# 54 Sink or Swim

Despite the technical problems of a closed pool that almost sunk this swimming goal, I have managed to complete the sixty miles before the end of the year.  On a side note, I have also added 60 new wrinkles, 60 wet towels, and 60 moments of, "What was I thinking?"; but now that it is over, I am pleased with my dedication and willingness to rise at the ungodly hour of 5:25 AM for a 5:45 AM  pool time.  After an hour and half of strenuous swimming twice weekly for the past few months, (workouts and positive encouragement provided by coaches Kelly and Cathy)  I now have a greater respect for Michael --what's his name-- because it is not easy to stay committed to having your face and body submerged in the water for such long periods of time.   The other problem of time in the water was the shriveled prune look was not exactly the appearance I was hoping to achieve in this new decade. Needless to say, I can't blame it all on the chlorine--enough said about that...

 Although I loved the physical aspect of gliding through the water, I struggled with boredom because the scenery does not change at the bottom of the pool with the exception of an occasional (gross) band aid floating carefree in front of my goggles.  Fortunately this was not a frequent occurrence and as a result kept me focused and away from day dreaming which would have led to swimming extra laps due to miscalculating the numerous workout drills.

 Despite the whining sound you hear, swimming still ranks as a highly pleasurable activity and the benefits of this exercise surpass the downside of swimming on dry land.  With that in mind,  I will continue to don the bathing suit and plunge into the chilly waters of the pool but at a more reasonable hour. If I could get rid of the wrinkles and the ever present chlorine smell,  I would label this as the perfect way to stay in shape...for twenty, thirty, forty, fifty and even sixty year olds and beyond.