I realized today that it’s been quite a while since I posted on this blog so I should probably throw some updates out at you and maybe get some discussion going again. There is no connection between my topics today, it’s just the hodge-podge that’s going on in my head and an update on what I’ve been up to:

Me: I’m continuing to work on my health and am doing GREAT. At this point I’m down around 35 pounds and am continuing to lose weight each time I weigh in. I’ve taken up running and am will start Week 3 of the Couch to 5K Program on Friday. I also go to Country Line Dancing Lessons on Tuesdays and Tap Dancing on Wednesdays. Who knew that I’d start a dance life at age 37??? I’m learning that health isn’t just about eating right and exercise- that’s just the body stuff. Health is in the mind, body, and spirit and I’m really growing in each of these areas. Those 35 pounds I’ve lost are most likely pounds of stress, anxiety, guilt, fear, and confusion. My Health Coach, Kevin Daugherty of Greater Life Health Coaching, has been such a huge help to me and I would recommend him to anyone. Though he’s in the Upstate NY area, he works with people via phone and Skype, too, so be sure to contact him if you want real help in changing your life.  Be sure to tell Kevin I sent ya!

YNA: I love Young Naturists America and the recent blogs have been of great interest to me. The newest one by Jordan about the death of Amanda Todd really struck home for me. If we are not a part of the solution of teen suicide, harassment, and bullying, then we are part of the problem. I have committed to being a part of the solution- how about you?

Young Adult Nudists: Some would say that I’m no longer a young adult nudist- I’m too old- but I have a heart for this group and feel very much like I belong when I attend events. There is a summit coming up to discuss the young adult nudist movement and how everyone can work together. I won’t personally be attending this summit, but I look forward to hearing about the progress that is made within it.

AANR: I now have a column in the AANR Bulletin called No Strings Attached and talks about being a single nudist. It’s been a fun adventure to write the monthly column. If you have any ideas for me to consider for the column, I’m all ears.

AANR-East: I’m happy with many of the changes that have taken place in our region, AANR-East. The website is constantly changing to better serve those who visit it and I’m happy to see change. Also, the Facebook page has gone through some positive changes and is increasingly active. If you haven’t liked the AANR-East Facebook Page, this is a good time to do so. I continue to work at Editor of the Speaking Naturally from AANR-East eNewsletter and enjoy that job greatly. The November eNewsletter is coming along nicely and will include some great pictures of the autumn!

Camp Life: Camp has closed for the season and I miss my people! During the summer I so enjoyed just wandering down the lane to visit friends and I do miss that. I’m happy, though, that I can head down to the big field with my pup, Little Bare, to play fetch, though: we both love that!

Little Bare: Pup is doing great! I haven’t figured out what she’ll be for Halloween yet but I suppose I’d better figure it out soon. Bare loves to go running with me each day and her training is coming along well. These days, we often go for walks and I just drop the leash because she stays with me so nicely. She loves fetch and visits from my niece and nephew, too.

I think that’s all for now. Life is good on this end and I’m busy LIVING rather than just writing about life. If you live in the northeast, take some time to notice the beauty of the changing leaves and enjoy the miracles of the world all around you. I know I will be.

Be well friends!

Melissa

Tags: AANR, AANR-East, change, growth, health, nudism, nudist, YNA, young nudists