Sledding at Rock Canyon Park

By the time we actually got to Rock Canyon Park to do the much anticipated sledding, I think we had collectively sweat a gallon. Not only was the air thick with the smell of perspiration, but it was also thick with anticipation. We were stoked for the fun that lie ahead, except that we were missing was Mom and Jocey. Jess would've loved it, but Jocey was napping and keeping her warm in the cold weather would've been tricky. If Jocey can't come next year, I'll take my turn at home with her so Jess can let her wild side see the light of day. ;-)


We began our afternoon of blistering fun on the east rim of the Rock Canyon "bowl" and promptly migrated to the south rim. Emma burned up the slopes over there with more than just the sleds. This gorgeous smile was on display for the entire afternoon. She and I enjoyed a lot of trips down the hill together.


Here's Aidan on one of his solo rides. He was frequently trying innovative ways of getting down the hill. My favorite was him getting dragged down the hill behind the sled. One time he made it all the way down the hill but managed to get five pounds of snow down his front.


Scottie was also an innovator: This sled had been broken in a couple of spots but figured out that he could stand on the rudders and steer himself successfully down the hill. Nine times out of ten he was successful, but every now and again he'd manage a painful wipeout.


Eliza is a lot like me in that she's timid at first and reluctantly makes her first solo run down the hill. But then she enjoys the rush of adrenaline so much that she can't get enough...speed and runs. I overheard her talking to Kellan as they were walking up the hill toward the end of the afternoon, and she said this was one of the best days of her life. :-) I think many of us felt that way...except that we missed Mom and Jocey.


Kellan and Scott are kindred spirits: They're daredevils and they love it! I didn't get a shot of him going off his jumps because he was usually taking off before I could catch my breath. He loved flying down the hill and was usually pretty quick about getting back to the top.


Jess is a true sweetheart, because she wanted us to call as we were heading home so she could put some hot chocolate on the stove. When we got home, she was pouring us each a steaming mug that met with icy lips. Thank you, Jess! That hot chocolate made the day!