Next Swims:
Wednesday July 31st @ 6am
Thursday August 1st @ 6am
(Aquathon Thursday @ 7:15pm in Menomonee Park)
Last Swim:
Tuesday July 30th @ 6am
Water Temp: 62.2
Air Temp: 56 & sunny
Waves: calm
Clarity: clear with occasional cloudy patch
Crew: Showgirl, Bubba, David, Capt'n
Skin Count: 3
Suit Count: 1
If this streak continues I may need to add this as a stat in our Killepitch counts. This morning marked the 3rd swim in a row where the water temp registered higher than the air temp. On the minus side the gap between the air and water temp has increased. On the plus side this gap is partially attributed to a warmer water temp than yesterday at this time. Also on the plus side this morning was a smooth lake surface and a cloudless sky that not only provided for a very scenic swim but also helped to warm us..
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Monday, July 29, 2013
Exceptionally Rare
Next Swims:
Tuesday July 30th @ 6am
Wednesday July 31st @ 6am
Last Swims:
Monday July 29th @ 6am & 6pm
AM Conditions:
Water Temp: 60.8
Air Temp: 59 & partly sunny
Waves: gentle rollers early turning to light chop
Clarity: clear
Crew: Diablo, Showgirl, Jadi, Capt'n
Skin Count: 2
Suit Count: 2
PM Conditions:
Water Temp: 65.2
Air Temp: 64 & sunny
Waves: Moderate Chop from south
Clarity: cloudy
Crew: Elias, Capt'n
Skin Count: 1
Suit Count: 1
Encountering a swim in July where the water temp exceeds the air temp....rare. Encountering a day in July where the water temp for both an AM and PM swim exceeded the air temp...really rare. Encountering a day when this occurs where the maximum water temp reading struggles to break 65....exceptionally rare.
It's the little things like logging a double dipper day in July where the water temp exceeded the air temp for both swims when the water temp barely registered above 65 that help me answer that proverbial question as to why I swim in Lake Michigan every day. ...at least that's story I'm sticking with for today....
Tuesday July 30th @ 6am
Wednesday July 31st @ 6am
Last Swims:
Monday July 29th @ 6am & 6pm
AM Conditions:
Water Temp: 60.8
Air Temp: 59 & partly sunny
Waves: gentle rollers early turning to light chop
Clarity: clear
Crew: Diablo, Showgirl, Jadi, Capt'n
Skin Count: 2
Suit Count: 2
PM Conditions:
Water Temp: 65.2
Air Temp: 64 & sunny
Waves: Moderate Chop from south
Clarity: cloudy
Crew: Elias, Capt'n
Skin Count: 1
Suit Count: 1
Encountering a swim in July where the water temp exceeds the air temp....rare. Encountering a day in July where the water temp for both an AM and PM swim exceeded the air temp...really rare. Encountering a day when this occurs where the maximum water temp reading struggles to break 65....exceptionally rare.
It's the little things like logging a double dipper day in July where the water temp exceeded the air temp for both swims when the water temp barely registered above 65 that help me answer that proverbial question as to why I swim in Lake Michigan every day. ...at least that's story I'm sticking with for today....
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Gut Check
Next Swims:
Monday July 29th @ 6am & 6pm
Tuesday July 30th @ 6am
Last Swims:
Sunday July 27th @ 1pm
Water Temp: 61.5-
Air Temp: 64 & partly sunny
Waves: none
Clarity: clear
Crew: Diablo, Gumdrop, Matt, Ron, Simon, Carl, John Kevin, Brian, Capt'n
Skin Count: 4
Suit Count: 5
Commando Count: 1
Saturday July 26th @ 12pm
Water Temp: 57.4
Air Temp: 59 & cloudy
Waves: slight chop from north
Clarity: stirred up
Crew: Neo, Capt'n with guest appearances by Sir James, Anna, Kung Fu & Matt
Skin Count: 2
Saturday - cloudy with an air temp struggling to hit 60 and a water temp struggling to keep up. An initial Kru of 6 quickly became 2 when Sir James remembered that Saturday was actually a rest/recovery day which consequently meant that swimming was taboo. Along the same lines Kung Fu and Matt also remembered the exact same thing within seconds of arriving at the beach. I think Anna secretly came to swim with The Patriarch (...was it a mere coincidence there was a $100 bill peaking out of her pocket?) but bowed out along with Sir James.
Determined to keep the Kru's consecutive day streak of 32 days alive Neo and I walked the plank skin and logged a swim down to the Silver Spring and back. Surprisingly despite encountering chilly waters near shore the water out past the sandbars was a bit more hospitable.
Sunday - The air temp wasn't much warmer than Saturday but occasional peaks of sunshine gave the Kru hopes that our fortunes had improved. The initial reading of 61 and calm waters encouraged several Kru members to embark on an Orange Kayak voyage (1.5 miles). While the majority of the water encountered this afternoon was mostly likely on the plus side of 60 there were pockets of considerably cooler water. This resulted in a few Kru members returning to shore early but 6 of the Kru still accomplished their goal of reaching the Orange Kayak. One noteworthy point...welcome and kudos to Simon today for swimming with us Commando. (sans a swim cap and goggles)
Monday July 29th @ 6am & 6pm
Tuesday July 30th @ 6am
Last Swims:
Sunday July 27th @ 1pm
Water Temp: 61.5-
Air Temp: 64 & partly sunny
Waves: none
Clarity: clear
Crew: Diablo, Gumdrop, Matt, Ron, Simon, Carl, John Kevin, Brian, Capt'n
Skin Count: 4
Suit Count: 5
Commando Count: 1
Saturday July 26th @ 12pm
Water Temp: 57.4
Air Temp: 59 & cloudy
Waves: slight chop from north
Clarity: stirred up
Crew: Neo, Capt'n with guest appearances by Sir James, Anna, Kung Fu & Matt
Skin Count: 2
Saturday - cloudy with an air temp struggling to hit 60 and a water temp struggling to keep up. An initial Kru of 6 quickly became 2 when Sir James remembered that Saturday was actually a rest/recovery day which consequently meant that swimming was taboo. Along the same lines Kung Fu and Matt also remembered the exact same thing within seconds of arriving at the beach. I think Anna secretly came to swim with The Patriarch (...was it a mere coincidence there was a $100 bill peaking out of her pocket?) but bowed out along with Sir James.
Determined to keep the Kru's consecutive day streak of 32 days alive Neo and I walked the plank skin and logged a swim down to the Silver Spring and back. Surprisingly despite encountering chilly waters near shore the water out past the sandbars was a bit more hospitable.
Sunday - The air temp wasn't much warmer than Saturday but occasional peaks of sunshine gave the Kru hopes that our fortunes had improved. The initial reading of 61 and calm waters encouraged several Kru members to embark on an Orange Kayak voyage (1.5 miles). While the majority of the water encountered this afternoon was mostly likely on the plus side of 60 there were pockets of considerably cooler water. This resulted in a few Kru members returning to shore early but 6 of the Kru still accomplished their goal of reaching the Orange Kayak. One noteworthy point...welcome and kudos to Simon today for swimming with us Commando. (sans a swim cap and goggles)
Friday, July 26, 2013
Knowing a good value if you see it...
Next Swims:
Saturday July 27th @ noon
Sunday July 28th @ 1pm
Last Swim:
Friday July 26th @ 6am
Water Temp:65.7
Air Temp: 68 & partly cloudy
Waves: none
Clarity: mostly clear
Crew: Gumdrop, Diablo, Showgirl, Nivens McTwisp, WonderWoman, Matt, Capt'n
Skin Count: 5
Suit Count: 2
The Patriarch has declared that a swim with him will now cost $100. Not to be outdone Gumdrop also seeks a similar amount for his 'Gumdrop package deal'. Uhg...what's the Kru coming to? Rather than being asked when our next swim is I'm now inundated with a spectrum of questions ranging from "Does The Patriarch charge extra to make his whiskers twitch?" to "How much extra do I have to pay for Gumdrop to swim in a parka?"
Perhaps my favorite question that's been asked lately is "...with all these options vying for my swimming buck, what's the best value?" This answer is an easy one. "Why it's Showgirl's performances. They are still free!" Case in point was this morning's performance. Sadly I must admit that despite having an apparent front row seat I missed it this morning....but according to WonderWoman it was quite extraordinaire. Best part for me though is that it didn't cost me a single dime to miss the show...What a Bargain!
Of course with any spectacular deal there's always a list of disclaimers. In this case it should be known that Showgirl does not publish a swim schedule so all patrons are reminded that Showgirl always reserves the right to be a no-show for any swim. Showgirl's prices are also subject to change at anytime....so be sure to come out and join the Klode Kru soon before prices increase!
Saturday July 27th @ noon
Sunday July 28th @ 1pm
Last Swim:
Friday July 26th @ 6am
Water Temp:65.7
Air Temp: 68 & partly cloudy
Waves: none
Clarity: mostly clear
Crew: Gumdrop, Diablo, Showgirl, Nivens McTwisp, WonderWoman, Matt, Capt'n
Skin Count: 5
Suit Count: 2
The Patriarch has declared that a swim with him will now cost $100. Not to be outdone Gumdrop also seeks a similar amount for his 'Gumdrop package deal'. Uhg...what's the Kru coming to? Rather than being asked when our next swim is I'm now inundated with a spectrum of questions ranging from "Does The Patriarch charge extra to make his whiskers twitch?" to "How much extra do I have to pay for Gumdrop to swim in a parka?"
Perhaps my favorite question that's been asked lately is "...with all these options vying for my swimming buck, what's the best value?" This answer is an easy one. "Why it's Showgirl's performances. They are still free!" Case in point was this morning's performance. Sadly I must admit that despite having an apparent front row seat I missed it this morning....but according to WonderWoman it was quite extraordinaire. Best part for me though is that it didn't cost me a single dime to miss the show...What a Bargain!
Of course with any spectacular deal there's always a list of disclaimers. In this case it should be known that Showgirl does not publish a swim schedule so all patrons are reminded that Showgirl always reserves the right to be a no-show for any swim. Showgirl's prices are also subject to change at anytime....so be sure to come out and join the Klode Kru soon before prices increase!
Thursday, July 25, 2013
The Angry Mob
Next Swims:
Friday 7/26 @ 6am
Saturday 7/27 @ noon?
Sunday 7/28 @ 1pm?
(please post a comment if you have a preferred start time for weekend swims)
Last Swim:
Thursday 7//25 @ 6am
Water Temp: 66.8
Air Temp: 58 & Sunny
Waves: calm
Clarity: stirred up but clearer further out
Crew: Gumdrop, Diablo, Showgirl, David, Phil, Jadi, Capt'n
Skin Count: 4
Suit Count: 3
The line of cars waiting to turn into the full Klode parking lot stretched for blocks and street parking nearby was hard to come by. A very uncommon sight for our 6am Klode swims. What could possibly have drawn so many people out to Klode so early on a Thursday morning? Free Food? A celebrity appearance? Free money?
As I approached our traditional Klode Kru swim spot the masses of morning park patrons thickened and I couldn't help but notice the excitement that filled the air...and how many of them carried with them beach/swim related gear....towels, goggles, wetsuits....
Could it be? No....really? Oh my...oh my goodness...oh my goodness gracious sakes alive! ...these people are all here to.....swim with The Patriarch!!!
There was only one problem.... (ok, perhaps there's more than one) The major problem was The Patriarch was not only not present this morning...but is rumored to have fled for the boarder since offering up the opportunity to swim with him for a mere pittance!
The reactions were mixed around the mass of Patriarch patrons for as they realized their dreams of swimming with him would not come to fruition this morning...disappointed expressions were common on the faces of many with some even appearing to be a bit teary eyed.
This was certainly a sad sight to see for our traditional Klode Kru swimmers as we have never been as popular as we were this morning. ...as unfortunate as this was to see our sorrow quickly turned to fear when Gumdrop declared to this crowd his offer "For just a $100 more, you can have the Gumdrop package-wrapped in the speedo of your choice!" Sorrow rampantly turned to anger and the crowd began to revolt. Fearing for our lives I quickly consulted the Pirate Code Book on how to handle situations such as this and took action by declaring "Every man for himself!!" and then running (...not walking...) the plank.
Friday 7/26 @ 6am
Saturday 7/27 @ noon?
Sunday 7/28 @ 1pm?
(please post a comment if you have a preferred start time for weekend swims)
Last Swim:
Thursday 7//25 @ 6am
Water Temp: 66.8
Air Temp: 58 & Sunny
Waves: calm
Clarity: stirred up but clearer further out
Crew: Gumdrop, Diablo, Showgirl, David, Phil, Jadi, Capt'n
Skin Count: 4
Suit Count: 3
The line of cars waiting to turn into the full Klode parking lot stretched for blocks and street parking nearby was hard to come by. A very uncommon sight for our 6am Klode swims. What could possibly have drawn so many people out to Klode so early on a Thursday morning? Free Food? A celebrity appearance? Free money?
As I approached our traditional Klode Kru swim spot the masses of morning park patrons thickened and I couldn't help but notice the excitement that filled the air...and how many of them carried with them beach/swim related gear....towels, goggles, wetsuits....
Could it be? No....really? Oh my...oh my goodness...oh my goodness gracious sakes alive! ...these people are all here to.....swim with The Patriarch!!!
There was only one problem.... (ok, perhaps there's more than one) The major problem was The Patriarch was not only not present this morning...but is rumored to have fled for the boarder since offering up the opportunity to swim with him for a mere pittance!
The reactions were mixed around the mass of Patriarch patrons for as they realized their dreams of swimming with him would not come to fruition this morning...disappointed expressions were common on the faces of many with some even appearing to be a bit teary eyed.
This was certainly a sad sight to see for our traditional Klode Kru swimmers as we have never been as popular as we were this morning. ...as unfortunate as this was to see our sorrow quickly turned to fear when Gumdrop declared to this crowd his offer "For just a $100 more, you can have the Gumdrop package-wrapped in the speedo of your choice!" Sorrow rampantly turned to anger and the crowd began to revolt. Fearing for our lives I quickly consulted the Pirate Code Book on how to handle situations such as this and took action by declaring "Every man for himself!!" and then running (...not walking...) the plank.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Swim With Patriarch! Only $100!!
Next Swims: Thursday and Friday 7/25 & 7/26, 6AM both days
Last Swims: Wed 7/24 6AM
Water Temp: 62
Waves: 1-3 ft rollers spaced 7 sec apart
Water Clarity: Poor
Crew: Bubba, Cap'n, Patriarch
You asked for it! You demanded it! Now here it is: Swim With Patriarch. Yes, for only $100 (plus taxes, service charges and extras) you can have the ultimate Cream City Caribbean Coast Adventure:
- Swim with the legendary Patriarch past historic and scenic landmarks like Garage, Sewer Pipe, Staircase, Flat Rock and more! View underwater marvels such as Treasure Chest, Cannon and Shipwreck (Shipwreck extra). Patriarch will regale you with endlessly entertaining stories and lake lore. Meet the colorful local denizens and join them in their primitive rituals (rituals extra).
- Be completely safe as Patriarch protects you from the many aquatic dangers: sharks, jelly fish, man eating Asian Carp, rip tides, tsunamis, e coli and floating turds.
- Patriarch will guide you on the appropriate procedures for paying ransoms to marauding pirates and brigands. And ladies, if an exciting encounter with swashbuckling pirate is what you want Patriarch can arrange that too! (For an extra charge.)
- End your adventure with a toast of Killepitsch from the Patriarch. (Multiple shots extra). Pictures of your adventure will be offered (for an extra charge).
- Patriarch merchandise such as signed posters, foot washers, swim caps, orange safety floats available for purchase.
Hurry! Reservations limited! Filling fast!
Last Swims: Wed 7/24 6AM
Water Temp: 62
Waves: 1-3 ft rollers spaced 7 sec apart
Water Clarity: Poor
Crew: Bubba, Cap'n, Patriarch
You asked for it! You demanded it! Now here it is: Swim With Patriarch. Yes, for only $100 (plus taxes, service charges and extras) you can have the ultimate Cream City Caribbean Coast Adventure:
- Swim with the legendary Patriarch past historic and scenic landmarks like Garage, Sewer Pipe, Staircase, Flat Rock and more! View underwater marvels such as Treasure Chest, Cannon and Shipwreck (Shipwreck extra). Patriarch will regale you with endlessly entertaining stories and lake lore. Meet the colorful local denizens and join them in their primitive rituals (rituals extra).
- Be completely safe as Patriarch protects you from the many aquatic dangers: sharks, jelly fish, man eating Asian Carp, rip tides, tsunamis, e coli and floating turds.
- Patriarch will guide you on the appropriate procedures for paying ransoms to marauding pirates and brigands. And ladies, if an exciting encounter with swashbuckling pirate is what you want Patriarch can arrange that too! (For an extra charge.)
- End your adventure with a toast of Killepitsch from the Patriarch. (Multiple shots extra). Pictures of your adventure will be offered (for an extra charge).
- Patriarch merchandise such as signed posters, foot washers, swim caps, orange safety floats available for purchase.
Hurry! Reservations limited! Filling fast!
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
The Mysterious Kahuna
Next Swims: Wed 7/24 6AM, Thu 7/25 6AM
Also: Some people have asked about a full moon tonight at 8:30 (moonrise at 8:45). Unfortunately neither Cap'n nor I can make it, but leave a comment if you're interested, maybe there are other like minded souls.
Last Swims:
Mon 7/22 6AM
Water Temp: 65
Waves: Smooth
Water Clarity: Good
Crew: Bubba, David, Gumdrop, Diablo, Showgirl, Cap'n, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 2/5
Mon 7/22 6PM
Water Temp: 67
Waves: Heavy Chop
Water Clarity: Cloudy, stirred up
Crew: Ken, Missy, Carl, Elias, Eric, Jack Frost, Wonder Woman, Cap'n, Patriarch, Kahuna?? (see comments below about Kahuna)
Suit/Skin Count: 4/6
Pitsch Count: 6
Tue: 7/21 6AM
Water Temp: 58
Waves: Choppy
Water Clarity: Poor
Crew: Diablo, Gumdrop, Bubba, Showgirl, Bill, Cap'n, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 3/4
You've heard the philosophical question: "If a Kahuna turns into a tree and falls in the forest, but there's no one there to hear it, does he make a sound?". This morning on the beach we discussed a similar mystery regarding Kahuna's Monday evening appearance. We saw him arrive, though he didn't say much. Nobody actually saw him in the water. And when we returned from the swim he and all his gear were gone. So was he really there?
I may have a possible answer. Long time readers of this blog will recall that last year we had feared that Kahuna had washed up on the beach as a large log of driftwood. So be on the lookout for drifting logs covered covered in red seaweed.
Also: Some people have asked about a full moon tonight at 8:30 (moonrise at 8:45). Unfortunately neither Cap'n nor I can make it, but leave a comment if you're interested, maybe there are other like minded souls.
Last Swims:
Mon 7/22 6AM
Water Temp: 65
Waves: Smooth
Water Clarity: Good
Crew: Bubba, David, Gumdrop, Diablo, Showgirl, Cap'n, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 2/5
Mon 7/22 6PM
Water Temp: 67
Waves: Heavy Chop
Water Clarity: Cloudy, stirred up
Crew: Ken, Missy, Carl, Elias, Eric, Jack Frost, Wonder Woman, Cap'n, Patriarch, Kahuna?? (see comments below about Kahuna)
Suit/Skin Count: 4/6
Pitsch Count: 6
Tue: 7/21 6AM
Water Temp: 58
Waves: Choppy
Water Clarity: Poor
Crew: Diablo, Gumdrop, Bubba, Showgirl, Bill, Cap'n, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 3/4
You've heard the philosophical question: "If a Kahuna turns into a tree and falls in the forest, but there's no one there to hear it, does he make a sound?". This morning on the beach we discussed a similar mystery regarding Kahuna's Monday evening appearance. We saw him arrive, though he didn't say much. Nobody actually saw him in the water. And when we returned from the swim he and all his gear were gone. So was he really there?
I may have a possible answer. Long time readers of this blog will recall that last year we had feared that Kahuna had washed up on the beach as a large log of driftwood. So be on the lookout for drifting logs covered covered in red seaweed.
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Warm Water Returns!
Next Swims:
Monday July 22nd @ 6am & 6pm
Tuesday July 23rd @ 6am
Last Swims:
Sunday July 21st @ 1pm
Water Temp: 68+
Air Temp: 75 & Sunny
Waves: 1-3ft chop from east
Clarity: slightly cloudy
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Sir James, Neo, Ron, Andrew, Don, Elias, JoWee, Capt'n with Special Guest Appearance by Blondie
Skin Count: 8
Suit Count: 3
Pitsch Count: 9
Saturday July 20th @ 1pm
Water Temp: 48.5
Air Temp: 81 & Sunny
Waves: slight chop from east
Clarity: clear
Crew: Gumdrop, Showgirl, Mike, Capt'n with guest appearances by The Patriarch, Diablo and Elias
Suit Count: 4
Pitsch Count: 7
Wow....what a difference 24 hours can make! 24 hours ago the Kru's streak of 24 consecutive days of swimming in the lake nearly came to an end when both the Patriarch-o-Meter 101 and the Captn's Macho Meter 2000 failed to reach 49 degrees. Weren't it for one of Showgirls best performances in recent memory our streak surely would have came to an end! (Rumor has it she'll be back in action Monday morning....so be sure to come out and hear first hand how she saved the day!)
Today, by comparison, the water temp was a whopping 20 degrees warmer...with some spots surely being even warmer than that! Unfortunately our rapid return of warm water did come at the expense of enduring a few white capped but playful sea serpents during our swim this afternoon. But with Blondie volunteering for the role of Bay Watch Beach Babe / Life Guard our Kru of all male swimmers showed absolutely no reluctance to walk the plank. Under Blondie's watchful eye the Kru returned no worse for the wear....which likely could be attributed to her keen inspection of the Kru as they prepared for battle. ...or was it that she was only keenly inspecting one Kru member in particular?
Monday July 22nd @ 6am & 6pm
Tuesday July 23rd @ 6am
Last Swims:
Sunday July 21st @ 1pm
Water Temp: 68+
Air Temp: 75 & Sunny
Waves: 1-3ft chop from east
Clarity: slightly cloudy
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Sir James, Neo, Ron, Andrew, Don, Elias, JoWee, Capt'n with Special Guest Appearance by Blondie
Skin Count: 8
Suit Count: 3
Pitsch Count: 9
Saturday July 20th @ 1pm
Water Temp: 48.5
Air Temp: 81 & Sunny
Waves: slight chop from east
Clarity: clear
Crew: Gumdrop, Showgirl, Mike, Capt'n with guest appearances by The Patriarch, Diablo and Elias
Suit Count: 4
Pitsch Count: 7
Wow....what a difference 24 hours can make! 24 hours ago the Kru's streak of 24 consecutive days of swimming in the lake nearly came to an end when both the Patriarch-o-Meter 101 and the Captn's Macho Meter 2000 failed to reach 49 degrees. Weren't it for one of Showgirls best performances in recent memory our streak surely would have came to an end! (Rumor has it she'll be back in action Monday morning....so be sure to come out and hear first hand how she saved the day!)
Today, by comparison, the water temp was a whopping 20 degrees warmer...with some spots surely being even warmer than that! Unfortunately our rapid return of warm water did come at the expense of enduring a few white capped but playful sea serpents during our swim this afternoon. But with Blondie volunteering for the role of Bay Watch Beach Babe / Life Guard our Kru of all male swimmers showed absolutely no reluctance to walk the plank. Under Blondie's watchful eye the Kru returned no worse for the wear....which likely could be attributed to her keen inspection of the Kru as they prepared for battle. ...or was it that she was only keenly inspecting one Kru member in particular?
Friday, July 19, 2013
Damned Diablo!
Next Swims: Sat & Sun 7/20 & 7/21, 1:00PM both days
Last Swims:
Thu 7/18 6PM
Water Temp: 61
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Christie, James, Jennifer, Andy, Mike, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 1/5
Fri 7/19 6AM
Water Temp: 50!!
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Four swimmers - Diablo, Cap'n, Kahuna, Gumdrop
Five observers: Patriarch, Matt, Showgirl, Crash, Carrie
Suit/Skin Count: 1/3
Yesterday's epic battle between the forces of wind and sun was clearly won by wind. The sun was scorching hot, warming the water, but the west wind was even stronger, blowing the warm water offshore and bringing up the cold water from the depths. The water temp dropped to 60 Thursday evening and was down to 50 Friday morning. So you'd think anyone with a brain and an ounce of common sense would say, "OK, we'll just wait until the wind shifts in our favor again, which is predicted this weekend".
But there is a third force I had not counted on. A force so malevolent, so evil, so devious that it easily overcomes sun and wind, and common sense too. Diablo! The devil himself. When we arrived at the beach Friday morning there he was - out in the water without a wetsuit, daring us to follow. Some of us displayed maturity and restraint and resisted the devil's call. But there are those among us, insecure in their manhood and lacking any common sense, that could not let Diablo's challenge pass. In they went. Just to show you are crazy they are, afterwards Cap'n was talking about coming back at 6PM to do it again (you are welcome to join him, but I wouldn't advise it).
For the rest of us there is hope on the horizon. Today's wicked west wind is predicted to veer east tomorrow afternoon, which in theory should blow the warm water back in. Unless of course Diablo has some other diabolical plan.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
An Epic Battle
Next Swims: Today Thu 7/18 6PM, Fri 7/19 6AM and maybe 6PM
Weekend Swim Times TBD: Please comment if you have a preference
Last Swims:
Wed 6PM
Water Temp: 71
Waves: Very Gentle Rollers
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Eric, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 1/1
Wed 6AM
Water Temp: 64
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Diablo, Nivens McTwist, Smartass, Showgirl, Elle, David, Scooby, Kenzie, Jadi, Cap'n, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 5/6
For the last few days we've witnessed an epic battle between the forces of warm and cold. We experienced pockets of both during our swims. For now the cold has won. There were no more pockets of warm water, just cool, colder, and frigid. But of course the air temp is still hot so it was still a refreshing way to start the day.
Today the epic battle continues. The hot sun warming the surface water versus the west wind blowing the warm water away and bringing up the cold water from below. I'm betting on the sun. Skin or Bust at 6PM! Please join me. What better way to cool off on a scorching hot summer day?
Weekend Swim Times TBD: Please comment if you have a preference
Last Swims:
Wed 6PM
Water Temp: 71
Waves: Very Gentle Rollers
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Eric, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 1/1
Wed 6AM
Water Temp: 64
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Diablo, Nivens McTwist, Smartass, Showgirl, Elle, David, Scooby, Kenzie, Jadi, Cap'n, Patriarch
Suit/Skin Count: 5/6
For the last few days we've witnessed an epic battle between the forces of warm and cold. We experienced pockets of both during our swims. For now the cold has won. There were no more pockets of warm water, just cool, colder, and frigid. But of course the air temp is still hot so it was still a refreshing way to start the day.
Today the epic battle continues. The hot sun warming the surface water versus the west wind blowing the warm water away and bringing up the cold water from below. I'm betting on the sun. Skin or Bust at 6PM! Please join me. What better way to cool off on a scorching hot summer day?
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
A popular place to be...
Next Swims:
Thursday July 18th @ 6am
Friday July 19th @ 6am
Last Swim:
Wednesday July 17th @ 6am
Water Temp: 65+
Air Temp: 79 & Sunny
Waves: dead calm
Clarity: superb!
Crew: The Patriarch, Melanie, Diablo, Gumdrop, Kahuna, Sonakunhuna, Neo, Crash, Eric, Bruce, Molly, Billy, Tim, Gigi, Jenni, Dawn, Capt'n
Skin Count: 7
Suit Count: 10
The Klode beach was popular place to be this morning. Despite being thrown a curve ball by the Lady of the Lake 17 swimmers ventured out for a swim this morning. With the overnight low hovering the in mid-70's I think we all expected the 70+ water we've enjoyed the past several days to welcome us as we walked the plank this morning. While the lake may have been lacking a few degrees on the Patriarch & Macho Meters this morning it certainly wasn't lacking in it's beauty. The crystal clear water and glass like surface made for a picture perfect swim!
...for the optimists out there who believe they can forecast the lake temperatures...there were several pockets of warmer (70's?) water out there. So perhaps this morning's mid-60 water temp reading was just a brief respite from the 70 degree water we've been enjoying.
Thursday July 18th @ 6am
Friday July 19th @ 6am
Last Swim:
Wednesday July 17th @ 6am
Water Temp: 65+
Air Temp: 79 & Sunny
Waves: dead calm
Clarity: superb!
Crew: The Patriarch, Melanie, Diablo, Gumdrop, Kahuna, Sonakunhuna, Neo, Crash, Eric, Bruce, Molly, Billy, Tim, Gigi, Jenni, Dawn, Capt'n
Skin Count: 7
Suit Count: 10
The Klode beach was popular place to be this morning. Despite being thrown a curve ball by the Lady of the Lake 17 swimmers ventured out for a swim this morning. With the overnight low hovering the in mid-70's I think we all expected the 70+ water we've enjoyed the past several days to welcome us as we walked the plank this morning. While the lake may have been lacking a few degrees on the Patriarch & Macho Meters this morning it certainly wasn't lacking in it's beauty. The crystal clear water and glass like surface made for a picture perfect swim!
...for the optimists out there who believe they can forecast the lake temperatures...there were several pockets of warmer (70's?) water out there. So perhaps this morning's mid-60 water temp reading was just a brief respite from the 70 degree water we've been enjoying.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Spectacular Conditions!!
Next Swims:
Tuesday July 16th @ 6pm (please comment if interested)
Wednesday July 17th @ 6am
Thursday July 18th @ 6am
Last Swims:
Tuesday July 16th @ 6am
Water Temp: 75
Air Temp: 74 & sunny
Waves: dead calm
Clarity: clear
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Showgirl, Melanie, Nivens McTwisp, RoboDoc, Brent, Dave, Eric, Capt'n
Skin Count: 8
Suit Count: 3
Monday July 15th @ 6pm
Water Temp: 77.3!
Air Temp: 81 & sunny
Waves: dead calm
Clarity: clear
Crew: Gumdrop, Ele, eRun, WonderWoman, Jack Frost, Steph, Dave, Kristen, Kim, Jeff, Christina, AleHusband, Capt'n with guest appearance by AleWife
Pitsch Count: 8
Skin Count: 10
Suit Count: 3
With the exception of last year (...due to the warm spring/summer...), water conditions like the present are typically very rare. While I haven't checked back to our blog posts prior to 2012 I would guess you can probably count on one hand the number of days where we have recorded a water temp on the plus side of 75.
Further adding to our delight are the calm & clear water conditions we've enjoyed during the past few days. Indeed...the water conditions are spectacular at the moment! ...come out and enjoy it while it lasts. :)
Tuesday July 16th @ 6pm (please comment if interested)
Wednesday July 17th @ 6am
Thursday July 18th @ 6am
Last Swims:
Tuesday July 16th @ 6am
Water Temp: 75
Air Temp: 74 & sunny
Waves: dead calm
Clarity: clear
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Showgirl, Melanie, Nivens McTwisp, RoboDoc, Brent, Dave, Eric, Capt'n
Skin Count: 8
Suit Count: 3
Monday July 15th @ 6pm
Water Temp: 77.3!
Air Temp: 81 & sunny
Waves: dead calm
Clarity: clear
Crew: Gumdrop, Ele, eRun, WonderWoman, Jack Frost, Steph, Dave, Kristen, Kim, Jeff, Christina, AleHusband, Capt'n with guest appearance by AleWife
Pitsch Count: 8
Skin Count: 10
Suit Count: 3
With the exception of last year (...due to the warm spring/summer...), water conditions like the present are typically very rare. While I haven't checked back to our blog posts prior to 2012 I would guess you can probably count on one hand the number of days where we have recorded a water temp on the plus side of 75.
Further adding to our delight are the calm & clear water conditions we've enjoyed during the past few days. Indeed...the water conditions are spectacular at the moment! ...come out and enjoy it while it lasts. :)
Monday, July 15, 2013
Tough to Beat
Next Swims:
Tuesday 7/16 @ 6am
Wednesday 7/17 @ 6am
(possible 6pm swims both days...comment if interested)
Last Swims:
Monday 7/15 @ 6an
Water Temp: 70
Air Temp: 73 @ Sunny
Waves: none
Clarity: clear
Crew: The Patriarch, Melanie, Kahuna, Showgirl, Sarah, Eric, Scott, Brad, Ruth, Robbie, Amy, Capt'n
Skin Count: 7
Suit Count: 5
Sunday 7/14 @ noon
Water Temp: 74
Air Temp: low 80's
Waves: slight chop from south
Clarity: clear
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Showgirl, Kahuna, Eileen, David, Tony, Ben
Skin Count: 8
Suit Count: 1
The swim conditions at Klode this weekend were absolutely superb! Water temp readings have now registered in the low 70's since Friday evening on both The Patriarch-o-meter and my trusty Macho Meter 2000. Water clarity has also been exceptional with the perfectly rippled and weedless sandy lake bottom visible regardless of how far offshore or near shore you swim. By comparison, the water temps were also in the low-mid 70's at Pewaukee Lake for the Triathlon Sunday morning. Unlike the Lady of the Lake who maintains pristine swim conditions and water at Pewaukee was brown and weedy with there being seldom occasion where you could see your hands below you much less the lake bottom. ...indeed, there is little doubt where the best place to swim is at moment! :)
Taking advantage of the exceptional swim conditions the Kru completed a Big Bay swim adventure on Sunday. Klode Kru members completed the 1.25 mile swim from Big Bay to Klode while others made a round trip voyage.
Tuesday 7/16 @ 6am
Wednesday 7/17 @ 6am
(possible 6pm swims both days...comment if interested)
Last Swims:
Monday 7/15 @ 6an
Water Temp: 70
Air Temp: 73 @ Sunny
Waves: none
Clarity: clear
Crew: The Patriarch, Melanie, Kahuna, Showgirl, Sarah, Eric, Scott, Brad, Ruth, Robbie, Amy, Capt'n
Skin Count: 7
Suit Count: 5
Sunday 7/14 @ noon
Water Temp: 74
Air Temp: low 80's
Waves: slight chop from south
Clarity: clear
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Showgirl, Kahuna, Eileen, David, Tony, Ben
Skin Count: 8
Suit Count: 1
The swim conditions at Klode this weekend were absolutely superb! Water temp readings have now registered in the low 70's since Friday evening on both The Patriarch-o-meter and my trusty Macho Meter 2000. Water clarity has also been exceptional with the perfectly rippled and weedless sandy lake bottom visible regardless of how far offshore or near shore you swim. By comparison, the water temps were also in the low-mid 70's at Pewaukee Lake for the Triathlon Sunday morning. Unlike the Lady of the Lake who maintains pristine swim conditions and water at Pewaukee was brown and weedy with there being seldom occasion where you could see your hands below you much less the lake bottom. ...indeed, there is little doubt where the best place to swim is at moment! :)
Taking advantage of the exceptional swim conditions the Kru completed a Big Bay swim adventure on Sunday. Klode Kru members completed the 1.25 mile swim from Big Bay to Klode while others made a round trip voyage.
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Warm, Clear, and Choppy
Next Swims: Sun 7/14 noon, Mon 7/15 6AM and perhaps 6PM
Last Swims:
Fri July 12, 6PM
Water Temp: 72
Waves: Choppy
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Ron, David, Heide, Patriarch
No one in a wetsuit
Sat July 13 noon
Water temp: 72
Waves: heavy chop
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Kahuna, Diablo, Cap'n, Anna, Ron, Phil, David, Matt, Rip Tide, Jack Frost, John, Sarah, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 5
Skin Count: 8
Pitsch Count: 8
The swimming is just great. The Crew took full advantage of the warm and clear if a bit choppy water. Some went as far as two miles.
Sunday, if it's still warm and not quite so choppy, we will attempt a Big Bay swim. It's a bit over a mile one way, you can do one way or out and back. For those wishing to join me on a one way swim, leave your stuff on the beach at Klode and I will drive to Big Bay. We'll have the waves and current behind us.
You can, of course choose to do a shorter swim.
Last Swims:
Fri July 12, 6PM
Water Temp: 72
Waves: Choppy
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Ron, David, Heide, Patriarch
No one in a wetsuit
Sat July 13 noon
Water temp: 72
Waves: heavy chop
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Kahuna, Diablo, Cap'n, Anna, Ron, Phil, David, Matt, Rip Tide, Jack Frost, John, Sarah, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 5
Skin Count: 8
Pitsch Count: 8
The swimming is just great. The Crew took full advantage of the warm and clear if a bit choppy water. Some went as far as two miles.
Sunday, if it's still warm and not quite so choppy, we will attempt a Big Bay swim. It's a bit over a mile one way, you can do one way or out and back. For those wishing to join me on a one way swim, leave your stuff on the beach at Klode and I will drive to Big Bay. We'll have the waves and current behind us.
You can, of course choose to do a shorter swim.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Warm Water Ahoy!!
Next Swims:
Friday June 12th @ 6pm
Saturday June 13th @ noon
Sunday June 14th @ noon
Last Swims:
Friday June 12th @ 6am
Air Temp: upper 50's & sunny
Water Temp: 66 at Klode / 70ish outside of Sandbars
Waves: flat with occasional swells
Water Clarity: cloudy inside sandbars / crystal clear outside
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Kahuna, John, Erin, Julie, Sandy, Capt'n
Skin Count: 5
Suit Count: 4
Thursday June 11th @ 6am
Air Temp: low 60's & sunny
Water Temp: 62
Waves: rippled surface
Water Clarity: clear
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Kahuna, Showgirl, David, Dave, Capt'n
Skin Count:5
Suit Count: 3
Wow...what a VERY pleasant surprise this morning. The low humidity and cool air temp actually encouraged a few crew members to secretly wish for cooler water temps so they'd have an excuse to put their wetsuits on. For those who resisted the temptation...and were fortunate to swim out a little deeper this morning they were pleasantly rewarded with the warmest water of the season so far!
Of course the veterans of the Klode Kru know better than to say the warm water is here to stay or that it will even last until this evening's swim...right? Regardless, The Patriarch has declared today to be a "Double Dipper" day and will return for a 6pm swim this evening. With the Pewaukee Lake 5k this evening at 6:30pm I may try to get back for a 3 or 4pm swim. :)
...rumors are also circulating that the Kru may attempt a Big Bay (and back?) swim either Saturday or Sunday. Please post a comment if you have a preference as to which day we do the swim to Big Bay or if you have a preference for a start time other than noon.
Friday June 12th @ 6pm
Saturday June 13th @ noon
Sunday June 14th @ noon
Last Swims:
Friday June 12th @ 6am
Air Temp: upper 50's & sunny
Water Temp: 66 at Klode / 70ish outside of Sandbars
Waves: flat with occasional swells
Water Clarity: cloudy inside sandbars / crystal clear outside
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Kahuna, John, Erin, Julie, Sandy, Capt'n
Skin Count: 5
Suit Count: 4
Thursday June 11th @ 6am
Air Temp: low 60's & sunny
Water Temp: 62
Waves: rippled surface
Water Clarity: clear
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Gumdrop, Kahuna, Showgirl, David, Dave, Capt'n
Skin Count:5
Suit Count: 3
Wow...what a VERY pleasant surprise this morning. The low humidity and cool air temp actually encouraged a few crew members to secretly wish for cooler water temps so they'd have an excuse to put their wetsuits on. For those who resisted the temptation...and were fortunate to swim out a little deeper this morning they were pleasantly rewarded with the warmest water of the season so far!
Of course the veterans of the Klode Kru know better than to say the warm water is here to stay or that it will even last until this evening's swim...right? Regardless, The Patriarch has declared today to be a "Double Dipper" day and will return for a 6pm swim this evening. With the Pewaukee Lake 5k this evening at 6:30pm I may try to get back for a 3 or 4pm swim. :)
...rumors are also circulating that the Kru may attempt a Big Bay (and back?) swim either Saturday or Sunday. Please post a comment if you have a preference as to which day we do the swim to Big Bay or if you have a preference for a start time other than noon.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Warmer, Then Colder
Next Swims: Thursday July 11th 6AM, Friday July 12th 6AM
Last Swims:
Tue 7/9 6PM
Water Temp: 64, but it felt much warmer in spots
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Wonder Woman, Cap'n, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 0
Skin Count: 3
Wed 7/10 6AM
Water Temp: 60
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Karen, Robodoc, Diablo, Cap'n, Bubba, Kahuna, Showgirl, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 2
Skin Count: 6
Last night Wonder Woman, Cap'n and me were treated with water that was much warmer than yesterday morning. It's amazing how much it can warm up in twelve hours. But unfortunately the reverse is also true, twelve hours later it was much colder again. But despite the 60 degree water this morning most swam without wetsuits. I'm not sure if it means we're getting acclimated, or maybe it means we're just getting tougher. Or maybe we're just getting dumber and dumberer.
Congratulations to Kahuna for being prominently featured on this morning's editorial page! Nice job! (But I've never heard of a pirate that was against the death penalty, unless it was one at the end of the plank!)
The Friday 6AM swim should be interesting as I am doing the Bastille Run at 9PM Thursday evening, followed by a grog or two.
Last Swims:
Tue 7/9 6PM
Water Temp: 64, but it felt much warmer in spots
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Wonder Woman, Cap'n, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 0
Skin Count: 3
Wed 7/10 6AM
Water Temp: 60
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Karen, Robodoc, Diablo, Cap'n, Bubba, Kahuna, Showgirl, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 2
Skin Count: 6
Last night Wonder Woman, Cap'n and me were treated with water that was much warmer than yesterday morning. It's amazing how much it can warm up in twelve hours. But unfortunately the reverse is also true, twelve hours later it was much colder again. But despite the 60 degree water this morning most swam without wetsuits. I'm not sure if it means we're getting acclimated, or maybe it means we're just getting tougher. Or maybe we're just getting dumber and dumberer.
Congratulations to Kahuna for being prominently featured on this morning's editorial page! Nice job! (But I've never heard of a pirate that was against the death penalty, unless it was one at the end of the plank!)
The Friday 6AM swim should be interesting as I am doing the Bastille Run at 9PM Thursday evening, followed by a grog or two.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Silver Springs
Next Swims: Today Tue July 9th 6PM, Wed July 10th 6AM, Thu July 11th 6AM
Last Swims:
Mon July 8th 6AM
Water Temp: 62
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: David, Bubba, Cap'n, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 1
Skin Count: 3
Tue July 9th 6AM
Water Temp: 62
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Showgirl, Davida, Diablo, Gumpdrop, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 1
Skin: Count 4
The water is just barely warm enough to swim some without a wetsuit (for me anyway). But it's not quite warm enough to allow a longer swim. I'm hoping we can do Big Bay one day soon. It's good to get rid of the wetsuit though.
Yesterday we made Silver Springs. (Note: we used to call this "sewer pipe" because it's a storm drain, but we decided to rebrand it. Since it's below the east end of Silver Spring Drive, it will henceforth be known as Silver Springs. So decrees Patriarch.)
Today we went the other direction to Cedar Grove (where there are no cedars, but never mind). But of course that meant passing the other sewer pipe. Any ideas for a name?
Last Swims:
Mon July 8th 6AM
Water Temp: 62
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: David, Bubba, Cap'n, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 1
Skin Count: 3
Tue July 9th 6AM
Water Temp: 62
Waves: Calm
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Showgirl, Davida, Diablo, Gumpdrop, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 1
Skin: Count 4
The water is just barely warm enough to swim some without a wetsuit (for me anyway). But it's not quite warm enough to allow a longer swim. I'm hoping we can do Big Bay one day soon. It's good to get rid of the wetsuit though.
Yesterday we made Silver Springs. (Note: we used to call this "sewer pipe" because it's a storm drain, but we decided to rebrand it. Since it's below the east end of Silver Spring Drive, it will henceforth be known as Silver Springs. So decrees Patriarch.)
Today we went the other direction to Cedar Grove (where there are no cedars, but never mind). But of course that meant passing the other sewer pipe. Any ideas for a name?
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Fantastic Post Swim Party at the McTwists!
Next Swims: Mon & Tue July 8&9, 6AM
Last Swims: Sat & Sun July 6&7 noon
Saturday:
Water Temp: 62
Waves: Choppy
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Jim from Chicago, Brian, Neo, Lorraine, Kahuna, Diablo, Phil, Elle, David, Cap'n, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 6
Skin Count: 5
Pitsch Count: 11
Sunday:
Water Temp 61
Waves: 1 ft chop
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Nivens McTwist, Smartass, Sir James, Rip Tide, Big Show, Ron, Kahuna, Don, Garret, Anna, Dave, Kristen (Kirsten?), Erun, Blondie, Scott, Gumdrop, Crash, Shrieking Eel, Trina, Matt, Cap'n, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 16
Skin Count: 6
Pitsch Count: 12
Holy Cow! Swimmers I haven't seen for a year! Swimmers I haven't seen for two years! Swimmers I've never met before! Was it the great weather? The holiday weekend? Water temps finally above 60? The promise of post-swim food and drink at the McTwists? Well whatever the reason it was good to see so many old faces, and meet some new ones. It seems like we're in high gear now and full blown summer has finally started.
Special thanks to Nivens, Blackstone, Smartass and Little Fish McTwist for hosting an outstanding post swim party today. The food was great, the bar has been raised. Thank you!
Last Swims: Sat & Sun July 6&7 noon
Saturday:
Water Temp: 62
Waves: Choppy
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Jim from Chicago, Brian, Neo, Lorraine, Kahuna, Diablo, Phil, Elle, David, Cap'n, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 6
Skin Count: 5
Pitsch Count: 11
Sunday:
Water Temp 61
Waves: 1 ft chop
Water Clarity: Excellent
Crew: Nivens McTwist, Smartass, Sir James, Rip Tide, Big Show, Ron, Kahuna, Don, Garret, Anna, Dave, Kristen (Kirsten?), Erun, Blondie, Scott, Gumdrop, Crash, Shrieking Eel, Trina, Matt, Cap'n, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 16
Skin Count: 6
Pitsch Count: 12
Holy Cow! Swimmers I haven't seen for a year! Swimmers I haven't seen for two years! Swimmers I've never met before! Was it the great weather? The holiday weekend? Water temps finally above 60? The promise of post-swim food and drink at the McTwists? Well whatever the reason it was good to see so many old faces, and meet some new ones. It seems like we're in high gear now and full blown summer has finally started.
Special thanks to Nivens, Blackstone, Smartass and Little Fish McTwist for hosting an outstanding post swim party today. The food was great, the bar has been raised. Thank you!
Friday, July 5, 2013
Dumb Questions
Next Swims:
Saturday July 6th @ noon
Sunday July 7th @ noon, Pirates Picnic & BBQ at the McTwisp residence to follow! post swim festivities kicking off around 1:30pm (...for those who may not be able to make the swim...) Location: 9445 N. Fairway Circle, Bayside
Last Swim: Friday July 5th, 6AM
Water Temp: 63
Waves: Flat Calm
Water Clarity: Fair, improving
Crew: Showgirl, Gumdrop, Cap'n, Diablo, Kahuna, Sonakahuna, Neo, Ben, Patriarch
Wetsuit Count: 5, Skin Count: 4
As Patriarch of this crew I am used to getting bombarded with dumb questions. So many that I break them into categories. The first category are dumb questions that aren't really questions. They are accusations, for example "Swim in Lake Michigan? Are you crazy? How can swim in that sewer?".
The second category of dumb questions are dumb because the answers are unknowable. For example "Will the Lake be warm tomorrow?" or "What's with Cap'n?".
But when it comes to REALLY dumb questions, questions are that are astounding in their obtuseness, breathtaking in their stupidity, I challenge you to beat the question that Cap'n asked me this morning at Solly's, "Patriarch are you having one Door County Cherry pancake or three?". "Gee Cap'n, I need to watch my figure I think I'll have one pancake, a small one, hold the butter and syrup. On second thought, I'll skip the pancakes and have something off Solly's World Famous Healthy Eating Menu, perhaps some freshly picked arugula. I just ran four miles and swam half a mile in 63 degree water, how could I possibly be hungry enough to eat three whole pancakes?"
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Spectacular Swim!
Next Swims:
Friday July 5th @ 6am - Klode (Solly's breakfast to follow)
Saturday July 6th @ noon
Sunday July 7th @ noon (Pirates Picnic & BBQ at the McTwisp residence to follow!)
Last Swim
Thursday July 4th @ 1pm
Water Temp: 67+
Air Temp: 77 & Sunny
Waves: slight chop/current from south
Clarity: cloudy near shore / clear further out
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Kahuna, SonOfKahuna, Showgirl, Sir James, WonderWoman, Nivens McTwisp, SmartAss, Littlefish, Jack Frost, Kim, Ben, Capt'n with guest appearances by Crash and Blackstone
Skin Count: 7
Suit Count: 7
Plentiful Sunshine, Air temps approaching 80, Caribbean Blue water (see pictures below) and pockets of warm water that may have been on the plus side of 70....arguably the best swim conditions of the year so far! Due to the Klode beach being closed for the 4th of July Fireworks display we swam south from Big Bay down to "Pirates Cove" and back.
Don't forget...following Friday's swim the Kru will be heading over to Solly's for Breakfast.
Mark your calendars! ...the McTwisp Family (Nivens, Blackstone, SmartAss and Littlefish) will be hosting a Pirates Picnic & BBQ following Sunday's swim. Swim time Sunday is high noon with the post swim festivities kicking off around 1:30pm (...for those who may not be able to make the swim...) Location: 9445 N. Fairway Circle, Bayside
Pictures from today's swim: (Compliments of Blackstone)
(Pictured from left to right: Littlefish, Capt'n, Smartass, Sir James, The Patriarch, Kahuna, Ben, SonOfKahuna, WonderWoman, Kim, Nivens McTwisp, Showgirl, Diablo, Jack Frost, Crash)
(Capt'n with the Macho-Meter 2000 & The Patriarch with the Patriarch-o-meter 101)
(Kahuna proudly displays his Jolly Roger while Showgirl offers a few presentation tips)
Friday July 5th @ 6am - Klode (Solly's breakfast to follow)
Saturday July 6th @ noon
Sunday July 7th @ noon (Pirates Picnic & BBQ at the McTwisp residence to follow!)
Last Swim
Thursday July 4th @ 1pm
Water Temp: 67+
Air Temp: 77 & Sunny
Waves: slight chop/current from south
Clarity: cloudy near shore / clear further out
Crew: The Patriarch, Diablo, Kahuna, SonOfKahuna, Showgirl, Sir James, WonderWoman, Nivens McTwisp, SmartAss, Littlefish, Jack Frost, Kim, Ben, Capt'n with guest appearances by Crash and Blackstone
Skin Count: 7
Suit Count: 7
Plentiful Sunshine, Air temps approaching 80, Caribbean Blue water (see pictures below) and pockets of warm water that may have been on the plus side of 70....arguably the best swim conditions of the year so far! Due to the Klode beach being closed for the 4th of July Fireworks display we swam south from Big Bay down to "Pirates Cove" and back.
Don't forget...following Friday's swim the Kru will be heading over to Solly's for Breakfast.
Mark your calendars! ...the McTwisp Family (Nivens, Blackstone, SmartAss and Littlefish) will be hosting a Pirates Picnic & BBQ following Sunday's swim. Swim time Sunday is high noon with the post swim festivities kicking off around 1:30pm (...for those who may not be able to make the swim...) Location: 9445 N. Fairway Circle, Bayside
Pictures from today's swim: (Compliments of Blackstone)
(Pictured from left to right: Littlefish, Capt'n, Smartass, Sir James, The Patriarch, Kahuna, Ben, SonOfKahuna, WonderWoman, Kim, Nivens McTwisp, Showgirl, Diablo, Jack Frost, Crash)
(Capt'n with the Macho-Meter 2000 & The Patriarch with the Patriarch-o-meter 101)
(Kahuna proudly displays his Jolly Roger while Showgirl offers a few presentation tips)
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Big Bay Swim on the 4th
Next Swims:
Thursday July 4th @ 1pm (Big Bay)
Friday July 5th @ 6am (Klode - Solly's to follow)
Last Swim:
Wednesday July 3rd @ 6am
Water Temp: 62.2
Air Temp: 60 & cloudy
Clarity: stirred up
Waves: easterly 1ft chop & building
Crew: Kahuna, Showgirl, Bubba, John, Erin, Capt'n with special guest appearance by The Patriarch
Skin Count: 2
Suit Count: 4
More of the same today...day 5 of easterly winds and choppy waves. The forecast looks favorable though for a change in our fortunes. Westerly winds and increasing air temps have been predicted through the weekend.
Remember, tomorrow the Klode beach will be closed due to the fireworks so we'll be swimming from Big Bay instead. (Big Bay park/beach is located approximately 2 miles south of Klode - just north of Hampton Ave.) We'll return to Klode for Friday's 6am swim. Kahuna has declared Friday to be a Solly's Swim....I can hardly wait for those delicious door county cherry pancakes!
Thursday July 4th @ 1pm (Big Bay)
Friday July 5th @ 6am (Klode - Solly's to follow)
Last Swim:
Wednesday July 3rd @ 6am
Water Temp: 62.2
Air Temp: 60 & cloudy
Clarity: stirred up
Waves: easterly 1ft chop & building
Crew: Kahuna, Showgirl, Bubba, John, Erin, Capt'n with special guest appearance by The Patriarch
Skin Count: 2
Suit Count: 4
More of the same today...day 5 of easterly winds and choppy waves. The forecast looks favorable though for a change in our fortunes. Westerly winds and increasing air temps have been predicted through the weekend.
Remember, tomorrow the Klode beach will be closed due to the fireworks so we'll be swimming from Big Bay instead. (Big Bay park/beach is located approximately 2 miles south of Klode - just north of Hampton Ave.) We'll return to Klode for Friday's 6am swim. Kahuna has declared Friday to be a Solly's Swim....I can hardly wait for those delicious door county cherry pancakes!
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
The Gang's (Almost) All Here
Next Swim: Wednesday July 3, 6AM
Independence Day Swim: How about 1:00? (please comment)
Note: Klode beach will be closed on 4th, so we'll swim from Big Bay
Last Swim: Tuesday the twoth of Julie 6AM
Water Temp: 61
Waves: One foot chop
Water Clarity: Terrible
Crew: David, Showgirl, Kahuna, Gumdrop, Diablo, Bubba, Cap'n, Patriarch
Skin Count: 5, Wetsuit Count: 3
The lake has been slow to warm up this year especially as compared to last year, but similar to previous years. And I suspect the cool water temps are the reason the crew has been slow to assemble. But more people have been coming in the morning, it was good to see Bubba for the first time this summer.
The colored map of lake temps is more and more the oranges of 60s and the reds of the 70s can't be far behind. The best part of the summer swim season is just ahead!
Independence Day Swim: How about 1:00? (please comment)
Note: Klode beach will be closed on 4th, so we'll swim from Big Bay
Last Swim: Tuesday the twoth of Julie 6AM
Water Temp: 61
Waves: One foot chop
Water Clarity: Terrible
Crew: David, Showgirl, Kahuna, Gumdrop, Diablo, Bubba, Cap'n, Patriarch
Skin Count: 5, Wetsuit Count: 3
The lake has been slow to warm up this year especially as compared to last year, but similar to previous years. And I suspect the cool water temps are the reason the crew has been slow to assemble. But more people have been coming in the morning, it was good to see Bubba for the first time this summer.
The colored map of lake temps is more and more the oranges of 60s and the reds of the 70s can't be far behind. The best part of the summer swim season is just ahead!
Monday, July 1, 2013
white capped serpents
Next Swim: Tuesday July 2nd @ 6am
Last Swims:
Monday July 1st @ 6am
Water Temp: 60.1
Air Temp: 64 & Sunny
Water Clarity: Stirred up
Waves: choppy 1ft from northeast
Crew: Diablo, Showgirl, Kahuna, Capt'n with guest appearances by The Patriarch and Wonder Woman
Skin Count: 1
Suit Count: 3
Sunday June 30th @ 1pm
Water temp: 62.4
Air Temp: 72 & Sunny
Water Clarity: Stirred up
Waves: frequent 1-3ft from northeast
Crew: Neo, Mr. Amazing, Capt'n with guest appearance by Diablo
Skin Count: 3
BierGarten Kru: Crash, Lil' Sista, Diablo, Gumdrop, Showgirl, Neo, Wonder Woman, Mr. Amazing, Liz, Capt'n and special guest appearance by "The Fastest Kenyan in Milwaukee"
White Capped Sea Serpents continued to fill the bay both Sunday and Monday. While the sight of them may be a little intimidating to the casual observer they were actually quite fun to swim in....and certainly provided for a great workout for those swimming skin.
Last Swims:
Monday July 1st @ 6am
Water Temp: 60.1
Air Temp: 64 & Sunny
Water Clarity: Stirred up
Waves: choppy 1ft from northeast
Crew: Diablo, Showgirl, Kahuna, Capt'n with guest appearances by The Patriarch and Wonder Woman
Skin Count: 1
Suit Count: 3
Sunday June 30th @ 1pm
Water temp: 62.4
Air Temp: 72 & Sunny
Water Clarity: Stirred up
Waves: frequent 1-3ft from northeast
Crew: Neo, Mr. Amazing, Capt'n with guest appearance by Diablo
Skin Count: 3
BierGarten Kru: Crash, Lil' Sista, Diablo, Gumdrop, Showgirl, Neo, Wonder Woman, Mr. Amazing, Liz, Capt'n and special guest appearance by "The Fastest Kenyan in Milwaukee"
White Capped Sea Serpents continued to fill the bay both Sunday and Monday. While the sight of them may be a little intimidating to the casual observer they were actually quite fun to swim in....and certainly provided for a great workout for those swimming skin.
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