Rink Rats

Back in the fall, we had determined that maybe this was the year to try a backyard rink.  We would not be travelling at all during the Christmas holidays and therefore a bit of backyard entertainment might be welcomed.  Well . .  .it didn't quite serve as entertainment during the Christmas holidays . . . except for right at the end and then on the snow days that followed . . . but it has been a grand source of entertainment, energy burning, and even a bit of work ethic thrown in since then!!

Hard to imagine but this is the 27th of December when we started the project.  Yes we did have a mild Christmas didn't we?!  We were hearing reports of DROPPING temperatures and knew it was now or never.

 So it was NOW . . . even though we forgot to laser it in the dark to check out how level (or unlevel) the yard actually was.  But alas, it was daytime now and so we (Jonathan) charged on full steam ahead.

 Of course, he didn't work alone . . . Karter LOVES helping Jonathan and if Jonathan ever goes out to the shop to organize, clean, or work . . . you can be sure Karter will be grabbing his boots, hat, and mitts too . . . whether he has been invited or not!

 Anyhow. This was a bit of a learning curve year as our lawn is actually quite unlevel as we found out.  Our one end was overflowing and the other end was dry.  Some modifications were made, but we were (and have been ever since) glad for a quick freeze and no thaw.  Once it was frozen and we finally got the last corner somewhat covered with water, it was ready to be enjoyed.  

 All four kids have spent hours and hours out there. Some days I tie and untie skates an awful lot (it's been cold!!!) but it has been so worth it!

 Karter is never one to be left out, and will even head out there on his own when the other kids are at school.  He has probably benefited the most from this rink!
Kevin and Kade (and once again can't forget about Karter) have also had to do their share of rink maintenance . . . .shovelling, shovelling, flooding, shovelling, flooding, and more shovelling. It's been very good for them!!

 The rest of the pictures are from Thursday night hockey.  This is one of the highlights of the week for all four kids. They keep learning and being challenged and it is really good for them!

Karter

 Kevin and Kade

 Kylie

Kevin and Kade love to tease Kylie about her "inabilities". She has "graduated" to the big kid rink for drills etc. and once in while for the game too. They don't like it and love to tell her she isn't good enough.  I think it just makes her more determined to prove them wrong . . . and they are wrong!  She can hold her own just fine . . . and she loves being coached by her dad :)

Always a smile on his face . . . .