Ahhhh pool parties and beach days… who doesn’t love this hot weather we’re having? Such lovely clear days, warm sun and fantastic surroundings make me feel lucky to live in such a great place like Victoria. Endless beaches and pools to be found along with my friends and family make happy memories.
I’ve rounded up some of my favourite pool (or beach side) necessities that I can’t live without for the long weekend and the Summer ahead.
Trendy Pool Floaties!
Get on it and float your cares away with a trendy pool floatie. From emoji’s to food and everything in between there’s a fun and fancy floatie for everyone’s taste. My personal fave is the unicorn.
Find them at Mastermind Toys, Winners, and Ardene.
Don’t forget the towels!
There’s something about a sun warmed towel that is so inviting don’t you think? I recently purchased a couple of new beach towels and I take them everywhere, on my deck, to the park, to the beach. I love to collect different patterns and styles and sizes, it’s almost as addicting as buying shoes! Quilt’s Etc is selling some cute ones right now.
Sunscreen!
Sun protection is so important these days – don’t forget to load up before heading out. I’ve just discovered the Live Clean mineral sunscreen, I have sensitive skin and am always looking for something new and not full of harsh chemicals. This one is great, give it a try. Shoppers Drug Mart has you covered (literally) with mineral options, luxurious brand names, and sports options.
Watermelon Slush Drink
No pool party is complete without a fancy drink in a fancy cup! Watermelon is one of my favourite fruits and I get the biggest one I can find so that I can make smoothies, slushies, salads and desserts!
Here’s one of my fave recipes (found on foodnetwork.com) to get you started on a poolside drink.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed watermelon
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large bunch basil, stems and leaves roughly chopped (about 2 cups), plus 4 whole leaves for garnish
- Juice of 3 lemons (about 1/2 cup)
Directions
Place the watermelon in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, and freeze until completely frozen, like ice cubes, about 2 hours.
Meanwhile, cook the sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely melted, about 5 minutes. Turn off the heat, add the chopped basil and stir until wilted. Cool completely at room temperature, at least 1 hour.
When the watermelon is completely frozen, put half in a blender. Strain the basil syrup into the blender and discard the basil. Add the lemon juice, and blend until the mixture is mostly smooth, add the remaining watermelon, and continue to blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
Spoon the mixture into 4 fancy glasses of your choice and enjoy!
Everything you need for this delish lemonade can be found at Fairway Market, oh and don’t forget a bright new glass from Homesense!
Happy sunning!
~Carlene