The City of Des Moines has been doing some pretty sweet stuff downtown to make it more appealing. Principal (Andy's work of choice) has funded The River Walk, a fancy path along the Des Moines River. There is an Asian garden, the new Science Center and general improvement all around. The newest addition to downtown is the Brenton Ice Rink, and it's wonderful!
Andy, Tim, Andy, Carter and I headed out for a "family night" on the town. We had dinner at Fazoli's, and then headed to the ice rink. We waited in the long line, and we all were a bit overwhelmed by the packed ice and our own inabilities (or, at least, Tim and I were nervous!). But once we got our "ice feet," all was good. I took a couple laps with Tim and Andy, while Andy and Carter watched from the side. Carter didn't miss a second of the action! When I was comfortable with my skating abilities, I brought Carter out onto the ice for a lap. She was so excited! She babbled and talked the entire lap around! I passed her off to Andy so he could skate with her, and so I could watch, and she never stopped beaming that smile of hers! I took her again, and after a bit, I let her walk while I held her hands. She actually did a fabulous job of pulling me along with her! And when I passed her off to Andy for a break, she cried when she left the ice. She had a fantastic time!
It was a great night out, and the cheapest form of awesome entertainment we've found so far. We will definitely be going back soon!
Andy and Carter gear up to skate in warm mittens and hats
It's the Skating Chalupa's!
Andy and Carter take a lap on the busy, but fun, ice
Andy and I take a leisurely skate
Me, Andy, and Tim, skating fools!
Andy, Carter, and I ... she just can't wait to get moving on the ice!
Carter, pulling me, along the ice! And she's off!
Looks like Andy H's Sudafed-drug combo worked from earlier in the day! He's back on his feet now! At least until he falls on the ice. ;)
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