Faded Signs

I turned 50 last week and I've suddenly become very aware of faded signs. I can give in or fight back. It might surprise you but I think I'll get feisty instead of cool.

OK there are THREE, count them, THREE handmade "team" signs bedecking the pool deck. I assume these are meant to boost spirits and connections among our valued youth, but they are OLD and faded, with names like Reynalyn and Lytistra, which to me sound like good prescriptions. Anyway, the Y has taken to writing over the signatory names because they have faded, with the effect that now they look even more dismal. SO - I'm going to bring in my markers and we are all going to sign our Pool Names to the signs! "S.L.B." "Peanut" "Lover Boy" "Wonder Woman" "Back Float Bob" "SugaCube" "Sharin'" "Puppy Sweet Cheeks" "Strawberry" "Spinney", etc.. I'm sure that once we've attacked they will HAVE to take the dusty things down.

Did anyone notice that for years and years the valued youth swim records on the big chart at the end of the pool never changed? That's because time stood still until I was approaching my 50th. Suddently they changed and I think life is accelerating, so please take some relax time to appreciate what we have. NOTE: There's a tie for first place in one category and the winners are: Fish, Rho.

Speaking of fish, what's with the inflatable fish and the fish-shaped kickboard hanging from the ceiling in the pool? I hope we can assume, like cleaning the hallway carpets every week, that they are cleaning the dusty fish as part of their regularly scheduled maintenance. Maybe that's what I need: a good deep clean and a brain dusting. I had a massage today. Everything did NOT hurt. It was good.

I guess stuff just starts to break down at some point. SugaCube and Peanut sang for me in the pool, with a minor synchronized swim act that was more than just a bit adorable, and I almost broke down and cried it was so sweet. Peanut said I'd crossed the line but I do NOT agree. PEANUT: I am ON the line. I swam an Ironman distance on my 50th just to prove I've still got it. Did it hurt later? I'll never tell....

But yes some things just don't work as well as they used to. We had a lifeguard faint and fall into the pool, and Shuffles slipped and fell and hit his head outside the steam room - he also needed an ambulance (both are fine - can they be fixed? I recommended sticky flip flips and a big glass of water before working/out; Mom - is it okay if I give advice?). Also, shower stall #1 never gets hot and there's no pressure. One of two sinks in the Children's Locker Room does not give forth water. The computer at the front desk wasn't working one morning this week so they just let all these people in without positive government issued ID. Sometimes I just don't feel comfy and safe and then I think "BE YOUNG", stop worry-warting and complaining and being your age! I did a 25 mile bike ride this morning with no helmet. It was SO ROCKIN.

So I will continue to push what I do, but I will also drink my strawberry flavored muscle milk, walk slowly across the pool deck, and adjust my rearview. Just to be on the safe side.