In Which I Ride a Ripstik

I first saw a Ripstik last year in a sporting store. "What good is this?" I said to my companions. "A skateboard with two wheels--who can ride it?" After giving it a good harrumphing, we walked away.

Since that time, Ripstiks have become popular in my neighborhood. Everyone has one. So I hang out on the edge, waiting for a lull in the action. "Can I try that?" I ask.

"Sure," they say. I give them popsicles. They give me pointers.

Skateboards are old school compared to the Ripstik, or "caster board," which is the generic term. Caster boards are comprised of two independent boards connected by a pole that allows the boards to pivot in opposite directions. The proper stance is sideways, as on a snowboard; to move forward, you press one foot down (toes down) and the other foot up (heel down). Moving your feet like this causes the front wheel to move in a direction opposite of the back wheel, producing forward motion. Initially, I felt like I'd fall and crack my head open. But now--

I CAN DO IT!

Not well--not yet--but give me time! I love this thing! It's fun and challenging and different from anything I've ever done. No matter I am the only woman out in the street on a Ripstik; I'm shredding up the pavement.

I can hear you now: Danette, you totally rock! Or maybe you're saying, Danette, you are the village idiot.

And I just have one thing to say to both statements: I know, right!