I was trying out our flatmate’s little Penny skateboard, learning how to handle the damn thing, going slowly, not pushing off too hard. Abe taught me how to get on it, but he hasn’t taught me much else. After practicing what I remembered, I gained a bit more confidence and learned how to make some turns on it by putting the right amount of pressure on the tail.
It’s really when you think you got it, that the world conspires to prove you’re small. I think I was trying to increase momentum for a turn when suddenly, the board flew under me. Next thing I know I’ve hit my face on the concrete floor and my right cheekbone is on fire as if I’d been punched. My brain feels like it has been shaken, my gums and teeth hurt a little and all the while I’m hoping the injuries don’t show. Staggering towards the kitchen, I open the fridge and grab the ice tray and let the whole thing cool the side of my face. But while I’m collapsed on the bed, spitting all kinds of expletives, there’s a huge smile on my face because while it hurts, I think I found a new fun thing to do.
I’m going to buy a helmet.