We went to watch the grandchildren at their ice skating lessons. What a thrill to see them skating. Brooklynn wasn't real enthused about going back for a second lesson, but with the help from one of the teachers, she made her way across the ice.
This week, Dawson actually let go of the side and ventured away from the wall. He really seemed to be getting the hang of it by the end of the hour.
Lexy was able to move all around the rink, falling very little. She smiled the whole time.
Kloe was a natural. Very little fear, and also sporting a big smile. I think the skates and the lessons were worth every penny, as these smiles are priceless.
Even Gavin and Jen got their old skates sharpened and joined the grandchildren for the free skate. I really would like to find mine, but the pain in the knee tells me I should just operate the camera, and pour the hot chocolate.I have been thinking a lot about skating the past few weeks. As a child, I spent quite a few hours in the winter days in a pair of skates on some ice. One winter, we rode the snow mobile to a friend's house in East Newport and spent hours and hours playing a made up game, using a partially deflated ball, and the frozen pond. We would stop long enough to have a bathroom break, a cup of hot cocoa, and then return for more hours of fun. I remember vividly the black and blue knees and shins I sported that entire winter. I would wear those bruises proudly if only I could do it again. I also remember one winter, skating from Bantons cove, (now Vic Firth) all the way out to Route 7, by the Paradis'. It was a sunny, clear winter day, and we skated and skated, then turned around and skated back. I wish I could do it again. I remember one of the last times I skated, on the pond down the road. We were going to play tag, and I was it. I had a brand new pair of just sharpened skates. I dug in the tip, took off, and immediately caught a tip, and did a chest flop onto the ice. I went down so hard, it knocked the wind out of me. Now my knees are old and worn, and I swear they have Rice Krispies in them when I walk up stairs. I can't jeopardize my ability to walk for a few spins on the ice. Oh, to be young again. I am thankful that my friends got to see me perform the last time in NH. Maybe I can live it all again through one of the grand children.
