The pool and a grill

Since most people have their grill set up by the pool if they have a pool. I am going to talk about going from day to night from the pool to grill for a full day of fun, food, and family and friends.

First is the pool. As the temperatures rise here in NYC, I could sure use a pool dip right now. “Swimming pools and spas are great places for family fun. It’s important to ensure everyone follows these simple safety steps to stay safer in and around the water.” — PoolSafely.gov

1.    Never leave kids unattended

2.   Reapply sunscreen regularly (and use a waterproof or water-resistant sunscreen)

3.   Keep the area directly around the pool dry, so no one slips

4.   Make sure everyone is not running, staying away from drains, and NOT peeing in the pool

5.    Don’t forget the floaties

Now if you’re like me, you prefer to sit by the pool than swim in it. So, grab a lounge towel and a book and get relaxing. However, a dip in the pool will cool you off or these treats will too.

1.    Sliced watermelon

2.   Fruit sewers

3.   Sliced Fresh Guava with cocoanut flakes (Food &Wine)

4.   And of course, Ice cream, Try scooping vanilla ice cream between two of your favorite cookies, roll in sprinkles and freeze until ready to serve.

5.    And don’t forget the drinks and think beyond lemonade and ice tea. Try 2 oz. grapefruit juice mixed with 6 oz. club soda and 1 oz. raspberry syrup or smashed raspberries for a cool refresher (Julie Meyer, Taste of Home

Now that the sun is setting and pool time is over, it is time to heat the grill for a great meal. According to Weber.com, there are a few tips you should always do— keep the grill clean, preheat it, know whether you want direct or indirect heat, keep the lid down and use a timer. The next important thing is the food. Grills are good for cooking just about anything—meat, veggies, pizza and even making nachos. A favorite in my house growing up was ribs. My father would grill them till they were almost black, and the meat fell off the bone. Delish! My go-to BBQ sauce is a bourbon sauce from the New York Times. It is way better than the one I created on my own as a teenager. This sauce works on meat, chicken, and even salmon.

And if you live in an apartment and don’t have outdoor space. Get an electric grill, inflatable Palm tree, visor, and pretend.