Summer Time Fun

This past summer was far different for many of us than anything we’ve ever experienced or even imagined. The whole world has turned into something out of a history book and sci-fi apocalyptic movie combined.

Several people I know did their best to get through the uncertainties by keeping their routines as normal as possible, or they tried to distract themselves (and their families) by breaking up the monotony however they could.

Over the past few years, a friend and I have gotten season passes to a local water park. We made a weekly excursion there with the kids. We’d start the day with veggie smoothies to hydrate us, get to the park, grab a locker, and douse everyone in sunscreen. Then we’d enjoy a few hours of the lazy river, wave pool, and all of the slides.

This year, things were far different. We were able to obtain our season passes at a discount. There were new rules put into place due to the pandemic. Local residents seemed to be divided on feeling safe going to the parks or not. They were limited to only allowing half capacity. Masks must be worn (except in the water) and temperatures are taken upon entry.

We decided to give it a try. There was hardly anyone there. We’ve gone a few times; each time there were less attendees than the previous visit. I am currently only able to relax in the lazy river or float on a tube in the wave pool, as the slides would be too much on me due to some injuries. I made the best of it and concentrated on enjoying the lazy river and the company.

I did get to enjoy ice cream and frozen bananas covered in white chocolate and coconut flakes, which as ah-mazing. The kids came over almost every week for sleepovers filled with movies, treats, games, and building forts. I finally watched Frozen 2, and loved it!

My oldest son got married so I got to welcome a new daughter-in-love into my world. (He dropped the ring, y’all! It was funny, even though the young man turned bright red.) In addition, he made a career change from the Army National Guard and a Nevada state Corrections Officer to being an active duty U.S. Navy Petty Officer. I’m incredibly proud of him and wish him happiness and success in his new ventures.

My younger son was laid off when the pandemic lockdowns started in Vegas, then was re-hired a couple of months later. He’s been working and maintaining his typical schedule as much as possible. (And enjoying his cats.)

I also got to spend some time with family from out of state, including the babies. (They make my heart happy.) Watching a four-year-old direct us on how to use “hanitizer” was the best. And the one-year-old loves music and dancing, especially “Baby Shark.” The little bursts of family and friends helped me get through all of the uncertainties of the current times.

Even though things are different, we’ve done our best to continue with life as normal as possible. I would have loved to use this summer to travel to a beach or get my scuba certification, but I will take the moments I was able to have and make the best of that.

Did you get to do anything “normal” or fun this summer? What was your fondest memory? How was your summer life?