Comments: Day One in the Field

My first day as an official fieldworker was Sunday, October 12th. It was a quick thirty minutes that seemed to pass quite slowly, and it was also fairly quiet and unremarkable, but there were a few things that prompted some scribbling. During my stay I sat on a bench thirty or so feet away from the park, so these observations are direct but somewhat detached at the same time.

I was not "taken aback" by any of my observations but I did note and smile at the fact that all the guys (though there were not many) who were at the skate park that day seemed to have arrived together, or at least planned to meet each other there. There was a noteworthy sense of camaraderie -- no one seemed "left out" from what I could sense. I think that's pretty cool/gives off good vibes, and makes me a little less nervous about approaching them.

I also appreciated the clean, unsullied appearance of the skate park. Autumn leaves and small pieces of wrappers or trash often litter the grounds of Owen Bell but there were close to none within the skate park, which obviously indicates that someone takes care of it. I wonder if its patrons are to thank, or if the town/parks department is required to do that.

Even though I was expecting it, it was still surprising to experience being an outsider in this unfamiliar situation. As I sat and observed it really washed over me that I am very much unfamiliar with everything: the people, the terminology, the atmosphere. It left me feeling much more grateful for my familiar places and friends. I felt very awkward throughout my stay and it made me consider bringing a friend along next time.