Saturday marked the year's first Sunnyside swim, a week after opening day. (And yes, I still regret missing the season opener, though I was swimming in a lake, which was a pretty dreamy consolation).

It was a hot day and the water was the perfect temperature, and still clear blue (without the slick of sunscreen on the top, that'll come later in the summer). We got there minutes after it opened, so there was still prime deck space, and the water wasn't crowded, not even in the lane swim area.

Things I had forgotten but remembered in an instant:

1. If the fast lane is full, swim along the rope next to the fast lane. It is pretty much like having your own lane.

2. The signs insist you swim the opposite way to every other pool in the universe (clockwise instead of counter clockwise). I feel dizzy after 3 lengths and always wonder if this is how you swim lengths in Australia...

3. Always bring an extra quarter. The day you don't, the locker will eat your quarter and then you'll worry about the car keys going missing the whole time you swim.

4. Sunscreen, and then more sunscreen.  That sun off the water makes for super intense sun.

5. Speaking of sunscreen, it's not just about shoulders. Make sure you put that stuff on your armpits or you're going to have some uncomfortable burnt parts. Ahem...

6. Tinted goggles (See point 4). And while you're at it, don't forget this life changing fog-free trick!

7. Flip-flops. Remember your flip-flops!!!  I don't even want to get into why.

8. And most importantly: End every swim with the big back float in the deep end. Preferably in the very centre. Stare at the sky, then scull your way so you can see the lake over your toes. Revel in the most perfect summer moment.

Aaaaand, not only was Saturday my first Toronto pool dip of the years, it was also my 16-month-old son's first time at Sunnyside! Verdict: Took him a while to remember what this whole swimming thing was all about, but once he was in, he was IN. 

To a summer of Sunnyside dips!