We’re having a beautiful, sunny, and very hot summer. What could be better than enjoying the pool in our backyard? Hours and hours of fun! I remember, when I was younger, spending my days swimming, jumping, and playing in the water—alone or with friends and family. I also remember that back then, the water temperature didn’t really bother me, but as I’ve gotten older, it seems like the water just keeps getting colder!
Because of this, my daughter always wants to go swimming, and of course, I can’t leave her alone in the pool, so I muster up my courage and start the whole preparation routine. Those days when all I had to do was put on my swimsuit and jump in the water are long gone. Now, everything has to be planned. When the baby is asleep is usually my chance. That way, I have more freedom with my older daughter. I have to get myself and her changed, get out the towels, spare diapers for when we get out of the pool, sunscreen, water, and snacks to stay refreshed, the baby monitor or the seat where she sleeps, pool toys, the floatation belt—and finally, we’re ready. This routine can take 15 or 30 minutes—it depends on the day.
My struggles with being alone are just beginning. When the baby won’t sleep, I have to come up with toys to keep him occupied, because neither of us knows how to swim in the pool… in short, I don’t feel comfortable with this situation. I have to get out to give the crying baby his pacifier—AHHHHHH!!!!!—obviously, getting out of the pool is out of the question, so I make up new games where we have to jump or fetch some random object on the ground before getting back in the pool (TIP) to buy those 30 seconds to comfort the baby before having to go back in the water.
TIPS: Always keep one or more bags with everything ready to go. As soon as everything is washed, I pack the towels, swimsuits, sunscreen, and all the other stuff together. It saves time! I do the same for pool games: 1 or 2 trips instead of 10 with my hands full and the kids in tow. I often invite people over to swim at my place or just hang out on the patio. That way, I have someone to watch the baby while I swim (the grandparents and great-grandparents love it).
Sometimes I wonder if all the preparation and time it takes are worth it, since we might only be in the pool for 10 minutes. Well, we’re all refreshed, so yes, it’s worth it—but most importantly, I do it for myself and my kids. We have a great time, and seeing them smile is my greatest reward.