Dear Abby

DEAR ABBY: My girlfriend has no issue with nudity. She worked herself through her master's degree in finance as an exotic dancer. She has a phenomenal figure, eats healthy and works out often.
Last year we bought a home in a small residential community, complete with a pool. We installed a fence and spent a lot of money on landscaping to give us privacy from our neighbors.

We live in Florida and spend a lot of time in our pool, especially on weekends. My girlfriend doesn't like to wear a swimsuit, and I have no issues with it.

At a neighborhood event recently, one of our neighbors politely asked her if she wouldn't mind covering up when in the pool. She said her kids, and I'm sure her hubby, can see into our yard from their second story. My girlfriend apologized for their inconvenience, but told them she wouldn't be changing her habits in her home to stop another family from gawking.

I see both sides of this. I agree she shouldn't feel compelled to wear a suit to swim in our own pool (or lounge by it). But I can also see the neighbor's side. The preteen boys and husband can get an eyeful just about every weekend, and I don't think a few tan lines are worth a feud with the neighbors. Any suggestions for my dilemma? -- SWIMSUIT ETIQUETTE

DEAR S.E.: I, too, can see both sides of this. However, you and your girlfriend have done as much as you can to protect her privacy. You can't be responsible for your neighbor's husband's and children's voyeurism. I don't think your girlfriend should feel compelled to change her lifestyle because they act like Peeping Toms.

I do think it would be healthier for all concerned if your neighbor had a talk with her "boys" regarding their family's standards when it comes to naturism and respecting the privacy of others.

 

One time years ago in MA a buddy was riding with me and we had to travel down a narrow road for a pickup. He started screaming 'There's a naked woman laying by a swimming pool; I could see her over the fence.' We picked up the load and headed back the same road to get to the highway. I slowed down to see if he was telling the truth or not. Sure enough there she was just like he said. I was looking so intensely I ran off the road and through her yard breaking off a tree limb about 20 ft. long which wedged between the tractor & trailer. During all this we saw her jump up and look. Kept on trucking and there was a Dairy Queen by the entrance to the highway. Everyone was staring at the tree limb. We got the limb out; threw it down in the parking lot and took off. No damage to the truck or trailer which was hard to believe.

 

Google Earth around Land O Lakes, Florida. There's a big nudist resort there. People live there full time because condos are for sale for full time residents.