Saturday 26 December 2009

West Mersea Boxing Day Swim 2009














West Mersea's annual Boxing Day Swim. Last year, my son went in. This year, his elder sister joined him. The snow has gone from all but the darkest corners now, and the sun was shining, but there was a chill wind blowing.
Hundreds turned out to watch the the brave souls who were prepared to turn blue and goosebumpy to raise money for an organisation of central importance to the island - the RNLI. Crewed by highly trained volunteers, Mersea's lifeboat is busy all year round, providing offshore assistance to those in trouble on the water, from windsurfers and jet-skiers to sailing and motor vessels of every kind, as well as helping the other emergency services at high water when the Strood is impassable. Our own boat was joined today by the Clacton lifeboat and crew. Last year's swim raised over £5,000 in sponsorship, donations and takings from the sale of hot drinks and mince pies on the beach.

Thursday 24 December 2009

Christmas Greetings from the Muddy Island

Hello.

Well, it's been a turbulent old six months chez Musings. A period of much upheaval and change. Bad stuff, good stuff, but none of it stuff I've felt inclined to share on the blogosphere.

But I have a feeling that my blogreclusiveness might be nearing its end. I'm really looking forward to 2010. New year, new decade, new life.

Meanwhile, if there's still anyone out there who occasionally visits this spot, I'd like to wish all my erstwhile blogfriends (very sadly missed, but perhaps all is not lost . . .?) a very happy, peaceful and hopeful Christmas.

Juliet xxxxxxxxxxxxxx