Always thought I'd enjoy playing tennis as well as paddling. Barrier has been a certain amount of shyness at just how bad I'd be (at tennis) and time. I'm taking three months off this summer. This may be the year!
Pam, I like to rollerblade, but I've never learned to stop. It's best if I go on bike paths where there are no cars. If DH is good, let him teach you. I highly recommend getting all of the protective pads you can especially knees and hands/wrists. Take it from Numero Uno Klutzo.
lala, actually figure skating would help you a great deal. I rollerskated as a child and that was almost no help. It's because the wheels are in a line. The best way to stop is a hockey stop, but I could never master that. Did you ever do a hockey stop?