Pacific Jules

Where the bloody hell are you?

Four of us laydees drove to the swim together today and we were struck by the lack of parking

It was a long walk to the swim and things looked strangely different. We started to wonder if we'd crossed into a parallel universe

This was the discombobulated four. Some of us took to the new reality better than others as you can see.

Have you ever driven somewhere and upon arriving at your destination wondered how you even got there?

We felt and sounded like the Fakawi tribe, such was our confusion.

Then the enormity of our dreadful mistake dawned on us

We had travelled back in time to the Far East and instead of the B&B we were at the B2B (fortunately we'd registered). We were in a strange parallel universe where you swim a double (almost) and don't get to tick

(fortunately thanks to telepathy, time travel and a substantial archive some B&B swimmers are featured here)

Strangely we weren't the only time and distance travellers

FFFS we said, and we were promptly added to that swim group (Fins, Flippers, Floaties, Snorkels) 

Meanwhile we waited and scoped the surroundings

The elite wave. Such form! Such skill!

Finally our turn. Taking it very seriously

 

Surf Rescue 30 about to be swamped by a monster wave



OK so that was fun, apart from the feral activity from Olympians (in their minds anyway) around the buoys which made our A team seem like perfect gentlemen. Some learned to their sorrow that WOWs can be MEAN and retaliate in kind.

No fish to be seen apart from this kind

 Upon travelling back (forward actually) in time and space I had to be sure that Manly still existed and had not been a fanciful dream for all these years.

Seeing Lainey and Izzy was proof enough

And our beloved CTB in the distance. All's right in the world

Swimmers - thousands

newbies - lot

water temp - over 20

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

NO TICKETS WILL BE FOR SALE AT THE DOOR!!

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

What am I listening to?
I might be a day late for this, but heeeeeeeere's Billy Thorpe

 

 

 

 

 

30.11.2019 "It's a new day, it's a new dawn.......

As November 2019 closes, the bash and crash of daily life that has filled this seemingly, faster moving year seems to be easing.

I found myself humming this song and checked out the lyrics, which seemed finer words that I could muster myself.

And so apt for the joy, that is the B&B.Six days of swimming leaves me Feelin...Good

So wishing you all a top weekend of whatever you do and thanks Steph for swimming with me this morning.

And thanks also Kate for photo support.

In the words of Nina Simone

Feelin Good

Birds flying high you know how I feel
Sun in the sky you know how I feel
Breeze driftin' on by you know how I feel

It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life for me yeah

It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for me
And I'm feeling good

Fish in the sea, you know how I feel
River running free, you know how I feel
Blossom on the tree, you know how I feel

It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
For me
And I'm feeling good

So many smiles on the beachfront today.....

Smily Suz, Annie and BK                                                                                Smiley niece Grace and BK

B
Kate and Jackie                                                                            Unknown smiley faces

Conditions were looking a bit bumpy, however the water was clean and fresh and around 20 degrees. The 6.30am peeps pottered out, followed

by the larger 7am throng.

Other news

I call this "Annie and John talking goggles..."                    Some favorite B&B crazy cats

The Fab Four ...Annie, Anne, John (you can shave it off tomorrow Kelly) and Snazzy Suz.

Post swim glow for the blog team and coffee at Hakan's - bring it on ....

And finally ...

Steve has a new image....his agent tells us that he is going to be on the telly !!

Swimmers hundreds

Newbies 6

Temperature 20

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

NO TICKETS WILL BE FOR SALE AT THE DOOR!!

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

Members only, but everyone can join

Groucho Marx (or was it Karl) is quoted as having said that he would not join a club that would have him as a member. I am glad BB does not have any criteria for membership because if there was a technique or time cut off, I would have missed some excellent and regular swimming that I really enjoy. 

Now Mick and Chris from Yamba (mentioned in peter's blog yesterday too) have had a great idea - they are travelling from swim to swim. They have swum with the Harold Holt-ers at Bundeena recently but swam with us yesterday and today. It was lovely to meet them - they are great swimmers.

I went off to halfway and from there walked to Shelly to enter the swim. The waves were strong and crashing. I enjoyed watching the skilled ocean swimmers go in and so did these swimmers.

The water was warm but did not immediately feel that way under the cloud

the swimmer on the left moved back to Manly to swim. Good choice.

Swimmers look similar with caps on so I  have some photos of swimmers with hair showing to demonstrate the diversity of swimmers that join BB.

 

Ross enjoying John's moustache. Movember is so enjoyable. A child of the 70s, i am very fond of moustaches especially a handlebar one - see below

Texting someone about the swim. I think

Isn't it great that this swimmer has brought his moustache today 

Father and daughter team 

shower scene

Finished the swim, dressed and ready for the day. Beautiful

Some going to Shelly

And some coming back

Halfway was dodgy today. It needs a truck load of sand. the little concrete wall is slippery so needs some step treads. Etc. Or you can go to Shelly

Glamour at Shelly

The best - Ted

More glamour 

I shouted (loudly) to this group to stop for a photo and caused a bit of excitement. Yay







This swimmer swam at the same time as BB but not "with" BB. Maybe next time she will join

Great goggles

 

 

Swimmers 120 

Newbies 5 

Temperature 20

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

NO TICKETS WILL BE FOR SALE AT THE DOOR!!

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

What I am reading

I am enjoying another Virgil Flowers Minnesota cop book, Holy Ghost. It is like the Kinky Friedman books. Light, silly crime novels. 

 

Time to think of those less fortunate

First off, apologies for the lateness of this blog. It's been a full day of activity, the most notable being passing my bronze proficiency at Dee Why. I was told I did the run swim run with 10 seconds to spare but I'm sure they were lying.

Last night and today we were blessed with rain. Not so the people living on the land in much of the state. I was talking to Belinda last night - she lives on a farm near Wingham, and more than once she said the atmosphere was just weird. Another friend of had had 99% of her 1000 acre property a few hundred kms away from Wingham completely burned out. This property is a conservation area and the native animals she shares it with had no chance.

Sorry to cast a pall on the blog but this is something we shouldn't and can't look away from.

Our corner of the world was lovely as usual. I just managed to catch the 6:30 crew aka the Drinks Express setting off.

While up on land Alison and friends were setting up one of the B&B globally renowned cake and bake stalls. This one was a fund raiser for bushfire victims (see management notices below). It was a sell-out. Congrats  to the organiser, helpers, contributors and purchasers - all much appreciated

 

Lainey's famous seedy nutty slice

Water temps are on the upward trajectory, and please do take note of the summer swims starting in December. Triple, 6km and 10km badges are up for grabs.

Annie and Peter with Derek's furchild, Bindi

Bindi shares dog of the day honours with Colby, seen here executing a spectacular downward dog. You'd think he was born for it. Namaste, bruh. Colby is with Jo for the next few weeks and will be accepting pats and giving love 

Spooning

Newbie Anna, centre

Can you heard the drums Fernando?

Newbie Taylah in the stripes

Fishies

This fiddler ray aka banjo shark and flathead were in the shallows at Manly

When too much silly is barely enough.....

 

Thanks to Medibank Free and Active, B&B random swimmer of the month for October is: Mike Russell

Mike has done 41 swims. (his picture is attached)

His main motivation to join B&B was to keep up my fitness levels post 50, and importantly to do more with the local community. “I used to bodysurf all the local breaks for years, and when the weather was flat I would swim across to Shelley Beach by myself. One day I counted 12 sharks as I swam and decided that maybe it was time to swim with the group!” 

Mike has two purchases in mind with his voucher ... either a sports watch, or a new swimming wetsuit.

 

Great work Mike.

Management update

Management recently attended a meeting with representatives from Northern Beaches and Lake Macquarie Councils. The two Councils in question have been chosen to undertake a “Smart Beaches” project. The Councils wanted to inform the Bold and Beautiful what the project is all about. The project’s end result is to furnish more data to enable the Life Savers to perform their jobs as well as possible and improve conditions at the beaches and surrounds. 

There will be a number of initiatives which will provide additional information on;

-the number of swimmers/pedestrians on and around the beaches

-the use of facilities by beachgoers

-bathing and swimming conditions

In order to record information there will be cameras installed at Manly and Shelly beaches, GPS trackers will be attached to the red and yellow flags, to buggies, rescue boards and even the rubbish bins to ensure they get emptied appropriately. Some lifeguards will be equipped with devices to measure their movement and activity.  Installation is expected late November and a similar situation will be happening on Redhead and Blacksmith beaches in Lake Macquarie. There isn’t really much for us to do other than encourage the project as it will hopefully improve safety and beach conditions for all at Manly and Shelly.

Cake Stall to support Bush Fire Victims from the WOWs (this was held today but keeping the post in case you need the link to donate)

Hi B&B friends. We will be holding a cake stall this Saturday 23 November to help the community of our fellow BnB swimmer Belinda Robertson. Bee & hubby Bruce have been ready for action defending their farm for the past week, they have been spared but their community is suffering great loss (they are near Wingham/Taree). Please bake if you can or bring your $$ and appetite on Saturday. Or if you won’t be there but would like to donate, see the link below. Thank you 💕 

Click here to support MidCoast Bush Fire Relief organized by LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW

LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW MidCoast Bush Fire Relief LET'S JOIN TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Want to join LIONS Australia in helping those affected

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation 🤶
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik  

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

 

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

What am I listening to? Seems apt.

Time is on our side

The northerly winds came in today and brought big waves which are a joy for the surfers. They have not had a turn for a long time and I can have a swim another day from the beach. Also today we could swim at halfway or from Shelly beach. Time is on our side.

I like this photo and wish it would rain so we needed an umbrella

Lots of us braved the smoke today

an extra reason for me to go to halfway - my guardian angels swam early

only two under the A team tree

crashing foam at halfway

Two wise men

A good go for surfers today and the brave swimmers who can negotiate waves and surfers at once

best moustache today

arty sky

sometimes they do

shower scene in a different location

SUMMER BADGE SWIMS

Thanks to Medibank Free and Active, B&B random swimmer of the month for October is: Mike Russell

Mike has done 41 swims. (his picture is attached)

His main motivation to join B&B was to keep up my fitness levels post 50, and importantly to do more with the local community. “I used to bodysurf all the local breaks for years, and when the weather was flat I would swim across to Shelley Beach by myself. One day I counted 12 sharks as I swam and decided that maybe it was time to swim with the group!” 

Mike has two purchases in mind with his voucher ... either a sports watch, or a new swimming wetsuit.

 

Great work Mike.

Management update

Management recently attended a meeting with representatives from Northern Beaches and Lake Macquarie Councils. The two Councils in question have been chosen to undertake a “Smart Beaches” project. The Councils wanted to inform the Bold and Beautiful what the project is all about. The project’s end result is to furnish more data to enable the Life Savers to perform their jobs as well as possible and improve conditions at the beaches and surrounds. 

There will be a number of initiatives which will provide additional information on;

-the number of swimmers/pedestrians on and around the beaches

-the use of facilities by beachgoers

-bathing and swimming conditions

In order to record information there will be cameras installed at Manly and Shelly beaches, GPS trackers will be attached to the red and yellow flags, to buggies, rescue boards and even the rubbish bins to ensure they get emptied appropriately. Some lifeguards will be equipped with devices to measure their movement and activity.  Installation is expected late November and a similar situation will be happening on Redhead and Blacksmith beaches in Lake Macquarie. There isn’t really much for us to do other than encourage the project as it will hopefully improve safety and beach conditions for all at Manly and Shelly.

Cake Stall to support Bush Fire Victims from the WOWs

Hi B&B friends. We will be holding a cake stall this Saturday 23 November to help the community of our fellow BnB swimmer Belinda Robertson. Bee & hubby Bruce have been ready for action defending their farm for the past week, they have been spared but their community is suffering great loss (they are near Wingham/Taree). Please bake if you can or bring your $$ and appetite on Saturday. Or if you won’t be there but would like to donate, see the link below. Thank you 💕 

Click here to support MidCoast Bush Fire Relief organized by LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW

LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW MidCoast Bush Fire Relief LET'S JOIN TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Want to join LIONS Australia in helping those affected

 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

 

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

WHAT I AM READING

some enjoyable police novels set in Minnesota featuring Virgil Flowers. Quick and enjoyable reads. 

 

The Mob out in force for a sunny Sunday.

It’s been a bit of a week for swimming. Not that I’ve been there myself. With those nasty winds having pushed the warm water out to sea, my inclination to plunge into cold water was completely diminished. Cold water swimming is something one does for a badge. I did hear there were waves, cold water, howling wind, more cold water and a smattering of sunshine.

 

However, the 16.9 degree water, absolutely flat surface, zephyr like breeze and brilliant sunshine, brought out about 350 weekend warriors. What a mob!

There were newbies too. JK was busy signing on keen beans before the swim.

Old timer Lesley (she has been doing this for well over a decade), strikes a classic modern mum pose with the assistance of (someone else’s) children and coffee.

Today we had an extra-long swim due amazing high tide! It was way up the ramp, lapping at the base of Eric’s Steps.

And it was deep and cold at the entry point.  Gemma’s expression says it all. Total surprise.

While all was bright and beautiful above the surface, there was nothing to report below. Just a couple of fishy shadows could be seen through the greenish brown water. A colour that brought swims in rivers and lagoons to mind. Just a little bit eerie.

We all made it to Shelly - slightly numb for the non-wetsuited among us.

No birthday songs or general announcements to delay them, the swimmers in desperate need of caffeine took off at a cracking pace.

The return swim is the leg that is often the most interesting. No fish, but encounters with other swimmers frolicking –Belinda and Robyn today – doublers gathering, and many other people not under the Pink Cap heading out for their own morning ritual.

The best part of the morning ritual is, of course, the company over coffee and toast at the end. Even better with glorious sunshine.

Have a cracking week. 

Mary

The Interesting bits from Management

The Monthly Dinner – 12^th November 2019 – Guest Speaker

The Next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 12th November at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our guest on the night will be Allan Sparkes CV, OAM, VA FRSN, who is one of only 5 Australians in the past 44 years to be awarded the Cross of Valour (CV), Australia's highest bravery decoration. Allan will speak about "What is the rarely recognised element of courage and why is it so important today?" Is courage about overcoming fear? willingness to risk your all, an inner strength? perhaps it is about choice, leaving a place of safety to go to a place of danger? But how often do we consider courage is about the willingness to care. In his talk Al Sparkes will touch on the times he has had to be courageous to help others and the times he stopped caring about himself. And what he did to recover his life from the pits of hell.

Please book early for this event as it is sure to be popular. The cost of the dinner is great value at only $25 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each. Numbers are limited, so bookings are essential. To avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book at www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

 

A rough passage

The sunrise was lovely this morning. As usual. The haze from the past few days hasn't quite passed, making for pretty mornings.

I've been out of the water for a few weeks due to cataract removal surgery so this is a dry blog. However......

You can take he underwater photographer away from the sea creatures but....

Do we know each other?

The morning started like any other. The gatherings.

I was asked to add a message to Tonia - you are missed. 

2 newbies on the right

Another newbie signing up

I have better than 2020 vision in both eyes now but I'm having trouble with photographic focus. Hopefully this will settle down. 

Even the women are manly at Manly, the t shirts say so

a few more newbies on the left

Dave said the conditions were fine

but management advised otherwise with a robust suggestion of the Shelley Biathlon

Shelley the blog tart queen, with eager followers hungry for hints and tips

Proud parents

Beautiful hand sewn nautically  themed cover-up.

Not everyone took management's advice despite the 2 metre NE swell

Not so close to the rocks, people!

Here's someone contemplating entry to half way

The majority took management's advice

I had the privilege of minding the very lovely Sylvie who was not at all impressed by my preventing her from getting at the brush turkeys.

No comment

Some post swim relaxation

Shelley has some serious blog tart competition in Capless Dave The Younger this morning

Swim safe everyone

Only 1 management notice today

The Monthly Dinner – 12^th November 2019 – Guest Speaker

 

The Next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 12th Novemober at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our guest on the night will be Allan Sparkes CV, OAM, VA FRSN, who is one of only 5 Australians in the past 44 years to be awarded the Cross of Valour (CV), Australia's highest bravery decoration. Allan will speak about "What is the rarely recognised element of courage and why is it so important today?" Is courage about overcoming fear? willingness to risk your all, an inner strength? perhaps it is about choice, leaving a place of safety to go to a place of danger? But how often do we consider courage is about the willingness to care. In his talk Al Sparkes will touch on the times he has had to be courageous to help others and the times he stopped caring about himself. And what he did to recover his life from the pits of hell.

Please book early for this event as it is sure to be popular. The cost of the dinner is great value at only $25 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each. Numbers are limited, so bookings are essential. To avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book at www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html .    

What am I listening to?

This is an ode to today's conditions. This clip is a rarity because it includes the late Kim Shattuck on bass. She didn't last long with Pixies. The popular belief is tey let her go for being too extroverted. She stage dived during a conceft and Pixies Do Not Stage Dive. Still her contribution on this performance is pretty damn fine I reckon.

Thursday 24 October 2019: Birthdays, milestones, warmer temps and rays

What a week its been with warmer waters, whales, grey nurses and fevers of rays but today everyone was asking "where's Shaun?"

You see lower middle management hadn't met their KPIs and so with Ian away and John busy with seminars this week, top management needed some woman power to crank things up for our swimmers.  With just one day left to deliver, I've ordered some nice warm weather for the rest of today and tomorrow, making a swim in Cabbage Tree Bay on Friday morning the best way to start your day.  I'm reassured that there will be plenty of sea life to look at tomorrow morning as well.  It's been a hectic week clearing the water filters, making sure the wave dampeners are working adequately, firing up the water heaters and ensuring the spectacular sea life know the importance of putting in an appearance this week for maximum crediblity. To be honest its been exhausting so after tomorrow I'm happily handing back the reigns to JK to keep everything in order.

But it seems the changes have come at a cost.  I became a little concerned when yesterday Shaun recounted his conversation with the albino wobby and it kind of went downhill from there. I'm worried he may not be feeling the B&B love so if you see our favourite builder muttering to himself, brown paper bag in one hand and his collection of accumulated swimwear in the other, please tell give him a cuddle, tell him we still love him and reassure him that next time he is given the opportunity to just try a little harder.

On a more serious note Roger Ingram today passed the 1000km mark - what an achievement.  He was greeted with the customary arch at the end of his double.

We also celebrated Gayle's birthday - it was actually her birthday on Sunday but she tried to keep it quiet - no such luck at B&B -  a birthday of such a celebrity generally means cake.

We're still looking for Shaun and his albino wobby.

The 6.30 crew were quite happy with management deliverables this week.

As were the earlier swimmers.

Still looking for Shaun.

Maybe he's brushing up on his Spanish like these three who are preparing to cycle around Cuba. 

Es realmente una excusa para ser estrellas del blog. (thanks Google translate - hope that makes sense!!!!)

Twinning - but still no Shaun.

Apparently wetsuits are not cool when its 19 degrees in the water and your mates go without.
 

The WOWS and friends out of the water.

And in the water - including some photo bombers.

 

Have a great day and see you tomorrow before welcoming JK back on Saturday.

Management notices

Water temp:   19.0
Newbies:           4
Total swimmers:   154

B&B Monthly Dinner at Bluewater Cafe
​Tuesday 12th November at 6.30 pm 
​Guest Speaker - Allan Sparkes CV, OAM, VA, FRSN

The Next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 12th Novemober at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our guest on the night will be Allan Sparkes CV, OAM, VA FRSN, who is one of only 5 Australians in the past 44 years to be awarded the Cross of Valour (CV), Australia's highest bravery decoration. Allan will speak about "What is the rarely recognised element of courage and why is it so important today?" Is courage about overcoming fear? willingness to risk your all, an inner strength? perhaps it is about choice, leaving a place of safety to go to a place of danger? But how often do we consider courage is about the willingness to care. In his talk Al Sparkes will touch on the times he has had to be courageous to help others and the times he stopped caring about himself. And what he did to recover his life from the pits of hell.

​Please book early for this event as it is sure to be popular. The cost of the dinner is great value at only $25 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each. Numbers are limited, so bookings are essential.  To avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book now on the web or at : https://www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

 

Reasons to be grateful

Just sometimes on a drizzly Sunday morning, when you are hurrying across wet roads in the grey, 9 degree dawn, you question why you have forsaken the comfort of your cosy bed.

“I’m doing the blog today!” is the grumpy retort to myself. On the way to B&B Central you nod to other swimmers, check out the conditions and begin the routine – cap, goggles, earplugs, etc, chat then chat some more. Soon, that grumpy voice is silenced by another telling you to acknowledge your good fortune and to be grateful.

So today I give you the 10 things for which I am grateful.

1.There may be rain, but how grateful are we to have this precious gift from the heavens. For us in the ‘burbs our gardens and lawns are green and bursting with new growth.

2. The friends! What an opportunity to meet so many new and interesting people to not only swim with, but to share so many other joyous occasions!  Each time I swim, I have the opportunity to see these beautiful and amazing people.  Each with their perfectly unique stories that inspire, amuse and sometimes stretch the realms of believability.

3. The sea that ceases and suffices itself.  Plunging into the sea gives you such a sense of renewal.  We are so lucky to have this watery health spa.

4. My ability to swim.  I was told by a Buddhist friend that she begins each task by being grateful that she has the ability to complete the task.  I am very grateful that I can swim (‘cause I’m a hopeless runner).

5. The opportunity to celebrate. Today David cracked the 1,000km – and yes there was cake – and it was Corinne’s birthday.

6. The serene marine creatures we see each day.  The sunny flash of the yellow tail, a Blue Groper darting about the rocks, the Wobbegong that blends into the shelly bottom of the bay, the Rays, the Sand Whiting.  So much nicer to see them here than in submerged in ice at a fish market. (However, not seen today 'cause it was a bit murky).

7. That bottle of hot water on a wintry morning.  It makes all the difference.

8. The après swim coffee.   This is the only time I drink coffee – and it is soooo good.  Made even better with the pleasure of sharing the morning sun with friends.

9. Being here to enjoy this moment.

10. My friend, and Sunday Blog Meister, Gemma who has somehow enticed me back to blogging.  

What are you grateful for? 

 

Mary

 

Bottom of the Blog - the very useful stuff 

And now for something completely different, a word or several from management

There is a new set of wines, just for Manly!

They're a white and a red named 'The Bold' and 'The Beautiful' dedicated to “us” - all the swimmers who take to the ocean for the daily Bold & Beautiful swim from Manly to Shelly Beach and back. 

The wines are made by James Becker, out of his vineyards in the Hunter Valley.  David Webster has said it’s been a wonderful journey planning the grape varieties, the style of wines and helping James through the process of making, bottling and labelling the wines. It's a very small run with just 100 six packs available for purchase. Each six pack contains 3 bottles of the red (Shiraz Viognier) and 3 bottles of the white (Cardonnay).

David and James would love to see you at the wine launch on October 22nd at Manly Surf Club where you'll have the chance to taste the wines and nibble on some cheese while David talks you through the story behind the wine. Tasting starts at 6:30pm and runs through until 8pm. 

Please RSVP to David if you’re able to attend at: david@northernbeacheswine.com

The Stats

Regulars:  about 180

Newbie:  7

Temp:   17.9 degrees

Sunrise:  6.17 am

Sunset:  7.06 pm

Weather man lied again last night

Heavy showers along the coast in the morning. Willy Weather concurred.  But they were both wrong.

Plenty of blue early morning sky greeted the 6:30 swimmers. I just managed to catch this group before they headed off (the parking gods were only moderately kind to me this morning).

Who needs a plane when you can swim?

Unfortunately the recent rain resulted in a bit of rubbish on the beach as well as in the water

Water temps a bit lower - what is going on?

I'm in awe of Roger's skill. This cartoon took him all of a minute to draw. And all this time I thought he was just a bullsh!t artist

A few newbies being indoctrinated sorry inducted by management

Just as I thought no one was showing up, the regular crowd appeared, possibly a little bleary from Friday night activities, or maybe the 9 to 5 grind.

Someone (was it Lisa?) dropped the trigger word (whale) 

Shaun's attention was drawn to warm blooded wildlife while all other eyes were turned seaward

Warm up shoulder exercises?

Amelia - 2 weeks to go. Legend 

Shelley

Amelia again with some admiring WOWs

The Liquorice Allsorts

Bummer of a shot

Heading back

No fish today, water was too murky. They were there but.......

This is the original Capless Dave on the ski, trailed by a conga line of WOWs, and Capless Dave The Younger

Then Jonny raced past on a double ski, distracting the WOWS.....

affording Dave the opportunity for a speedy escape

Which way did he go?

Back on shore, here is Monty Murray-McNaughty with Lyndall. Special kudos to fellow tennis tragic Murray who went to China to watch a tennis match. As you do.

Stats: Newbies - 2 that I know of; swimmers - 94 ticked, almost certainly more; water temp - you know that already

And now for something completely different, a word or several from management

There is a new set of wines, just for Manly!

They're a white and a red named 'The Bold' and 'The Beautiful' dedicated to “us” - all the swimmers who take to the ocean for the daily Bold & Beautiful swim from Manly to Shelly Beach and back. 

The wines are made by James Becker, out of his vineyards in the Hunter Valley.  David Webster has said it’s been a wonderful journey planning the grape varieties, the style of wines and helping James through the process of making, bottling and labelling the wines. It's a very small run with just 100 six packs available for purchase. Each six pack contains 3 bottles of the red (Shiraz Viognier) and 3 bottles of the white (Cardonnay).

David and James would love to see you at the wine launch on October 22nd at Manly Surf Club where you'll have the chance to taste the wines and nibble on some cheese while David talks you through the story behind the wine. Tasting starts at 6:30pm and runs through until 8pm. 

Please RSVP to David if you’re able to attend at: david@northernbeacheswine.com

What am I listening to? It's my habit to pick something I like on Youtube Music and then let it do its thing but not today.

This is quite bizarre. Shonen Knife is an alternative rock band formed in Osaka, in 1981. Heavily influenced by 1960s girl groups, pop bands, The Beach Boys, and early punk rock bands, such as the Ramones, the trio crafts stripped-down songs with simple, yet uncoventional lyrics sung both in Japanese and English. (this from Wikipedia).

A very strange set of influences for a 3 piece female Japanese band. They are playing the Metro on November 8 and 9, I think I might go.