my blog! https://twsmbd.wixsite.com/swimming

After many years of 'dipping' in open water mostly in the summer, I finally got a wetsuit so I could swim!

I've always loved swimming from being young but not a fan of chlorinated pools. Swimming in open water is euphoric! And so good for mental health and overall well-being. I feel refreshed and energised after.

Cold water swimming is my new challenge and I have been getting acclimatised to colder water and even had some one to lessons and a stroke analysis. The coldest I have swam in so far is 11 degrees.

So, if I'm challenging myself i may as well try and raise money for the charity i work for.

I am officially participating in the Gold penguin challenge, where i have committed to swim 1000m per month in open water between 1st November 2025 and 31st March 2026. So yes, even when the water temperature is freezing!

In addition, at the last minute I have signed up for a double challenge!

Classic polar bear means I have to 'dip' up to my shoulders twice a month! The difference being, compared to a penguin, is that i have to strip off my wetsuit and anything else to keep me warm and dip in literally just my swimming costume!

More information here https://polarbearchallenges.com

I will update this page each month so my progress can be monitored.

Share far and wide!

https://visitfromthestork.co.uk/

1 in 3 children in Greater Manchester are living in poverty, which is over 37%!

I have been involved with Visit from the Stork since 2014 and I am currently co-interim ceo and Project Manager for Stork support and Stork Boost. Everyday I meet parents who are struggling to provide even the basic essentials, let alone extras for their children. But as parents, we need connections, peer support and someone who "gets it". Its about having free, non judgemental, impartial information and advice, at the time you need it. We are determined to make sure all families in GM have the same chances, no matter their circumstances.

As a charity, we are the village for all families who need us 🥰 no family left behind!

All of the donations received will directly impact the families referred to us, whether that be attending one of our stay and play or drop-in sessions, receiving a baby essentials pack, or accessing wraparound support tailored to their personal circumstances.