7:15 a.m. Heading out past Angel Island.
Here's to looking at 2012 in the rear view mirror. A toast to the wonderful things that happened and the wonderful people who inspire me:
More than 1,000 miles rowed (on and off the water).
A decision to return to my freelance writing life. Huge.
An indoor rowing class full of students who push themselves (and me) and continue to smile – and make me smile.
My rowing partner Stefan who is patient, strong, and never ever gives up – oh yeah, and is an awesome bow man (thank you for keeping me safe!).
My friend and fellow rower Ken Robinson, who comes out to scrimmage on the water with Stefan and me, and who was with us during some major adventures and mishaps this year (more on that another time).
My husband Jay, love o' my life, an amazing photographer, and all-around champion of creativity, and, by the way, the one who put the bug in my ear about taking a camera with me on my rows. (and who is an amazing Lightroom teacher from whom I've learned a ton! Shameless plug – but it's true.).
My son Mac who beat me to it on the blogging thing. I bugged him to do it and he one-upped me in the very best possible way. Check out his blog and prepare to enjoy yourself – he's one of the best writers I know. And, yes, of course I'm biased.
My daughter Lili, who once upon a time said to me, "Slow down! My little legs don't go so fast!" as I would run and she would bike (with training wheels) alongside. And to whom I now say, "Slow down!" 'Nuff said. I created a monster (and she's awesome.)
My friend Dana. She and I rowed many a race together (and more on that later, too) and she has seen me through a million decisions and made a big one herself this year. Check out her blog.
And here's a huge round of cheers and thanks to friends, family, former, current, and forevermore colleagues. All of you get me through. All of you mean so much. I wish everyone a year of happiness, health, and creativity – on and off the water.
Let's make 2013 our lucky year.