In the summer of 2021, while the world followed Britney Spears’ journey toward freedom, my family and I were navigating a different kind of drama—surviving the summer with our kids amidst the ongoing pandemic. As life began to return to a new normal, my kids were back at day camp, and our above-ground pool, which I had purchased the previous year to add some fun during lockdown, was making a comeback.
After a chaotic setup last year, which included a 10-foot Summer Waves pool, a blown pump motor, and endless hours wasted on customer service calls, I had hoped this summer would be smoother. Last season, I learned the hard way that keeping a pool clean required more than just a little effort. Thanks to some tips from fellow readers, I became quite adept at pool maintenance, even if my kids had mostly lost interest in swimming and preferred the public pool when they could.
This year, I set up the pool like a pro, using towels to level it out and ensuring everything was ready for the kids. They were excited, and the inaugural birthday party for my twins was a hit. But, of course, nature had other plans. A storm hit the night of the party, and the next morning, I discovered the innertube had deflated and water had spilled all over the yard. I inflated it again, only for it to collapse once more shortly after.
In my quest to find the source of the problem, I used the soapy water method to detect leaks but found nothing. Frustrated, I turned to YouTube for answers, where I discovered that many others were facing similar challenges with their pools. Some suggested using pool noodles as a solution to keep the sides up. So, armed with some pool noodles, waterproof tape, and garden stakes, I got to work.
I cut slits in the innertube and stuffed the noodles inside, hoping for a miracle. The task was slippery, and I almost fell into the pool in the process. After a good hour of work, the pool stood tall again, but additional issues arose with the seams. I was determined to make it work, even if it meant more improvisation.
So far, my workaround has been successful, but I know that luck has played a significant role. As the summer goes on, I’m just hoping the pool can hold out until the end of the season; if it does, I might just buy a lottery ticket.
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