Slipped But Didn’t Fall

March 10, 2023. Water temp 44.

Today at the lake, it was dark. We got there late, but I wanted to get a quick swim in cause it’s been a hard week.

On the way to the beach I slipped in the mud but remained standing. The terror that would usually have sent me into a full-blown panic attack did NOT take over. I was bugged, but also able to regroup quickly and tell myself that I didn’t fall. HUGE progress.

The water was cold, and today it was trickling in around my neck and ears. And along my lower back. I blocked it and focused on my stroke and my breathing.

It was dark enough that I couldn’t really see the lake bottom, just vague dark shapes that were either rocks or clumps of seaweed. Not as fun when it’s black water. But I pressed on.

My home aide, K, sat and watched from the beach. I came in early ’cause I didn’t want her sitting in the dark. And just as we headed toward the showers, my park friend M walked by followed by a gaggle of ducks. He visits the ducks and crows. He talks to them. They love him. I shouted a hello, then jumped into the shower.

K loves the showers. She stripped down to her bathing suit and did a plunge, then joined me in the showers. Then she decided to do a second plunge. She is the real badass.

Now I am home and crazy hungry. Also happy to have ended the week in the lake. Thank you, lake. I love you so.