After the excesses of the Christmas and New Year period I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels sluggish and just a little exhausted. It always astounds me just what an impact a dive in at Manly and a swim across the bay has on my feelings of wellbeing. Particularly today, as the clarity was of winter quality and the temperature was a balmy 21.2. We didn’t have to battle against a strong current and the cloud cover ensured a soft gentle grey light to guide us to Shelley. By the time I reached Shelley I felt completely recharged which was more than I could say for the Blog camera. Just as I was about to gather the troops for a group shot the battery completely died. The energizer needed energizing.

There was a lot of energized people today – these triplers Steve, Sean, Martin Phil and Sue had a great swim

Triplers Sue and Greg

But I am getting ahead of myself. My morning started when I arrived to capture some of the 6.30’s preparing for their swim. I love this opportunity as it allows me to meet and get to know some of this group who are our early warning blue bottle and jimble alert system and who often have to run off quickly to get to work straight after the swim.
Kit and Melissa looking absolutely vibrant

Jackie, Barb and David
Andrew enjoying a good natured ‘welcome’ banter with the Balmoral swimmers who enjoyed our bay today.

Paula, Lainey and their running club

Very happy 6.30’s


Lucy has more reasons than most of us to feel a little exhausted. However with baby number two on the way she is radiating good health and complete happiness

Annie already looked completely energized…..and this was before her swim! After her swim Annie together with Bill, Nicole, Cathy and Justin couldn’t look happier.

As the 6.30’s enter the water I am reminded that early morning is a spectacular part of the day. The gentle light, soft breeze, calm waters, warm air, grey tones and whispered discussions help to energise the whole group




As the 6.30’s head off the 7’s start arriving
Errol and Val

John and Richard

Cheryl, Dana and Frances

Newbies Wayne and Liam with Reyna. I hope you enjoyed it guys

Lisa and her happy group


John, Justus and Peta

Annie and her dad Richard getting ready for Annie’s first swim across the bay. Go Annie!

Jeff and his mate


These underwater acrobats were feeling the restorative effects of the cool water and enjoyed an underwater play whilst waiting for the lets go.




After a blissful swim, the coffee and post swim chat completed the energising process

Lainey’s gorgeous mum and dad came down to check out the group this morning. They have been here from the UK for two weeks and are staying for several more. Welcome Trevor and Anne. It’s also good to see Ian and Gayle who is recovering well from her New Years Day tumble.

John, Sean and Marco

Bill, Justin and his mum Nicole. Nicole just loved swimming with her son.

Tracy and John

Mel, David and Lainey

Some of the doublers Nicky, Greg, Lainey, Louise, Janet, Brian, and John feeling very empowered after their swim

Great friends Danny, Michael, Kerry and Richard

Dorset looking fantastic after his 5km swim

After just four weeks post hip replacement surgery, Robyn is back with us and completed her second Manly Shelley return swim today. What a staggering recovery Robyn. After her invigorating swim Robyn together with Anne, Susan, Georgina, Monica and Jane shared birthday treats with Nicky

Such a beautiful relaxed photo of Sarah and her pooch, Chris, John, Greg and Robyn
Some of the original B and Bers. So many swimmers have benefitted from your crazy plan to swim across the bay 8 years ago. I for one, will always be grateful.
I had a wonderful swim this morning. Dead batteries and the Pacific jules typepad website going down until 1 pm has not altered the fact that it has been another lovely day. I hope you are enjoying yours and that your recharged energy levels get you through until your next swim.
Lisa
Stats: Newbies – I spoke to at least 6 but there were probably many more
Water temp – 21.2
Swimmers – had to be over 250



11 comments
Robyn
04/01/2017 at 3:58 pm
Lisa, your blog couldn’t describe better the fabulous conditions we had today. Who wouldn’t feel energised with such beautiful water clarity, pristine conditions and great company. Thank you.
Lower Middle Management.
04/01/2017 at 4:23 pm
Great Blog Lisa
JK
04/01/2017 at 5:12 pm
Nice blog Lisa, if get onto management about that battery !!!
JeffwithaJ
04/01/2017 at 5:25 pm
Hey Lisa. Great blog, thank you!
Lisa B
04/01/2017 at 5:27 pm
Yes JK I’m on to it! Not sure if I should complain to lower middle management, upper lower management or middle upper management.
David
04/01/2017 at 5:44 pm
great blog Lisa …. I’m sure you know everyone at B & B
Elizabeth
04/01/2017 at 5:59 pm
Lisa. Your blog is better than real life! it is good to see swimmers, their names and the conditions. Thanks for such an excellent read and excelle photos
Fiona
04/01/2017 at 6:02 pm
Great blog Lisa, some great photos!
Michael S
04/01/2017 at 6:51 pm
Great blog Lisa. I am so impressed that you have included so many names. My blogging and identification only extends to “this group”.
edwina harrison
04/01/2017 at 7:21 pm
how cute is little Annie! glad to read the blog when I miss the swim, thanks Lisa. looked like a lovely day.
Lainey
04/01/2017 at 9:16 pm
Another outstanding blog Lisa and so very inclusive and friendly. You did forget to mention the cake stall on Saturday though in aid of Dr Ray’s charity. Hopefully we’ll have a few slices donated and swimmers remember to bring a few dollars!