So on my 4th swim in the lake I had to be brave and 'Go In On My Own!' When I say, 'On My Own' that means I took my friend Babs and our dogs - Flirt the Labradoodle and Blue the Collie, with me to keep me safe from drowning - from the shore. How this was supposed to work I have got no idea, as Babs was fully clothed and doesn't swim. Much. But it made me feel a hell of a lot safer just having her there.
It was a lovely sunny evening and the lake looked stunning. 'Doesn't it make you want to get in?!!' I yelled across to her as I was (still) struggling into my wetsuit. er - NO! she shouted back... Fair enough... She did paddle, as she has sprained her ankle and the 'cool' water felt nice (think ice bath).
So there was a buoy about 40 yards out, and I decided it probably wasn't the best time to attempt an across the lake swim whilst being on my own, so I opted to swim out to the buoy and back a few times, sprint out, little rest and easy back to shore. In I dove, and set off like the clappers towards the buoy. Once there, I bobbed about for a bit, enjoyed the view and turned around to swim back. I got the shock of my life! About 10 yards away from me was my dog! In proper DEEP water, doggy-paddling like her life depended on it to get to me! I mean that takes separation anxiety to a WHOLE new level! 'You stupid hound!' I yelled, and set off slowly back to shore, with her splish splashing beside me. Babs was standing watching from the shore - not a lot she could do was there?! I had visions of me having to go into lifesavers backstroke mode and tow the dog back. It would have made a lovely picture - me and my swimming partner - move over Mhairi -you're out, Flirt's in!Flirt didn't seem too bothered by her open water swimming, and she ran off to play with Blue, and left me to get a few more 'lengths' in. I found I was swimmimg into the reflection of the sun in the water, and I have to say, it was a beautiful feeling. I felt so free, and relaxed! I only swam for about 20 minutes, but I was pleased I did it - I could've just as easily not gone as I had no partner. I was feeling pretty damn pleased with myself!
Please don't forget you can sponsor me by clicking on this link www.justgiving.com/Moira-Dudson
-even just a pound or two. I really want to achieve my target of £500 for the Stroke Association - you can read my story of why I have chosen the Stroke Association on my Just giving page.
Many thanks!
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