Plutonium Sox

Outdoor swimming

Why we swim

Why we swim

A foot plunges into the icy blackness. Cold penetrates the skin like a knife. Bit by bit, the rest of the body becomes submerged. Slow, intentional movements. One leg, then the other. A cautious step forward. Edging in, feeling for the river bed. Numb from the waist down. It’s time to take the plunge. A leap of faith The intentional part is done. Now there’s nothing for it but to submit completely to the water. Falling slowly forwards. Every breath is an effort. Slow down, don’t gasp. Lie still, weightless. Wait for the panic to pass. Self-awareness is all-consuming. Focus…

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Our Thursday Photos

Thursday photo #298

Thursday photo #298

For the first time in a long time, there’s a half term approaching and we don’t have any plans. My husband has used all his leave so we won’t be going away for the week. We may manage a few days but for the majority of the time, we’ll be staying local. Writing about what’s happening in the West Midlands this half term has made me realise that staying local will be just as fun as going away. I also feel that a few quiet days will be just what we need. Hidcote Gardens We’ve had a National Trust membership…

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What's on West Midlands

Things to do West Midlands February half term 2020

Things to do West Midlands February half term 2020

If you’re looking for things to do in the West Midlands during February half term 2020, this list should give you plenty of inspiration. Not all local attractions are open in the Winter months, but these fantastic destinations have prepared lots of exciting events to keep families entertained during the school holidays. For more things to do in the area from family or dog friendly attractions to ideas for a rainy day, head to my comprehensive days out guide. I’ve split this guide up by district. If you’re looking for activities in a particular area, please click on one of the…

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Outdoor swimming

Hiking and swimming adventures [ad]

Hiking and swimming adventures [ad]

Learning to swim is a slow process. Perfecting techniques, ploughing across a pool. Progressing to swimming competitively. Monotony, up and down. Up and down. Then, a discovery. Swimming as an adventure. Getting from A to B. Combine it with walking or running and a whole new world opens up. Swimming to a destination I’ve been open water swimming regularly for nearly two years now but there came a point last summer when something changed. We realised that there was a lovely farm shop just under a mile down river from where we swam. We could probably get in there and…

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Our Thursday Photos

Thursday photo #297

Thursday photo #297

It’s amazing how quickly the school holidays become a distant memory. The girls only went back last Tuesday but we’re already firmly entrenched in our routine. This week has been a real treat for me with plenty of outdoor swimming. With the river still flooded, I’ve been getting in for a swim when and where I could. So on Saturday when my husband took the girls to visit his aunt in Bristol, I took the opportunity for a swim. Clevedon Marine Lake I first noticed Clevedon Marine Lake over the summer. We’d gone out for lunch in Clevedon and I…

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