A month after my 47th birthday I found myself for the first time living completely on my own. I had a little apartment above a shop in a little village and in a “light bulb” moment I realised that I was my own boss, I could do anything I want to.
Unfortunately, 6 months later I was made redundant from the job I really loved, that of an ambulance driver and crew. Now what was I going to do? At 48 I went back to college to study for a qualification in complementary therapies, one year on enrolled gain for another 2 years to now study for the HNC/D in Spa Management. Phew what a busy 2 years, but still I felt that there was something missing in my life – what I needed was a hobby or interest.
Naturism was going to be the answer.
I had been fascinated and intrigued for a few years but never had the courage or time – but now – I had nothing holding me back – so I took the plunge!! I first read many articles in the BN magazine online, looked up places to go and chose Acorns Campsite in Devon.
May 3rd 2016 – OMG I felt sick for the whole 2-hour drive to Devon, what was I doing I am 49 ½ years old going on my own to a nudist campsite. But how my life was to change that day.
Andy and Kathy Eke welcomed me to their site and showed me around, yes I was fully clothed but Andy was not – I was not sure where to look – focus on his face do not glance anywhere else – so I mastered that – back to my room to get well…… undressed!
I stood wrapped in my pashmina and dressing gown looking through the window for the longest 10 minutes of my life! – It’s now or never, deep breathing I can do it. Picked up my book and trying to look so nonchalant and unfazed walked outside.
I chose a seat by the pool alongside a few others – OMG they are naked I’d never seen so much bare flesh on show at any one time before. Ironically I felt very out of place and embarrassed as I was still all wrapped up. So yet another deep breath, looked around and carefully unwrapped my very white and bare body – and do you know – there were no bells ringing, no sirens went off, no police came to arrest me – OMG I was naked and in public in front of complete strangers!!!!!
I stayed there for 2 nights – went home, 2 days later bought a tent and camping equipment and went back the following weekend. The next big step for me was to find a club much closer to home, but if I find one will I see someone that I know or that I used to work with – how embarrassing could that be?
But with my head held high and with my newly found confidence off I went – yes I did meet someone who lives near me and indeed a lady who I was in high school with, but everything is just fantastic, everyone is just so friendly and kind.
I am now a provisional member of the Vale of Glamorgan Sun Club in South Wales, I have a whole new circle of friends and am loving every minute of it.
My advice to other single women who have ever considered or thought “I wonder” about naturism – go for it, I’ve not had one negative response, everyone that I have met has been so kind and helpful and have given me lots of very useful advice and guidance.
I’m definitely feeling fabulous at being naked and 50 !!