same reason. body paint irritates my skin and causes a minor rash. And no way is anyone getting me into a full costume! It's bad enough that I have to be textile at work. Clothes on my own leisure time? Forget it!
Like many others, I enjoy nude social opportunities. Rather than exclude myself from naked Halloween festivities, I use accessories as opposed to a Halloween costume. Instead of hiding my nakedness (body shame?), I choose to use accessories that permit me to remain nude yet also comfort others by participating in the seasonal events.
Last year, I wore a hat. That was it. This year, my masquerade is just a pair of sunglasses over my eyes and two gay pride mini-flags, one in each hand. This year, my Halloween "disguise" is me: gay, nude and proud.
As is the case with most naturists/nudists who appreciate and enjoy the "great outdoors," summer is my favorite season of the year. It is the time for barbeques, beaches, pool parties, outside socials and sports, among other naked activities. The energy from these few months keeps me focused and positive for the remainder of the year. I live for the "lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer" (from the lyrics of the legendary Nat King Cole). That is why I work in academia, in order to keep the majority of my best time of the year free for nude pleasure. Due to a family emergency situation, I had to return home this past summer to provide assistance to my family. As the only one of my siblings who is professionally free at this time, the responsibility fell primarily to me by default. As it is family, I accepted reality and prepared myself for a summer of service rather than one of enjoyment. I resigned myself to relocating to a southern U.S.A. city where I grew up, moved back into the family home and assumed my duties of caregiver. Thankfully, my brothers appreciated my love of this season and made arrangements for me to have several hours each weekday free to do as I pleased. The family home is a bicycle ride from the unofficial "gay nude" beach that is located on a rocky spanse of a river that dissects this city. This afforded me the opportunity to revisit the playground of my teen years every afternoon (weather permitting) and to also experience social nudity among my community. The adage proved true: "There is a silver lining inside every cloud." The result of fulfilling a family obligation proved rewarding. I was able to reconnect with several nudist friends from my early teens. I've made numerous acquaintances and new friends who share my naturist lifestyle. New nude social opportunities were experienced and I even had the time to visit a nudist resort near this city (forty miles southest) several times (I'd never had the ability to do this before). Actually, truth be shared, I've probably clocked more outdoor naked time than I've enjoyed in many summers. All this with a great group of guys who were both friendly, willing to work around my caregiving obligations and supportive of my situation. Once again, proof positive that the people you meet naked are the best souls around! The family emergency has passed and is no longer critical. The experiences I enjoyed while dealing with the crisis have been more than worth the effort, sacrifice and time. On this, the last day of Summer, 2011, I am reminded of the numerous essays we had to write during elementary school: "What I Did During My Summer Holiday." Peace! Get naked!
In the Northern Hemisphere, World Nude Hiking Day coincides with the Summer Solstice, June 21, annually, the longest day of sunlight. This allows for an extended day outside savoring the delights of our natural environment. Maximum time to be naked and and outside! Before putting on the socks and hiking boots, however, there are a few considerations. Primary among them is Golden Rule of Hiking: never hike alone. Always have someone available should the unexpected happen and they need to summon help. Carry a personal first aid kit with you.
Secondly, know your trail. Be familiar with your surroundings and local laws governing public nudity/decency. These vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. You don't want your day marred by a confrontation with law enforcement officials. This is especially important on public lands. If hiking on privately-owned property, make sure you have the permission of the landlord.
As with any sport, participants should observe proper precautions to ensure peak performance. Eat a well-balanced meal before leaving for your excursion. Carry water with you and stay hydrated. Save the sodas and teas until you return home after the hike. Have snacks to maintain your energy level. Fruits are perfect as are packages of trail mix (there's a reason they're called: trail mix).
Apply sunscreen liberally before your hike. Even in shaded areas, follow this practice. UVB/UVA rays penetrate even the dense rainforest. Use topical applications to guard against ticks (lyme disease), bug bites and sumac poisoning (poison ivy, poison oak). Follow directions for appropriate use and re-apply when advised.
Get out, get nude and hike for your health and your heart!
June is historically and traditionally Gay Pride Month. Personally, in the absence of any type of Nude Pride observance, I use it as a time to reflect on what it means to be a gay and nudist man. I don't allow myself to be defined by my nakedness. Instead, I allow myself to affirm and celebrate myself through my nudity. I am proud of the man that I am.
And a part of my persona is that I am a same gender loving man. It isn't all that I am; however, it is a basic part of me. Similarly, I am more than just a nudist, yet, at the same time, I am more complex than just my nudity. My preference for being naked and socializing with other naturists essentially remains a key element of my being. Like all other aspects of my life, it helps to make me the proud man that I am. It enables me to strive towards bettering myself as a humanitarian.
I am proud of me, not just during the month of June. I am proud of me everyday of the year!
It's been quite a long time since I last published an article to my blog here. This entry is to let you all know that I am both alive and well. Currently, I'm on nakation in the aptly nicknamed "Sunshine State," Florida, USA. I'm in the final few days of a sun and fun clothes-free vacation, enjoying most of my time here, nude. For those few of you who don't know, nakation is a combination of naked+vacation: a nudist holiday!
Over the past two weeks, I've visited clothing optional public beaches and private naturist resorts throughout this region. I began with the Atlantic Ocean coast destinations and am now working on some of those located along the Gulf of Mexico coast. Thus far, the weather has been terrific and the daytime temperatures perfect for frolicking natural in nature. This isn't my first trip to Florida. I've been to some of the nudist-friendly public beaches before, especially Florida's most famous one: Haulover Beach. It is my initial time staying at some of the private nudist resort locations.
While at the public clothing-optional beaches, I've spent my time basking and socializing in the gay areas. I've made the acquaintance of many friendly and hospitable of my queer brothers, both local residents and tourists. We've passed many hours together, playing volleyball, tossing a football and swimming, among other activities. As usual, men are more relaxed and honest when free from the artificial retraints of clothing. The spirit is one of true brotherhood and equality.
For those of you who've never experienced a nakation before, I highly recommend doing so as soon as possible. It's both exhilirating and liberating. It offers the additional benefit of travelling lightly due to a reduced need for garments. I came here with just one airline carry-on therefore avoiding the checked luggage fee that the airlines now charge. Plus, who wants to take a holiday with the stress of having to constantly cover-up our natural body?
As a gay naturist/nudist, am I able to skinny dip? By definition, skinny dipping is the act of swimming naked, usually in the company of others doing the same. It also implies that just prior to swimming, or, immediately after, one is wearing clothes. Now, this is a problem for me and precisely why I wonder if I'll ever be able to skinny dip. I may not even meet the criteria.
As a confirmed nudist, generally I enter the water without having worn clothing for a couple of hours or perhaps even an entire day. When visiting a nudist resort, that time period could even extend into multiple days. As a result, do I, as a nudist, have the ability to skinny dip? Then, there is the issue of when the clothes are put back on. Sometimes, for me, that may be several hours or days after leaving the water. Given my preference for nudity, getting dressed is at the end of my list of priorities. Did I skinny dip or am I merely a naturist out for a swim?
I do have the alternative of playing nude on the beach, shore or pool deck, then get dressed, immediately strip again and dive into the water. However, that seems like a little too much work simply to be able to celebrate the fact that I skinny dipped and possess bragging rights for this accomplishment. Then there's the risk that I might get so confused and jump into the water without removing my clothes. To be honest, the two swimsuits that I own are so old they would likely disintegrate upon contact with the water. That fact, at a minimum, solves one problem. At the very least, I'm aquanude!
Now, add to the mix the idea that since a textile person gets naked in order to skinny dip, doesn't a nudist have to wear clothes in order to skinny dip? Isn't there some sort of reversal theory that enters this picture? Understand my dilemma now? This is way too much processing for my peanut brain to absorb! I surrender all claims to the honor of having skinny dipped to my textile competitors.
I think I'll chill, forget the clothes and be happy. I'll remain nude, content and allow another to wear the skinny dipping crown. This entire scenario involves too much stress for me!
Trust, there is NO one, anywhere, who is as happy to enjoy this summer season as me! Not only is this my favorite time of the of the claendar year; it is also so nice to be able to pack light for any travel destination. No hassles with the bulky and cumbersome coats, sweaters, boots, thermal underwear, etc. A day trip to a clothing-optional/nudist beach involves no more than a shirt, a pair of shorts and sandals plus a backpack with beach supplies.
The summer months offer countless opportunities for outdoor recreation. We have pool parties, barbeques/cookouts, camping, hiking, volleyball, bicycling and weeklong gatherings, just to name a few options. We are, temporarily, free from the restriction of indoor-only experiences for social nudity. This freedom, even if it is short-lived, is a refreshing change. It enables us to celebrate and enjoy our nakedness in both controlled and natural environments.
As naturists/nudists, this time of year is important to all of us. It is our brief period for relaxation and renewal. Whether it's simply reading in the solitude of nature or frenzied dancing communally, it's also our outlet for stress-release. We now have the ability and the choice to be both carefree and clothesfree in whatever setting. After all those months of dealing with conforming to community standards and wearing clothes, we can shed both the confining garments and pressures to assimilate.
World Nude Hiking Day is observed annually in the Norther Hemisphere on the Summer Solstice, June 21. In 2010, this day is on a Monday. For this reason, many clubs/groups/resorts will likely hold hiking activities the previous weekend. This is the longest day of the year and a perfect time to get outside, be kind to your heart and enjoy nature naturally.
This event is very popular in Europe but has enjoyed limited success here in the USA. This is probably due to the puritanical heritage that we have in this country. Recently, it seems it is becoming more popular with younger naturists/nudists. The challenge appears to finding locations where this can be done safely and legally.
Here are some tips/suggestions that are offered so that you may have a wonderful experieince:
Do not hike alone. Always have at least one other person with you.
Before you levae for your hike, go online and familiarize yourself with what poison ivy looks like. Avoid this plant as you enjoy your day. You don't want any unpleasant results after your hike.
Generously apply insect repellent and sunscreen. Once again, all for your comfort, both during and after your hike.
Bring along plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated.
Personal first aid kits are available for purchase. Have yours handy.
Do not offer food to any wild animals. Let Mother Nature feed them, naturally.
Dispose of all trash in an appropriate container. Please don't litter.
It's almost the Memorial Day holiday here in the USA and in the Northern Hemisphere, the thermometer temperatures are beginning to heat up! Summer is fast approaching! Scores of naked people outside enjoying the season whether poolside, at the beach, hiking or whatever. The time for us to celebrate and commune with nature, naturally.
It's important for us all to remember not to allow this period of pleasure to become a period of pain. We all need to generously apply plenty of sunscreen to ourselves from harmful UV rays. Proper application involves covering completely, waiting approximately fifteen to twenty minutes and then repeat the process. All the body is subject to absorbing UV rays, whether directly exposed or not. Sunscreen should be used both on overcast days as well as when in the shade. Please remember to reapply when necessary.
This is a time for us to enjoy and relax. None of us want to experience any undue pain or possibly cause future skin damage.
As a child and as a teen, I never experienced any problems with allergies. I was always able to do whatever outside and not suffer any of the discomforts associated with this condition. However, all of that changed drastically once I reached my mid-twenties. It seems as though overnight, I developed a severe pollen allergy that plagues me to this day.
What used to be a pleasant time of the year, Spring, now is the onset of a season of sneezing, wheezing and respiratory difficulty. Over the counter medications just don't work for me and prescription medicines are too strong and make me drowsy. The simple fact of a strool through a park is now impossible without adverse reactions.
This beautiful and colorful time of the year with it's choice of outdoor nude activities and events no longer allows me the spontineity of just getting out and doing. Now, I need to plan ahead, identify what pollens are present and decide what medicine works best in a particular situation. Sometimes, it is a logistical nightmare.
However, that challenge doesn't prevent me from getting out and enjoying the pleasures of being nude in nature. Where there is a will, I'll find a way!
Here in the Northern Hemisphere, Spring has finally arrived in all its glory! This time of year also marks the beginning of yet another season of outdoor nude events and socials that always manage to bring out the best in both ourselves and others. I know that personally, I am eager for the fun times to begin.
One of my all time favorite outdoor activities is hiking. I love walking anyway, so this is only a natural. I enjoy the experience of being natural in nature. It is a relaxing and peaceful sensation that usually is able to remove earthy cares and the remnants of stress from our lives. It is also good for our soul: allowing our bodies and minds to unite as one and rejuvenate our inner being. It also calms the anxieties that disturb our everyday lives. Somehow, what seemed so devastating in the mundane world is somewhat dwarfed by the time that we are naked in nature. It allows us a chance to prioritize what truly matters in our lives.
I welcome the Spring and look forward to many outdoor experiences, especially hiking!
Sometimes, it's simply best to make the best of a bad situation. For me, that involves finding something positive about winter. I hate the cold, the snow and the ice. It was a challenge for me to discover anything good, enjoyable and rewarding about this past winter and the excessive snowfall that we experienced here in the Washington, DC, area.
However, I did find one outdoor winter activity that I liked. Nude in the snow! I thought about it and decided to give it a try. I survived the experience and actually enjoyed myself. Not only that, I got naked in the snow several more times after my initial attempt. Would I do it again? You bet your fig leaf!
February of every year in the USA is designated Black History Month. It is the time to remember, celebrate and honor the achievements and contributions that African-Americans have made not only to American society, but, to the quality of life globally. It is an occasion to enjoy the rich culture that these individuals have shared with the world at large.
It is also appropriate to recall the hardships that this community endured from the bigotry and prejudices of others. Their struggles and challenges and triumphs are true examples of the survival of the human spirit over adversity. Happy Black History Month!
Saint Valentine's Day is universally observed to celebrate the romance and love that we as humans have towards certain people in our lives. Hearts and the image of Cupid (with bow and arrow) are the symbols of this time when we demonstrate our affection to one another. We share cards bearing these likenesses and special gifts with our friends, both intimate and platonic.
Personally, I find it refreshing that this holiday promoting something positive in our lives is reflected in the visual presentation of an innocent wielding the weapons to infuse love into the hearts, minds and souls of humans. The old Roman god of love forever depicted as a prepubescent little boy. However, this young diety exemplifies wisdom far beyond his chronological years. Cupid isn't stupid! Why? Because this Valentine celebrity is nude! That's right! Our cute little cherub is comepletely bare-assed naked! And what's more, he is proud of it and enjoying himself! A true naturist/nudist icon who gloriously promotes the splendor of nudity.
I find it ironic that even the prudish and puritanical of the human race happily exchange cards bearing our angelic naked matchmaker! It seems that Cupid's love soaked arrows are potent to those who otherwise proclaim that nude is lewd. Proof that even the coldest of human hearts and/or buttocks of steel are not immune to his mystical potions. A testament to the magical powers of innocence, love and the beauty of nudity!
So bare your buns on this Valentine's Day and allow the arrow of Cupid to send love, romance and/or friendship your way!
Happy Nude Year! Happy 2010 to all with my best wishes for a prosperous, safe, successful and, most importantly, natural year! May each of you attain all that you seek.
During this past holiday season gift-exchange, I received a present from Twin that left me awed by both its' simplicity and utility. The perfect item to give to our family and friends who share our nudecentric lifestyle: a towel specifically for the textile-free. Made of absorbent terrycloth, it measures 23x23 inches and is available in a variety of colors. I got a blue one and a purple one and Cuz received a red one and a yellow one. My twin brothers' generosity also extended to our significant others' in our lives. He gave each one a white towel. Each towel features a zippered pouch for storing keys, wallet, identification, coins, etc.
One of our naturist/nudist cultural norms (and yes, we are a distinct culture) is that we provide a personal towel for all of our social events. This product fits that criteria for both indoor and outdoor functions. Regardless of whether it's poolside, seaside, sitting on antique or contemporary furniture, a log/rock on a hike or the ground at a picnic, this towel serves the needs of our community as well as securing personal items.
Of course, we all know that this towel isn't essential to enjoying the natural life. It is, however, a novelty that provides the dual purpose of protective covering and storage. I'm not endorsing the product here but rather sharing the information.
As a naturist/nudist man, I am comfortable with my own skin. This includes the moderate amount of body hair that I have. Honestly, I wish for and would like more; however, I accept the way that I am and live my life naturally. I don't trim, shave nor alter my body's physical appearance. The exception are my pierced ears: as a Deaf man, I have to make these obvious appendages somehow useful! This post is simply expressing my own point of view. It is not my intention to offend, to judge not to dictate. I am not dismissing any of my nude brethren who practice differently. That is their respective lifestyle and I acknowledge that fact. After all, I want them to likewise endorse me being myself.
Now, I do shave my facial and head hairs. Nature is reducing the amount of head hair sooner than I'd like. In daily eliminating this growth, I am taking some measure of control over this natural slow regression. Shaving the facial hair is a traditional custom for some males that I elect to follow.
Personally, I am happy with my body. I naturally have arm, armpit, buttock, chest, leg and pubic hair. These I own as a part of me, as endowed by nature. I am simply being the man that I am. I am accepting what is bestowed upon me. Plus, I am somewhat apprehensive about having a razor, scissors or hot wax/lotion/gel anywhere near certain areas of my anatomy! The potential for disaster is all too real for me! When it involves the family jewels, I am DEAFinitely a caretaker and not a risk-taker!
If someone has a naturally hairless/smooth chest or minimal pubic hair, that's cool. Once again, in my mind, they are being exactly who they are. That is their birthright. Nothing more, nothing less.
More than a handful of men believe that removing their pubic hair appears to increase the size of their penis. That visual image may be true; however, does it actually enlarge their penis? I think not. The mental perspective may change, but what's truly protruding isn't altered in the least. Others may trim, shave or wax for reasons of culture or hygiene. Do whatever is best for you. Just remember, it isn't always universally expected to you to shave your body hair in order to be accepted.
I know that many men do shave their body hair or parts thereof. Several of my friends do this. I know some men who shave all of their body from head to toe. This is their choice and I respect their decision. If someone wants to makeover their physical appearance, that's fine. It's their individual prerogative and I support them. That's just not a viable option for me. I am proud of who I am and that includes my body hair. I waited too long to grow what I have to start shaving it off now. Please, be true to yourself. Be you and be proud of who you are.
A little seasonal salutation from me to all of you here at nudistfriends.com. Some nudecentric, festive nonsense and cheer to (hopefully) enliven your holidays and place a small grin on your chin! Glad tidings and all the best to each of you.
NAKED TREE AND ME!
This naked tree and me, we're happy as can be,
Because we are clothes free, we celebrate naturally!
You should be happy too, because this could be you,
All you have to do, is take your clothes off too!
Now is the time, to liberate body and mind,
You will feel just fine, nude this holiday time!
I've shared with you a reason, to enjoy this festive season,
For unity and group cohesion, strip for this joyous season!
Get naked with a tree, one growing naturally,
Enjoy your destiny, and a holiday memory!
As a poet, I already know, I lack the skills. Bottom line: I suck! Please forgive me. I'm simply trying to offer Season's Greetings to everyone who visits here. Happy Holidays! Peace on earth and goodwill to all! Best wishes to you for all of 2010!
Finally, yet most importantly, special shout-outs and appreciation to the great friendships I've developed during my brief time as a member here. Especially: northcoast2000 (NSW, Australia), carlos12000 (Spain), niceguytoo (California, USA) and deafnudist (Texas, USA). Thank you for your love and support. You are the best and also live proof of what nudistfriends.com is all about!
Yesterday, here in the USA, was our Thanksgiving Holiday. Soon to be followed by Christmas and New Years. I'm fairly certain that we've all had the same or at least a similar experience. Holidays equal family and as the family grows, invariably the chaos and confusion multiplies. Homes that once housed parents and children now have to provide shelter to daughter/son in-laws, grandchildren and the significant others of single children. Every nook and cranny now is the location of a cot, roll-away bed, sleeping bag, etc. Forget privacy, personal space and who's dirty sock is this?
In addition to sleeping quarters, add the business of bathroom facilities or, to be more precise, the lack of sufficient facilities. What formerly served a family unit must now accommodate an even greater number. A situation in the past was, at best, workable now requires negotiation, compromise and planning, if not a posted schedule! Harsh reality check: the body functions of grandchildren/nieces and nephews operate outside the realm of logistics! By the way, who used all the hot water?
Most of you, by now, are probably seeing the picture here. Families during the holidays, under pressure to cope with the fact that we haven't lived together, 24/7, in at least a couple of years. Next, add to the mix some new bodies and personalities. Spice that reality with the numerical increase of bodies within the same physical confines of the host dwelling. Therefore, I'll spare you the reminder about food: Where's the gallon of milk that I bought last night? The entertainment issue: May I please watch Idol/Survivor/Dancing With...? Not to forget the inevitable: Where's my missing sock from yesterday? (That damn sock will come back to haunt you every holiday)!
Families! Yes, most of us love them dearly. Dealing with our respective families during these holiday seasons can truly test those among us with the proverbial patience of Job. Preparing for the worst case scenario and then accepting the mediocre just doesn't settle well with the majority of us. Plus, for a sizable number of us, add the stress of being naturists and having to cope with all this pressure while textile. Emotionally, mentally and physically, not a pretty picture here!
Since 1998, Twin, Cuz and I have our own solution as a remedy for surviving all this madness. (The idea isn't unique, I'm sure others have used it). We reserve a hotel suite during the Thanksgiving/Christmas/Easter (especially Easter, after all, we're Greek) holidays. This practice was, initially, opposed by our parents on the basis that we were separated and apart from family. We calmly explained that we were, indeed, remaining with family. Over the years, this arrangement has reluctantly become acceptable.
We now have an opportunity to enjoy and appreciate our families in a stress-reduced environment. At the end of the day, we know that we return to a clothing-free space and relax. Free to be ourselves. Free to rejuvenate. Now, exactly where do you last remember seeing your misplaced sock that you wore yesterday?
It's barely the end of November here in the Northern Hemisphere and already I'm tired of being textile! Insult to injury is the fact that I have to start layering the despised garments in order to stay warm. Yes, I can attend naturist (indoors and heated) activities; for example, last nights' card (spades) tournament (in the home of a friend). However, I have to dress in order to reach my destination. Dress so that I can undress again to enjoy social nudity doesn't bode well with my soul! By the way, while you're disrespecting me, Mother Nature, just start reducung the amount of daylight, here. Another helluva way to improve my attitude! Go ahead, screw me over as much as you are able. Now that I've had the opportunity to vent my frustration, I feel a little better. I know that I can solve this issue by packing up and moving to a warmer climate. But, given the current economic situation, the benefits that I have with my present job and the reality that I truly like my work, this option isn't feasible. As a nudist, where clothing is concerned, I'm naturally a minimalist. Weather permitting, a pair of shorts, a belt and sandals is all that I need. If I must cover my torso, a singlet/beater/tank top suits me just fine. I'm a firm believer in the priciple of KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid). In the meantime, I'll console myself with the knowledge that in four short months, Spring will return. What must be layered now will eventually come off, completely! Once again, the fredom to be me, naturally! Get naked. Enjoy! The photo here is me on Nude Hiking Day (06/21/09)
For the past eight years or so (give or take one or two), a gay bar located in Washington, DC, has hosted Naked Cocktails on the first and third Saturday of every month from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. This nude happy hour usually attracted between 75-120 same gender loving naturists on any given Saturday. Every time, you would find a diverse crowd, representing all abilities, ages, ethnicities, races and sizes. We always had a great time enjoying the fellowship and seeing friends who belonged to a different nudist group. Regardless of weekend conflicts with other naturist activities, it was nice to know that these cocktail parties were always an option. As you can imagine, I had some terrific experiences at these events. I made some wonderful friends and was truly amazed at the interesting people that I would meet there. This particular metropolitan area has four different gay nudist organizations, so this social time was a unique way for us all to congregate under one roof. The drinks were ridiculously overpriced for a weekend afternoon (my .5L of water was $4 USD); however, we all enjoyed the fraternization and the atmosphere. All this abruptly ended after the last party on January 3, 2009. No warning, no notice, no explanation. Rumors about the demise of this venue began shortly after that date and were verified in a vaguely worded email several days prior to the third Saturday in January, 2009. No plausible reason was ever provided to the disappointed clientele. To this date, no one has offered any information as to why this happened. On the second Saturday in October, 2009, this tradition was revived at an entirely different same gender loving bar in DC. That was a three-day holiday weekend here in the USA. Unfortunately, I was out of the area on some personal business and couldn't attend. Reliable sources have informed me that 84 men were present (remarkable considering this event was not widely publicized). The one planned for the second Saturday in November (once a month schedule with the new location) was predicted to attract a greater number (including yours truly). Yesterday did not disappoint! Once again, I had a conflict (work assignment). Butt, you can bet your abandoned fig-leaf that my beautiful ASSet was there for the first hour! The crowd was jovial and friendly. Everyone present was relaxed and hanging out for fun; no posturing and no attitudes. By the time that I had to leave, there were over 100 attendees (and the party was just getting underway). It was good to see faces (well, not just faces, but the total bodies) of men that I hadn't seen since the last gathering. I've already cleared the second Saturday of the month for December and all my 2010 calendar. It's great having this tradition return to Washington, DC! Get naked. Enjoy!