Agnes by Tony Cochran for December 18, 2011

We did that when I was a kid, and while not well off, we were ok — a military family.

We also slid on an inner tube on long grass in summer and dry leaves in autumn – you had to watch out for sharp rocks, but they’re sturdier than you’d think on a smooth hillside.

And, the inner tube is much more fun. Bounces, not unyielding like a sled or a toboggin. Where would you get an inner tube nowadays?

I wouldn’t be surprised if they make inner tubes that are specially made for sliding (not that I imagine that’s what these two have). Besides, in case of a wipeout getting smacked in the head by an inner tube would be safer than with a sled; I’ve left a few red splotches in the snow in my time.

You can make your way down a snowy hillside on just about anything, if you’ve a mind to. Flattened cardboard boxes work well (except in “Peanuts”, I’ve never seen anyone do it sitting inside an intact cardboard box), but you feel EVERY bump…

Trout, you’re the one who usually tries to sink Agnes. Why should she help bail your water?

Since 90% of our snowfall is on the mountains – yes, those ski hills are 30 minutes away by regular transit bus (the beach is a 10 minute walk depending on where you live) – when it does snow enough to slide – piece of cardboard works quite well.

Did the cardboard box down a grassy hill in SF Bay area. That’s what I was doing the day WW2 ended….yup.

flattened cardboard boxes also work well on grassy hills, no snow necessary!

Truck tire inner-tubes are great, but watch out for those long valve stems!!

Wow, Tony. This is pretty deep.

My dad brought home a long, low mountain boy type sled—used. My brother learned to weld, keeping it together. We beat everybody’s socks off—in their NEW sleds.

Obviously you’ve never tried it. Best sliding ever!!!