Man, what a day! I’m tellin’ ya, being a lifeguard in Gainsborough is like riding a rollercoaster blindfolded. So, I roll up to the Gainsborough Leisure Centre, right? It’s a sunny day, and I’m thinkin’, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I’m settin’ up my station on the pool deck, and I see this kid, like, 10 years old, runnin’ around like a headless chicken. His name’s Tommy, I think. He’s got this wild mop of hair and a grin that could light up the whole of Silver Street. I’m like, “Yo, Tommy! Slow down, mate!” But does he listen? Nah. He just keeps zooming around, and I’m already feelin’ the stress.
Then, outta nowhere, this lady starts yellin’ from the shallow end. “Help! My son!” I’m like, “Oh great, here we go.” I dive in, and it’s like a scene from a movie. I’m swimmin’ like Michael Phelps, but with way less grace. Turns out, her son’s just messin’ about, splashing everyone. I’m half relieved, half annoyed. “You can’t just scream like that, lady!” But I keep it cool. Gotta keep the peace, right?
After that, I’m sittin’ back, tryin’ to catch my breath, when I spot a group of teens on the other side of the pool. They’re all huddled up, whispering and giggling. I’m thinkin’, “What are they up to?” So, I keep an eye on ‘em. Turns out, they’re planning some epic cannonball contest. I’m like, “Oh no, not on my watch!” But they’re already hyped up, and I can’t rain on their parade.
So, I let ‘em go for it. They jump in, and it’s like a tidal wave hits. Water goes everywhere! I’m soaked, and I can’t help but laugh. It’s kinda funny, but also, like, “C’mon, guys!” I’m just tryin’ to keep the peace here, ya know?
Then, the day takes a turn. I’m sittin’ there, mindin’ my own business, when I see this old bloke, Mr. Jenkins, from down on Church Street. He’s a regular, always comes for his daily swim. But today, he’s lookin’ a bit off. I’m like, “Hey, Mr. Jenkins, you good?” He just waves me off. But I can see he’s struggling.
So, I hop in again, swim over, and he’s like, “Just tired, lad.” But I’m not buyin’ it. I get him to the side, and he’s breathin’ heavy. Turns out, he’s been feelin’ a bit under the weather. I call for help, and the paramedics show up. It’s a bit dramatic, but he’s okay in the end. Just a scare, ya know?
After that, I’m feelin’ all sorts of emotions. Happy he’s alright, but also mad at how quickly things can change. Life’s wild like that.
As the day winds down, I’m just chillin’ on my chair, watchin’ the sunset over the River Trent. Gainsborough looks beautiful, all the colors poppin’. I think about how lucky I am to be here, even with the chaos.
But then, just when I think it’s over, I see Tommy again. He’s back, and this time he’s got a rubber duck. He’s like, “Look, I named him Quackers!” I can’t help but laugh. Kids are the best.
So, yeah, that was my day. Full of ups and downs, but that’s Gainsborough for ya. Always keepin’ me on my toes!