Back in the Pool

After more than three months (March 9- June 18), I went lap swimming in a stunning outdoor pool in a park near my apartment in Florence. (I did swim at my brother's pool in Florida, though it is not regulation lap distance.)  Some people may remember the photograph of this pool that I shared last September via social media. While the pool opened several weeks ago, due to my quarantine and the rainy mornings, today was my first day in the pool.  When I paid the three euros to enter for a one-hour lap swim, the gentleman working at the desk told me that last year at this time they already had 2,000 visitors; this year there were only 200 visitors to date.  He speculated that worry about Covid-19 and the unusual rainy, cool weather provided the explanation.  

The pool has strict regulations to follow.  You must complete a questionnaire to certify that you are not sick, and have not been near anyone who is sick.  (Or, conveniently, you can download an app and pay online.) You may not use the locker rooms, though the bathrooms are open.  Before entering onto the pool deck, you have to remove your shoes (I was thoughtfully given a plastic bag to store my shoes and switch to flip-flops.  No items can be placed on a lounge chair, unless you have paid the eight euros for the entire day. The chairs are all sanitized. I learned this because I mistakenly  placed my gym bag on a lounge chair, and had to instead just leave it on the ground next to the chair.  

Finally in the pool, I was elated.  For me, swimming is my salvation. My father taught me to swim, and for this I am thankful. A morning swim is meditation, a chance to clear my head and start the day with a smile. Swimming is an opportunity to stretch out, especially after too many hours of sitting.  I can return to the pool after an injury before resuming any other activity.  However, this first swim post-lockdown was a challenge. With my first few laps, I was sucking wind!  My heart was beating hard and I had to take a breath on every stroke.  Eventually, my strokes and breathing worked together into a smoother rhythm.  I was slower than usual, but still nice and steady.  Tomorrow will be better, I am certain. "Domani andra' meglio, sono certo."

At home, I showered, changed and thought about where to go for lunch. A long swim earned a hearty meal and what would be better than salad and pizza?  From my social media feed, I had seen pictures showing Ristorante Accademia with tables in Piazza San Marco.  The best pizza in the city in one of the most beautiful locations. Un buon idea!  I walked to further burn those calories, and discovered that the outdoor tables are only for dinner.  No problem! The lunch was still wonderful, and the owner, Gianni, was present.  We caught up briefly and when I left he reminded me to call him to reserve a spot for dinner.  That I will do!

Randomly, to further show my devotion to swimming, here's a photo of my most favorite pool.  You can tell this pool is in Boulder because of the view of the iconic Flatirons.

Spruce Street Pool, Boulder, Colorado