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A West Coast mom and an East Coast dad throw caution to the wind and become middle age novice skiers.

One of the best things about having kids is that when they're younger, they make their parents show off skills in all the sports that the kids are trying to learn... even if those skills date back to the days of rotary phones. Scootering at 35? Rollerblading at 42? How 'bout freestyle skiing when you're 55! Two survival stories follow.

Day 1 on Skis for a West Coast Novice

Living out west and thinking about trying snowsports? If you're looking to test out the slopes for the day, I highly recommend taking a first lesson at Mt. Rose (800/SKI-ROSE). Mt. Rose is the closest ski resort to Reno in the Lake Tahoe area, and in addition to its exciting options for advanced skiers, it has a comprehensive beginners' program.

Lessons especially designed for First Timers are offered daily, with a package including lift access, "beginner-specific" rental equipment, and instruction. There are also Rookie lessons for those who may have skied once or twice before, a long time ago.

Children ages 4-10 have their own Rosebuds Ski and Snowboard Camp, divided into class levels based on experience, or the option for private lessons. A visit to the Mt. Rose web site reveals just how seriously they take beginners-First Timers have their own section on the site, with information and tips on lessons, mountain safety, and dressing for the snow.

I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical when I started my lesson at Mt. Rose. It was, after all, blizzarding, and I was quickly turning into That Woman! in terms of obnoxious cluelessness (wearing moisture-absorbent gloves and a too-big hat that kept falling in front of my eyes, scrounging around desperately for a pair of goggles to borrow).

Once our group was geared up and outside, however, our instructor Jeff explained the basics to the adults with patience and enthusiasm. I learned how to put on skis, "loosen up" into the stance, push with the poles, walk up a hill, stop, turn, ride the lift, and make it down the bunny slope without falling (too much). In a blizzard!

I was so impressed with the lesson and its resulting adrenaline rush, I might even go skiing again someday!