Several families took advantage of their winter break afternoon on Monday. Some were skating for the first time, like Aryia and Ayden Wallette, along with their mother, Jasmine. The two youngsters were having a good time, despite their difficulties, but Jasmine Wallette said she was not. Skating can be a tricky thing to learn for some, and for others it just comes naturally.

Erin McLean, Brenna Sidener and Karew Lamoreux were in the west rink, as well, returning to spend some more time on the ice. Sidener said it was her first time going skating this year, and McLean and Lamoreux had gone quite a few times.

Each liked a different thing about skating. McLean said, “It makes you feel free.” Sidener replied, “It’s fun,” and Lamoreux said she likes skating because “it’s exciting!” They check the Minot Park District website often to see when public skating is being held, and going skating more in 2020 is a goal the three girls said they would like to achieve.

Young skaters have been using Maysa ice to practice for figure skating or for hockey. They were so excited that they didn’t want to wait for their parents to pay for their skate time. They headed out on their own to enjoy. One little girl in a beautful blue skirt brought her baby doll with her to share in the excitement.

Ciara Parizek/MDN From left, Erin McLean, Brenna Sidener and Karew Lamoreux return for another day of fun at the Maysa on Monday.

When the parents got out on the ice with their kids, they were all smiles. Children’s laughter rang through the rink. Some of the skaters were very skilled and others were just learning or getting their bearings, but for them, skill level isn’t what matters. It’s the fun!