"Good Times..."

"...and roller skates, roller skates..."

(For those that don't know, that's a line from a disco song by Chic)

I had been thinking about buying roller blades, but had mixed feelings about them before, even after using them quite a bit. When checking prices and information on the internet, I discovered "quadline skates". After checking some more, I decided to try them, and received mine in the mail a few weeks ago (thanks, Jane!). Since they are designed to be used with your own shoes, most of the reviews I read said the key to a comfortable ride was comfortable sneakers. After some experimenting, I decided to buy some hi-top Vans. So, I'm having my 70s flashback (skates) and 80s flashback (Vans) all at the same time. I've used them a few times, and have fun getting exercise and getting surprised looks as I skate by on the bike path. Roller blades aren't real common in Japan, from what I can see, and skates even less so. I've seen more than a couple of people trying not to look like they're looking at me as I go by. The last time I was skating, I passed a group of elementary students walking home from school. I heard one of them exclaim, "Sugoi, ne!" ("Great/cool, huh?!")