Just Relax

One of the great things about outdoor swimming is the view - especially a sunny sky. So when I'm not trying to go as fast or as far as I can, I like to lie back and relax...
It's important to wear a hat so your ears don't get cold, but it's a lovely feeling!
take care

Gadding About

Gaddings Dam was on the agenda this bank holiday. It's the first time I've been, but I'd heard a lot about it. The climb up to the dam is about 250m, and I have to admit, I had to stop half way up as I thought I was going to be sick - it was really tough going for someone as unfit as me (and a little worrying, given the swim is now only days away!).

With the huge support and help of David, and the encouragement of a group of fellow outdoor swimmers, I finally made it to the top, into my wetsuit, and into the mercifully flat water.

But boy was it cold! about 13 degrees, which is enough to make your feet go numb after about 10 mins.

It stayed lovely and sunny, and I stayed in probably longer than I should have (I think because I was dreading the decent down the big hill).
The walk back was tough going too - with some quite big steps - not good for arthritic knees! But at least the walk ended in a pub - with lunch!
What a great day out!
Take care,

Birthday Suit

I decided to splash out (literally) on my own wetsuit, since I'm enjoying the outdoor swimming so much. Bill and Freddie (my in-laws) have kindly bought the suit for my birthday present - and here I am modelling it at Gaddings Dam on a lovely sunny bank holiday Monday.

Calm waters

There is nothing like an after work swim on a calm, sunny evening. This is Hatchmere, on a still night in August - the peace and quiet are hard to beat.
There were a few of us swimming that evening - about 5 or 6, which is nice company while still being peaceful.
After the swim, David and I stayed for a picnic, and watched hundreds of geese fly over to their resting place for the night - pretty well the only noise we'd heard all night was their honking!
Take care,