I spent a lot more time underwater during this year's swim. While I have continued practicing through out this past year, I think what really made the difference was my feeling more comfortable rather than nervous and wearing a weight belt in the salt water. I may post some more comparisons, although a lot of the difference is in just how many more dives I did this year. I needed a lot less time breathing up and trying to relax between dives. 😅 Constantly seeing others' highlights on social media can be both inspiring and discouraging. We each have our own individual journeys and can celebrate wherever we are now AND wherever everyone else is as well, at every point in the journey. 🤗 I'm remembering as I write this just how mind blowing and magical it is that mermaiding even exists. 🥹 Top and tail: Cauldron by @Amy (Code LYDIAGLIMMERMAID10 for 10% off) Monofin: Finis, new Luna Eclipse Weight belt: W8FIT (I tied scrap fabric around it) Aquarium/oportunity: Silverton Casino Aquarium Mermaids #mermaid #silvertonmermaids #growth #sparklegirlcostume #finislunaeclipse #fabricmermaidtail #professionalmermaid #aquariummermaid #aquarium #progress #progressnotperfection #progresscomparison #lasvegas #mermaidtail #breathhold #backflip #backflips #mermaiding #weightbelt