26/08/2014 – Things I never thought I would do

Is the B&B just one big behaviour modification program?

Never would I have imagined that I would ever leap out of bed – where it was warm and toasty – to embrace what can only be described as a miserable day.

I now evaluate the sets when looking at the surf crashing onto the rocks.  Can I make it through the waves?  These were once crazy thoughts that would never have entered my head!  After all, who swims on days such as these?

This mob do, that’s who.

A meagre 54 swimmers turned up this morning.  Ian made the call that if you were still half asleep or a little unsure, consider the half way option.  There were waves enough to experience there and a few less rocks to dodge.

A walker with a sensible umbrella watched over the pink parade decending the stairs.

The waves rolled us all the way to Shelly.

Jenny looks totally chilled as she is carried by the swell around the group as it spreads across Shelly.

The Speedy boys are having a deep and meaningful – probably about where to have coffee.  A tough choice on a rainy day!!

Looks like Dr John is the centre of attention. . .

Oh dear. . .Lips has that uncomfortable feeling that something is missing.

The swell is building on the return to half way.  Just visible is the top of the mast of the Tardis as we roll into the beach.

At least we can bask in the warmth of our collective adventure as we dress under the eaves of the surf club.

I never thought I could have this much fun on a not so pleasant morning.  It just goes to show, there is beauty and joy to be found in even the most challenging of times.  You just have to embrace the idea of doing something different.

Mary

Special Event – Guest Speaker!

The next B&B monthly dinner will be on Tuesday 9th September at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. On the night we have Miles Tollan, giving a special presentation about his recent solo crossing of the English Channel.  Miles will tell us about his motivation for taking on this challenge, the training he went through and the preparations for the swim itself. This is your chance to hear it first hand and ask the questions you’ve been dying to ask, including all about his miraculous 13 kg weight-gain program!

The cost of the dinner is only $20 a head and includes shared entrees, a selection of mains to choose (incl a vegetarian option), corkage (for byo wine only) and a little thank you for the staff. Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each. Numbers are limited, so bookings are essential:  To avoid disappointment and secure your spot please BOOK HERE NOW,

Winter Badge season – 277 already qualified.

There are 57 swimmers who can also qualify with just a couple more swims!  Check out the stats from the attendance page.  The badge ceremony is being held straight after the swim on 21 September at the Royal Far West.

Staying safe

Are you prepared for the return of the surf? Remember that there are no badges for scaring yourself silly!  While it is great to extend your boundaries, it is important to know your limits.  Do read these excellent tips on staying safe in the surf.  To read, or even download, click here.

The Stats

Regulars:  54

Newbie:  0

Temp:    17.2 degrees

Sunrise:  6.22 am

Sunset:  5.33 pm