February 2025
February
February Activities
Donate Blood Save A Life
We are hosting our annual blood drive on Sunday February 16th 10am - 2pm last appointment will be at 1:30pm. For the best experience please sign up for an appointment online or to see if your eligible to donate click on the link or copy and paste. https://donors.vitalant.org/dwp/portal/dwa/appointment/phl/findDrive Vitalant is offering a $10 rewards card for those you signup for the donors rewards program.
Have Fun
To all of you cruising on the Big Nude Boat have fun and be safe. We await your stories upon your return.
The Golden Rule
Please be aware of your surroundings and be courteous to your neighbors, and our neighbors. Watch your speed coming in and out of the ranch we are at the end of a residential street and their is a stop sign at the the end of ShangriLa Lane. As the weather warms up be cautious of your music levels especially with your windows open not everyone shares your taste in music.
AANR Online Community Meet and Greet Revamped Based on Your Feedback
Exciting news for all AANR Online Community members! The Meet and Greet sessions have been enhanced based on your valuable feedback.
Meeting Details
- When: 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month
- Time:
- 5 PM Pacific
- 6 PM Mountain
- 7 PM Central
- 8 PM Eastern
- 9 PM Atlantic
- Zoom Link: Provided in the email invitation
General Information
Meetings start promptly at the top of the hour with announcements, followed by discussions and breakout rooms. Assistance navigating breakout rooms and technical help will be available.
Rules of Participation
- Respectful Communication: Disrespectful language, hate speech, political commentary, and demeaning remarks are strictly prohibited. Report any inappropriate behavior, including private messages, to a moderator immediately.
- Minors on Camera: Individuals under 18 must not appear on camera.
- Nudity Guidelines: Nudity is welcome, but cameras should focus on your face and upper torso. Provocative or inappropriate displays will result in camera disabling or removal.
Special Breakout Rooms
- Young Adult Room: For participants under 40.
- WINR Room: Women in Nude Recreation hosts a women-only session on the 1st Thursday and an open session on the 2nd Thursday of each month.
- Regional Rooms: Available on the 2nd Thursday of each month.
Additional Information
- Meeting Duration: Approximately three hours, with flexibility to join or leave as needed.
- Zoom Link and Technical Support: Zoom links are sent out on the Tuesday before each Thursday meeting. Check your spam folder if you don't receive it.
- Membership Reminder: If you enjoy these sessions and are not yet a member, consider joining AANR today!
Your Feedback is Valued
Your input has been instrumental in shaping this program. Please continue to share your suggestions for further improvement
Can you believe how fast 2025 is going? Seems like only a month ago we were ringing in theNew Year and here it is, already February! Speaking of fast, it seems Santa Claus was very niceto many of us at SHANGRI LA RANCH as evident with the number of new “toys” on the roads: from pedal or electric bikes and scooters, to trucks, cars and carts — and these lithium rides aren’t Dad’s golf carts from the country club either!
What we all need to remember is: no matter which vehicle we are piloting, the speed limit on the Ranch remains the same for everyone: FIVE MILES PER HOUR … or EIGHT KILOMETRES PER HOUR, if you prefer! Our streets are narrow in many places; there are a few blind corners and intersections to negotiate; and we have lots of pedestrians, some of whom are walking their dogs, throughout the property. Also, with our desert weather as dry as it has been the last several months, the dust is really fine and easily kicked airborne if we are speeding. So, let’s still have fun but be careful out there.
Heating Safety
Winter. The very word can send shivers down the spine, especially for those of us who embrace the freedom of going au naturel. While summer's sun-kissed skin and gentle breezes make naturism a breeze, winter presents unique challenges. But fear not, fellow nudists! With a little preparation and a shift in mindset, we can not only survive but thrive through the colder months.
This isn't about becoming hermits, huddled indoors until the first robin chirps. It's about adapting our lifestyle to enjoy the unique beauty and serenity that winter offers, all while remaining true to our natural selves.
Embrace the Layers (of Warmth, Not Fabric):
The key to comfortable winter nudism is understanding the power of indirect warmth. Think of your environment as your clothing. A well-heated home, perhaps supplemented with strategically placed space heaters, creates a personal microclimate perfect for enjoying your natural state. Consider investing in cozy throws, blankets, and even heated blankets for extra comfort.
Beyond the Home:
Venturing out in the winter requires a different approach. While full-on nudity might not be practical for extended periods in freezing temperatures, we can still incorporate elements of our naturist lifestyle. Think warm layers easily removable indoors. Imagine a brisk winter walk bundled in a parka, hat, and gloves, only to shed those layers upon returning to a warm cabin or sauna. The contrast between the chill and the cozy warmth amplifies the sensory experience.
Community and Connection:
Winter can be a time for introspection, but it doesn't have to be isolating. Connect with your local nudist community. Organize indoor gatherings, potlucks, or game nights. Shared experiences and laughter generate warmth that goes beyond mere temperature. Consider starting a "clothing-optional cozy crafts" group, where you can knit, sew, or create art in a comfortable, supportive environment.
Mind Over Matter:
A positive mindset is crucial. Instead of dreading the cold, embrace the unique beauty of winter. The crisp air, the glistening snow, the quiet stillness – these are experiences that can be deeply appreciated, even without layers of clothing. Focus on the sensations: the warmth of a fire, the steam from a hot drink, the tingling of your skin as you step into a warm shower after a chilly walk.
Tips for Staying Warm (and Comfortable):
Invest in good quality slippers or warm socks: Keeping your feet warm is essential for overall body temperature regulation.
Use moisturizing lotions and oils: Cold weather can dry out your skin. Regular moisturizing will keep your skin healthy and comfortable.
Enjoy warm drinks and foods: Hot cocoa, tea, and hearty soups are not only delicious but also help raise your core body temperature.
Explore alternative heating options: Consider a wood-burning stove or a fireplace for both warmth and ambiance.
Don't forget about the sun! Even on a cold day, the sun's rays can provide a welcome boost of warmth and Vitamin D.
Embrace the Season:
Winter nudism is about more than just tolerating the cold. It's about finding new ways to connect with your body, your community, and the natural world. It's about appreciating the simple pleasures of warmth and comfort in a way that's unique to the season. So, embrace the chill, fellow nudists! With a little planning and a positive attitude, this winter can be a time of cozy comfort, community connection, and a deeper appreciation for the freedom of living au naturel.
Reading Corner
In Phoenix, Arizona, Henry set his sights on an adventurous three-day weekend at Shangri La Ranch, a family nudist resort known for its inclusive and friendly atmosphere. Having carefully packed his essentials – sunscreen, a hat, and his favorite book – he embarked on what promised to be an unforgettable escape from the mundane rhythm of his daily life.
On Friday morning, Henry awoke to the melodious sounds of nature that encapsulated his quaint accommodation. Eager to dive into the activities, he began his day with pickleball. With the warm sun kissing his skin and a gentle breeze flowing through, Henry found himself connecting with the game and his fellow players in a way he never had before. The freedom and spontaneity of playing in the nude added an element of joyful liberation to the game.
As the day progressed, Henry embraced the opportunity to engage in an afternoon yoga session. Surrounded by serene landscapes and under the guidance of a skilled instructor, he felt a profound connection between mind, body, and nature. The practice allowed him to explore his physical limits and achieve a sense of inner peace he hadn't experienced before, all while basking in the natural world around him.
Friday night brought an entirely new adventure with karaoke under the stars. With the sky painted in hues of pink and purple as the backdrop, Henry discovered a newfound confidence. Singing his heart out, without the barriers of clothing or inhibitions, created a bond among the participants, sharing laughs and applause under the vast, inviting night sky.
Saturday unfolded with a relaxation that Henry had craved for so long. Poolside lounging was the agenda of the day, and he found himself drifting into blissful serenity. The cool water against his skin, the sound of laughter and splashes, and the comfort of like-minded individuals around him created a harmonious environment. This tranquility was exactly what Henry needed to refuel his spirit and embrace the joy of living in the moment.
As the day transitioned into night, Saturday night dancing became the highlight of Henry's weekend. The energy was electric, with bodies moving freely to the rhythm of the music. Dancing without the confines of clothing allowed Henry and his newfound friends to celebrate their freedom and individuality in the most expressive way. The night was a beautiful blur of colors, music, and laughter, marking the perfect climax to his nudist experience.
This three-day weekend at Shangri La Ranch was more than just a simple getaway for Henry; it was a transformative journey. He had not only discovered the joy of naturism but also reconnected with himself in the most unexpected ways. The pickleball, yoga, karaoke, poolside relaxation, and dancing under the stars had nurtured his soul and instilled a sense of liberation and self-acceptance that he'd carry with him long after returning to his everyday life.
And thus, as Henry bid farewell to Shangri La Ranch, he knew he was not just leaving a place but carrying forward a new way of living, one where freedom and acceptance danced hand in hand under the open sky
Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet
Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a cozy, flavorful dish featuring juicy sausage bites tossed in garlic butter, served over a bed of creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for weeknights, this meal combines savory, cheesy, and creamy elements in every bite. Easily customizable to your liking by swapping out the protein i.e. chicken, shrimp or non meat options. You can also change the pasta used, add other savory ingredients such as mushrooms, spinach, or anything that you think would go good with the parmesan pasta.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:
1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
12 oz pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
Fresh parsley and additional Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Sausage Bites:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Return the sausage to the skillet, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
While cooking the sausage, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later if needed.
Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring until the mixture begins to simmer.
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serve:
Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta, then top with the garlic butter sausage bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.