For die-hard skaters like 13-year-old Rian Dahle ice is the crown jewel of winter. On those perfect mornings when it gleams in the sun like a polished mirror, Rian is often so eager to play hockey that he'll grab his gear and be out the door well before breakfast. Fortunately, he doesn't have to travel far to the rink. That's because for the last three years the Dahles have built their own in the middle of their suburban Connecticut front yard. Measuring 36 by 70 feet and laid right over the dormant lawn, it's a dream come true for Rian and his hockey-playing buddies and a bustling winter gathering spot for the Dahles neighbors and ice-skating friends.

To be sure, building a rink like the Dahles' requires a considerable chunk of money and a day or so to set it up in December, another to take it down in the spring. It also requires a level site and, of course, a cooperative climate. But thanks to the Dahles' practical design--a modular system of predrilled steel stakes, boards and a plastic liner--what it doesn't require is a lot of construction know-how.

Sam Mead is a frequent contributor to FamilyFun and an avid hockey player.