We meet outdoors all summer long, and though the summer doesn’t actually start on Memorial Day, people tend to think of that long weekend as the proper start of the summer season.

Meaning: time for fresh fruit, cool beverages…

…good books, and lying in the sun.

Sometimes we do it with a whole crowd of friends, sometimes just a few of us. (And sometimes we meet new friends, like these lovely butterflies.)

But another new decoration on our favorite rooftop sundeck, all bright in her red, white, and blue finery, reminds us that Memorial Day marks endings as well as beginnings. Dating back to 1800s, the holiday was created to memorialize soldiers who died defending the country — and while we might not be the flag-waving type most of the time, we do appreciate the freedoms we have. Including the freedom to read and write what we wish, the freedom of assembly, and yes, the freedom to go topless in public places if we wish. That last one might seem frivolous, but it isn’t really. It’s all of a piece. It’s life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, right? Well, this is how we pursue happiness.

Freedom means freedom. And you’ll never feel quite so free — so liberated — as when you take off your clothes on a beautiful day and let the sun bathe your bare skin.

Won’t you join us? All freedom-loving, body-positive women are welcome. Just email us at toplesspulpfiction@gmail.com — we’ll find a time and a place for you to pursue happiness with us.