And on a lighter note… triathlon training!

Yesterday was the most raw confession I’ve ever written about. If you read it (here), you can probably guess that the wide range of emotions I’ve felt in the last few days are still very present. And sometimes we just need a break from all of that, don’t we? Part of my break, a distraction if you will, was to get in some laps this morning. So on a lighter note, here’s how it went at the community pool today…


I arrived. I put on my tight pants. Swim cap on. Goggles down. Nose clip secured. And yes, I wear a nose clip (here’s why)! I slithered into the pool as calmly as possible because even though it’s temper-controlled, there’s always that initial chill. George Costanza was right, and that’s all I’m gonna say about that.


So why do I swim when I’m not fast? Well, because I’m not fast. How am I supposed to be a better triathlete if I swim like a manatee?? Actually, side note: Did you know one reason alligators don’t prey on manatees is because manatees are fast in the water? That’s not something we discuss enough, I think. So maybe I’m more like floating debris. But I’m working on it because I have a triathlon coming up next weekend. Funny that as the weather temp goes up, so does my training. Isn’t it easier to do things outside when it’s not frickin’ cold!? The last time I swam in cold water it took a few hours to stop shaking. I guess that’s why I’m a big fan of hotness whether I’m swimming, biking, or running. Give me all the sweat!



The swim went good this morning, 1200 yds in two intervals (2×600) and even though my Tyr swim jammers are as tight as they should be– I can’t fathom how men… or women for that matter… are confident enough in public to wear speedos or bikinis when another human being can witness it– where was I going with this run-on sentence?? Oh yes, even with the “tight pants” on, it was good to get into the pool and burn some energy.


Plus, at the pool I randomly (or was it a divine thing?) saw a couple of guys I know, one from triathlons. I’ve been really happy to connect with him since he’s new and the race coming up next weekend is his first! Very cool. The other guy, I had chatted with at the pool once back in 2024 and the convo quickly turned into such great spiritual encouragement to me. Haven’t seen him since then but it’s not a coincidence that I saw him today. A little God moment just for me.

Also, no-one seemed taken aback by my pants and their level of tightness. I’m calling that a win.


-Out of the Wilderness


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Published by Ben Wilder

Since 2005, I've called Nashville home. I'm the leader of the pack, which includes a 13-year-old beagle and an 11-year-old blue heeler mix. My days include writing, video editing, and other fun activities. Thanks for checking out my blog, I hope you enjoy it!

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