Thirty-Eight Years Alive

I normally never get personal on this and I assume no one reads it anyways. But, it's my blog and I'll post whatever I want, whenever I want. Today, I turn 38 years old. Thirty-eight years old today is a lot different than 38 years ago. It's also a lot different now than I expected when I was younger. But I continue to be happy and grateful of what I've been through and what I have. Saturday was when the family was over and was gifted some new gym clothes, coffee, and a Winners gift card. Score! Additionally, I was greeted by some very special friends, one whom I haven't heard from in a while and is currently going through a lot. Today started really well when one of my closest friends took me to Pizza Hut where it had one of the very few buffet services still standing. As like all Mondays since September, my birthday was capped off with an Ajax Boxing Club redcreation class. Thank you to those who wished me this special day. Here is to another 38 years of blogging and sharing more of my personal journey.

Love always,
- V

Ebbets Field Flannels x New York Black Yankees

Been a minute since I've posted a new fitted hat. Also been a minute since I've posted. Newly acquired is an Ebbets Field Flannels New York Black Yankees authentic wool cap worn by the former Negro League team in 1936.

This particular cap is made of wool broadcloth material, cotton sweatband and a satin green underbrim. All authentic caps are "Made in USA."

The NY Black Yankees were founded in 1931 and joined the Negro Baseball League in 1936. Throughout their tenure, they played home games most notably at Yankee Stadium and the Polo Grounds until the league folded in 1948. One of the most famous players to wear a Black Yankees cap was pitcher Satchel Paige in 1941. He would play in that season's Negro League All-Star Game and later inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame [1971].

Osiris Shoes x D3 2001

The month of August has ended with a high note and I was beyond joyous to come across a pair of re-issued Osiris D3 2001 skate shoes. Has it really been a quarter century since these originally released? Part of my teenhood finally fulfilled to have these in my collection.

Designed by former pro skateboarder Dave Mayhew, the D3 2001 is an updated version of his third pro model shoe with Osiris. Since its release, it has left behind a legacy while being the subject of controversy. However, it is a precursor to today's footwear and fashion industry.

These are, in the words of Rob Dyrdek, " As tech as tech gets." It's a grand concoction of mesh, rubber, foam, synthetic leather, and God-knows-what in the air units.

It is used condition with obvious signs of wear, but to finally have these in my possession after so many years is beyond stoked. Maybe, if I'm just feeling crazy enough, I will skate with them for the hell of it. It's "Skate and Destroy" for a reason. Additionally, the Philadelphia Flyers colour blocking is sweet! Support your local skate shop and local economy, you'll definitely come across some gems.

Element Skateboards x Jeremy Wray

As you probably know, I love finding vintage skate gear online and this one was another must-have. Newly acquired is an Element Skateboard Jeremy Wray deck from 2003. Unfortunately, it is a Twigs shape which were designed for the shorter and younger/beginner skaters and measures 7.1" x 28". Additionally, the previous owner went HAM with the sticker job and left behind some residue. Nevertheless, I'm beyond stoked to have this in the collection.

Jeremy Wray's always been one of my favourite skaters growing up and has always released solid video parts. Furthermore, I would like to express my condolences to him and his family for the tragic loss of his brother and fellow pro skater who sadly passed away in 2019. RIP Jonas Wray.

In case you're wondering, the deck was mounted to a pair of Grind King Trucks with 50.5mm Ricta Eric Koston wheels and Shorty's Quickies Bearings.

Jackalope Fest '25

This past Sunday, I had the pleasure of meeting Stereo Sound Agent Brye Wettstein at Jackalope Fest. Despite the heat wave all weekend, she managed to take 6th place in Women’s Vert Open Qualifiers.

Another highlight of Jackalope Fest were the vendors and I managed to grab the last 90s shape from Canadian-owned Comacan Skateboards. Support local independent businesses and I hope to see you at Jackalope Fest 2026!

Flip Skateboards x Ali Boulala

I'm always stoked to come across anything vintage/classic online and when this Flip Ali Boulala deck [formerly complete] from 2005 popped up, it was another must-have. Originally mounted to Krux Trucks and Alcatraz Skateshop wheels, the graphic is in great condition considering its age. I'd like to believe, like all 2000s decks, a sheet of Shorty's Black Magic grip was applied on top.

Flip Skateboards' 2002 release "Sorry" catapulted my fandom of European skaters, especially Ali Boulala. From his clothing, trick selection, style, and personality - he was definitely the most charismatic with unforgettable dialogue. Unfortunately, his career and health rapidly declined after a fatal motor vehicle accident of fellow teammate Shane Cross in 2007. Strong and sober since then, Ali Boulala has left a great imprint on skateboarding and my teenhood.

Birdhouse Skateboards x Willy Santos "Frogs"

This past weekend, amongst the frigid cold temperatures of downtown Toronto, I picked up this amazing vintage Birdhouse Skateboards Willy Santos "Frogs" deck. Originally released in 1996, this particular deck was re-issued in 1999 and measures 8"x31.13". I plan on mounting trucks and wheels to this beauty as opposed to hanging it on the wall.

Willy Santos has always been one of my favourite pros since I started skating back in '01, and the fact he is also Filipino definitely adds more flavour. I am beyond stoked adding this item to my collection.

Sakyan at Wasakin!