I only buy beer for the non-swimmers.

The third thing that I do is clean the pool. Pool parties are not really very fun in a dirty pool. I usually clean my pool myself, but if I have any trouble with it at all, I call a pool service.

I have a changing room for pool parties that I stock with towels, a few extra suits and sunscreen. It feels like no one remembers to bring sunscreen, so I started stocking up. The fourth thing I do to get ready is double check that the changing room is stocked and clean.

Pool parties don't occur entirely in the pool, so I make sure to set up enough patio chairs and tables around the pool area to accommodate everyone that I've invited. I didn't do this at one of my very first pool parties and I was very embarrassed when people were standing around with no where to sit. That is why setting out the chairs is my fifth thing to do.

I have purchased several large tables for my pool parties. They fold up and store easily in my garage. When I'm working on an upcoming pool party, I pull the tables out of the garage and clean them. The sixth thing that I do to get ready for pool parties is to set up those tables. I use one for food and the other for drinks.

The seventh thing that I do when I am getting ready for pool parties is to arrange plates, cups, napkins and utensils on the serving tables.

I like to have good music playing at my pool parties. The eighth thing that I do to get ready for pool parties is to set up my stereo and speaker system near the pool. I like to use surf music for some background music.

I like to be creative when I'm decorating for pool parties. One party this year, I arranged sand and seashells in an old children's pool around the pool area to give the look of a seaside escape.

My pool parties usually last into the evening, so I light the pool area with candles in lanterns and Christmas lights strung from my tree limbs. Once the party has broken up and most of the guests are gone, I like to use floating candles in the pool while I relax and reflect.

I have also created a set of games for use at pool parties. I have searched online for games to play in the pool and have made instruction cards for each of them. I've had the instructions laminated and before pool parties, I set the games manual beside the pool for kids and adults to peruse.


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