New Year, New Hobby

My family has a tradition of going ice skating on Boxing day. Last year Orlaith was too young to go on the ice so she watched on from the sidelines (or should I say she screamed on, due to last year's phase of separation anxiety). This year we were a happy group of 15 skaters and Orlaith was part of the group.

She took to the ice so easily it was pretty impressive. After she found her confidence on the ice she decided not to use the penguin guide any more, so we held hands and skated together for a while as I tried to teach her the easiest way to move on the ice. Then she wanted to let go of my hand and skate on her own. My brother and I stood facing each other from a distance as she skated back and forth into the safety our arms and of course, because we are big teasers, as she got closer to us we would move away making her skate further and further. Back and forth, for 20 seconds at a time, skating independently. It was fantastic.

She kept asking to go out of the children's area and onto the main rink with the adults, so towards the end of our hour I allowed her to come out and do two laps on the main rink while holding my hand. When our time on the ice came to end it was a sad moment and Orlaith didn't want to leave. I promised we'd go back soon.

As it happens I live quite close to an ice rink and I'll definately be taking Orlaith again in the near future. I think it's really important for children to find things they excel at and that they enjoy. It's so good for their confidence and their development. As long as she continues to enjoy ice skating I will make sure I take her as often as I can. Here's to a brand new hobby in a brand new year.

p.s. Who else is in love with the gorgeous coat my brother's girlfriend is wearing in these photos? LOVE