Louisiana Waterways Personal Challenge

[BayouMermaid]

After repainting the tail, I got to test out my fins in the Little Tchefuncte River (pronounced like chu-funk-ta) in Louisiana. Since this is my home state, I am making it my personal goal to swim in as many (safe) waterways as possible around Louisiana. I am starting with places that are east of the Mississippi River. Who knows, maybe other mers in the area would like to join me. Here are some of my "must swims":

Lake Pontchartrain
Lake Borgne
Bogue Falaya River
Bayou Liberty
Bayou Bonfunca
Bogue Chitto River
The Rigolets

I will be swimming with a partner, and will not get in the water if I notice dangerous wildlife around. I am also not planning on going underwater in warm locations because we've had a problem in one of the parishes with people contracting the brain eating amoeba...and even though it is rare, that scares me!

Overall, I am excited about this venture, and I hope to share some of the beauty of Louisiana with the mer community.

[BayouMermaid]

Swim #1: Little Tchefuncte

This river is a bit chilly regardless of the weather. I enjoyed flipping my fins in the shallow water. Here are a bunch of pictures!

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[Aziara]

I might have to join you if I can manage to finish my tail and top before the weather turns cold. That might just be the kick in the pants I need to knuckle down and get to work, lol.

[Blondie]

Be careful! Aren't there lots of gators in the bayous of Louisiana?

[BayouMermaid]

Aziara- that would be so awesome! Good luck on the tail :D

Blondie- I am going to be very careful. I've found that when swimming near a boat, the gators tend to stay away. I think the sound of the motor scares them. Usually they are rather shy... the little ones are adorable!

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[Blondie]

That's a good idea ^^ I live in Florida so I deal with gators frequently. But I stay away from creeks and swampy areas because not only am I nervous of a gator popping up, the snakes here are terrible. Plus I just get nervous when i can't see through the water enough xD

He's a cute little guy!!

[Theobromine]

This looks like a fun journey. And you are so pretty! Also, I am glad to see another braid-wearing mermaid. I have hair down to my bum and while I love it long, it gets soooooo insanely tangly soooo easily, I have to wear it in a braid pretty much all the time. I've been afraid I didn't look mermaidy enough but I think you are putting my fears to rest.

[PearlieMae]

That's great! Stay safe out there!

Have you thought of putting the word out to local photographers like local news agencies and on Flickr? I'm sure many of them will swap photos of you for the chance to use them in their portfolios. Not every photographer gets the chance to photograph a mermaid! And you can use the opportunities to promote yourself and your cause!

[Selkie Auda]

If you go in lake pontchartrain let me know. I live nearby.

[Chrissy]

Moon coral, hello to another Louisiana mermaid!!!!

[Selkie Auda]

If anyone has an idea for swimming this winter inside or out let me know I would love to join you