Plungers Unite

I volunteered this weekend participating in the Polar Plunge in Fox Lake. I raise $120 to donate to the Special Olympics from 11:30 am-2:00 pm. Wow, what an experience. So first of all, we ran into a frozen lake in the middle of the winter on February 26th, 2013. It was FREEZING in the water. When I ran in I decided to go under completely, that's right, face, head, hair, EVERYTHING. I didn't feel the cold until I actually ran out of the water, then I felt like little needles were poking me everywhere, but more like dull needles that made me feel weird, rather than in pain.
While I was volunteering I took note of my surroundings, trying out this newly found sociological mindfulness. In doing this I saw people of all different ethnicities, ages, races, and genders. The oldest person plunging was an 83 year old woman, I'm not sure how old the youngest was, but I know at least 5. The people wore everything from bikinis to t-shirts to outrageous costumes. My best friend and I dressed as superheroes, her as batgirl and me as superwoman. My favorite costume was probably a family that dressed as the Addams family. There was one for every character, even cousin it and the hand!!
The people I came into contact with were of all different personality types as well. When the plunge first started, I tried to see those who were already jumping in, and people also trying to see the shore amidst the chaotic crowd were pushing and shoving to get the best view. Others, such as those working at the check in table and announcing prizes were excited, smiling, kind people. Some were screaming with excitement and jumping up and down in anticipation, others remained calm and collected. The people I encountered were from all over the area and were all very different.
At the plunge, lunch was served. They set out pizza, which was gone almost immediately (I didn't even get a slice) and a lot of different types of chili and soup, which totally makes sense because of the activity we were participating in. They also served coffee cake, coffee, and cupcakes.
Before actually plunging, like that whole week, I was so excited and couldn't wait for the plunge to actually occur. This feeling remained constant until I was standing on the beach about to run into the water and I realized what I was about to do. Expectations turned into reality when I was running out of the freezing cold water and could only think about getting into a heated tent and changing into my warm coat and sweats.
It was so ridiculously fun and I'd recommend it a million times to anybody who asks.