ASHWAUBENON, Wis.— Craig Begalle spent several minutes helping his daughter get geared up to skate at the Titletown skating rink near Green Bay.

The Neenah resident then finished lacing his own skates.

“I’ve never skated in my life,” he said. “So far, so good. I needed to use a little helper there, but I’ll try without it later.”

He wasn’t alone in bringing the family to the rink— to not only spend quality time together— but also burn off holiday energy.

Tony Nowak of Howard had the same idea. He was there with his own family as well as members visiting from Michigan.

“You know what, getting out here you can stay distanced, you don’t have as much risk as indoors,” he said. “It’s great to just be outside with your family you haven’t seen in a while and still be safe.”

There was no shortage of skaters, even on a day when temperatures were only in the teens.

The long holiday offered a need bight spot in what has been the most usual years. 

As Begalle reflects on 2020, one thing rises to the top of his list.

“I’m just grateful for more time with my family and having more appreciation for all the things we’re blessed with,” he said. 

That’s pretty close to his hopes and wishes for 2021.

“I’m looking forward to more family time, but getting back to a little more of a normal,” Begalle said. 

Aren’t we all.

The Titltetown rink is open daily, including New Year's Eve and New Years Day.

Hours and prices can be found here.