Reflections on my vacation week
05 May 2024 - de Medeiros, J. E. M.
Reflections on My Vacation Week: Not just another Sunday at the park.
The previous posts in this blog have often revolved around my weekends spent at the skatepark. While this activity has become my main hobby and sport, today was different. Last Sunday marked my birthday, and I decided to extend the celebration by taking a week off — a much-needed vacation. Alas, all good things must come to an end, and today is that day.
Lending a hand
As I woke up to the sound of rain tapping against my window, I received direct messages from my skatepark friends. They informed me that the park was still quite wet and that they would delay their arrival. Undeterred, I decided to venture out. The damp, humid weather seemed fitting for the occasion. After breakfast, I lay in bed, lost in thought. Eventually, I resolved to visit the skatepark—rain or shine. The air smelled of damp concrete, and the ground retained moisture from the previous night’s downpour. But my spirits remained high; if anything, the wet surface added an element of adventure. Another longboarder had beaten me to the park, and without hesitation, I joined forces. Armed with brooms and squeegees, we worked together to move the water outside the skatepark or at least spread it out for quicker evaporation. Contributing felt rewarding, knowing it would benefit everyone who came to ride their boards later.
Back to basics
With the floor now somewhat dry, I stepped onto my skateboard. The familiar hum of wheels against concrete greeted me. I started with kick turns — twisting my body and pivoting the board. It’s a simple move, but mastering it requires dedication. My muscles responded to the challenge, awakening from their slumber. Each turn felt like progress, a small victory in the grand scheme of skateboarding. Next, I just rode around, feeling the wind against my face. Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that bring the most joy.
Friends and laughter
As the morning turned into noon, my friends arrived. We exchanged short german greetings in the shared language of this concrete oasis. Some had been working, all week, others studying. Regardless of our individual paths this week, we all agreed that this skatepark was our sanctuary. Slowly, exhaustion crept in. My legs felt like jelly, and my arms protested every push against the pavement. I bid my friends farewell and headed to my next Sunday activity: the gym. Despite my fatigue, I knew that a little sustenance — some carbs — would rejuvenate me for the workout ahead. At the gym, I focused on strength training, pushing my muscles to their limits. The burn was both painful and invigorating. Afterward, I treated myself to a brief visit to the sauna—a reward for my efforts. Finally, it was time to return home, replenish my energy with lunch, and collapse on the couch. As I lay there, I reflected on the day. It wasn’t just about skateboarding; it was about community — the shared nods, the camaraderie among fellow skaters, and the unspoken understanding that we were part of something special. Resilience, too — the determination to keep going even when our bodies rebelled. And the simple pleasures of life — the wind in my hair as I glided on my board, the laughter that bubbled up during failed tricks, and the freedom of movement.
Farewell, Vacation Week
As the sun dips lower in the sky, a twinge of sadness settled in my chest. This week had been a gift — a chance to recharge, connect, and live in the moment. But all good things must come to an end. So, here’s to the skatepark, the rain-soaked floor, and the friends who made it special. Until next time, my wheels will keep spinning, and my heart will hold onto the memories of this Sunday at the skatepark. Keep rolling, my fellow skaters!
Categories: Surfskate, Vacation
Tags: Morning, Sunday, Surfskate, Skateboard, Community, Friends, Skatepark