29 Comments
User's avatar
Tim's avatar

I was refused entry to a pool in Brussels for wearing trunks rather than speedos. Never been a problem in Germany

Tim's avatar

I have very much the same relationship with water, from similar experiences at an early age. I managed to have the Dushanbe pool filled from Easter to October (despite much shaking of heads ...)

Karen's avatar

I am so sorry for what you’re going through. Your life via various swimming pools sounds just beautiful. Also that you have this incredible go to outlet for your physical and mental health, along with the reading, and so many things that calm you and make you happy. Your thoughtful beautiful writing always such a helpful reminder what makes a life worth living, how to be grateful. I always look forward to your posts. Be well ❤️

Charles Holdefer's avatar

We're thinking of you at Rosemont, Jennifer.

Anne Stockwell's avatar

I love this post so much. First, shoutout to Ticklenaked Pond! That's a name I won't forget. Also, shoutout to swimming the piranha-infested lake -- good practice for navigating French bureaucracy during a heat wave. Sending much love to you, dear Jennifer.

Lisa Hart's avatar

I was so inspired by your ability to ENJOY. I’m trying so hard. You are an amazing person

Janet Skeslien Charles's avatar

So glad that you were able to swim and that you had so much space to yourself in the pool. Thinking of you and hoping this heat abates. I'm going to Bruges for a few days and will reach out when I get back. xo

Alison Lloyd's avatar

We call those minimalist male swimsuits 'budgie smugglers' in Australia (budgie being short for budgerigar, the small native parrot). You can imagine why...

Rebecca L'Bahy's avatar

Hilarious about the swimsuit!

Jennifer Heitler-Klevans's avatar

We had a similar experience at a pool in France. We were visiting my husband's parents in Arbois (near Dijon) and it was a very hot summer. David's father had already had a problem with getting into the pool wearing trunks so they got some speedo type bathing suits for my husband and 10 year old sons. They were not thrilled, but they did enjoy the pool.

Stephanie Katz's avatar

Absolutely stunning writing as always!

Pia Hinckle's avatar

Ticklenaked Pond is too good to be true for a swimming hole 😂 what a wonderful swimming life you’ve had and this latest chapter is another great story. Poor Tim being forced into a “banana hammock.” Im super curious what the rationale for the rule was against surf trunks and I’ll bet he found out from his new best friend the security guard. The water, even the memory of it, heals. Wishing you many more swims my dear. 💙💙💙

Betwixt and Between dream's avatar

I love hearing about your writing and adventures in Paris. I am sorry for what you have been experiencing with your health.

Rose Marie Burke's avatar

Ticklenaked Pond! Too funny!

The next OK thing, sage advice. I will live that!

Fenella Gentleman's avatar

Love the story about Tim's swimming trunks!

Dominique's avatar

When I’m looking through my emails in the morning, I always read yours first.

I can just imagine poor Tim in those black, cheap speedos 🤣! Bon courage!

Michelle Cohen's avatar

Jen! How did I not know I had a fellow swimmer in my midst all these years? I too have found so many pools in NYC and many times got to be the only one in them. I am so glad you got to have the beautiful experience yet again of letting the waters take you away! I never feel as relaxed and able to let go as I do when in water of any kind. Sending you continued love and admiration and hugs!!

Jennifer Steil's avatar

Hi Michelle! Wish we could go for a nice long swim together! Would love to hear your news if you have time. Love you!

Michelle Cohen's avatar

I always have time for you

! Check your email - you may find me there :)