by 
The flexy racer and unicycle were my favorite feats of fearless frolic. Our family was not content with skateboards and bicycles. We took up more challenging sports. The flexy racer was even more dangerous than the unicycle. Several neighbors had these sleds-with-wheels. The brakes were under the handles in the front. Riding on your belly down the steep hills of La Habra Heights was frightening and dangerous. It was difficult to brake the racer wit your elbows bent and your tummy flat on the board. Most of the time, a rider would look for a soft place to ditch the racer if he lost control.
These two forms of entertainment generated intense excitment and conversation. Challenge someone to a risky game of chance and the odds are you will not have to think about what you will say to each other. There isn’t time for much talk. If you survive, there are always wonderful memories to re-live with one another. At the age of 72, I am still friends with kids on my hill who rode scooters and racers with me. How we lived through our childhood is a mystery to me.
Here are activities you may invite someone to share with you:
Hiking, bird watching, shell collecting, rock collecting, flying kites, building models, board games, cards, skating, swimming, skateboarding, gardening, painting and so much more.
What do you do with your free time? Chances are, you can your favorite games and activities with a friend.
Scriptural Application:
“And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.” Luke 11
Have you ever been bothered by someone at the most inconvenient time? This visitor may seem like a nuisance but he may have been an angel in disguise! Treat everyone who crosses your path as if they were sent from God for a special message or lesson. This is the easiest way to earn a friendship that lasts a life time. Be ready and eager to help when called on.
Boundaries Application:
Have you ever had a friend who calls you and visits you late at night? Did this bother you? How did you handle it?
New neighbors and friends need to know when is the last time to call you or visit with you. If they disregard this notice, tell them you will only see them at 10:00 a.m. Tell them a reasonable tie.
