On Saturday, Sarah and I got to ride with a really nice group of friends.  There were 10-12 of us, and it was a great change of pace for us.  It was a pretty leisurely ride, but we rode up to the lake and came close to the Michigan state line before turning around.  There were some great hills along the way, and I think that everyone had a great time – I know that WE did.    We got in about 63 miles in 3.5 hours, and my legs felt great afterwards. 

This morning we took the kids to Ohio Street Beach and each got in a nice open water swim.  It was my first time in a wetsuit and my first time swimming in open water.  I had heard so many stories about people struggling with open water swimming and even having panic attacks in races.  I didn’t think any of that would be an issue for me b/c I’ve gotten so comfortable in the pool.  Wow – was I ever mistaken! 

The wetsuit was so tight, and the water was so cold that I felt like I couldn’t breathe.  I was really surprised to feel so uncomfortable.  Additionally, it was disorienting to swim without lines.  Every time I looked up, I was swimming in a different direction.    I will definitely need to practice this several more times before my first race.  It got a little bit more natural toward the end of my 30 minute swim, but I hope to be MUCH more comfortable before the Valpo Triathlon in July….

Jim

PS ~ Happy Memorial Day to everyone!

Dr. Jim Arnold

Northwest Indiana Cosmetic, Family, Invisalign, and Sedation Dentistry

Smiles By Arnold & Associates

www.SmilesByArnold.com

219-926-5445 (Chesterton)

219-531-8914 (Valparaiso)

Naperville Cosmetic, Family, and Invisalign Dentistry

Smiles By Dr. Gibson & Associates

www.SmilesByDrGibson.com

630-357-3333 (Naperville)

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