Saturday I had a list of things to do. I was firm with resolve that I would do them. That was until my neighbor and friend suggested ice-skating down at the rink outside the Statehouse with our two sons. Let's see, clean house or ice-skate? Rough choice. It didn't take long for me to dig out my ice skates in the basement and end up at the ice-rink lacing up my son's rentals. This was three hours of sheer joy. (Unless you count the interlude where he pulled his gloves off saying he was too hot, and then a few seconds later insisting that he needed them back on.)

When you skate at the Statehouse, it helps if you think a little small. It's not a big rink, but it's adequate. Noticing the way the capitol building is reflected in the windows of the building across from it is part of the pleasure. I pretended I was in a Bing Crosby movie for awhile, particularly when songs like Silver Bells wafted out into the warm air. It's an amazing thing to think that you can do outdoor skating when it's almost 60 degrees. This skating was about the most pleasurable thing I've done this month. From watching my son learn to skate, to honing up on my skating backwards skills, this was a 10.

By the way, if you go, there are lockers there to lock up purses and such if you feel the need, and the adjoining tent is heated. There is hot chocolate, coffee and hot cider to buy as well. Honestly, this is stellar entertainment. You have until January 1 to enjoy. This skating rink is thanks to The Chiller Ice Rinks. Around Ohio there are other outdoor rinks. If you have one, I'd go.

For the hours of the skating rink and other things to do around the Statehouse, check out this Experience Columbus press release. The rink is open longer when school is out. Oh, the photo is on the Statehouse website and was taken last year. Hint: Look at the snow.