You might have spotted in my alphabet list for 2015 a potentially foolhardy S: skateboarding. I spent my childhood way out in the countryside, at the top of a steep gravelly drive. Not ideal for learning to skate, though I did have a classic 80s board, with neon deck and hot pink wheels. I got as far as sitting and rolling hesitantly.
So here I am twenty years later with renewed resolve to learn a useful and generally pretty awesome skill. Walking is slow, bikes are bulky, and buses are just painful. The obvious addition to my epic commute is a nifty penny board.
It’ll be a while before I’m whizzing round anywhere on these four little wheels. For now, I am having great fun throwing myself in to something that is deceptively difficult. I spent the first few days in the house, pushing myself from staircase to countertop, and balancing on the carpet, figuring out where my feet should go.
I’m enjoying being terrible at something, knowing I can only get better. I would have been way too self-conscious to try boarding in my teen years. Now I couldn’t care less. I’m looking forward to the day I can breeze by, without my trailing, shuffling foot. Even at my slow faltering pace, this S in my alphabet is seriously good fun.
Good luck–I admire your courage!
Carol
I had to laugh at the description of your 80s board – I had one very similar and I, too, only ever got as far as sitting on my bum and shuffling around. I’m in awe of your bravery to have a go at this as an adult – good luck!
I have a 16 year old son who’s been doing it for years but I cannot even balance on it whereas he’s amazing – long boards, RipStik – he does it all and I am so jealous. You are going to have some serious fun – well done for ticking it off your list.