On Tuesday 15th September I decided to start a Windermere swim. Usually I would be ready and prepared, but this time I had just decided at the weekend to give it a go. Its been a difficult year for any swims and felt like I hadn't really achieved anything for myself. With my Around Jersey Solo being deferred what really was the point?

I'm a big believer of if you say your going to do something go and do it, at least make the start. A couple of friends were
staying near Fell Foot, and as soon as I told them I was going to be starting at a set time, it was game on. No backing out.

The water temperature was registering at 15.3 degrees at the start , the sky was overcast with the promise of sunshine which is what I held on to. As I jumped in , the water felt beautiful but on the fresh side and off I went. I felt really good and was so liberating to be out in the Lake, guided by hubby Dave.

My feeding plan was every 45 mins , as the water temp was cool I wanted a warm drink to look forward to. By the 2nd feed my hands were white and very painful, a condition called Raynauds that pops up and really does affect my feel of the water. I pumped my hands as I continued to swim to try and increase blood flow. It didnt work.

3 hours in and I was still struggling with my hands and the sun had not showed up. It now became a head game.

At the Ferry Crossing beyond the half way marker, Dave read out a message from Gareth, " it gets warmer at the other end", 5 hours in it became true and suddenly my hands began to have some sensation again and the water warmed. There was never any doubt in my mind that I wouldn't finish , but the cold had really affected my pace which was messing with my head. I didn't have a watch on , but I had counted my feeds and knew.

As I made my way passed Bass Rock I knew 4.5km to go , the wind had picked up and was against me but I thought " just another obstacle to get passed". I wanted a tough challenge to test myself and that is exactly what I got.

I continued to count strokes, to keep my brain away from negative thoughts and before I knew it I could see the Ferry Jetty. Dave pulled forward once beyond there and I swam into Ambleside Beach. With an applause from people sat having their chips.

I took away a lot from this swim. You are stronger than you give yourself credit for at times and maybe consider training for it:)