The Roller Skating Journey: A Family Tradition in Jeopardy
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Chapter 1: A Family's Love for Roller Skating
In our family, roller skating has always been a cherished pastime, with trips to the rink being a regular occurrence. However, we now face a dilemma with one little girl who seems to navigate the skates as if she's walking on uneven stones, and getting her to skate is proving to be a challenge.
My siblings and I spent our childhood roller skating through the streets of Brooklyn, a tradition passed down from our grandparents. Living on 91st Street, we were allowed to skate up and down the block, and after moving to Coney Island, we expanded our skating to the entire neighborhood. Once we relocated to New Jersey, we took advantage of the many roller rinks in the area.
When my children were young, despite their age gap of 14 years, I introduced them to skating right at the rink. They picked it up quickly, and I made it a point to take them skating each week. I continued to skate into my 50s before shifting my focus to ballroom dancing. However, when my first two granddaughters were born, their mother allowed me to take them skating at a nearby rink. They enjoyed it, and soon my son and I were taking them skating every Sunday, just like I used to do with him.
Section 1.1: The New Challenge
Now, we have a new addition to our skating adventures. After she turned four, we introduced her to the rink with her older sisters, but she absolutely loathed it.
"How can this be? We all skate!" we thought. We attempted to keep her at the side, away from the crowd, near tables for support, and even on the carpet, but she was not having it. She even took a complimentary mini-lesson, but there was no improvement.
Not wanting to give up, I asked if she would be willing to try again if she could practice at home. She agreed, so before investing $50 in skates that she would outgrow quickly, I opted for a pair that could clamp onto her shoes. I also purchased knee and elbow pads, padding for her bottom, and a helmet.
The poor girl tried time and again—in the kitchen, in the garage—but she just wasn't getting the hang of it. The next year, we attempted once more, hoping for better coordination, but the situation remained unchanged.
The reality is that if she doesn't learn to skate, then I can't skate either. She has to stay at home with me when her sisters go to the rink with their dad, as bringing her along just to watch seems pointless.
Subsection 1.1.1: Inspiration from Bluey
About a month ago, while I was watching her at my house, she inquired if I still had her skating gear. "Yes, I do!" I replied.
"Can I try skating again?" she asked, surprising me.
"What made you change your mind?" I wondered.
"I saw it on Bluey!" she exclaimed, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for that show!
I dashed to the garage, retrieved her skating equipment, and helped her get suited up in her pink helmet and clamped-on skates, adjusting them as needed. While I can't say she excelled, she did show some improvement. She appeared a bit bolder than the previous year and had better balance, though she still had a long way to go.
I kept my fingers crossed and tried various games with her, offering incentives. We even experimented without all the padding, but progress remained elusive. She skated a few feet before stopping, and I was at a loss for what to do next. The boys had taken to skating right away, and my other granddaughters, although initially awkward, embraced it and persevered until they learned.
My heart aches for this little girl, now six, as I watch her slowly inch across the floor, encased in protective gear. Her skating skills are as questionable as my skiing abilities, which is saying something!
She has expressed interest in taking lessons, so we plan to explore that option next. Florham Park offers skating lessons on Saturday mornings at 9 a.m., and while I’m not overly optimistic, I’m willing to give it a try.
I hate to admit it, but I fear this granddaughter might not continue the family tradition of roller skating. It looks like we may have to stick to bumper cars—something she enjoys—go figure!
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. If you found this interesting, you might also enjoy another piece I've written. To join my mailing list, click here. I welcome your feedback on my stories. Happy reading!
Chapter 2: The First Steps of Skating
In this first video, titled "I'm NOT a Professional Roller Skater!", the presenter shares their personal experiences with roller skating, highlighting the fun and challenges that come with learning the sport.
The second video, "Falling on Roller Skates," captures the humorous yet relatable moments of learning to skate, showcasing the inevitable tumbles and the joy of persistence.