Thanks for the encouraging words and useful advice. What I’m hearing you say is to take baby steps, which I will do. Only wish I had a handy pool to practice in, so I may start in my deep tub and work my way up to a local hotel and rent some pool time. It’s frustrating because I know the problem is in my mind. I will begin with btw2459’s advice, with the goal of breathing out of my nose and in through my mouth as Greg suggested.
I’ve got 3 weeks ... I’ll keep you posted.