Walden Pond swim
Up 0500 away at 0600, Walden shore by 0705 to meet BP. First we jogged to far end and back to warm up. Then he met me at the beach (he paddled his kayak alongside/around - and transported my running shoes) and away I went - starting with confidence borne from years of experience -- but not any distance-type swimming to speak of in a very long time -- and therein lied a rub. Can't recall when I last swam even 150 yards. Maine swimming is too cold for the most part and dark waters spark a phobia. Along the way, Bill pointed out the utility of sport-directed training. Skill atrophy is rampant as time moves along. I used to be pretty good at throwing a snowball or even a football - seems like a foreign activity now....
Walden was warm, tranquil, inviting, not especially dark ...beside there were already two "pond-long swimmers" at work - so plenty of company/companion thoughts. It was particularly nice to have Bill paddling alongside - likely would have not been there except for that. What I found was that the lesser buoyancy of fresh water was noticeable. I spent a good part of the 26' moderately out of breath from the constant effort to keep on top of the surface - always going forward but with different strokes and their varying degrees of efficiency and inefficiency. It seemed a bit strange to lie on my back and contemplate distant blue sky laced with white cirrus, even warm sun rays so early. In that direction was oxygen/life and beginning just a few inches below was a veritable scarcity of it, unless one possessed gills. Walden is 102' deep at its deepest part. The opposite shore slowly became a reality and then solid footing. I put my shoes on and jogged back to the boat ramp. After, we shared a cup of coffee with Bill & Ross at their home in Carlisle - a pleasant conversation namely about dogs and orienteering or gardens/gardening, depending on 'traffic flow'.
Now, I'm thinking about Walden at the full moon rise. I'd use fins, probably go by myself - or not do it at all...who knows. I can dangle these things in front of me like a treat in front of a drooling dog. There would be the interesting psychology of aloneness and darkness. Tu, 8/24 at 7:15 pm is the full moon rising...maybe a cloud-free evening.... Time will tell.
A summer morning at Walden
Note
Went to Sunapee crafts fair with Beth in the pm to see the wonderful handiwork as well as pick up her dresses. Passed the end of Lake Sunapee, hardly the comfortable place Walden is. Strange being at the ski area so green. Most of my visits are when it's cold and white & motion is slithery on skis. Interesting day from Walden shores to Sunapee slopes for crafts.