My self-imposed open-water season commenced this week—earlier than usual!

I know what you're thinking: "How badass is she?!" ;)

But, in reality, I'm a wimp: whenever I can't see the bottom in a deep, cold glacial lake, I think of prehistoric monsters. (Unintended bonus: these thoughts make you swim faster!) Of course, those monsters should get the paddle-boarders first. After all, they're further out!