I woke up last Sunday, and during breakfast learned that the annual Shredzfest was going on out in Cochrane that afternoon! I’d never been to any prior Shredzfests, but I’d always heard about them after and wished I went. So here was my chance. Lately I’ve learned that I need to dress up and show up for my life no matter what’s in my head, and also to try and surround myself with like-minded individuals. I figured the afternoon of skateboarding festivities could help test out those learnings.

So I dressed up and showed up to a really beautiful sunny day out in Cochrane, definitely around the 30 degree mark so it was pretty friggin hot.  I planned to skateboard for a while until the contest started up and then grab my camera to shoot some photos. I have never really participated in shooting at a skateboard contest before so I was nervous and also excited! I tried really hard to get out of my head and get into my heart, to relax myself and make some connections with like-minded individuals. Of course though, I worry because I don’t really know anyone and I worry that people will think I’m some weird dude taking pictures, I realize that is silly. The feelings of worry slowly diminished throughout the day, especially when I was recognized by one of the locals named Riley. He spotted me and was kind enough to say hello and make bit of small talk. Made me feel relaxed and gave me a little sense of belonging. If you’re reading this Riley, thanks. It’s funny how meaningful someone saying a friendly hello can be toward another without even knowing it.

After skating for a while and sweating profusely I was ready to chill and watch the competition that was starting soon. There were two others that were shooting photos and video, I decided to watch how they interacted with the talent for a while. I’ve shot skateboarding before, just never at an organized contest, I don’t really know the rules. At a certain point I figured I might as well just grab my camera and start walking around shooting at some spots. I followed the other two a little until I started chatting with one of the other photographers named John. Really nice fellow, just has a passion for photography and skateboarding alike. Nice to connect with a like-minded individual, just like what I set out to do. Of course that contributed to my ever growing feeling of comfort. I felt quite happy just  being there, especially when a lot of my pictures were turning out quite nice.

I was really glad to have gone out that day. Just proves to me yet again that something good always comes when you put yourself out there. Thanks to everyone who was there and contributed to making me feel involved in the day, it was a great contest! There was so much talent there and I feel lucky to have seen it and been a part of it.  I’m really starting to make some progress with myself and get on to a path I’m comfortable walking. Life really is wonderful and I’m realizing that more and more.

On a side note, I have learned that my ex-fiance has sucked in another poor soul to her death trap, and despite all the comments saying “look at the two lovebirds” and all that crap I don’t really feel saddened that she is with someone else already. I feel happy that I am free and able to get excited about new things in my life that have to do with me and me alone! Also I saw a quote on the net that made me chuckle and feel a lot better, “I never get jealous when i see my ex with a new guy because my parents always taught me to give my used toys to the less fortunate…”. Sounds mean but it makes me feel better! I would say sorry Emily, but I’m not.

Well, onto the pictures of that wonderful sunny sunday! Thanks again everyone!!

Also if you are one of the skaters in these photos and would like a copy please don’t hesitate to email me mrpmartin@gmail.com