Would you jump in the lake?

Shiver Elk River 2013

Yes, we crazy Minnesotans have to find great ways to enjoy the seasons. Shiver and plunge events are becoming ever popular around the state.

Elk River celebrated this year's event in high fashion. Starting at 8am pulling the ice blocks out of the lake and securing the area for families and onlookers. Perhaps next year I'll head down to the lake early and write about how they get the crazy blocks out of the frozen tundra of ice.

In the meantime we celebrate this year's successful event!

There were 50(or so) brave runners out taking part in this year's first 3 ever Elk River 5k event. We watched a young 9 year old come in early on. He overtook some seasoned runners and finished in the top ten!

The chili cook-off under the big top smelled wonderfully and attracted many. Yummy.

Ice bowling and Ice golf looked like great fun! The wee little ones (and not so little ones) were enjoying the games together.

There was a hockey tournament going, but I can't say that I saw any of it. That was in a different location. Perhaps next year and the boys and I will head down to see that action.

The highlight for many though... is the plunge itself. The reason for folks jumping in the cold abyss? I am not really sure, but each seems to have a strong desire to do so.

There are the tentative jumpers and the brave souls that belly flop into the water. There are giggles and grimaces. And there are those brave souls that are in the water the entire time waiting to help the crazy jumpers out.

We saw jumpers as little as 8 or 10 and quiet aged on the other end as well. I have to give them credit... I would much rather be on the side of the camera!

And, for those of you in the southern states that are cringing at the photos... know that these brave souls DO get to warm up in the hot tub before heading off to the dressing rooms to change.

Now that we've had a little play, a giant snowstorm and a weekend off... it's time to get back to work.