GUEST POST

This year my daughter (soon to be a 4th grader) brought home a piece of paper on the last day of school that has changed how we are approaching this summer. A classmate’s family compiles a Summer Bucket List every year and attempts to complete as many of the items on it as possible. After I saw it, I remembered the mom telling me how this was a tradition in their home and me thinking it was a great idea. But in the bustle of the end of the year, it was quickly forgotten – until a few days ago when I found the typed list in my daughter’s backpack. My kids were so excited to try some of the items on the list and add some of our own!

One of the items on the list that excited my kids the most was to “Swim with Glow Sticks.” A trip to Target and we found a huge pack of Glow Sticks for about $5 in the Toy Section of the store. We splurged and got one for each girl. As the sun began to set we cracked open the packs. The girls got busy using the provided connectors and making “stars” in different color combinations.

Then, magic! The sun set further and they tossed the stars into the deeper part of the pool and enjoyed watching them sink and move in the water. “I wish we had an underwater camera,” said my oldest after coming up for a breath and telling me how it was beautiful watching their creations dance in the currents under the surface. It was just as beautiful from the top of the pool too, but one of those moments a camera just can’t capture. perfectly So grab those glow sticks and hope into the pool with the kiddos for a simple twist on the usual.

Editors Note: We do not know if glow sticks are suitable for pool use – be sure to remove from pool directly after use so your pool’s cleaning system or chemical makeup is not effected. Enjoy!

Guest Author Deb Smith is the owner of OutLoud Marketing Studio and has lived in the Valley since 2003. She and her husband and two girls enjoy art, trying new foods, swimming, gymnastics, concerts and travel. You can find her on Instagram at @wordsmithgirl or on the web at outloudmarketingstudio.com.