As we settle into the depths of winter, last summer’s warmth feels like a distant memory—and those sunny days of 2026 can’t come soon enough. These cold, snowy weeks offer a chance to reflect on what went well in 2025 and dream up ways to make the coming year even better, both personally and for Downriver Canoe Company.
I’m writing this from sunny Costa Rica, where we’ve taken a quick trip to see how other outfitters run their trips—and, honestly, to escape the cold for a bit!
Two thoughts are top of mind:
Practice What You Preach:
- I always encourage folks to slow down, relax, and step away from daily stress. Spending time at Downriver and out on the river is about just that—taking a break, reflecting, and recharging, surrounded by friends and nature.
- It took nearly five vacation days for me to stop worrying about next year, our staff, our customers, and all the responsibilities of running a business. But once I did, I felt truly refreshed and ready for what’s next. I hope you’ll find your own moments to unplug and reset in 2026.
Appreciate Home:
- Costa Rica has been incredible—hiking, paddling, rappelling, and exploring this natural paradise. Spotting new animals and plants is a daily adventure. But it’s also made me realize how lucky we are to live and work in the Shenandoah Valley.
- Back home, I can look out and see deer, wild turkeys, woodpeckers, cardinals, great blue herons, and bald eagles. While I traveled 2,000 miles to experience some place special, I’m reminded that our own backyard has a magic all its own.
As local guides here share their country with pride, I can’t wait to welcome you back to our special corner of Virginia in the year ahead.
Looking forward to seeing you on the river in 2026!