Constant Friends: Richard (Clothed) & Robert (Naked)

As I contemplate my journey of living as a nudist and the individuals that have crossed my path, my thoughts turn to those who are constants in my life, but hold more of an "every day" significance rather than being new to the nudist lifestyle. A diverse mix of clothed and naked individuals who have entered my life for various reasons.

Richard and I have been close friends for almost two decades. We've been through many ups and downs together, supporting each other as genuine individuals. We first met through mutual friends and quickly bonded over our love of traditional values and family. During our initial social encounter, I casually mentioned that I am a nudist, much like my usual habit of sharing personal information about myself. Richard chuckled nervously and gave me a look of disbelief. However, we always have plenty to talk about, so I eventually invited him over to hang out and have a glass of wine. I made sure to reiterate that I prefer to be nude in my own home and asked if he was comfortable with that. He replied without hesitation that it was fine, though I could tell he still thought I was joking.

He showed up at my door wearing heavy layers of winter clothing as it was a bitterly cold winter evening. I opened the door, clad in nothing but slippers, and his eyes widened in surprise as if he couldn't believe I was actually a nudist. As I took his winter wear to hang it up, his frozen boots clunked heavily against the floor. Our eyes locked for a moment before I broke the tension with a friendly hug. But as our bodies touched, I couldn't help but shiver at the icy chill emanating from his clothes. He laughed as I exclaimed about his freezing hands and asked if I wasn't cold myself. We both chuckled as I handed him a glass of wine. Sitting on the couch, we bantered back and forth effortlessly, aided by the warmth of the wine.

Richard confessed that he initially thought I was kidding when I suggested being naked, but he also expressed admiration for my confidence. I thanked him for keeping an open mind and being willing to try something new. He admitted feeling unsure of where to direct his gaze or if he should look away altogether. It wasn't awkward, but I could understand how it might be intimidating for someone not used to seeing naked people. I assured him that he could still look at my face, and that I wasn't ashamed of my body. Our conversation about naturism was insightful, with Richard asking thoughtful questions. Despite being ten years younger and towering over me at 6 feet tall, he shared his own insecurities about his body and said he could never be nude in front of others. We talked about nudism, body positivity, and self-acceptance, and our conversation continued for hours on various topics like family and life. As we said goodbye for the night, Richard gave me a hug and looked at me curiously. He remarked that while his eyes had seen me completely naked earlier, now I didn't seem so naked anymore. This compliment meant a lot to me - it showed that he had seen the real me beyond just my physical appearance.

As our friendship flourished, so did the amazing years. The only noticeable distinction between us was our attire; I preferred to be nude while he chose to wear clothes. But it didn't matter to either of us. We accepted each other just as we were. Whether we were in my home or his (when appropriate), or even during our travels, I felt at ease being nude and he never questioned it. In a world full of judgement and criticism, finding a friend who accepts you for who you are is a precious rarity. To have someone love you unconditionally, without any expectations or conditions, is a gift beyond measure. And in the realm of textiles, where perfection and beauty are often the only measure of worth, this kind of friendship is nothing short of miraculous. 

My friendship with Robert was a wonderful surprise. We first connected in a music forum, not realizing we both had an interest in nudism. Despite living in different states and being a few years apart in age, we found common ground through our love of concerts, artists, and specific bands. We exchanged emails and photos of our travels, getting to know each other clothed before speaking on the phone. One day, during the era of flip phones, Robert texted me while he was in town for business and suggested meeting for dinner. We hit it off immediately and realized we had become friends. It was his first time in my state, so we discussed places he should visit while he was here. On a whim, I invited him to stay at my place for the weekend since his company wouldn't cover a hotel if it wasn't business-related. He accepted, and we spent a great weekend exploring together. However, there was a surprise coming!

Despite never having discussed it before, I knew I would broach the topic of nudism with Robert. As he arrived at my house, I led him on a tour and showed him to his room. As I went to prepare dinner, Robert appeared with a book in his hand - one that I recognized as belonging on the shelf in my guest bedroom, a guide to nude beaches. My heart raced as he asked if it was mine and if I had ever been to a nude beach. With a smile, I replied that there are no better kinds and let out a laugh. To my shock, Robert laughed along and revealed that we have something in common - he is a nudist too! We exchanged hesitant glances before mumbling about what we should do next, both secretly wondering if we should shed these restricting clothes. And just like that, two naked bodies stood in my kitchen (a sight not uncommon in my kitchen, but certainly not anticipated or planned for this day!). Scrambling for some towels to sit on, I served dinner as we sat in our natural state, feeling liberated and connected in ways we could have never imagined before.

As we relaxed and listened to our favorite music after dinner, I asked Robert a hypothetical question: would he rather spend Saturday at tourist traps or sunbathing nude at one of my favorite legal skinny dipping lakes. He gave me a playful wink and said, "I think you already know the answer!" That night, I went to bed feeling happy that my new friend was also a nudist. The next morning, as Robert stumbled into the kitchen in search of coffee, he confirmed my suspicions by being completely naked (and I was too). We spent the day with about 60 other like-minded individuals at the lake, soaking up the sun, swimming, chatting, and still listening to music which had brought us together in the first place. It was an unexpected but amazing weekend, and I made a new nudist friend in the most unlikely way.

We are still friends. We take trips that require clothes and plenty that don’t. Robert is a blessing in my life.

FAQ: A Few More Frequent Questions I Get

What is the reason behind many nudists choosing to shave or wax their pubic hair and other body hair? Do you have a personal preference on this matter?

The decision on whether to shave or not is not limited to nudists alone. It's not always easy to tell if someone shaves or not unless they disclose it, unless they are a nudist and you see them in their natural state. Many non-nudists also choose to remove their pubic hair. However, being a nudist does not require one to remove or keep their pubic hair; it is a personal preference and everyone should do what makes them feel most comfortable. In my years of experience as a nudist, I have encountered both shaved and unshaved individuals within the community. Personally, I find shaving to be a time-consuming process. In the warmer months, I prefer to be without pubic hair for a cooler feeling, while in the colder months I usually keep it for warmth. Some may feel more liberated without pubic hair, and this sentiment has been echoed by other nudists as well.

Do men visibly show excitement? I have concerns about getting an erection. Have you ever experienced this?

This question is often asked, and it's a valid one that deserves an answer. The short answer is: not very often. And when it does happen, there are simple solutions like putting on a towel or turning over, or taking a quick dip in the water. Nudity in social settings is not inherently sexual.

For me personally, I was nervous about the possibility of getting an erection. Did it happen? Yes, but it was only for a split second when I first tried social nudity. This was mostly due to societal conditioning that taught me to always be clothed except for bathing and sex. But beyond that initial moment, it felt amazing to be nude outdoors and my whole body, skin, and soul were overwhelmed with new sensations. However, this excitement quickly faded and it became completely normal for me to be nude in a social setting. It also helped that I had an experienced nudist friend with me who helped ease my nerves and guide me through these new experiences. That being said, erections should never be shamed or embarrassed and men should act appropriately should it occur in a social setting.

To get more comfortable with social nudity, I always recommend starting at home by doing typical activities while nude. In about 5-10 minutes, you'll feel completely natural and at ease with your own body. And not to mention, it's a special experience that everyone should try at least once in their lives.

Have you ever unexpectedly encountered someone you knew at a nudist resort or event? Was it uncomfortable?

After years of being socially nude and visiting various resorts and legal nude areas, it was bound to happen: I ran into someone I knew! It wasn't awkward at all; in fact, it was quite a pleasant surprise. And don't forget, they're there for the same reason as you - because they enjoy social nudity. I arrived at a resort and made my way to the pool area, finding a chair and arranging my towel. Out of the corner of my eye, I thought I recognized someone, but didn't think much of it. Then, I heard my name being called and turned to see my barber standing there completely naked! We both chuckled and exchanged the usual "I had no idea you came here!" comments. He asked if it was weird seeing each other naked, to which I replied with another chuckle that it wasn't really weird at all. We ended up moving our chairs closer together and having a lengthy conversation about our experiences as nudists - where we've been, where we want to go next. The next time he cut my hair, we briefly discussed what it was like running into each other at a nudist resort again before diving into more nudist-related topics. Over the years, we have even traveled together and coincidentally ended up at the same nudist destinations without planning it.

What’s the difference between clothing-optional and nude mandatory nudist venues?

There is a subtle yet important distinction between these two types of venues. Clothing-optional destinations allow visitors to stay clothed, understanding that some may need time to adjust to the concept of social nudism. However, in the pool area, nudity is often expected. Personally, I have found that once you experience swimming naked, you will never want to go back to wearing a soggy swimsuit again. On the other hand, at nude mandatory venues, being naked is required. It can be helpful to contact a venue ahead of time to clarify their policies regarding nudity.

Personally, I can appreciate both types of venues. For someone new to naturism, a clothing optional resort may provide a more comfortable introduction. After all, we were all beginners at some point. However, for me, I prefer nude mandatory destinations. I want to be naked and expect to see others around me embracing their natural state as well. There have been instances when I arrived at a destination only to find the majority of people still dressed. To me, it feels unnatural and out of place. Of course, there are practical considerations such as whether or the type of work one may be doing that may require clothing at times as well. I never quite understand checking into a nudist venue with a suitcase of clothes. I wear one outfit in, take it off, wash it, and never think of it again till the day I leave. 

I have been embracing nudity at home for some time now and am curious about trying social nudity. However, I am self-conscious about my body and worry that people will stare. How do you cope with potential judgment from others?

I understand. I used to worry about the appearance of my body, which is on the chubbier side, and about people staring at me. But being a nudist isn't about how your body looks; it's about embracing and accepting your body as it is. Genuine naturists won't judge you based on your shape or size; they see you as a complete person. When going to a nudist venue, it's important to remember that no one wants to be judged. The whole purpose of being nude in a safe environment is to strip away societal expectations and feel comfortable in your own natural skin. That's the key point here. Nudist spaces are nonsexual and provide a safe space for everyone. If anyone behaves inappropriately, don't hesitate to report it to the management of the nudist venue. They want to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and respected. They are there to help if any issues arise. 

Nudist Friends Giving Celebration

On this holiday of gratitude and feasting, I want to extend my well wishes to all of my followers who celebrate Thanksgiving (and I certainly do). For those who do not, I wish you a joyful and carefree day! Personally, I will be spending the holiday with fellow nudist friends whom I haven't seen in a while. They live about three hours away, so instead of dealing with heavy traffic and long lines, I will make the journey early in the morning. This will also give me time to prepare some dishes that are easy to transport (and naturally, made by yours truly!).

One of the things I love most about Thanksgiving is spending time with family, or in my case, a "Friends Giving." But for me, it's not just any Friends Giving, it's a nudist gathering! One of the perks of being a nudist is not having to pack unnecessary clothes for events like this - just a robe in case it gets chilly. My Nudist Friends Giving is always drama-free and doesn't require much travel. And the best part? No uncomfortable clothing or need to loosen my belt after indulging in all the delicious food prepared by my friends.

Some people have asked me what nudists do for Thanksgiving. To me, it's pretty obvious. Instead of wearing clothes, we may wear a towel or robe if it's chilly, but we celebrate the holiday just like any other family - whether biological or extended! We gather around a table full of traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, and various vegetables. We take a moment to give thanks for all that we are grateful for in our lives. And after indulging in a delicious meal, there are usually naps, football games to watch, and maybe even a friendly board game competition (although I am not very skilled at winning, both in board games or wearing clothes!).

As a child, I delighted in breaking the wishbone of the turkey as part of our holiday festivities. This unique bone is attached to the breast meat of the turkey and becomes dry and brittle after the meat has been removed. Two lucky individuals each take hold of one end and make a wish before pulling. The person who ends up with the larger piece receives their wish! My wish, year after year, is to shed societal expectations and be free from superficial appearances. Additionally, I extend my wish to all of you for a safe and joyous holiday spent with your loved ones. I am grateful for my family and all those who follow my blog.

Wishing you all a joyful Thanksgiving, Friends Giving, or Nude Day wherever and however you are celebrating! And as a final note, if you plan on tackling the Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales, don't waste your money on unnecessary clothes. You're already awesome as you are! Also, safe travels to those on the road or in the air!

Skinny Dipping, Etc.: Will

I mentioned Will in a previous post where I talked about my experience participating in the World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR) in the summer of 2007. Along with my friend Ray, Will was one of the first people to introduce me to social nudity and became a mentor and friend. We initially connected through an online nudist community and bonded over our love of being naked. Together, we have visited various legal nude locations and resorts, including my first WNBR event.

For the past 22 years, Will and I have been close friends. We first met when I was 34 and he was 29, a five-year age difference between us. Will had already been exploring various nudist activities for a few years before we met online. He chuckled, reminiscing about his childhood. "My poor mother was constantly struggling to keep clothes on me," he admitted with a wry smile. From the moment he could walk, he had been tearing off his clothes and running wild through the house, much to his mother's exasperation. Even now, as an adult, he can't resist the urge to shed his layers and feel the sun on his skin. It was just a part of who he was.

Despite living in different states, about 2.5 hours apart, we connected through online chats, emails, phone calls, and texts. Eventually, we decided it was time to meet in person. I booked a hotel near him and he planned to take me to one of his favorite legal nude swimming spots. We arranged to meet at my hotel and travel together to the swimming hole nearby.

After arriving at my hotel, we greeted each other warmly and it was clear from the start that we would become fast friends. We chatted for about half an hour before deciding to embark on our "skinny dipping adventure." Will drove us to the spot, we parked, and then began our short walk to the water. While we had seen pictures of each other naked, this was the first time we would be together bare in person. I was initially nervous about being naked in front of someone else, but Will sensed this and reassured me that everything would be fine. And it was.

As we continued along the path, signs started popping up declaring that from this point forward, we would encounter nude individuals. And sure enough, as we rounded a bend, we saw them – people of all shapes and sizes, basking in the warm sun with nothing but their bare skin. Some were lounging on towels, others splashing around in the water, and still more enjoying a relaxing picnic. At that moment, I knew deep down inside that these were my people and I was meant to be among them, naked and free. With Will by my side, we found a secluded spot and spread out our towels. As the time came for us to shed our clothes, we watched each other intently while undressing. I couldn't help but let out a nervous chuckle as I crouched low to the ground – it was such a new and freeing experience to be fully exposed outdoors and in front of others! But as I took in the scene around me, I noticed something incredible – everyone else was just as naked and carefree as me. No one batted an eye or made any remarks about my nudity. In fact, it seemed like it was expected and embraced here at this beach where being nude was the norm. It was a liberating feeling to be part of this community of naked individuals, all enjoying themselves without a care in the world.

Will's beaming smile lit up his face as he chuckled and pulled me to my feet. My new hairy, nudist friend stood before me, his own bare body unashamed and confident in its nakedness. "See?" he said, gesturing between us. "We look exactly alike naked! There is no need to hide your body. You look great, although maybe you need some sun on your pale skin." I couldn't help but laugh at his carefree attitude and the way he embraced his nudity. In that moment, I shed all of my insecurities and stepped into the freedom of being a happy nude person. The cool grass tickled my feet and the warm summer breeze caressed my bare skin, making me feel truly alive. Will and I shared a mischievous grin as we looked at each other, both daring the other to dive into the inviting water. And without hesitation, we did, splashing and laughing like two carefree children playing in the lake under the warm sun. It was a moment of pure joy and liberation that I would never forget.

Under the warm sun, my friend and I spent a delightful afternoon basking in our own natural skin. But as the hours passed, that all too familiar feeling of dread crept in - the knowledge that we would soon have to put on our clothes and hide who we truly are. Tucking away our identities, we made our way back to my hotel where I suggested grabbing a pizza and having him join me for dinner. As we entered my room, the silence between us spoke volumes as we shed our garments and settled onto the couch to watch a movie. The smell of hot cheese and tomato sauce from our delicious pizza filled the air as we sipped on glasses of wine, feeling content in each other's company. In this moment, there was no need for pretense or shame - just pure, unadulterated freedom and acceptance. As the evening came to an end, Will got dressed and prepared to head back to his own house. In contrast, I would wait until the next morning before getting dressed and leaving. We said our goodbyes with a warm hug and a smile, both knowing that we would be spending plenty of time together without any clothes on.

The next morning, I woke up early with a plan to make a trip to my new skinny dipping spot before heading home. Before starting the journey, I stopped at a convenience store to grab a quick coffee and breakfast. Following the same path Will and I had taken the day before, but with one small change. As soon as I reached the sign that said it was okay to be in the nude, I stripped down and continued on my way. Once I found a suitable spot, I laid out my towel and enjoyed my coffee while watching the sunrise over the lake in all my natural glory. Other people eventually arrived, but I felt completely comfortable talking and socializing with them as if I had been coming here for years.

Will and I make a point to visit various resorts, join in on the World Naked Bike Ride events, and indulge in weekend marathon sessions of binge-watching our favorite series while in the nude. It's become a tradition for us, one that brings endless laughter as we realize just how many times we've seen each other naked compared to clothed. Our bodies have become so familiar to one another, comfortable and unashamed in their natural state. It's a bond that goes beyond friendship, and we revel in the freedom and closeness it brings.

More Naked Personal Experiences: Q&A

As a nudist, how do you define and embody the concept of body positivity? How does this mindset influence your views on nudity and self-acceptance in a society that often promotes unrealistic beauty standards?

In all simplicity, every single body is a masterpiece in its own unique way, perfectly imperfect for the beauty of social nudity. Nudists not only understand, but fully appreciate and accept this fact. I have seen my own body go through various changes over the years - from being skinny to gaining a little weight, developing scars from battles fought, and even feeling self-conscious about having a foreskin when most men in this country are circumcised. But in the nudist community, these things do not matter. People are welcomed just as they are, with open arms and hearts. Through my research, I have come across several papers that confirm how communal and social nudity can significantly decrease anxiety about one's body image and ultimately lead to a deeper appreciation for our own natural state of nakedness. No one should ever be made to feel ashamed or bad about their naked body. Not now, not ever.

I love hearing about your journey to becoming a self-assured nudist and the relationships you've formed along the way. How old were you when you first realized you were a nudist?

I have proudly embraced the nudist lifestyle for 38 years. Unlike many, I did not grow up in a prudish household. However, like most teenagers, I went through a challenging period of self-consciousness about my body during puberty. But even during this time, I found joy in being naked. As soon as I could, I shed my pajamas at night and slept in the freedom of my own skin. When left alone at home, I would revel in the simple pleasure of spending a day completely nude. Looking back, it almost feels like I was born a nudist, always drawn to the natural state of being bare. However, my true journey as a nudist began in college when I had more resources and independence to make my own decisions. From that moment on, there was no denying that being naked brought me immense happiness and fulfillment.

Do you truly remain unclothed in your household at all times? Is that practical or even possible? How do you handle non-nudist visitors who may be uncomfortable with the idea?

For me, home is where I feel most comfortable, often in a state of nudity. My living situation allows for a flat monthly fee for heating and cooling, so I don't need clothes to stay comfortable. When I do decide to dress, I am reminded of the constriction and confinement that comes with it. But being unclothed allows me to fully appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the human body. Of course, there are times when protective clothing is necessary, such as during certain tasks or in colder temperatures.

I have never forced anyone to join me in my preference for nudity. In fact, while at home, I remain nude even when visitors come by. This makes some uncomfortable and they choose not to visit, but most have grown accustomed to it after some explanation. My hope is that nudity will one day be normalized, but until then, I make sure to follow all public decency laws and only appear nude within the confines of my own home. I always tell people that being naked in front of them makes me more vulnerable than them. For me, being clothed inside my own space is the exception rather than the rule - I estimate that I am nude about 97% of the time.

How do you go about sharing your preference for living as a nudist with others?

I embrace my naturist lifestyle, though it wasn't always easy to do so. Whether chatting with friends or engaging in debates with strangers, I don't try to hide that I am a nudist, choosing to live without the confines of clothing each day. This brings me peace and assurance, and I hope to inspire others who are curious about this way of life. As I bask in the sun and feel the freedom of being naked, I know that this is where I belong.

What is your favorite thing to do nude?

There are endless possibilities for enjoying life while being in the nude. One of my personal favorites is swimming without the burden of a soggy, wet bathing suit. And there's nothing quite like savoring that first cup of morning coffee nude in complete silence and freedom. However, I've found that almost any activity can be enhanced by doing it in the nude.

Have you ever found yourself in an awkward and exposed moment?

I suppose the very first time I went socially nude, it felt strange and new. But after 5-10 minutes, it became normal and there was no turning back.

Though not exactly embarrassing, there have been times when I completely forgot that I was naked. In my old townhouse, I often left the garage door open and would casually walk in and out of the house without realizing that anyone passing by could see me. And in my apartment, I once made a trip down the hall to take out my recycling without any clothes on before suddenly remembering my state of undress when I returned to my unit. But luckily, I never ran into anyone or received any complaints.

CMNM Friendship: Eric

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Naked Musings: Bernie

My journey into nudism would not be complete without mentioning my friend Bernie. When we first crossed paths, Bernie was 49 and I was 36 years old, making us 13 years apart in age. We originally connected on a few nudist websites and quickly became close friends. It seemed every time we logged onto one of these sites, we would coincidentally bump into each other while both being nude. Bernie lived in a town near mine, making it easy for us to hang out together without clothes on. He had been a nudist for much longer than I had and shared many insights about the lifestyle with me. I noticed that despite some sadness in his life, being a nudist helped him cope and find happiness. In fact, he took great pleasure in being able to freely roam around naked. Bernie also knew my mutual nudist friend Scott and the three of us often spent time together enjoying each other's company in the nude. Unfortunately, Bernie has since passed away, but his memory lives on through our shared experiences as nudists.

After getting to know each other online, I invited Bernie to hang out at my house. Before he arrived, I asked if he was okay with me being nude and he was fine with it. I don't intentionally shock people by answering the door nude; rather, I prefer to greet fellow nudists as my true self. For some reason, I can't remember why exactly, Bernie didn't take off his clothes when he first arrived. We had already seen each other naked multiple times through our online interactions, so I assumed it was more of a safety precaution since this was our first in-person meeting. I would never pressure someone to get undressed, and I was perfectly fine with Bernie respecting my choice to be nude.

When Bernie knocked on my door at the agreed upon time, I answered it in all my naked glory and welcomed him in. We exchanged a handshake and hug before settling down at my dining room table to look at some photos of me that I had taken with my new digital camera. As we chatted, I mentioned how I wished I had more outdoor nude photos like the ones we had seen on nudist sites we both belonged to. Bernie offered to help and said he knew a private place where he walked his dogs that would be perfect for taking some pictures. Excited about the opportunity, I hoped we could arrange a time to do so. Just then, Bernie stood up and casually removed his t-shirt and shorts, now sitting next to me fully nude and relaxed. Our new friendship as naked companions was beginning, and from this point on, we rarely saw each other clothed for the next 15 years!

As our online nude chats continued, Bernie and I grew closer, relishing in each other's virtual companionship. One warm fall day, as we were chatting, Bernie remembered his promise to help me with some outdoor nude photos and suggested that I come over. Concerned about the legality of taking nude photos in a non-designated area, I voiced my worries to Bernie. But he reassured me that he often walked his dogs there without ever encountering another person. So, I threw on a sweatshirt and shorts for the short drive to Bernie's house. When Bernie greeted me at the door, he was dressed and ready for our hike through public areas to reach our chosen photo location. We chatted as we hiked through the serene woods, catching up on each other's daily lives. After about 15 minutes, we arrived at a clearing surrounded by towering power lines. I pulled out my digital camera and gave Bernie a quick lesson on how to use it. Until this point, I had taken all my nude photos using a self-timer. But now, with a photographer by my side, it felt easier and more natural. Still, before undressing, I asked Bernie one last time if it was safe to be nude here and reminded him to keep an eye out for anyone approaching. We both shared a laugh at the thought of getting arrested for simple nudity. Despite any lingering nerves or concerns, I trusted Bernie completely and knew that this experience would only bring us closer together. 

With a contented sigh, I stepped away from Bernie and began to shed my clothes. The soft fabric of my sweatshirt slipped off my shoulders, followed by my shorts and sneakers, until I stood before him completely bare. But there was never any discomfort or awkwardness between us. We chatted easily as I undressed, my camera clicking away to capture the beauty of nature reflected in my nude form. The autumn foliage provided a stunning backdrop for our impromptu photo shoot. The vibrant colors of the leaves contrasted against my pale skin, creating a breathtaking image. With each click of the camera, I felt more at peace, more connected with the world around me. We wandered through the clearing and into the woods, Bernie capturing every moment on digital media. The way he saw me through the lens made me feel confident and beautiful. For thirty glorious minutes, I embraced my natural state and reveled in the freedom it brought. But eventually, it was time to put clothes back on for the public hike back to Bernie's home. As I reluctantly dressed, I couldn't help but feel deflated. The simple act of covering up my body suddenly felt like a burden compared to the blissful moments spent nude in nature. Bernie must have sensed my sadness because he pulled me into a warm hug and reassured me that he understood. 

We made our way back to his house, where we wasted no time stripping down and eagerly transferring the photos onto my computer. As we scrolled through the images together, I couldn't contain my joy. The photos were more stunning than I could have imagined. It was as if they captured not just my physical form, but also my soul basking in the natural surroundings. I stayed and visited with Bernie for hours, savoring every moment of being unclothed in his presence. And when it was finally time for me to leave, I thanked him profusely for not only the photos, but also for the wonderful afternoon we had shared together.

Bernie and I were no strangers to nudity. In fact, we saw more of each other in the nude than clothed. One frigid January day, after years of impromptu nudist adventures, we ran into each other at the local grocery store. Bundled up in heavy winter coats, gloves, boots, and all the necessary gear for a snowy, blustery day, we both made our way through the aisles, filling our carts with various items. Despite our familiarity with each other's naked form, we looked at each other as if we were strangers. This continued for a few rounds until I finally mustered up the courage to approach him and call out his name - Bernie? The effect was instantaneous; we burst into uncontrollable laughter, tears streaming down our faces. Through gasps for air, Bernie managed to say "I didn't recognize you with clothes on!" And I replied with equal amusement, "Me either! I don't think anyone could have recognized me like this!" Our laughter echoed throughout the store and caught the attention of a few curious shoppers. But in that moment, it didn't matter. We were just two friends, bonded by our love for nudism and our ability to find humor in unexpected situations. This story became a favorite among our nudist circle and we retold it many times over the years, always accompanied by hearty laughter and fond memories.

Our work schedules were grueling, but Bernie and I always made time to see each other. As the first warm days of Spring arrived one year, we eagerly planned a visit. My new townhome was multi-leveled, with a garage on the first floor. I informed Bernie that in order for me to greet him in my usual state of undress, he would have to enter through the garage and make his way up the stairs to my family room. By now, our friendship had evolved to the point where nudity was simply a given whenever one of us hosted the other. As his car pulled into my driveway, I watched with anticipation as Bernie parked in the designated spot. He knocked on the door and made his way up the stairs, shedding his clothes along the way. With a grin on my face and no clothing to cover it, I welcomed him inside. We embraced warmly before settling onto the couch to catch up on each other's lives. I soon discovered that Bernie gave amazing massages, and after coffee and sweet treats brought by my thoughtful friend, he offered to give me one. Bernie spent most of the day with me that Saturday. I gave Bernie a heads up that I had some tasks to take care of when we planned to hang out that day, but assured him we could still chat while I worked in the background. After running the washer for the third time, Bernie chuckled and joked about how much laundry I was doing for someone who claims to be a nudist. I pointed out that most of it was just towels and bed sheets, not actual clothing. Our friendship was effortless and completely uninhibited by clothes.

On a freezing winter afternoon, Bernie called me and asked if I wanted to hang out. He had a cozy wood fireplace, which sounded perfect. It was bitterly cold outside, but I didn't want to bother getting dressed just to take everything off once I got to his house. So, I threw on my heavy socks, winter boots, long trench coat, hat, scarf, and gloves - nothing else - for the short drive over. Part of me felt like a flasher, but the other part rationalized that it was legal if I got pulled over. I arrived at Bernie's house and quickly made my way to the door while braving the frigid wind. My friend opened the door, standing behind it completely naked and hidden from any potential onlookers, and welcomed me inside. In the entryway, I hastily took off my boots so as not to leave a puddle of melted snow all over Bernie's floor. Like a good host, he offered to take my coat. I unbuttoned my lengthy coat and handed it - along with my hat, scarf, and gloves - to him. And there I stood in only my thick socks while Bernie let out a big belly laugh at my choice of attire for the drive over. He led me into the living room where a warm fire was crackling away in the fireplace. I sat down on the couch beside him and enjoyed the heat while we caught up as usual. The flickering flames of the fire danced and crackled, casting a warm glow over the cozy room. He offered me a massage, and I gladly accepted, sinking into the plush cushions of the couch as his skilled hands worked out the knots in my muscles. The hours passed by in laughter and good company, and as the night grew colder, I chuckled as I bundled up in my outerwear to brave the short drive home. My skin tingled with warmth from the fire, already reminiscing about the peaceful evening spent with my friend.

Bernie was an outstanding supporter and mentor in my nudist journey. His kind words and gentle guidance were like a beacon of light, guiding me along the path of self-acceptance and freedom. Despite his own battles with health issues and personal setbacks, he always found the time to offer a listening ear and a comforting presence. As I reflect on our friendship, I am filled with both sadness and gratitude - sad for his passing, but grateful for the wonderful and amazing friendship we shared.