Family Day in Southwestern Ontario dawned bright and brisk. We bundled up and headed into the downtown core of our city. A city that I am beginning to think of as home, which is notable progress for this country girl. It was pushing 9:30 am as the kids stepped out onto the glistening ice of the outdoor rink at City Hall. Surprisingly, they were two of the four people on the ice. The sun peaked over the high rise offices that offered welcome shelter from the morning breeze. As the kids circled around the ice they were joined by a few more skaters, eager to soak up the sun's rays. In the courtyard that borders the rink volunteers were hustling to set up tables laden with steaming coffee, hot chocolate, fresh baked cookies, apples and popcorn. These goodies, much appreciated by skaters and spectators alike, were generously donated by the neighbouring Williams Cafe and the Member of Parliament for Kitchener Centre. My family enjoyed an entire morning of skating and window shopping before heading home to thaw out and regroup.
Shortly, we are heading out to Public Swim at our neighbourhood pool. We'll spend a few hours splashing and sliding in the warm water before heading home to a crock pot full of tasty spaghetti, a crackling fire and a full-contact board game. The memories we'll add to the photo album will be treasured by all and my children will drift off to sleep with happy thoughts of another great Family Day! An action packed day to be sure, and all for a grand total of $12.50.
