Skateboarding in Portland, Maine

When I was growing up in Farmington, Maine we got a lot of crap for skateboarding.  Crap from classmates, from the cops, from people on the street.  Our crew turned out alright.  A two time olympic gold medalist in snowboard cross, a doctor, a very successful home energy auditing business owner, an engineer, many successful fathers and solid contributors to our society.  For many of us skateboarding shaped our lives in one way or another and as far as I know it was always positive.

This weekend I pulled out the last two of what remains of a long line of skateboards I used from the 80’s that if I still had I could buy a new Porsche.  They are worth a fortune.  But alas, I eventually broke them and threw them out when I was done with them.  I sold some, gave some away, let others rot.  I wish I still had them to hang up or even use.  I took an old hook ups board from the 90’s out for a spin yesterday.  Nice ride.  My Billy Ruff Chalice  from 1984 is pretty smooth too.  I suspect over the years I’ve had at least 25 boards.

The point of this reflection is this. As time passes there are more and more things to look back on with 20/20.  Best to cherish the memories and not waste time on regret for wasted opportunity or mistakes – in this case not saving my old decks.  Looking forward to and planning a bright future is far more valuable than living in the past.  If you are skateboarding in Portland, Maine be sure to visit Resessionskatesnow.com, Gary is a cool guy and he’ll hook you up with the equipment you need to get back on the pavement.