LAS VEGAS — When I was little, I loved to dance. I took lessons year after year and participated in the recital.

So when my toddler turned 3 1/2, I asked her if she wanted to try dance lessons.

She was so excited, especially when we bought the ballet and tap shoes.

Time went by, and I noticed some of the other kids seemed to be a bit more coordinated than mine. I asked one of the mothers how long her daughter had been taking dance lessons.

"Since she was 6 months!" came the answer.

At one point, the instructor was teaching some type of gallop move, and my daughter looked as if she were having a seizure.

Then it was time to learn the dance for the recital.

My daughter got a little better each week, but still seemed a bit distracted. Once, she just rolled her tongue around in her mouth when she was supposed to be dancing.

The teacher informed me that I shouldn't be concerned because my daughter just "loves to dance, absolutely loves it!"

I didn't care so much if she didn't do all the moves, but I wanted to be sure my toddler was having a good time.

I'd ask her if she still liked dance and liked going to the class. Each time she told me yes. So I relaxed a bit and figured if she loves it, we'll go with it.

Next, the costumes were chosen. Let's just say they looked a little too Vegas. I'm thinking showgirl. The costumes came with matching gloves that pulled up to their elbows. My daughter's were too big, so they practically came up to her shoulders.

During a rehearsal, she just played with the gloves the entire time and maybe did a few moves.

Finally, it was the day of the recital. We had been given strict instructions about being on time, making sure the dancers had the proper stage makeup on and that my child was not cranky.

It felt strange slathering red lipstick on my toddler and trying to rub some eye shadow on her. She loved it, but I just can't help thinking, "Is this what my mother went through with me year after year?"

At the recital, my daughter told me she was done playing with her gloves and planned to actually do the dance.

She did, and I have to admit she looked adorable up there.

The recital ended, and we survived. For now, we're taking a break from dance class. My toddler hasn't asked to go back.

I'm not sure if I'm cut out for it.