Hi all,
We had a great time at Lake Berryessa today -- starting the 2009 open water season in clear beautiful water. I was only in the 51 degree water for 15-20 minutes, but am happy to report it was like glass, the sky was blue and the birds are plentiful (a huge blue heron, mud hens, gorgeous osprey, grebes). Thank goodness for Em Evans--she got the ball rolling for us this year. Alan and I took our boat to Markley Cove with Em and our border collie Taj and boated over to a peaceful cove we've enjoyed before.

My swim was very invigorating; I didn't really feel cold in my wet suit while in the water, although it was shocking to put my face in. I spent 90% of the time doing a cold-water breast stroke;>) I enjoyed it most I was looking straight ahead, knowing the boat were right behind me. It was amazing to watch Em head out, sans wet suit, like the proverbial "bat out of hell." She swam for 40 minutes; she's one of the most amazing athletes I've ever met.

Alan waterskied in great form in his wetsuit -- looking a tiny bit cold with his hand over his head thinking about the hood he'd left at home. He said it felt like a "brain freeze" on his forehead, and that he'd forgotten how 51 degree water can really wake you up.

After our cold water adventures, our feet were pretty cold, but we were otherwise cozy. Lots of hot tea with honey, Em's homemade cookies chock full of good stuff plus chocolate chips, and crystallized ginger (a great tummy soother, and she says it's an anti-inflmmatory). The only slip up was when my cell phone slid out of my jacket pocket into the water as I leaned over to push off a fishing boat as we came into the dock. I was resigned to getting a new phone, but Alan got back in after the boat was on the trailer and scooped the phone out. It announced the correct time (4:02)! Here's hoping a thorough drying off in front of the fire tonight will save the SIM card (SWIM card?)at least.

One of the interesting things we saw at the lake today was mobile homes being removed; it's a new year, and per the BLM, private mobile homes are being moved out to make way for more public use. Exciting new era.

Em, Kate Howell and Paul D. have been swimming almost every week at the lake over the last few months. Hope this inspires you all!

Cheers,
Lyra