Skating!

 I opted out of making a rink myself this year. The kids were not pleased. So I promised to take them skating outdoors elsewhere. Regularly.

 The first place open was the skate trail in Richmond Hill. I think we showed up the day after it opened. During the week...so it was pretty quiet.

 I attempted to help an adult during her first time skating. She was grateful, but I felt inadequate.

 We checked out another potential site on the way home but it wasn't ready yet.

 The skate trail was great -- nice smooth ice, nice natural environment. It's just a shame they have speakers of radio music blaring when you could hear the birds maybe, if it was off.

 They had the pushing things for learning with, which was really good for Evelyn. Even better for me, 'cause then I didn't need to help. It's awkward trying to hold someone!

 The loop wasn't as long as I'd imagined from being told. And fortunately I didn't see the "helmet" and "one way only" signs and we weren't told off. Rules are best if you don't know about them. ;) We also tried an arena...but didn't risk Richmond Hill or Aurora because of their "helmet rules". Maybe they'd overlook our lack of helmets, maybe not. But it's not worth packing everyone up only to be disappointed! We did find an arena that wasn't so fussy. :)

 We enjoyed tag on the skate trail...but I had to remind my kids to not do it around other people and to slow down around them (especially when you are going the wrong way!).

It is nice to be outside!