By Adam Kreek
Becca and I took Baby J out for his first row the other day. Harold from Whitehall Rowing took the pictures. I love his rowing boats. They are perfect for a young family with young kids. Spending time on the water with my family was really a lot of fun. It always is fun.
So much time has passed since Jordan, Greg, Rick and I decided to row across the Atlantic.
I find myself waffling between excitement, fear, and mourning the time I will spend away from my little guy. Becca and I talk about this a lot. She’ll always ask me “Do you really want to do this? Its a long time!” With the help of my teammates, I have long since convinced her of the seaworthiness and safety of our boat. Becca’s biggest concern is the time we will spend apart. Understandably. Time away from home is often harder to deal with than 2 hour shifts and 50 foot waves.
So. What’s my answer? “Yes. I really want to do this with my life.” Why shouldn’t we experience the extreme and subtle beauties of the rare corners of the earth? We only have one life. We must listen to that little voice of adventure that squeaks inside all of us. I love the lessons I learn when I follow that voice. I love the perspective and grounding that adventure brings.
In the end, I firmly believe this journey will make me a better father. My son will be connected with the communities we visit for all his life. Our adventure will turn into family folklore and stories to guide the next generations.