Looking for a little inspiration as to how to start your new year off in a memorable way? Here are three “only in Lake Oswego” ideas to jump start 2012.

Our son, Brady, making a mad dash from Oswego Canal to our hot tub at 12:01 a.m. on New Year's Day

Take the polar bear dip. For years, our son Brady, would claim rights to the title of “first in the lake” by bolting out our back door, across our backyard, and into our canal at 12:01 a.m. New Year’s Day before rewarding himself with a long soak in our hot tub. (Unfortunately I could never join him because someone had to take the picture!)

Walk around the lake. You know it’s going to a be a good year when you can clock in a 7-plus mile walk/run through a scenic setting highlighted by lake views and perhaps a hot chocolate or latte you nab along the way.

Tom and Sandi Swinford brave the elements to kick off New Year's Day by skiing on Oswego Lake.

Tom Swinford skiing on New Year's Day on Oswego Lake

Be the first to water ski on the lake. Tom and Sandi Swinford have been skiing on Oswego Lake on New Year’s Day for about fifteen years. “We extend an open invitation for people to join us,” Sandi explains, but there have been few takers.  It might have something to do with the temperature at the time which averages 40˚. Some years it has snowed. But that doesn’t stop Tom and Sandi from each skiing their length of the lake in dry suits. Why do they do it? “We thought it would be crazy and novel,” Sandi explains, “and we wanted to be the first ones out there for the year.” In addition she admits that while she is up on her skis, she feels like “the fact that I can be doing this must mean that I’m still young at heart.”

Do you have a favorite way to greet the New Year in Lake Oswego? I’d like to hear about it. And I’d like to wish all of you a very Happy New Year! Start the year off by subscribing to my blog–just click the “sign me up” button in the top right hand column.