July 18, 2003 I am so thankful that the Hampton Inn in Paris, TN agreed to let me us their computer to journal. There hasn't been any publicity here, so they did it on my word alone. Perhaps the goggle and swim cap marks on my forehead and eyes helped. Not having my own laptop and internet service, I have not had the time to answer email like I enjoy doing. Please know I am deeply appreciative for your letters and notes of support and hopefully my husband will get my iPass working by Sunday. Pam took my laptop to him last night, so he can take it to Valley Internet to see if they can get it connected. Today's swim was different. Pam went home and Kathy took over for a few days. It is nice having a change but the change in routine can also throw me out of whack. We forgot my water-not good- but Pete and Kenley gave me theirs and did without. Luckily it was overcast today, so they didn't sweat much. My wrists weren't wrapped enough, and we forgot to read my morning prayer and quote from my neighber/running friend, Billy. After swimming for 3 1/2 hours, I stopped, had Kathy rewrap my wrists, said a prayer and pretended I was starting the day over. It worked, and the next 2 hours went well until... SWELLS, SWELLS, SWELLS! The wind picked up and the boat had difficulty staying straight. The trolling motor could not keep up with me, so Pete had to switch to the outboard. Waves splashed my crew. I swam on! It was exciting, but I didn't make much progress because the swells were coming from the North. Now, everyday about this time, the water gets rough, the other boaters leave, things calm down, and we enjoy the rest of my swim without having to worry about boat traffic. Well, today things did not calm down and continued to get rougher. It was still exciting. Why? Because in order to swim in rough water, you have to "LET GO". Go with the flow. RELAX. It is hard for me to let go. I continually get over-frustrated with people who don't seem to be as passionate about the Tennessee River and the environment as me. I remind myself to "let go and let God", but it is always easier said than done. In life, to truly survive, it is a "must" to know when to let go. (What is that line in the SERENITY prayer common in 12 step programs- having the wisdom to know the difference...") SO, in the water you either "let go" or go backwards, or drown. The choice is simple, let go! Today I let go. It felt great! I made headway and had fun! Eventually Kenley saw lightning and hauled me in...I questioned his sight and chidded him that Pete and he were just getting seasick. We came back to the Paris Landing and quit for the day. Thanks again for your supportive emails. Eric, we will have to talk later about the importance of swim teams in even the smallest of communities. "For God so loved the World..." take care of it. mimi