Christmas Eve: How are you feeling?

This is a challenging week for many people. The silly season is a time of continuous consuming, rushing around and spending way too much! However, here are some of the simple things for which we can be very grateful. So here is my list for today.

I am grateful for:-

1. Management. This generous group do all the important stuff like sign in the newbies (there were 107 today), organise the badges, and the various functions.

2. The early swimmers. This bunch tells us that they go out early because of work or other commitments. The real reason is that they bravely test the water for conditions, and most importantly, stinging things, for the 7am mob.

3. The wonderful variety of people who swim with the B&B. Each day I have the opportunity to see these beautiful and amazing people. Each with their perfectly unique stories that inspire, amuse and sometimes stretch the realms of believability.

4. My ability to swim.  I was told by a Buddhist friend that she begins each task by being grateful that she has the ability to complete the task.  I am very grateful that I can swim (‘cause I’m a hopeless runner).

5. The serene marine creatures we see each day. Although not too many today due to the low visibility, although Lyndall said she spotted an Eagle Ray.

6. The après swim coffee. This is the only time I drink coffee – and it is soooo good. Made even better with the pleasure of sharing the morning sun with friends.

7. The sea. While all around us there is noise and fuss, we have the opportunity to take to the sea for the serenity of a swim with a friend or two. Plunging into the sea gives you such a sense of renewal. We are so lucky to have this watery health spa.  There is a theory that the breathing required for swimming is much like meditation. No wonder we feel so good afterwards.

8. The hugs – so good for you – and sharing celebrations! Hugging is excellent medicine.  You need four hugs each day for survival, eight for maintenance and 12 for growth.  At the B&B, there is a whole lot of growth going on. Plus having people share and acknowledge your achievements is great! Today Ian Mcknight clocked up 1000km (missed the photo op), and Jo (centre in the photo) has achieved 500km.

7. Being here to enjoy this moment. We are very lucky

10. And finally, that tomorrow is Christmas! Hope Santa finds you.

Have a wonderful day tomorrow and thank you for a fantastic year of swims, celebrations and loads of laughs.

Mary

2016 Calendars

The B&B Christmas calendars are on sale! Grab one for yourself, and many more as stocking fillers!

Staying safe

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.  Also, if you have a bit more experience, keep an eye out for new swimmers who might need company. And if you bring a new friend down for a swim – please make sure they can swim!!

Do read these excellent tips on staying safe in the surf. To read, or even download, click here.

The Stats

Temp:           22.4 Degrees

Vis                not fabulous

Air:               rather pleasant

Swimmers:   Looked like thousands, but official number is 560

Newbies:      107!