ROCKS rocks winter season

Snow and cold weather brought an early start to the winter outdoor activities season here in Seeley Lake. The ROCKS team is in high gear helping the Nordic ski group ready the yurt for the cross country skiing season and getting the ice skating rink ready for flooding.

It doesn't seem like a coincidence that I'm writing this just as Thanksgiving descends upon a snowy white Seeley Lake, because this year I'm feeling especially thankful about many things, not the least of which is the Canadian push I got as a young child to put on a pair of skates.

I had no way of knowing that opportunity was a gift – in my family, strapping on skates as soon as you can walk is a given, not really a choice – but I do now realize what a difference that early start made in my life.

I am just back from Toronto, visiting my oldest son. During the visit I was able to skate with him and with his 12-year-old premier league hockey goalie daughter, which brought back so many memories of my own childhood, skating with my father and brother and friends.

Skating and playing hockey shaped so much of my life, and it is pure gratitude that gets me out flooding our local rink on those dark, cold, uncomfortable but perfect freezing rink flooding nights.

The mission of ROCKS is to provide children and families of Seeley Lake and surrounding areas with opportunities to get out and enjoy this beautiful area no matter what the season. The hiking trails are nearly put to bed for the season, and the work done this fall will make them even more accessible and orderly than before.

Tons of fall cleanup took place to ensure a safe and beautiful spring start, which will come sooner than anyone expects. As hiking season draws to a close, the yurt is open and ready. We have made improvements to the skating rink as well.

The shed at the rink now has not only a ton of free skates for everyone to use – it also now has electricity!

Soon we'll be able to get our skate sharpener going. That will help bring some of the older skates back to life. The Missoula ice rink has been generous with donations, and we gladly accept their used or surplus hockey nets, learn-to-skate tools, benches - whatever they can spare to help us build this program. Over time, we'd love to work more closely with them to join forces to expand the skating opportunities we are now offering.

Be patient – the rink takes a bit of time to set up, flood and get ready. But Father Winter is being kind with an early start, so soon we'll post the "open for business" sign. All are welcome, and the night light (until 8 p.m.) will give you a great excuse to work off dinner with a brisk evening skate. Enjoy!!