For years it has been a hub of activity and enjoyment in the community for young and old alike on any nice winter day. It offers great entertainment to both participants and spectators.
However, if you’ve been out and about in Lumsden recently, you may have been surprised to see a new and interesting activity happening in the front yard of the church, along Qu’Appelle Drive E.
Since COVID precautions remind us that it is much safer to be outdoors than indoors, the Sunday School class, in discussing the topic “Love Thy Neighbour,” latched onto a creative idea – let’s create an ice sculpture around the theme. With the help of their teacher and parents, they set about freezing blocks of ice in containers - and why not make it pretty? Let’s add food colouring!! They started smaller containers but have graduated to gallon ice cream pails. The original topic has since evolved into “Embracing our Community.” Presently there are two statues hugging, two churches, a shopping mall, a sledding hill, and a wall around it! Stay posted – it could expand and change again!
As they’ve worked at it from week to week, changing their plans and rebuilding as they go, it is becoming quite impressive and turning heads, especially when the sun shines on its jewel-coloured blocks! They have also invited other neighbourhood children, church groups, and anyone interested to join in the fun and add to the development.
Since one good idea always leads to another, perhaps this could inspire more snow/ice sculptures around town. It might even become an annual event similar to the Scarecrow Festival! We certainly have the
perfect elements – snow and deep freeze weather! And even though we know that these great creative efforts will disappear with the return of spring, just think of the great feelings of creativity, accomplishment and companionship – a great way to enjoy our wonderful winters!
Meanwhile, take a minute to walk or drive by and enjoy the creations of our enthusiastic youth and their devoted, hard-working parents, and appreciate their efforts to bring us a “breath of fresh air” in winter!
By Jean Holowaty
