The Rower

I love how real life intersects with spirituality, and when we are tuned in it's surprising how often this happens.  That's why our attitudes, thoughts, and dreams our so important.

My bride has been asking for a rower for several years as that was her preferred mode of exercise, and being the frugal guy I was searching for just the right one! The new rowers go for around a $1000, and just like the other equipment after of few months of use it becomes a clothing rack.

So, my mission was clear. Find a good functional rower that represents good value, or to say it another way is Cheap.  Of course, I went to my favorite source Craigslist.  I know many folks have had mixed results with CL, but my experiences have been great.

So a week before Christmas, I zeroed in on a $500 (bristle) rower that was 5 miles from home.  Of course, as I headed out to see the rower it was already sold.  Oh well, the perfect Christmas gift will have to wait.

It was Thursday a few days before Christmas, and I decided to type rower in CL to see what was available, and to my astonishment THE rower came back four miles from our home and at giveaway price.  I contacted the owners and told them I would be there at 6:30pm that evening to pick it up.

And then the fun began. After coming home from a day of shopping, our daughter calls as says her ride home canceled and could I pick her up from school during rush hour. After making the round trip hair-raising one hour drive, I arrive home at 7:30pm and ask the boys to come with me to help get the rower in the car. They were well into their merry-making and couldn't be bothered, so off I went into the night to pick-up the rower.

I knew the town well but the house was located off the beaten path.  Traveling down a long driveway, I came upon a lighted garage and there she sat in the glowing darkness my special gift a 15 year old Concept rower in outstanding shape.  The monitor was not working but after a few rows I knew she was golden.

I hid the rower in the garage and slipped it under the tree on Christmas morning with the whole family watching I covered my bride's eyes and unveiled the vintage gift. She smiled and laughed thinking the gift was a trip to Italy!  And the rower has become a fine addition to the living room.  Very chic decor!  I changed the batteries in the monitor and she's good as new.

Another Christmas miracle courtesy of my friends from CL.

Infinite patience brings immediate results.


With Gratitude,


Coach K