Since arriving in Dover, I have pretty much been laughing, which turns out to be a great distraction.  Unlike last time I was here, there are actually a bunch of swimmers in town.  I think that this is mainly because I’m here at the beginning of the season rather than the last part of the season. 

The days have been beautifully sunny if just a little windy.  I spend most of the day lounging on swimmers beach listening to some hard to believe but true channel stories.  Most of them just have me cracking up.   It definitely makes up for my ornery digestive system and lack of sleep.  My biggest worries these days are not to fry myself to bits due to the sun.  Thankfully I packed at least a gallon of sunscreen.  (Note: I now know where all my 50lbs of packing went )

On the beach, I’ve repeatedly been told that I didn’t get value for my money on my last swim because it was over too quickly.  I’m just happy to be accepted by such amazing people.  I believe the quote from dinner last night that still makes me laugh is “I only work there so I don’t feel ugly.”  Now that is a reason to have a job  

Yesterday I also had the opportunity to watch Rick complete a beautiful 6 hour swim.  He look as strong at the finish as he did at the beginning.  And to my knowledge there was minimal (if no) complaining at all.  What an accomplishment!  For the record, this wasn’t his first 6 hour swim, but it was still great to watch (even if I did have to take a sun break.  Dang this red hair and freckles!). 

Mostly I’ve been hanging out with Emma France, Rick Selway and Michelle Toptalo.  They all have such amazing stories.  People often wonder why I return to certain swims and the people are the main reason.  Where else can you find a group of “eccentric” (Rick’s word) of people who all share in the same goal of swimming long distances?  I know most of you would replace Rick’s word with crazy.  I suppose we are a little bit of that too. 

Rumor has it that the tide looks good.  I’m calling Reg, my boat pilot, this evening to let him know I’m in town and get an idea of the potential swim date.  I’ve reached out to Leroy again to see if he would be willing to update my blog during the swim.  He has tentatively agreed…that is if he doesn’t have something better come up first. 

Thank you so much for all the well wishes.  Your support continues to humble me and buoy me up.  Looks like we are in for another crazy adventure together.  Thanks for coming along for the ride.