I went ice skating.
There are a few important points to consider in this tale of winter fun. First of all, even though I grew up on the prairies, had my own ice rink and was in figure skating for a short period of time, I did not skate very much as I grew older. In fact, I believe that before coming to university, the last time I had actually been skating was when I was approximately eleven years of age. I don't recall specifically which occasion this final skating event occurred; however, I do remember looking into the living room closet at my skates and the skates belonging to my mother, and thinking something along the lines of "Hm. I'm far too cool to go skating with my mother." Thus, skating ended for me.
Fast forward from my pre-adolescent years to late February 2007, and picture a Christie who not only hasn't skated for an entire decade, but hasn't even laced up a pair of hockey skates since one very traumatic "bring a friend to ringette" skating experience. Add to the mix one boy (now boyfriend) who happens to be a hockey player, and has more importantly been a hockey player since he was a very small child. The result? An experience that, although lacking any embarassing moments in which my bottom contacted the ice, is not ripe with the skating skills I (ha ha) undoubtedly possess.
Last year's skating experience was one of stiff knees, extreme nervousness, and general pre-dating awkward feelings... not to mention so impressive dance moves on the part of my now-significant other. And now, eleven or so months later, I found myself in similar circumstances involving those lovely shoes that have knives on the bottom of them. :) Luckily, at this point of my illustrious skating career, I have a boyfriend who can tie my skates, hold my hand, coach me in doing cross-overs and one-foot stops (that I'll probably never do), and even carry me back to the car when I'm complaining about my aching ankles.
Most importantly, I did not fall down this year either. I squealed a lot, I desperately avoided playing silly games such as a tag or catch or some such nonsense, and I stayed close to the boards. Nevertheless, as Graeme reminded me more than one, my fall record is a lot better than his. Sigh. Any skating encouragement I can get will suffice, thankyouverymuch. :)
Skating is fun?
