[NJFemmie]

Once upon a time, when I was about 6 or 7, I was convinced I could "ride the clothesline" from our side of the house to the other house located at the back of our property. The clothesline was about two stories up (picture a pre-war brownstone).

I was a skinny little dink of a kid, so, this should work ... I grab the line, take in a deep breathe, and start pulling. Easy breezy. The next thing I know, I hear a loud snap and I am finding myself heading straight for my father's tomato garden.

On that day I learned that tomato gardens actually provide somewhat decent cushion when you fall directly on them. (And missing the stakes holding them up is considered a miracle and a blessing). I also learned through the loud screams of my mother (and eventually, my father), that trying to ride a clothesline is something I shouldn't consider doing again unless I want to sit in my room for the next three consecutive months (if not longer). More importantly, I learned that even though clotheslines may look sturdy, really, they aren't.

True story, and please folks, do NOT try this at home.