Gambler's Luck

Woke to another wet morning, but no rush today as there are no taxi or dog walking duties. Made a full English breakfast and sit in my dressing gown as I eat it listening to the news. On my second cup of coffee Sarah texts asking me to taxi Louis, she is still ill, and it's already eight o'clock. Quick electric shave, wash and brush my teeth and out the door dressed for ten past. Louis is still upset because he hasn't seen his mum since Sunday, but a hug and a promise she will collect him tonight and he soldiers on. After dropping him at school, return home and do some chores before heading to the pool for ten. The pool is busy, but I find a space to swim on the other side of a lane rope. Today's training session is a repeat of yesterday, but my muscles are responding and it seems easier. Still breathing every two strokes, and remarkably holding to 13 strokes per length for the first two 500m sets and 14 strokes for the last three. Out of curiosity I time the fourth set and it is taking me 38 seconds per length. Without breaks for water that would be 62 minutes dead for 100 lengths, but allowing for breaks and other swimmers in the lane with me, it will probably be between 65 and 70 minutes. I'm also relieved that the compressed, heavier than usual training, hasn't caused any other problems. I know that I've been gambling a bit with my health in order to prepare for the Swimathon. Nothing left to do now but rest up until Sunday.