Venus had company this morning, with other stars and the magnificent Jupitar bright beside her as the night faded. The clouds blended softly from the horizon into the sky.
Stepping into the water feels like pressing “play.” Above the water, the sounds of coffee orders, friendly chats, and footsteps filled the morning air. But once I slipped under, the world changed. The noise faded, replaced by the bubbles of my breath and hand strokes — a familiar beat from many swims between Manly and Shelley. Oh how i’ve missed this beat for more than a week.
After a week of rough conditions, the ocean was flat and calm today. It was so lovely getting back in. Visibility was better near Shelley Beach, revealing more of our aquatic friends (in particular the beautiful green/gold female grouper). I often think of my spirit animal, the spotted eagle ray — graceful and steady – i hope i see you one day here. In my mind, Lana Del Rey’s ‘Young and Beautiful’ played softly, matching the ocean’s rhythm.
On the way back to Manly, the swell gently pushed me home. Each stroke just like my spotted eagle ray. As I neared the shore, the sounds of the beach returned — laughter, and the murmur of morning conversations — and my swim’s quiet music faded into the day.
I stepped onto the sand, salt on my skin, with Venus, Jupiter and the stars still in my mind. The ocean’s song stayed with me, calm and steady, as the day began.
Thanks to all who searched for my missing fin this morning, it was found amongst the seaweed in the sand deeper in the water, i’m so grateful.
With gratitude for this place,
Deb xox
P.S – Dont miss the Budgy Smugglers launch Friday 22nd August at 7.30am.
