windermere, emphasis on the wind

This past weekend, I escaped the hum-drum of the Big Smoke and made my way up North with Team Lievesley. It was such a gift to be able to spend three days with Alison and her parents and to meet other people whom she loves dearly. I firmly believe that you can tell a lot about a person by the company she keeps. Let me assure that everything I love about Alison was affirmed and amplified by meeting her closest friends and spending time with her family.

The purpose of our trip was to support my dear Dr. Lievesley as she swam the length of Lake Windermere-- nearly 11 miles-- in the 52nd annual Windermere race. I wish that I could say that my support was particularly useful, but I don't think that it was. While Kat and Felicity served as crew and Lewis and Pamela proved transport, I was pure cheerleader. Next year, next year I will have a skill to offer.

And yes, there will be a next year. Unfortunately, after months of training and a transnational expediation this year's race came to an unexpected end. A very miserable morning (even by English standards) forced the safety wardens to pluck the Windermere swimmers from the water mid-race. Strong winds created havoc on the lake and sunk two of the support crew boats. So, after swimming a very famous 22 mile course that I have been told I am not allowed to mention by name-- hint: it involves a passport, begins on an island and ends at the continent-- Alison will be returning to Windermere next summer. Go Team Lievesley, go!

Even though the weekend didn't go as planned, it was thoroughly enjoyable. Cumbria is awe-inspiring beautiful. The company was second to none. Oh, and there were lots of cakes. What more could a girl ask for?

I have included a couple of photos below. Enjoy!


much love

Felicity and Kat load the Victorian boat that they will crew.

Dr. Lievesley prepares to enter the water.

And she's off....

But then the skies go grey and the rain begins to fall...



The race is canceled and Pamela, Lewis, and I head to a cafe with a postcard view to await the rescue boats that carry Ali, Kat, and Felicity to shore.