Of course, the biggest deal was the loss of Tokul. Our dear, dear puppy was finally freed of her aches and pain. The outpouring of support was touching. Almost a year out and I still miss her. I suppose I always will.

In June, I made good choices on a mountain. Who knew that was going to happen? On Mt. Hood, we turned back at the Hogsback due to falling ice. Shocking.

In August I took the kids into the mountains and the woods. Two nights in Summerland with the girls and a night at Lena Lake with Henry. Camping in the Park is so wonderful and holds so much promise for the future that we're already planning for 2013.

I wrapped up the five volcanos in Washington with a spectacular (and long) trip to the top of Glacier Peak. Next up: The volcanos of the Cascades.

The highlight of the Fall was a last minute trip into the Emmons Moraine to visit a strange green lake. It was as green as expected, and a lot of fun getting to it and full of adventuring getting back.

All throughout the year it was Mailbox, Mailbox, and Mailbox. 28 times, in fact. It's become my favorite peak to hate. Full of boredom and beauty and a great workout.

There were new records this year, too. 230,000 feet of gain and 545 miles over 111 trips. The kids were with me 36% of the time so that was a win, too.

I picked up two outdoors-related gigs, though neither of them will be replacing my day job any time soon. Still, I'm a Tubbs Ambassador and a gear tester for Washington Trails Association.

Those extra jobs won't even pay the co-pays for all my injuries, which include, but aren't limited to: exercise-induced asthma, severely twisted ankle, arthritis in my toes, and a broken rib. Keep your fingers crossed and I might survive through 2013.

Maybe.