Waterhead at Monk Coniston,
Coniston Water
There was a mid-life crisis sports car in the car park. It turned out not to be significant. In fact, there was a smattering of cars, but we didn't see any other signs of human life the whole time we were there.
I'd noticed the biting wind back home and it was no different in the Lake District today. Absolutely freezing cold unrelenting wind. Although there was a very aesthetic looking wooden pier, the kind that disappears into the lake, the beach that side was leafy muddy. So we opted for a section a bit further back. Changing alongside a handy bench I tried to ignore the itchy feeling at the back of my mind that continued to remind me that I just wasn't feeling it today. I was determined to overcome the hesitation and just get on with it. Warmer days are afoot and I'd promised myself I'd last the winter...
By the time I was up to my ankles I'd firmly decided that I'd be getting out very soon. So I climbed on the back of my swim partner and allowed him to wade us down to our shoulders. This appeared to happen in slow motion (eyes closed, deep breaths) and I was convinced we'd gone way deeper that we actually had. I was surprised when I let go of him to find that if I stood up the water was only just past the knee.
Turning on to my back I joined in with a splashy celebration of accomplishment. Strength of mind over painfully cold matter. Then followed a second or two working out which of the misty mountain range was The Old Man of Coniston before a hasty hop to the finish line.
Speedy changing led to only my fingers and toes feeling the sting within 5 minutes of getting out. Straight to the car and round to Coniston where a Sunday pork and gravy sandwich waited with open arms. It could have been warmer in there...but everywhere could be warmer when your core is pounding with confusion following the temperature circus its just endured.
Now...writing this nearly 9 hours later...my legs are still aching as if I've run a marathon.
It must be doing some good.
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