Tidal wave on the lazy river – a memorable summer outing



Rolling Hills Water Park-Ypsilanti, MI. Photo courtesy of Washtenaw County website.

On a hot summer day, drifting down the lazy river at a water park can be relaxing. You grab an inner tube, glide onto it and just relax. At least that’s how it starts out.

In the July issue of Metro Parent you can share your summer story for a chance to win prizes. The essay contest is open to moms, dads, kids, grandparents, all are welcome. Check out essays from their readers at www.MetroParent.com/MySummerStory.

One of my favorite summer memories was a visit to the water park with my kids. The plan was to enjoy my favorite part of the park…the lazy river. I prepared to get into the single inner tube, until my son came up and said, “Let’s get in the double one together.”

I slid onto the tube only to bounce into the air when my son jumped onto the opposite end of the tube. It was rocky waters from then on. People around us gently kicked their feet in the sun warmed water, as their legs hung over the side of their inner tubes.

When my feet touched the water, it was more like a fight for survival. My son was making waves with his hands and kicking his feet to propel us forward at a faster speed. He got us closer and closer to the swaying buckets that dump water over the heads of people underneath. Woosh.

It was blazing hot outside, so the rush of water felt good. My son had a big grin plastered on his face as he said, “Let’s go again.” Of course we didn’t get out of the water after one lap. With my son in the water, the lazy river was no longer lazy.

We went around the makeshift river, two, maybe three more times… bouncing, swaying, but never just drifting. I think my son missed the sign that indicated, “Lazy River.” I should have asked the lifeguards if they had an inner tube labeled, “active kid on board.”

What is one of your memorable summer experiences? Tell about your experience at MetroParent.com for a chance to win prizes.

Metro Parent Magazine July 2012.

NOTE: I don't receive any compensation for mentioning this contest. I just happen to be a fan of the Metro Parent Magazine.