12/07/2013 – What would Barbara Streisand say?

Yet another magic morning. How good’s this? And if you’re sensible enough to wear a full wetsuit, the icicles don’t start building up until you’re on the way back from Shelly. Water temperature today was 17.6, so I send a special celebratory “Good on ya” to those who carry on swimming in cozzies only. Well done!

 

Like Shaun in picture above. There’s so much satisfaction coming out of a recycled plastic bottle filled with warm tap water. Shaun was one of 20 early lappers, part of the Drinky Express as it’s also known as. Here’s some more of them.

 

 

 

 

Have you all worked out the Friday blogging pattern yet? Strong focus on the early lappers while the 7am’ers are already reaching the point. “What time do you call this, then Anna?” says Fiona. Every morning, I get the same, supporting cheers.

 

I will have you all know that I can produce a medical certificate proving that I suffer from a severe case of Time Optimism. In my sick and twisted world, you can squeeze in chores like hanging the washing, stacking the dishwasher and sorting out your filing cabinet in the five minutes leading up to 7am. And there’s always time for a cuddle with visiting dog Lola.

And look, there’s also time to highlight Paige’s knee-high socks.

The sunrise and Sparkles in a face-off.

 

Go Aussies! We’re not all out yet.

 

From one paradisiacal beach to another. It’s a tough gig.

 

 

 

 

 

 

It was celebration time for Gabs this morning as she earnt her two badges – twenty winter swims without a wetsuit. She’s so happy because tomorrow she only needs to worry about two choices; swim with a full-on arctic class wetsuit or just stay in bed.

 

Nah just kiddin. We all know these morning swims are lifesavers. Wouldn’t miss’em for the world.

 

 

 

 

 

Swim complete, time to put your feet up.

 

As I was standing in the shallows, a mermaid came briefly and unexpectedly to the surface to take advantage of the only wave available this morning.

 

She looks a bit like our Nicolee, don’t you think?

 

Rob and his colleague from Manly Council’s Special Effects Unit were ramping it up in preparation for a secret celebrity visit that was rumoured to be taking place this morning.

 

And suddenly, there she was. “I’ve never dressed down this much. Evah!”, the secret celeb confided, “I’m just trying to blend in inconspicuously with this mob here, but it’s honestly been the biggest challenge of my entire career. Seriously, where DO these people find their outfits?”, she was heard gasping.

 

 

 

 

Thanks for your company this morning, I feel blessed to have shared it with you all. “We’re the luckiest people. In the world”, someone once sang. Must have been thinking of us when those lyrics were written.

Girl Friday blogger Anna wishes you a wonderful weekend ahead. xx

 

And now to some Housekeeping

Themed as The Great Gatsby with a Touch of Pink, enjoy a night out with your fellow swimmers at the cinematic home of Jay Gatsby, the old St Patrick’s Seminary in Manly (now the International College of Management).

Be transported back to the 1920’s with the theme of The Great Gatsby with a touch of Pink. You will enjoy a night of fun and entertainment for $85, which includes a 3 course meal and drinks throughout the night.

 Tickets are on sale and selling fast so head to: https://bnbball.arrangemyseat.com/ and book your ticket.  Gather your friends, select your table and choose where you want to sit when you register.

Any questions? Ask Stephen, Nick, Krystyna or Snorkles at any swim!

Staying safe

With the return of the winter swell, 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.

Stats

Swimmers: 129 (20 early lappers)

Newbies: 1

Water temp: 17.6

Air temp: 8 (going up to 19 and sunny today!)

Sunrise: 6.58am

Sunset: 5.02pm