Swimming with Sharks

Our "high quality" plastic pool from last summer was shot (mainly because in the move we lost the cap that holds the water in), and Andrew had starting to notice other kids in the neighborhood frolicking in their way cool pools in their yards. So, we hauled ourselves to Target to find the ultimate backyard water experience. Andrew wasn't into any of the regular round or rectangular models that were available. Kent had even suggested buying one of the larger, more expensive pools this year so the whole family could hang out and swim together. That wasn't going to happen once Andrew saw the shark. For the unbelievable price of only $14.99, we would have our very own plastic, shark-shaped pool. The box made the shark pool look and sound quite impressive. Wow! Over eight feet long! Look at those three, fairly large kids frolicking in the pool and sitting in chest deep water in the picture on the box! So this is going to be a pretty decent sized pool, we think. At least, pretty decent for $14.99 (plus the price of a new pump to blow it up since out old one "disappeared" in the move). But wait, there's more! Not only is the shark pool economical and roomy, but let's not forget the incredible water feature included at no additional charge. That's right, believe it or not, the shark will actually blow water out of the top of its head when you hook it up to the sprinkler. Now how much would you pay? Okay, shark pool it is! Sweet. Can't wait to get this bad boy home and blow it up.

Those advertisers should make lots of money for the amazing job they do. As you can see the shark pool didn't end up being all that I dreamed it might be. It was cute, but tiny! The "over eight feet long" must be from the tippity tip of the shark's nose to the very last centimeter of his tail. It's 1 1/2 feet deep, if we're lucky. Once it was blown up, Kent and I debated deflating it trading it up for something bigger and more fabulous. Andrew would hear none of it. He was already in love with the shark pool and would have none other for his summer fun. We reasoned that the main purpose of the pool is for Andrew's enjoyment, so if he loves it, so be it. He couldn't even stand to wait for the water to warm up after we filled it up and stayed out playing with the shark for at least an hour, emptying all the contents of the pool onto the grass in an old Easter bucket several times, and sliding into the water using his "baby slide." I have paid more than $14.99 to keep my child happy and entertained on occasion, and the shark pool can be used over and over again. Maybe not such a ripoff after all.