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The Girl wanted to ice skate in theory, but not in practice

Today I had a very humbling experience.

I know I'm not a good ice skater. I mean, I can get around on the ice, but I'm not graceful or elegant. But we live two minutes away from an ice arena, and I have coupons that were going to expire next month, so we decided it was a good time to go.

My hubby's parents, who live nearby, wanted to see the kids. So we invited them along.

I figured they'd sit on the sidelines and watch as the kids and I played. (I wasn't sure what my hubby would do; he has gotten out on the ice before, but like me, there's not much talent there.)

Instead, my father-in-law put on skates as soon as we got there, and immediately showed his stuff. That guy can skate! Now, he's in his mid-60s. And he claims that he hasn't skated in something like 45 years.

Well, it must be like riding a bicycle: you don't forget how once you learn. He was turning, going backwards, skating fast, and pretty much showing off (not deliberately, of course). I was impressed!

The Boy had a blast, too. We chased each other all over the ice for two hours.

I guess I shouldn't have been that surprised: we've taken Papa (The Boy's grandfather) skiing and bike riding before. I knew he is often game for my goofy athletic pursuits with the kids - but I didn't know he'd be schooling me in how it's done!

In other news, I thought my baby girl would want to ice skate. After all, some Barbie doll skates, and I know she's talked about wanting to go. She was totally excited right up until we got to the ice area.

Well, we got one skate on her foot and the tears started to fall. Nothing I said or did would convince her to put the other skate on and come out on the ice - not even the promise of holding her in my arms the entire time.

She watched from the side and smiled each time Papa, The Boy, and I skated by.

I find it so fascinating to see what characteristics my husband and I have imparted to our children, and what ones we haven't. The Boy is willing to try anything and is rarely worried about his personal safety; The Girl doesn't have an adventurous bone in her body. John and I marvel at her and wonder where her conservatism came from.

And then I just think, well, if I can't have both my kids join me, I can be the middle of three generations of a family, all enjoying the same physical activity. Somebody's got to be the cameraman, after all!