In the Beginning - My First Stroke

Every great journey begins with a simple 'First Stroke', well here is mine with my dad. I have no idea where this picture was taken, how old I was and now I am just a mere 29 days from the next biggest journey in my life to cross the English Channel. 

Maybe this first shared experience, that only a mom or dad can offer, began for me this Journey "One Stroke At A Time" and so impressed me that 49 years later I can honestly say being in water (swimming, scuba diving, or just floating) is one of the single most wonderful things I get to do in life aside from my wife and family.

Thanks Mom, Dad and Katie (the other family fish) 

for starting me on this Journey

What pool swimmers are missing

No lanes, no lines, no walls someone once said. Well another weekend of Lake Michigan Swimming is upon me and here is what I get to start my day with, a glorious sunny morning, swimming buddies and beautiful water. This picture was taken a few feet underwater 200 yards off Tower Beach Park, Winnetka, IL where we often swim. So clear you can see 20 - 30 feet down with ease.

English Channel Swim 45 days and counting

Decided to watch a few English channel video clips for fun and thought these might be great ti share as it imparts a bit of the less glamorous side and sheer boredom to the crew, weather conditions (yes that's thunder in the background) and mental discipline necessary to attempt the channel.

I find myself excited and yet relaxed. I know I've done the work and now its time to finish these next 45 days with focused attention to Lake Michigan cold swims, a night swim or two and the rest as they say is in the hands of my maker and mother nature.

July 4th Parade - A Lifetime of Friends, Family and fitness

Barrington Swim Club (BSC) and Masters Club (BAM) participate in annual Village parade walking to honor our country and also in support of our community.

220 Foundation and 'One Stroke at a Time' teamed up again handing our swim bracelets

Club participants, kids and families lining up for the parade