Urban Snowboarding

So here is a little history first, then the set-up for the activities of the day.

Samuel loves to snowboard. He went as often as he could last year. Then he worked little odd jobs all year and saved enough money to buy a season pass this year. With the new pass in hand, he was anticipating opening day at the local ski hill today. He got up early, cleaned his room, and was ready to go by 9 am. One quick phone call, in anticipation of going, and his day was suddenly over. The hill would not open until tomorrow. Now he has to wait for another whole week.

Michelle and I went shopping today, and while we were gone, Samuel decided that if the hill was not open, then the backyard "feature" he has been crafting for weeks would have to suffice. The feature is an upside-down plastic trash can half embedded in snow, and a real sketchy wood ramp that is so steep it really is more of a backstop. He conned Joseph into videoing the triumphs and glories of the day.

Now, being the parent I am, I could not help but try to dissuade him from this entire venture. All I could see was my son crashing into the fence and hurting himself, or not being able to stop and "kissing" the fence. My warnings were countered by the bravado of youth, brimming with confidence that this would be simple in light of the fact that he does "way bigger tricks and jumps at the ski hill, Dad."

OK son, have fun.

Take One: "Dropping in" from a height of four feet for a first look at the trick.



Take Two: This time he aims better for the can, looking for a little air.



Take Three: A direct hit, and a little air, but the landing needs a bit of polish before it is ready for the judges.



Take Four: Now we have a simple jump, and if the fence was just a little further away...



I love my sons for the adventures they create and the confidence they exhibit. And I love these videos. I hope you do too.

Alan