Get Your Skates On!

Although I wouldn't consider Brad the handiest guy around, he can get something done if he sets his mind to it! This fall he set his mind on a backyard ice rink, and he spent quite a few weekends getting it ready. There is quite a science to it, from what color tarp you use (white, so it reflects the sun, causing less melting) to how much water you add at a time until you get to the level you want. He spent hours putting up boards, building spotlight stands so we could skate at night, and filling the thing, which was quite the chore since our backyard slopes down quite a bit on one side. The end result turned out great, and the kids have had such a ball on our outdoor hockey rink. I particularly love that we created usable space in our backyard for the winter since we really wouldn't be out there much otherwise. Here are some shots of our first time trying it out!

Thanks, B, for creating something that will bring hours of joy to our family!!