First year for our rink this year; went 30' x 40' in the backyard. We did some renovations this year on the house, so I had the contractor dump the dirt from the excavation in the back and had him level it. Only about a 3" pitch from the east to west sides.

I filled on January 2 when it was 19 degrees. Had some ice that week, but nothing enough to skate on. Weather in the 40's last week had people asking how my back yard puddle was doing.

Cold weather finally came late last week and Saturday. It was 16 degrees yesterday, and we were able to get out. 2 adults and a 4 year old had it cracking down the middle, but was perfect for just my son. It was so cold, the crack re-froze in minutes.

Unfortunately, it will be getting warm this week (again).

I think this picture is great - sun going down, wearing your favorite hockey sweater in the back yard.

Best of luck to everyone!

Awesome Dale, congrats on the first rink!