When I was growing up as a Yankee, going to the pool in the summer was a special treat. First of all, it was a thirty minute drive and both of our parents worked. And second, it cost money. Instead, we would set up the garden hose as a sprinkler, or swim in someone's pond, or go down to the creek (pronounced "crick").
Now, living in the hot suburban South, we go to the pool quite often. Does my child understand how lucky she is? (That's another post for another time!) So we keep a pool bag ready to go. Here are Ten Things in Our Pool Bag.
1. Sunscreen, or as Ladybug (3 years old) calls it: Sun-scream. We actually apply sunscreen before we even leave the house, but I like to take extra with me in case we need to re-apply.
2. Towels, of course!
3. A snack. This is helps me get Ladybug out of the pool, because if she had her way, she would be there all day. But I can persuade her to take a break if I have a snack.
4. Water bottle for each of us. Note to self: put ice in them next time so they stay cold!
5. Pool toys. Currently, we have a few floating balls, a boat (I think), and a toy watering can so LB can give us a "shower."
6. LB's flotation device. Not actually in the bag, but it is an essential pool accessory!
7. Pool noodles. Again, not in the bag, but a fun accessory to have.
8. The pool access key! Can't get in without it!
9. There is a can coozie in our bag right now. Left over from a family pool get-together when LB's great-aunt & great-uncle were visiting.
I had to go look in the bag for #10.
10. Sand toys, a rake and two shovels. Just in case we go to the beach instead. (We also have a TON of sand toys in the back of the van.) (Not that my fearless child would actually sit and play in the sand at the beach. She wants to be in the water!)
How often do you get to go swimming in the summer? What essentials do you take to the pool? (I omitted "swimsuits" from our list because they are not usually in the bag, but on our bodies before we leave for the pool!)
Happy Swimming! For more Top Ten lists, don't forget to visit the lovely Oh! Amanda.
I wish we had a pool close by! The only thing I think I might add to the bag is sunglasses - although I'm usually wearing them if I'm out!
ReplyDeleteInstead of putting ice in your water bottles, try this:
ReplyDeleteFill your water bottles 1/3 full and freeze them. Keep your water bottles in the freezer so that you can fill them with cold water when you need them. By the time you're finishing the water, the ice will have thawed but kept your water icy cold the whole afternoon.
Maybe I'll post that on my blog now that I've typed it all out. :)