Reminiscent of last year, we have had precious few days when the pond has been frozen this winter. So this week, the boys are taking advantage of every below-freezing minute.

The game? Hockey, of course. It definitely helps that the NHL players are no longer on strike so we may be spurred on by watching the pros.

They get into it for sure. Feelings are not as easily hurt on the ice. The oldest two are pretty aggressive against one another.

Peter is all-time goalie, with protection thanks to his baseball catcher’s gear.

He makes some dramatic saves.

Jeremy is still finding his ice-legs, but holds his own well.

Derek sits in the penalty box.

I have a feeling schoolwork will be accomplished at record pace the next few days. The ice is calling, and the forecast is warning that it won’t be around much longer.