I nearly wept with joy with I saw the list of posted guidelines for the lap pool.  At the top of the list was the statement that the lap pool is reserved for lap swimmers.*   Of course, this could all be tested the first time the rec pool is shut down due to a chemical imbalance or the discovery of waste material in the pool.  (Nice way of saying someone pooped in the pool).  The list of guidelines also includes instructions on how to share the lane and the direction that should be used when circle swimming occurs.**

*Assuming we don't have water aerobics, swim team or some other activity scheduled, that is!

**The only guideline I feel was overlooked was the one saying that if you are going to share a lane, you really should have a pair of goggles.  It's a win-win for everyone.  Your fellow lap swimmers don't have to dodge you because you can't see clearly where you're going and who is in the lane with you and you don't have the pain and/or stigma of chlorine eyes all the rest of the day.  On the downside, sales of Visine my drop. 

Of course, these new guidelines assume a couple of things.  One is that people will actually read and follow them.   And based on what I've experienced in other areas of the Y during the first few weeks of the New Year, I put the odds on this one pretty low.  I can't tell you how many people have annoyed me and I've probably annoyed because people can't/won't read the guidelines on how to use the indoor track.  (Runners to the outside lane, walkers to the inside!)  I think part of the confusion comes from the middle lane, which I think should be the passing lane and not the "let's all saunter around, visiting each other and drinking coffee" lane.  

The second assumption is that those in positions of authority at the Y will enforce the guidelines/rules.   

On that count, I'm taking a wait and see attitude.  But I'm kind of hopeful that things may turn out OK.  Maybe...hopefully...