They say that time flies when you’re having fun.  I guess that’s why the summer has flown by and our annual shutdown has come and gone. The staff has worked their magic in the pool, scrubbing, painting and cleaning everything from top to bottom.

The maintenance staff has also worked very hard in getting the new UV system up and running. The system will contribute to improved air and water quality. It is a very exciting time for everyone here at the pool.

You can look at this time of year as a time to fall back into the same routine, or maybe break the pattern and take a risk and try something new. I have taken my own advice and finally tried something new. Yes, that is correct, I ventured out of my comfort zone and went rock climbing with Jenn. It has always been on my bucket list and I can now cross it off.

 The enjoyment and peace I found while on the face of the rock was amazing. I found that trying to find my next hand hold or a spot to put my foot was something very profound for me. It was just me and the rock. While I was working my way up the rock, everything else around me disappeared. Never in my dreams could I have imagined the kind of contentment I could find while clinging to the side of a rock face. Once I managed to find my way to the top, the exhilaration and sense of accomplishment didn’t stop there, I still had to get down. From the bottom I could hear Jenn saying “OK now sit right down on the rope and lean back, feet right out in front and walk down”.  “What? Lean back?” I said. Here goes, I said to myself. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Deep breath in and down I went. When I got back on the ground, I looked up to where I just came from and felt proud of myself. Proud that I finally did something I’ve always wanted to do, but just couldn’t find the time — proud that I didn’t give up when I got stuck in one spot on the rock, but most of all, amazed at the contentment I felt at that moment. One of the many activities I have always wanted to try to take off my bucket list is now going to become a sport that I will continue. It is an experience right from the hike up from the parking lot, to enjoying a new challenge on the rock, to also taking in the breathtaking views. Even if you are not into rock climbing, the Skaha bluffs is an amazing spot for hiking. It is beautiful and in our back yard. Take it in. Thanks Jenn!

 My challenge to you is to go out and try that activity you’ve always thought you should try.

Carve out the time in your busy day and just do it, is my advice. The community centre offers many new and exciting challenges.

Hot Picks for this fall

Have you always wanted to learn to swim? Take the plunge. We have many different levels of classes. If you are just starting out, then try Aqua Adults 1 or 2. This class will develop floats and glides and front and back swims. You can work with your instructor at your own pace. Classes run on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30-9:15 p.m. and Saturdays 5-5:45 starting Sept. 29 and Oct. 4.

If you have some swimming ability and want to gain more confidence and learn swimming techniques you could try Intro to Length with Jenn on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:15-9 a.m. For those that want a higher level we offer the Masters program. Here you will be given challenging workouts and progress throughout the year in improving your swimming technique and fitness. These sessions run Tuesday/Thursday 9-10 a.m. or 8-9 p.m. and Saturday 5:30-7 p.m. Aquafit is another way to stay fit in the pool. Check out the brochure for times and classes. We offer 17 classes to choose from in a week.

Yoga Power Hour – Less Talk, More Rock — An invigorating lunch hour class to get you ready for the afternoon on hump day: some previous yoga experience recommended but not required: Wednesdays Oct. 1-Dec. 3 from 12:10-12:55 p.m. in the Community Centre; $49 or drop in $6.50.

Fall is the time to get back into a regular routine of exercise, school and work. This fall, try adding something new to that routine. Check out the fall brochure at your door or on line at .

Shelie Borba is an aquatic co-ordinator with the City of Penticton.