In rowing, "wain...'nuff-in-two" is what the coxswain says when we get to take a break after two more strokes. Let me tell you, after a 15 minute piece of three-quarter-power rowing, these words are music to the muscles!
This term along with several others have been finding themselves, repeating like a chant, in my dreams.
For ten years I have literally been sittin' on the dock of the bay" (in Newport Beach) when we visit my in-laws four times a year.
Each morning during our stay, I sit out on the docks with my coffee and I watch the crews row by. I find myself fighting hard against the urge to jump in, swim over and join them. I find myself feeling stranded on that dock. A few years ago I saw this photo in a magazine. It inspired me.
Prior to seeing this photo, I guess I thought only college jocks could row. When I read this woman's story I realized that rowing was not just for the young-buff-ones. So, I tore the page out and hung it on my bulletin board for inspiration. It took over two years for me to finally sign-up for the novice rowing class at Station L. In September, I started my first class and last weekend, I competed in my first event and we got a bronze medal! Woohoo!
The whole rowing experience has been different (and better) than I expected:
1. You have to get-up really early in the morning to be at the rowing club for practice by 5! It is very dark at 5am! But, boy is the river beautiful with the city lights reflecting off the smooth water.
2. I have a whole new group of interesting, fun, and kind friends.
3. Rowing is so technical and mentally challenging...."arms, back, legs, legs, back, arms, feather your blade, stay together, don't rush the slide, power ten, row on the square, don't catch a crab, push with your legs, cut the cake, tap the oars, sit at the catch, don't row over the rainbow, etc.
4. Rowing is a great work-out; I am always sore in just the right places (gluteus maximus).
5. Learning something new really engages one in life. It wakes up the senses. I love it!
My purpose for this post was to say that it has really been rewarding to have had a vision, to set the goal, to engage in the activity, and then of course, to win. I'm definitely smiling. Get inspired! Find something new to try and give it your all. Try it.
Authentic Happiness This is a fantastic resource by Martin Seligman and the University of Pennsylvania. Great place to visit if you are looking to learn more about yourself and about Positive Psychology.
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