Aliya's Ice Skating Party

Sometimes having a winter birthday can be a challenge...I know first hand! Forget park or pool parties--it's all pretty miserable in the freezing weather. So what to do? Well, Aliya had the perfect idea for her 9 year old birthday party... ICE SKATING! And not just any ordinary ice skating rink in Bricktown, but the outdoor kind that ONLY is opened at this time of year. It was a perfect idea for a birthday party!

 I was the only one who did not skate...and it was rather chilly sitting on the sidelines. As the evening went on, one by one the coats were taken off as the skaters "warmed up" from skating. The only ones who didn't warm up were those who couldn't skate faster than the wall! Niah also met up with a friend from volleyball.  That was a nice surprise for her!

After almost 2 hours of FUN, FUN, FUN, we walked next door to the Myriad Gardens. The Gardens were opened to the public for a special night, and they were also offering FREE HOT CHOCOLATE. What a way to get warmed up! Before long, we were getting too toasty, so back outside it was for a trip to the Bricktown water canals.

The canal ride was once again very chilly, but wonderful at the same time.  Downtown Bricktown is beautiful this time of year with all the sparkling lights and decorations.  We sang 'Happy Birthday' to Aliya as the canal trolled along.  Was she embarrassed?  Of course, but at the same time, she loved it!

The wonderful, fun-packed night ended with a tour through the Chesapeake campus, which is known for it's spectacular Christmas lighting presentations.  This will be a birthday to remember! We hope your birthday was as special to you as you are to us!  Happy Birthday, Aliya!  WE LOVE YOU!!!