Gamble to Portlandia.

There is usually a fitting theme song to whichever exciting events are taking place in Sandler’s life. This week the signature tune has been “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers. I had not really thought lyrics about gambling would have any meaning in his life at his age, but per usual, the unexpected has presented itself.

We were beyond sad to find out that his best friend, skate coach, and mentor [Ben] has decided it is time to make the move back to his home town of Portland, OR. To help Sandler understand he would not be seeing his favorite pal every day, I explained he will only be a state away and we can go visit. He adjusted to the idea once he understood that it is a short plane ride and the fact that there is skateboarding in Oregon as well. Unfortunately, the part he did not realize is that it is not free to travel; we will not be going several times a month. He will have to save up some money.

Every day since we received the news, Sandler’s wheels have been spinning about how he is going to economize for his travels to the Pacific Northwest. It was no surprise he wanted to have a meeting with his fellow Curb Cowboy [Jack] about how to make things happen. Sandler is the youngest Curb Cowboy. Fortunately, his teammates have some life experience to pass on. They knew he could use a little guidance and pick me up. Consequently, an ice cream truck arrived at the skatepark; he and his buddy Jack set off to talk business.

Jack treated Sandler to one of his favorites, and told him he could keep his three dollars. Sandler could not believe it. There he was with a frozen chocolate goody in one hand, and what he considered a wad of cash in the other. As they sat down on the curb, Sandler asked his confidant if three dollars was enough to get him to Portland. Jack explained that it was not quite going to do the trick. He suggested Sandler should look into doing some chores around the house. This prompted him to inquire if that meant cleaning toilets? Jack confirmed that such a task would probably earn him some extra money.

As I listened to their conversation, I liked where it was headed. My determined son was getting sound advice to help me out with my least favorite household duties. However, Sandler quickly decided that such jobs were not what he was going to sign himself up for. Instead he said, “I know how I can make more loot—I’m going to bring my Uno cards and play people for money!” After picking my chin up off the ground in awe of how he came up with such an elaborate scheme, I explained that is what we call “gambling”. It did not matter to him what it was called, or if it was legal, he was sold on his idea. He was certain he could turn his three bucks into three thousand.

Before leaving the parking lot, he had perfected his plan to meet up with his buddies over the next few days. He assured them he would not only bring Uno, but also Shut The Box and some dice. Though I may not win “Mother of the Year” for supporting his gambling venture, I cannot help but to back such enthusiasm, heart, and motivation to get to Oregon to skateboard with his best friend.

- Nikki