Saturday, January 15, 2011

When "H" freezes over

"H" being Hooper of course.

A few years ago, Brad's parents invested in a bunch of plastic. With a little bit of ingenuity, and a lot of water, voila! An ice skating rink was born. Now mind you, the first year they attempted this feat, it was a Christmas present for the family (which included a bunch of skates, of course), but Brad was on his mission. Can you imagine being in hot, humid Costa Rica, and hearing about a Christmas gift like that? I think it would make you miss Hooper and freezing cold weather quite a bit. That's what Brad said at least. Anyway, this year Mom wasn't able to get the rink set up before the trip to Arizona when we had that big cold spell, so she got it set up the week after. And it sat......for a very long time......because it wouldn't gosh darn freeze! We called it the kitty's giant water dish for almost the whole month of December. We finally got to test the waters, or rather the ice, out about 3 weeks ago, and it was glorious!

The last time the rink was up, was the year Brad got home from his mission. That Christmas season is full of lots of memories for us. Not because we were lovey dovey in love, but because we actually weren't "dating" at the time. I think Brad's whole family thought we were because I spent so much time over at his house, but we weren't. Despite the fact that we weren't together, we spent a lot of time ice skating. I think I probably used that as my excuse to be with him. And I really fell in love with the ice rink(Well, and Brad too!)! It is so fun to have the rink back again this year, and it is better than ever! The ice is so much more smooth this year, the skates have been freshly sharpened, lights have been added for ambiance, and there is even some kind of a manual Zamboni contraption that they use on it from time to time to keep it glassy smooth. Pretty crazy, huh? And best of all! I can hold hands and skate with my sweet hubster all I want cuz now I am with him for eternity!

Take a look at that beauty! I'm referring to the rink. Just imagine, on the other side of the rink are tiki torches, and a warm crackling fireplace with a few chairs around it to warm your fingers while resting.

Our skating buddies on Friday Night, Milly and Emm.
Brad in his winter wear
me in mine (you can't see it, but Mom got warm fuzzy pink socks to wear inside our skate as part of our skating gear. Mmmm warm toesies are always a good thing)

Our attempt at figure skating. I know... you're jealous of our grace
Once again, another portrayal of our unforgettable poise and grace
Acknowledging the onlookers after the standing ovation
And what post would be complete without a cute picture of Ellie? I guess I may be a paranoid mother, but she stays inside with Grandma while we skate. We don't want a sick girl on our hands. Maybe I'll build up the courage to bring her out one of these days.

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