A family in Arnold, Maryland, has created a winter wonderland right in their backyard. Justin Ruff built an impressive ice rink measuring 18 feet by 30 feet, providing a delightful skating experience for his three daughters and local children. The rink has become a hub of fun and activity during this chilly week, showcasing the creative efforts of the Ruff family.
According to Christine Ruff, Justin’s wife, the construction of the rink was a project born from his background in construction and a deep dive into online tutorials. “He has a construction background, and after a serious YouTube rabbit hole, he designed and built the rink,” Christine explained. His ingenuity extends to a homemade PVC “Zamboni” mop, which Justin crafted to keep the ice smooth and ready for skating.
The backyard ice rink has quickly attracted not only the Ruff daughters but also friends and neighbors eager to join in the fun. On a recent day, Taylor Ruff, aged six, was seen skating alongside her neighbor Abigail Eastlee, aged eight. They took advantage of the newly created space, making memories and honing their skating skills.
Justin’s efforts have turned the backyard into a community gathering spot. Children such as Liam Mollet, aged nine, skated freely around the rink, while other neighborhood kids, including Connor Kilcoyne, aged seven, were spotted taking spills and quickly bouncing back up to continue skating. The joyful atmosphere was palpable, with laughter and cheers echoing through the yard.
Even adults joined in on the fun, with neighbors like Chelsea Koski dusting off old hockey skates from her high school days to take a few laps around the rink. The inclusive nature of the rink has allowed families to bond and create lasting friendships, all while enjoying the outdoors.
As winter progresses, the Ruff family’s ice rink stands as a testament to creativity and community spirit. It serves not only as a source of entertainment but also as a reminder of the joy that can be found in simple, homemade projects. The rink has become a cherished spot for family and friends alike, embodying the essence of winter fun in Arnold.
