Yesterday was probably one of the best days that I have had since reporting to training camp. Although camp is a great way to stay focused on your training and remove any possible distractions, I need those distractions.  When I’m at home, I often seek out those distractions to keep my mind focused on something other than my swimming.  I have always have had the tendency to get overly focused on swimming which can drive me absolutely crazy.  That is why I spend so much time cooking, or playing with my cameras, or taking my dog on long runs…  Otherwise I can get neurotic.  

I’ve been embracing training camp since immediately after Trials and have been training very well. Even though my practices have been strong and consistent, I’ve been getting that urge to get away from the pool and turn my brain off of swimming.  Consequently, Emily Silver and I spent yesterday afternoon hanging out on Orchard Street. We went out to a great sushi restaurant and spent the afternoon practicing retail therapy. 

If you have never been to Singapore before, you would be amazed at how many malls and stores this country has.  I have no idea how so many high-end stores survive in such a small island country, but there is no shortage of places to shop.  Orchard Street is a great place to go shopping where stores are seemingly endless. Of course, it’s hotter thanyou-know-what here and the only thing I bought was this really cute scarf from Zara, which I’ll just have to save for the fall.  Emily got these great jeans and grey pumps from the same store.  Other than having to return early (because of a phone call to report to drug testing), I couldn’t have asked for a better afternoon. It was such a nice way to spend one of my last days in Singapore before heading to the craziness of the Olympic village. 

I’m going to spend the day today packing and relaxing before heading to Beijing tomorrow morning. I have the House, Season 3 DVD’s keeping me busy and I think I’m going to get a facial later today!

Natalie:

From Jess and Becki Gerson, 8 year old Springbrook swimmers in Lafayette, their parents, David and Stacii, and Max the dog...we wish you the best swims of your life.  Bec and Jess will be swimming in our local conference meet this weekend.  As you take the pool for the gold, they will take the pool at Acalanes for some personal bests and a ribbon or two. And from all the Springbrook Hogs in Lafayette...we wish you the best, swim fast and good luck.  Go Hogs, Go Natalie Go Bec and Jess and GO USA!!