Ice Skiing
Last weekend Hannah went ice skating for the first time. Or, as she calls it, "ice skiing". Jeanne and Nana took her to the small rink in Harvard Square where they all rented skates (and a helmet for Hannah). She was tentative at first, trying to walk on the skates before she started to get the concept of gliding. They grabbed some of the milk crates and pushed those around which allowed Hannah to stay on her feet and balance better. And when Jeanne helped her get going faster, she was ecstatic, shrieking "I'm doing it!"
We had thought about getting her on skis this winter, but we'll probably hold off until next year. But seeing her skating made us realize she has the balance and coordination to be able to try it. As long as she doesn't get inspired by the Olympics and take up freestyle aerials.
Her balance was on display again this past weekend when we went for a hike down to the Quechee Gorge. The trail is somewhat steep in parts, and was covered with more ice than snow (although this week's storm probably changed that). We brought the backpack for her to ride in when she got tired, but she was adamant she wanted to walk all the way down. We were amazed by her balance and fearlessness as she strutted right out onto the icy trail. The sides of the trail were clearer where she found solid footing and she was able to walk all the way down. Her ride back up in the backpack was well-earned.
Hannah the ice princess:
Playing in what passes for winter these days in Vermont:
