It's
already!
I have enjoyed beginning a new beginning. Working at a 20 metre, five lane pool brings back memories of my days at the Y. The difference is that I am developing a schedule, helping to hire staff, training staff, developing programs and enjoying lots of hands-on life guarding and teaching swimming lessons, lifesaving and aqua fitness classes. I even get to swim three or four times a week. Oh bliss!
This "retirement" job is not without its drawbacks. During the first few weeks, I averaged 50 hours per week at the pool. I drive 50 km to get to work. There was a shortage of qualified people to staff the pool. However, as time goes by and I get more organized, several of these challenges have been addressed and I am optimistic that I have definitely landed in a good place.
The positives are many! The people with whom I work are amazing. Staff and volunteers alike are positive, helpful and enthusiastic. The swimmers and aqua fitters and friendly and grateful for a local pool in which to swim and exercise regularly. The children are respectful and learning to swim!
The facility itself is a jewel in the community, reopened thanks to the efforts of a small group of volunteers with a vision. It is a perfect spot for me to spend the next several years until retirement. And if the first month is any indication, time is going to go by quickly! I am very thankful!
Unless each can be looked back upon by an individual as one in which he has had some fun, some joy, some real satisfaction, that day is a loss.
-Anonymous
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| The pool from the side |
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| The congratulatory cake and cupcakes. |
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| Some of the amazing volunteers! |
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| Another awesome volunteer. |
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| Opening ceremony! |
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| Lifeguards on guard! |
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| Come in, the water is fine! |
