Just call me Claire. Claire Underwood.

A few weeks ago I installed a rowing machine in our garage. I’ve been having trouble making it to fitness classes because my schedule is unpredictable and I have to stick close to home. Walking the dog up and down the hills is fine but she moves at a slow pace. I was longing for a a frustration-relieving workout. I tried boxing, but the boxing gym was hectic and loud and I’m a little sensitive these days.

Now I have my own little gym. It’s got the purple carpet runner from our old flat, and Sonos speakers in the ceiling. Some days I rock out to house music, other times I’m slow-rowing across Central Park and listening to NPR. Ten minutes, thirty minutes, whatever I can manage. It makes me feel a lot better.