At Least I Qualify — Itsmosblog - an appetite for Lochaber

International Women’s Day. I met the basic requirement, if not the most positive attitude. No matter how many times I’ve been for a dip in the sea or the loch, I still anticipate the drastic change in body temperature with abject horror. I’ve got everything on that you can get away with and yet there are swimming costume (and bikini) clad women peeling off outer layers with relish. Some were sensibly attired in wetsuits but also wore enthusiastic expressions - in contrast to my own. To plunge a warm, comfy body into a chilly loch goes against instinct.

A wee bit drizzle and a cold breeze, with any sound of the wind (and the whinger) drowned out by the laughter of more than 15 women excited by the prospect of an easily achievable high - if you can just get over yourself!!

Of course I could have joined the suitably clad women for the longer swim out to the red buoy but nipping in and out the water about 4 times until my temperature has adjusted is my personal requirement and then swimming round in circles close to safety is good enough for me. For all that I moan (a lot), I’m really chuffed that I do manage to overcome my natural resistance to anything other than easy comfort. It IS worth the effort and apart from anything else, the only way you get one of Anya’s buns or a bit of cake, is to take the plunge.

I’d like to thank the women who keep making the effort to join together and support each other - all over the country and beyond. I’m never the one to put out the call, as I harbour an increasingly reclusive nature, but I’m glad you are there.