It’s been a while since I’ve posted. I’ve thought about writing many times, but usually when I am working through a hardship (mine or someone else’s) and those are often not my stories to share. However, these are also the times I learn the greatest lessons: the ones worth sharing.

Today I am committing to blogging more regularly. There, I said it (or typed it) so I’ll stick with it. As I prepare to embark on a few new projects, I look forward to sharing these exciting events. So I’m (almost) back at it.

I am also back in the pool! Our community pool opened last weekend, but it was rainy, cold, and I was in Charlottesville for lacrosse. So this weekend I ventured to the pool for the first time in 2026 during lap swim (a term that makes any competitive swimmer cringe).
Last summer, I returned to the pool for the first time in 15-ish years (probably longer). Our pool opens an hour early for those who want to swim laps (I wasn’t at the level where I can say “those who want to train”) and my first few trips to the pool last summer were brutal. Actually, they were BRUTAL. There is being in shape and there is being in swimming-shape - and yes there is a difference. But I committed to it and I stuck with it all summer. And I loved it. I was slow but I was swimming and it felt great.
I also learned (or was reminded) that I have an innate and ingrained sense of competition. When I first dove in the pool last year, I quickly assessed the other four swimmers: he’s older - I should beat him; he looks young - it’s okay if he’s faster than me… and I actually started laughing underwater. Haley! You’re in the pool swimming! That’s your win… Once a competitor, always a competitor.

This weekend when I ventured to the pool, I was anticipating that BRUTAL feeling again. But muscle memory kicked in (pun intended) and I was pleasantly surprised. Being out of the water for ten months is much different than 15 years…it just felt great. I love being in the water. I love the feel of the water. And I love the exhaustion I feel when I get out of the water after a swim. It’s a good tired.
I also love my new teammate. My son is home for the summer for the first time since 2020, and he said he would train with me. He’s not a swimmer (he’s a water polo player), but since he’s younger than I am, it’s okay that he’s faster.