Mike Rainone
Hammertime
Yes, we are still enjoying a fabulous fall and hoping that the ‘trick-or-treaters’ will have a balmy Oct. 31st ‘pumpkin prowl’ but we all know quite well what is looming just around the corner, so maybe we could do ourselves a favour by starting to get ready for winter now?
Although we are still raking leaves and storing away all the ‘summer stuff’ what should also go on the ‘do now’ lists on our calendars and fridge notes are: getting our vehicles well prepared to survive through the next five or so ‘frigid months,’ putting the boards up for the grand old outdoor rink, and rushing out and getting some bargains on warm winter wear for all ages. Now may I also dare to suggest that we just might want to put up the outdoor Christmas lights, book that hot weather getaway holiday in the sun and sand, and maybe even plan a fun combined Halloween/Christmas shopping spree?
Now that the golf clubs, ball gloves, tennis rackets, bikes, boys and girl toys, and all the rest of the hot weather sports and leisure paraphernalia have been safely stored away in the garage, we can now start to plan and look forward to our outdoor and indoor winter sports and recreational activities. In the meantime those of us who are avid sport fanatics will already be preparing quick snacks and gathering on the couch to cheer on our favourite hockey, World Series, and basketball teams, while many others, especially the senior set just can’t wait for the world’s hot shot curlers to step back into the hack and start tossing rocks every winter weekend.
Even though the temperatures are now teasing the zero mark there is still lots of time to get outside and enjoy an invigorating walk or run in the brisk fresh air at our own pace, while many others are already packing up the family vehicle and making the trip down to the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex for hockey practises and games, curling, figure skating, and all sorts of other fun on ice activities for all ages and complimented by lots of hot chocolate for the next six months or so.
Now that the football, soccer, and track teams have packed up their gear there will be lots of action in the noisy gyms of all of our schools and other locations as the volleyball, basketball, badminton, gymnastics, and other programs for students and adults will now swing into action, and all will hopefully be cheered on by those sassy cheer-squads and lots of parents and fans. While many will surely carry on their determined exercise and dancing programs at the local fitness centres or other indoor facilities, those of us seniors who may have slowed down just a little will hopefully continue to enjoy our gentle jumps and stretches, swimming at the Aquaplex, as well as games and other delightful casual activities in the comfort of our own living rooms and many excellent local facilities. As well as the participants and fans we should always appreciate all those referees, officials and faithful volunteers who help so much to make all these games, events, and activities so successful.
Once Old Man Winter really kicks his ‘frozen invasion’ into gear thousands of young and old enthusiasts will head outside to skate on the outdoor rinks, to rev up the neighbourhood for some keen ‘road hockey’ action, to search out the best hills for skiing and sliding, or to head out onto the frozen lakes with their stocked up huts for some fabulous ice fishing. Whatever the case, choose your favourite sport and activities, take some friends along, dress to suit the environment, and have a great and active winter.
Now let’s have a little fun
• My diet Day 1: I have removed all the bad food from the house, and it was delicious.
• The speed of light is faster than the speed of sound. That’s why so many people appear bright until they open their mouths.
• Ladies, if you want to strike fear into your man, just smile real nice and ask him if he notices anything different.
• Gentleman, if you want to change the world do it while you are a bachelor because after you get married you can’t even change the channel.
• I know that I will never be over the hill, because I am too tired to climb it.
As the weather changes now so quickly we all need to phone or try to drop in and visit someone who may not be able to leave their homes. Have a great week, all of you.