gliding into 2025

The first entry on my "Out & About in 2025" chart was entered today after skating until my heart was content!  14.7 Kilometres does not sound like much when I have 2025 kms to cover "one way or another" this year. It was the longest distance I skated, as the seventh skating session since Dec 16th.  As each New Year approaches I ponder maybe I won't bother with tracking distances, but then as the New Year arrives I can't let go of the numbers.  They are one of the motivators to get me out the door and I get to compete with myself. At this point in my life, whatever it takes to keep me healthy & happy I am embracing it! 

After yesterday's and last night's snowfall, I wondered would the skating surface be sketchy.  The only thing that was sketchy was the drive there. By the time I arrived the ice had just been swept yet the sign had not been updated.  It was a very cold start to the day so extra warm layers were required.  After checking conditions, I laced up, gingerly worked my way down to the ice surface then glided into 2025! (Note: I missed Jan 1st, it's a blur!)

As I glided off along The Lagoon, I was happy to see the conditions were great.  I got to enjoy the surroundings rather than having my head down checking to see where I was placing my blades.  No one else had arrived yet but two others did after a half hour or so.   

The loop off the Lagoon had been swept also so I went for a tour around there a few times.  The Ice Bikes are rented out on the weekends.  The Boat Rentals hut is where you rent the Ice Bikes from and also you can rent skates from there too. 

As I skated along The Canal, I saw the Ice Man filling up his water tank.  I stopped and chatted for a few minutes then carried on skating around The Lagoon.  He went to work making The Canal a magical surface to glide along.  

skating The Canal just after it was flooded

in one of my happy places

A little time by the fire topped off my first skating session of 2025!

After wearing the third pair of mittens I knitted, I declare they are 

tried and true in cold and snowy conditions!

My wish is the weather will stay favourable offering up lots of opportunities to smoothly glide along in 2025!  I hope 2025 is starting smoothly for you! I hope it's a year that brings you good health & happiness, peace & kindness and finds you embracing what brings you joy!