The moment of truth. Defying good judgement, Noah and I drove to the skatepark in blizzard-like conditions for the last 45 mins of the session. We were only there a few minutes and he said. "I'm going to drop in on that ramp tonight", pointing to the spine ramp. I was shocked by this bold proclamation and noted that we had forgotten his pads and the clock was ticking to get it done if he wanted to. I have learned, mostly, when to back off and let them figure it out on their own. Luckily, Noah's favorite skater, @jon_zomer was there and as always, took time to encourage Noah and work with him, showing him "a trick" that would help him work up to dropping in. I was riding my bike during all of this, and stopped for a second to watch as Jon offered to hold Noah's hand as he took the plunge on the big ramp for the first time. Noah politely declined and I watched in amazement as he dropped in, one and done, no issues. This is a ramp I've been skating for 26 years and I still, even tonight, take a deep breath before dropping in on. It's steep and unforgiving. I've said it before, but it doesn't matter to me if he keeps skating or riding or playing soccer or whatever--he will find his path like I found mine, but the confidence he's been showing lately is going to take him far in life, and that's something truly special. #tearsdontmattermuch #prouddad (at K-Zoo Skate Zoo Inc.)
