The position I am in as Bert and James row across the Atlantic is pretty unique and emotions roll in like waves; some bigger than others and bringing with them the flotsam and jetsam of feelings, thoughts and fears. Not one single day has been like another during their crossing and I admit I find not knowing what's going to happen on a daily basis quite difficult.
Back in December, the day Bert rowed away into the distance made me realise that this endeavour had squeezed the life out of me; two full years of work had finally come to this - watching my lovely Bertie Portal and his wonderful friend James Cash row away in a seven metre boat. It was an incredible moment and I was proud and excited but I was also drained of everything. Nothing more to give, emotionally and physically exhausted and my heart sank.
Yet surprisingly, once home and settled and during these long weeks while we wait for their return, the enormity of this challenge has given something back. Bert's choice of quest has, in fact, handed me and my two sons a wonderful gift and has shaped us in to different people.
Over the school holidays as we huddled together over the computer checking for updates from Talisker, our days were filled with questions and excitement as we saw them make good progress... for a while that was, until things went wrong.
Despite seeing all the preparations at home beforehand, it was at this point it became very clear to the children what this endeavour really meant and the risks it carries. They understood exactly how vulnerable these two strong, capable and, in their eyes, heroic men were and that it wasn't going to be easy. They watched morale fall but they also watched Bert and James stick with it.
Sure Bertie and James aren't fighting for our country, but there is no doubt about the fact that what they are doing is potentially life threatening and they certainly have their own battles to contend with. They have taught us all a lesson and opened up our eyes of the true reality of life being short and precious and how the minutia really doesn't matter.
The boys can now see how important it is to strive, do your best however hard and keep trying until you can do no more. Never give up and certainly give back to those who are less fortunate. They have seen that if you really put your mind to something, it can be done, whatever crosses your path. They realise that true adventures really are possible and not just stories in books and my eldest son now talks of rowing the Atlantic when he's older. They have, in short, inspired my children and so on that note dear Bertie and James, not only do I salute you but I also thank you for giving my boys the opportunity to see the bigger picture.
For regular updates on Bertie Portal and James Cash's Atlantic row, follow them on Twitter @facingatlantic and if you'd like to donate to Facing The World, please go to www.justgiving.com/facingtheatlantic