The first thing I did New Years Day was go out for breakfast, because really, there just isn't too much better than a hot yummy breakfast you didn't have to make yourself and don't have to clean up.
We sat at the counter because it was busy, and I was too hungry to wait for a table. The waitress came over and whispered that she wanted to put our order in right away so that we would beat the 2 large parties of 6 each that had just been seated, to make sure that we would be able to eat without waiting for them first. (so nice!!)
It seemed like she brought it out to us before we even handed back the menu's, and we chit chatted with other locals at the counter while we ate, the bulk of the comments made were between huge mouthfuls, gulps of creamy coffee and related to how frelling fabulous a good hot breakfast is.
As we were finishing up, we realized we only had an hour before the annual polar bear dip, so we decided to head directly to the pier. Parking was crazy, so many people in such a small area, but seriously membership has its privledges and I got the choice secret spot right outside Schooners, simply because I live here and I can. :O)
Barbie tried to talk me into participating (ie: jumping into the freezing ocean without a wetsuit and dipping my head under water with a bunch of townies and tourists alike), but I repeatedly explained how that just wasn't going to happen this year. I did volunteer to watch her clothing and hand her a towel however, if she chose to do so. I then promtly climed the life guard tower for a good view.
What a site the whole thing was! I kept kicking myself for not thinking to bring the camera with me before we left for breakfast, but I was thinking that I would return home first. This also explains why I was wearing a Tigger thermal pajama top in public, which thankfully there is no evidence of.
Many different people had on various crazy costumes, santa shorts and hats, bathrobes, bathing suits, speedos (seriously guys, don't ever wear speedos - no longer doubt that they do freak us the hell out), board shorts, matching outfits, and there was even a hat that looked like a condom. People of all ages and backgrounds, groups, families, friends and loners standing around waiting to jump in when signalled. The pier and retaining walls were full of spectators and cameras, visitors and locals. The sun even came out for a few minutes! The countdown began, people started removing heavier clothing, suddenly there was a rush of movement, lots of shrieking as the cold water hit and little masses of people plunged into the water.
Its just a little town, much larger polar bear dips happen in big cities, but it was a profound moment: all the people gathered together, a cleansing ritual for a new year, a few moments of sun and community. Simply, nice.
Barbie came back to the tower for the towel, where a nice fireman used his jacket to shield her while she changed into her dry clothes. And then we had to warm up, so it was time for a little embibement and socializing at Schooners. The atmosphere was very festive, everyone seemed to be smiling and happy to be out. The windows that face the water were wide open and the breeze was floating in as everyone laughed and chatted and shouted happy new year across the room to friends they hadn't seen the night before.
Next year, I just may have to jump in :O)
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