Kenna Morton's Journal, 27 Jul 19

That is too bad. There is quite a bit of denial involved for some. I enjoy the pool for its chattiness. There are many struggles where I go as well. But also some amazing role models among the seniors. I am really in awe at how good shape some of them are and how well they take care of themselves.  

Small talk. Hard to handle, especially when that person spills negativity on you. I never talk to anyone but I must have something that appeals others to talk to me. That said swimming is probably the best thing for ill people, it’s gentle enough yet keeps you in shape. 

Swimming is great for everything. I especially love it for just decompressing from daily life. Empty your mind and just concentrate on rhythmic breathing and feeling your body glide through the water. Very hypnotizing. 

Only swimming for some of us sounds more like: flop, flap, flop...gasp for air...flop, flap, flop...gasp for air...no gliding... 

I am not a good swimmer. There is a lot of flop and flip and getting annoyed at people splashing water but I enjoy it 

Liv I’m like you! I don’t like water that much tho, maybe because I nearly drowned when I was 12. I like to go to the beach very early when no one is there. 30min drive from my place. 

To145– my pool isn’t a 24 hour fitness type place. It is part of our Salvation Army Community Center. A warm water pool. Typically, most people are older, some in their 80-90s. Some actually swim and some do the exercise classes and some just come to visit and talk and socialize while enjoying the wonderful water. Nobody cares what you are wearing or how poor your technique might be. We share foods and produce that so many of them grow., I run a little mini BP clinic for anyone who wants a quick check on their pressure. I act as patient advocate for some of them and go to the doctor with them when needed. I go over their bloodwork and xrays for them and help them understand what the doctor told them. One lady finally started to use oxygen and was devastated that she wouldn’t be able to do her “exercises” everyday, so I set her up with a 25 foot oxygen tube and a o2 tank so she could still get in the pool with the rest of us “girls”. These are People who are making their own best life and it gives them all a real reason to get up in the morning and “hit the pool”. Socialization and relationships is one of the most Important factors in a long life. 

Growing old is not for sissies! 

way to go Kenna!  

You must have the same "tell me your life story face" that I do. We need to find a way to capitalize on this instead of giving it away for free 🤐 

I worked for a crisis hotline for years; sometimes the best thing you can do for someone is just listen. 

Shirfleur1– this was not a crisis management situation. This was a simple introduction to a new person who could only see herself as a shit load of maladies rather than just a simple person with a name who had come to enjoy the magnificent pool.