Problem Solved -- at least in the short term.
After writing my last blog entry, I changed my clothes and headed to the pool.

40 minutes later ... 800 yards were swam, and only 15 minutes wasted figuring out my new waterproof mp3 player that Eric bought me for Christmas. I swam to the mellow beasts of Dave Matthews Band and The Eagles. A totally awesome and worthwhile purchase. I highly recommend.

Thanks for the supportive thoughts!