Beach ‘n Pool Gear

Ray Ban Sunglasses was founded in 1937 when airline pilots were reporting that they were distracted while flying because of the intense glare from the sky. They also had a problem with their goggles fogging up from the high altitude.

In 1929, Bausch & Lomb got together with The US Army Air Corps to develop a lens that would help with this problem. Several years later, in 1936, a plastic frame with green lenses was created that would reduce the glare without diminishing vision. One year later they were redesigned with a metal frame and called the Ray Ban Aviator.

Hollywood had a huge impact on what people wore during WWII, and still does. The Ray Ban Wayfarer was born in 1952 and became one of the hottest most recognizable fashion accessories worn.

Ray Ban Sunglasses became the Hollywood Glam and the world’s leading eye wear for quality and style. Over the years, many famous people have been noticed wearing their Ray Ban Sunglasses but don’t want to be seen:

• 1950s – James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause
• 1960’s – Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s
• 1980s – The Blues Brothers, Risky Business, Top Gun
• 1984 – Michael Jackson at The Grammy s
• 1992 – Denzel Washington in Malcolm X
• 2000s – music icons The Virgins, The Big Pink, We Are Scientists, Iggy Pop
• 2011 – Johnny Marr, legendary guitarist for The Smiths

Ray Ban New Wayfarer

Ray Ban RB2132 New Wayfarer

4.2 out of 5 stars 327 customer reviews 

• Black Rubber Frame
• Crystal green lens
• Non-Polarized
• 100% UV protection coating

 

Ray Ban Clubmaster

RB3016 Clubmaster Sunglasses 

 5.0 out of 5 stars 1 customer review 

• plastic
• metal frame
• iridium
• anti-reflective lens

 

Ray Ban Justin

Ray-Ban Justin Men’s 0RB4165

4.3 out of 5 stars 110 customer reviews 

• Plastic frame
• Plastic lens
• Polarized
• 100% UV protection coating

Ray-Ban Erika

Ray-Ban ERIKA – BLACK Frame POLAR PURPLE

4.1 out of 5 stars 39 customer reviews 

• 100% Nylon
• Plastic frame
• Plastic lens
• Polarized Purple Lenses
• 100% UV protection coating

 

Beach time is fun for the whole family and something we look forward to. We pack food and towels and gather the necessary items to have a fun-filled day in the sun. As much fun as we can have, we also need to be aware of beach safety and kids to respect the ocean. It can be dangerous.

Sunburn Prevention Tips

Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before swimming and reapply every 2 hours and immediately after swimming. Wear a Broad Spectrum sunscreen that has a minimum SPF 30. For extra protection, wear a hat, shirt, and sunglasses.

To get the best Sunburn Prevention Tips and Consumer Reports tested sunscreens, visit  in this site. You can click on the Title and it will take you directly to the site.

Beach Flag Warnings

The International Lifesaving Federation along with The United Stated Lifesaving Association developed a flag warning system to let all beachgoers know of potentially hazardous conditions in the water. Always be aware of the Safety Signs at the beach before entering the water. This will allow you to know if there are any dangers on that particular day like jellyfish or dangerous currents.

• Green Flags-Safe to Swim
• Blue and Purple Flags – potentially dangerous marine animals have been spotted in the area (jellyfish, sharks, or others)
• Yellow Flags – potentially dangerous currents, riptides, and undertows
• Red Flags – serious of all flag warnings
  • One Red Flag – dangerous currents, riptides, and undertows and the surf is high
  • Two Red Flags – conditions are too dangerous to swim and the area is closed to swimming

Never Swim Alone

Always swim with a family member or friend to avoid trouble and to keep an eye out for each other. If something were to occur while swimming, raise your arm in the air and wave it side to side so the lifeguard can see you need attention. Stay calm and save your energy by floating on your back.

Where are Jellyfish?

Jelly fish are very common on beaches and they can still sting when they are dead. Jellyfish can visibly be seen lurking close to the surface of the water but can also be deeper in the water where we cannot see them. When they die, they can be found on the shore line. Be on the lookout for jellyfish when you are swimming and walking along the shore.

 Fun facts Jellyfish

• Jellyfish are the only organism on Earth to survive without a brain
• Jellyfish are made of 90% water
• Most of their body is a gelatinous material called mesoglea
• Jellyfish do not have a respiratory system, a central nervous system, or brain
• Jellyfish move forward by squirting water from their mouth
• Jellyfish tentacles are filled with toxins and sting
• The most deadliest animal in The Animal Kingdom is the box jellyfish
• Nonpoisonous jellyfish are considered a delicacy
• Jellyfish can live for 30 years

How to treat a Jellyfish Sting

The American Heart Association recommends the following to Treat a Jellyfish Sting:

1. Remove the Person From the Water
2. Rinse the area with seawater and remove tentacles using anything plastic like a credit card.
3. To deactivate the stinging, rinse the affected area with vinegar for 30 seconds. A mixture of baking soda and water can be used if vinegar is not available.
4. Soak the area in hot water or a hot shower for at least 20 minutes 104 to 113°F(40 to 45°C ) . If hot water is not available, cold packs can be used instead.

Avoid a Shark Attack

Shark bites are not common but they do occur. Leave the shiny jewelry at home! Sharks are attracted to reflective objects and with the bright sun, jewelry is no good. Stay away from the ocean during twilight hours and never swim if you are bleeding. Also, don’t swim near anyone fishing or if the water is murky.

Ocean Swimming Safety

Swimming in the ocean is completely different from swimming in a pool or a lake. The ocean has tides and drop offs and the strongest swimmers can be overwhelmed by a current or tide.

Never swim alone and stay away from swimming by a pier or rocks because they make the currents stronger around them. Be aware of the potential dangers that day in the water.

Never Bury Anyone in the Sand

Burying someone in the sand seems like an innocent thing to do but did you know that sand weighs over 100 pounds per cubic foot? That means a grown adult man wouldn’t be able to stand up if he were buried six inches with sand.

Rip Current Facts

Rip Currents are extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening! Rip currents pose the most serious danger at the beach. These strong underwater currents take the lives of over 100 people a year and are 80% of beach rescues.
Be very aware of Rip Current Warning Signs!

The two most important things to look out for with Rip Currents is:

• Rip Currents occur where the water looks most calm
• If you get stuck in a Rip Current, DO NOT SWIM AGAINST IT!

Rip Currents usually occur in low spots in sandbars, near structures like jetties, piers, or rocks, and form in any large open water area. You can spot a Rip Current by looking for an area where the water looks deeper and darker, it has fewer waves than other areas, and sometimes the water looks sandy colored.

If you happen to get caught in a Rip Current:

• STAY CALM, don’t fight the current
• Swim parallel to the shore towards the breaking waves from one side to the other or across it until you are out of the current
• Rip Currents can form a circle and return you to shore
• When out of the Rip Current, Swim toward the shore
• If you feel you cannot make it to shore, wave and call for help, draw attention to yourself, float and tread water until you are free from the current
• have someone throw a life jacket to you or anything that floats, a cooler, inflatable raft, inflatable ball, etc

Rip Current Diagram

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is an illness caused from the heat after you’ve been exposed to high temperatures. It is usually accompanied by dehydration. It is something to be taken seriously because if you don’t resolve heat exhaustion it can turn into heat stroke which can be fatal.

Symptoms Heat Exhaustion

• heavy sweating
• dizzy, faint, weak, or tired
• headache
• light-headed
• rapid breathing or feel like your heart is beating faster than normal
• muscle cramps
• nausea or vomiting

Heat Exhaustion Treatments

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Remove any tight clothing
• Take a cool shower or bath
• Apply ice towels or other cooling measures such as air conditioning

Physical activity and the sun can cause heat exhaustion and it is fairly common for beach goers. If you find yourself with these symptoms. Seek emergency medical assistance immediately. If no relief occurs in 15 minutes get help immediately to prevent heat stroke. This is a medical emergency!

Beach Safety and Kids is very important to discuss with kids of all ages, not just the young ones. Adults should read this as well and learn about the various dangers that are at the beach. It is best to learn and be aware of what can happen to prevent and avoid it from hampering your day. We all want to enjoy our fun day at the beach!

Stearns Puddle Jumper Deluxe Child Life Jacket

4.7 out of 5 stars  3,122 customer reviews 

• Life jacket approved by US Coast Guard Type V/III for kids
• Soft woven premium polyester for comfort
• Adjustable buckle in back offers a secure fit
• For children weighing 30 to 50 pounds
• Aid for beginners learning to swim

Pure Sun Defense Disney Frozen SPF 50

4.2 out of 5 stars  5 customer reviews 

• Consumer Reports Tested
• UVA and UVB Protection
• Water Resistant for Up to 80 Minutes
• Hypoallergenic and Fragrance Free, great for Sensitive Skin
• Pediatrician and Dermatologist Tested

 Polarspex Kids Children Boys and Girls Polarized Sunglasses

4.5 out of 5 stars  483 customer reviews 

• 100% UV Protection TAC Polarized Anti-Glare Kids Sunglasses
• Lead Free Durable Plastic Frame
• Plastic Hinges to Protect Children from Scratches
• Plastic lens
• Available in Many Colors

We all look forward to bringing our favorite four-legged buddy to the beach. What a great way to spend a summer day and enjoy some special time with our pooch. But dogs and the beach can be dangerous without special preparation.

Taking special precautions for your furry friend is a must to protect them from hazards that can occur at the beach. A great way to think about this is anything that can harm you, can harm your pet: sunburn, dehydration, rip tides, sharp objects, hot sand, and jellyfish.

Survival Tips and Precautions for your Dog

Why Can’t Dogs Drink Salt Water?

Pooches get very thirsty at the beach. They are out in the sun playing Frisbee, fetching a ball, and running around with their ears flapping in the sea breeze. They get thirsty and the ocean is one giant water bowl to them.

Saltwater can make a dog very sick and be life-threatening. It is full of salt which causes dehydration. Too much saltwater causes gastric upset, hence diarrhea. If your buddy laps up too much salt, it can cause salt toxicity which is very dangerous.

Bring a large bowl and provide plenty of fresh water all day! Make sure the water is out of the sun so it doesn’t get too hot.

Can Dogs Get a Sunburn?

Just like us, dogs can get a sunburn too, especially those with lighter fur. Purchase a pet-friendly sunscreen and apply it to your pet’s nose, ear tips, inner legs, abdomen, and anywhere else that will receive direct sun.

Pet-friendly sunscreens are non-oily and contain products safe for dogs. They should not use any sunscreen that contains zinc or a fragrance. Zinc is toxic if ingested.

 Can Dogs Get Heat Stroke?

Surprisingly, heat stroke is one of the most common and dangerous threats to dogs at the beach. A dog can have heat stroke in as little as 15 minutes and is life-threatening. Keep a keen eye on your dog and offer lots of water and provide shade and a towel or blanket to lay on.

Symptoms Heat Exhaustion Dogs

• Excessive drooling and panting
• Dry gums and nose
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Vomit and/or diarrhea
• Loss of Coordination
• Falling Over, Off-balance, Collapse
• Unconscious

The average adult dog’s body water is 60% of his or her total body weight. A small loss of 5% will produce visible dehydration symptoms. If a dog loses 12-15% of its body water, it will go into shock and possible death.

If your pooch experiences any of these symptoms it is important to get them out of the heat immediately and get veterinarian attention.

Can All Dogs Swim?

Most dogs can swim but there are those that have not mastered the talent. If a dog seems timid or scared to get in the water, chances are they may not be a good swimmer.

Monitor your dog closely if they swim in the water. Beaches have strong currents and rip tides that can pull a dog underwater. Dog’s can suffer what is known as dry drowning several hours to days later if they get too much water in their lungs.

For anyone taking their canine on a boat, a life jacket is highly recommended for pooch safety!

Red Tide Side Effects

Now and then there is a Red Tide Warning. This tide carries in blue-green algae that can harm your pet. Contact with these algae causes skin irritation and if ingested, it can cause digestive issues, liver failure, and possible death. Keep Fido home when these Red Tide Warnings happen.

Paw Protection Dogs

The area you choose to park for the day should be carefully examined for items that can hurt your pet’s paws. People leave all kinds of items lying around: glass bottles, sharp objects, seashells, hot sand, beer caps, rocks, etc. Rinse your dogs feet and inspect them after your day at the beach.

First Aid Kit

A First Aid Kit is essential for your pet as well as yourself in case of accidental cuts or jellyfish stings. Be sure the kit has peroxide, ammonia, cotton balls, and bandages.

Plan for your dog and beach day and have the well-deserved fun day both of you deserve!

Meet Max and Neo

Max and Neo Dog Gear is owned and operated by Kenric Hwang and named after Max (left) and Neo (right). Kenric is the proud owner of Neo and Kenric’s brother owns Max. After Neo passed away, Kenric was unable to get another dog because of all the traveling he was doing so he decided to foster dogs from a local shelter.  From this, he realized how expensive and time consuming it is to run a dog rescue and wanted to help.

Kenric donated money and items to the shelter every month but felt it wasn’t enough. He decided to find a way to help this issue that would provide products to the rescue each month. A way that the donor and the rescue would benefit. This is how Max and Neo was born!

When you purchase a Max and Neo product, you get a high quality product for a great price AND you help dog rescues.

For every product purchased the exact same product is donated to a dog rescue shelter.

They now donate to over 1000 dog rescues across the US.

Max and Neo™ Double Handle Traffic Dog Leash Reflective

“We Donate a Leash to a Dog Rescue for Every Leash Sold”

• Tough, Heavy Duty, Durable, Comfortable and Affordable
• 1″ wide and made of 2mm thick but soft heavy duty nylon webbing designed to handle the largest dog breeds
• LIFETIME WARRANTY EVEN IF CHEWED BY YOUR DOG

Max and Neo™ Waterproof Dog Blanket

“We Donate a Blanket to a Dog Rescue for Every Blanket Sold”

4.5 out of 5 stars 33 customer reviews

• Small (28″x48″) and Large (50’x58″) sizes
• One side soft & thick with 350 gsm fleece
• Other side is 100% waterproof, no need to worry if there is an accident

Max and Neo Glacier Reflective Neoprene Metal Buckle Dog Collar 

“We Donate a Collar to a Dog Rescue for Every Collar Sold”

• Small – Neck Size 10″-14″ / Medium – Neck Size 14″-18″ / Large – Neck Size 18″-22″
• 1″ wide (3/4″ small size) and made 2mm thick nylon
• heavy duty buckle with metal eyelets in each hole for reinforcement

Max and Neo Heavyweight Non-Skid Rubber Bottom Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

“We Donate a Dog Bowl to a Dog Rescue for Every Dog Bowl Sold” 

• 32 oz bowl – 9 oz – 64 oz bowl – 16 oz – 96 oz bowl – 1.2 lbs.
• High quality thick stainless steel thicker and heavier than other bowls
• A full rubber bottom to make it tough for dogs to flip over

Max and Neo Paw and Nose Balm with Calendula

“We Donate One For One To Dog Rescues For Every Product Sold”

• Protects the Paws
• Relieves and Soothes Cracked Noses and Dry Paws
• INGREDIENTS: Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, Calendula Oil, Vitamin E

Max and Neo Organic Dog Shampoo

“We Donate a Bottle to a Dog Rescue for Every Bottle Sold”

• 100% NATURAL AND VET RECOMMENDED
• Hypoallergenic and free of detergents, non-toxic
• Refreshing lemongrass scent
• ORGANIC INGREDIENTS: Organic Saponified Coconut, Olive and Jojoba Oils, Rosemary Essential Oil, Lemongrass Essential Oil, Rosemary Extract, Organic Aloe Vera

Max and Neo Dog Car Seat Cover – Waterproof & Durable

“We Donate a Cover to a Dog Rescue for Every Cover Sold”

• SIZES: Large 54″ Wide and 60″ Long – Extra Large 60″ Wide and 63″ Long
• 100% WATERPROOF
• Stronger plastic clasps with thick 1.5″ webbing to secure the cover
• Double stitched front seam to strengthen the front

Max and Neo™ Fox, Bear and Wolf Water Bottle Dog Toys – 3 Pack

“We Donate a Toy to a Dog Rescue for Every Toy Sold”

4.0 out of 5 stars 70 customer reviews

Amazon’s Choice for “water bottle dog toy”

Place an empty plastic water bottle (not included) into the toy. The water bottle makes a crackling sound that dogs love. These toys are contain no stuffing.

Max and Neo Gunnison Reflective Dog Harness

“We Donate a Harness to a Dog Rescue for Every Harness Sold “

• High quality, reflective, neoprene padded
• 4 adjustment points, two at the front around the neckline and two at the back for its chest
• Shines at night when illuminated by light

 Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray for Pets

 4.1 out of 5 stars 242 customer reviews 

HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket with

Hi, my name is Kristy and I am a self-employed Affiliate Marketer that does my best to provide educational tips and products that Make a Difference to communities! Enjoy learning and reading and browsing!

When we shop for sunglasses we tend to look at fashion first and how cool or chic our shades are. The reason we are looking for sunglasses is for eye protection. There are lots of advantages in choosing the correct sunglasses.

Diff Eyewear produces the best polarized sunglasses and builds their product on being fashionable, affordable, and socially conscious!

Are Cheap Sunglasses Bad for your Eyes?

Cheap sunglasses are easy on the pocket book but potentially more damaging to the eye than not wearing sunglasses at all. When you purchase a cheap pair of sunglasses, the cheap shades block some light so your iris stays slightly opens. This opening allows UV light to come in which can damage the retina.

Buying the proper sunglasses provides maximum comfort and safety to your eyes.

What to look for in sunglasses:

UV Protection Sunglasses: many studies have proven UV radiation can develop cataracts, growths on the surface of the eye, cancer to the eyelid, and a temporary burn to the cornea. Studies have also shown long-term exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can cause macular degeneration.

The American Optometry Association recommends consumers wear sunglasses that block at least 99% of UV Radiation. There is no federal law that regulates the amount of UV protection in sunglasses so it is up to you to shop for the perfect pair of UV protection sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Tinted Sunglasses: a tint in your lens allows your shades to work better in specific situations. The color of the tint makes the difference. Green, Brown, Yellow, and Grey tints minimize color distortion and how you perceive colors.

• Grey Tinted Sunglasses – the most popular color because it produces a more natural color perception
• Red Tinted Sunglasses – great for low light areas but tend to cause a significant distortion in color
• Yellow and Orange Tinted Sunglasses – great for depth perception and contrast enhancement but will distort colors

What are Polarized Sunglasses?

Polarization is definitely the best at protecting your eyes against debilitating glare and reflection. Most quality sunglasses have polarized lenses. Glare from water, concrete, snow, glass, windows, etc can be very dangerous, especially when driving. These surfaces reflect a large amount of light producing those blinding bright spots that blast in your eyes.

Polarized lenses are available in a variety of colors, depending on the material the sunglasses are made from. The darker the color, the higher the polarization.

Are Polarized Lenses Worth It:

• Enhances visual comfort
• Enhances clarity and contrast
• Reduces eyestrain
• Enhances perception of true colors
• Eliminates glare
• Minimizes reflections

Diff Eyewear produces a super high quality product with a fraction of the cost of most expensive sunglasses. Diff Eyewear has the Best Polarized Sunglasses with superior glare-reducing lenses that are UV and UVB protected.

Buy a Pair, Give a Pair!

What is so unique and special about Diff Eyewear is their mission to create eye wear that is affordable, socially conscious, and fashionable. They have made a promise of “Buy a Pair, Give a Pair.” For every pair of sunglasses purchases, a pair of reading glasses are donated to someone who needs them.

Diff’s original charity partner is Eyes on Africa which is a nonprofit organization that gives eyeglasses to African communities that don’t have access to vision care.

Diff partners with Restoring Vision who have succeeded to fulfill the “Buy a Pair, Give a Pair” commitment to worldwide organizations. They work with partners whose sole mission is to sustain these types of projects. They have helped over 150,000 people see clearly again.

Svosh (Student Volunteer Optometry Services to Humanity) are students who travel to underdeveloped countries and provide vision treatments and eye exams to communities that lack access to vision care. Last year, Diff’s partnership with Svosh restored vision worldwide to over 10,000 people.

Diff’s Pouch Program, The Sabo Project, provides employment and wages to artisans in Uganda and supports the development of schools in Uganda.

Diff Eyewear has influenced many celebrities and influencers: Audrina Patridge, Ariana Madix, Shawn Johson, Amanda Stanton, Josh Murray, Holly Madison, Mario Lopez, Alexis Ren, Scott Disick, Christina El Moussa, Giuliana Rancic, Becca Tilley, Joelle Fletcher, Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner.

Designer Sunglasses by Diff Eyewear

100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Diff Eyewear Becky Gold Frame Cat Eyes

Stainless Steel Frames 

100% UVA/UVB Sun Protection

Scratch Resistant 

Gradient Nylon Lenses 

Diff Eyewear Dash Metal Modern Aviator

Polarized Lenses

Designer Stainless Steel Frame

100% UV400 Lens Rating

Scratch Resistant Lens Coating

Diff Eyewear Astro Metal Brow Bar

Polarized Lenses

Designer Acetate Frame

100% UV400 Lens Rating 

Scratch Resistant

metal frame

mirrored lens

Diff Eyewear – Becky Cat Eyes

metal stainless steel frame

mirrored lens non-polarized

scratch resistance

100% UVA/UVB Sun Protection

Nylon Lenses

Diff Eyewear – Bella Tortoise Frame 

Stainless Steel

Mirrored lens

Polarized

Scratch resistance

100% UVA/UVB Sun Protection

Lil Becky Metal Black Cat Eye

metal frame

gradient lens

polarized

Premium Nylon Lenses

100% UV400 Lens

Scratch Resistant Lens

DIFF Eyewear Astro Metal Brow Bar 

metal frame

gradient lens

Polarized Lenses

Designer Acetate Frame

100% UV400 Lens Rating

Scratch Resistant Lens Coating

Diff Eyewear – Bella Clear Frame Square

metal frame

mirrored lens

Polarized

UVA/UVB protection 

Scratch Resistant

CR39 Lenses 

DIFF Eyewear Ruby Cat Eye

plastic frame

mirrored lens

Polarized Lenses

Designer Acetate Frame

100% UV400 Lens Rating

Scratch Resistant Lens

Hats are just as important and fun as the clothes you choose to wear every day. They can add that completed look like a piece of jewelry and offer a great conversation piece. When you put a hat on, you are creating an image of yourself.

Many of us have loads of enthralling caps and hats that have been part of our wardrobe for years. There’s usually a hat or two laying around several rooms in my house.

Choosing a hat is a representation of who you are; you’re humor, favorite sport team, movie or band, a foundation you support, or simply because you just had to get it.

There all numerous types of hats available from baseball caps, cowboy hats, sunhats, etc., the list goes on and on. I was fortunate to get a picture of my son in a sombrero last year on his 21st birthday. It’s priceless now!

My son wore hats all the time. And I mean, all the time. It was rare for him not to be seen without a hat on. He had a variety of charismatic hats and if you put them all together, you would  definitely get a sense of his personality.

My son’s engaging hats became very popular. All of his friends and family wanted one of his hats to have as a wonderful memory. I, luckily, hid two of his hats for my own personal keepsake. I look at them all the time and it brings a warm feeling to my heart.

A Little Hat History:

Hats have been in wardrobes for centuries although it is unknown how far back the first hat was created. Historically, hats indicated social status and societal rankings. A stylish hat represented elegance and self-esteem.

Interesting Hat Facts:

• In London, black taxies have a higher ceiling so a man won’t have to remove his hat for the ride
• Umpires wore top hats in the middle of the 19th century baseball games
• Chef hats were traditionally made with 100 pleats which represented over a hundred ways to cook an egg
• In 1797, a man who wore one of the first top hats was arrested for scaring people
• Horned helmets were never worn by the Vikings
• If you wear a hat while dancing in Fargo, North Dakota, you are breaking the law

Cute! I learned something about hats! 🙂

Galaxy All Over Print Snapback

This vibrant 100% polyester snapback Galaxy Print hat has adjustable straps.

 5.0 out of 5 stars 

Rose BAD HAIR DAY Baseball Cap – Embroidery Patch

5.0 out of 5 stars

This 100% Cotton embroidered vintage hat has a distressed look with a flattering shape and adjustable back.

WITHMOONS Summer Palm Tree

This 100% Polyester hat has a raised embroidered back and adjustable back. It is made of cool hem, perfect for the summer.

Star Wars Baseball Hat – Logo Black Adjustable Cap

This licensed hat is embroidered with 100% Cotton and has an adjustable strap.

4.7 out of 5 stars

Houston Astros World Series 2017 Hat

This 100% Polyester hat is officially licensed with a comfort fit.

 4.0 out of 5 stars

White Glitter Beach Hair Don’t Care Black Baseball Cap w/Rhinestones

This super cute 100% Cotton hat is perfect for beach lovers. It is made of white glitter lettering and has an adjustable back.

 5.0 out of 5 stars

Arsmt Cat Drinks Beer

Maze Women’s Ripped Denim Baseball Cap

This sparkly fashionable embroidered Cotton hat is suitable for all ages and has 8 available colors.

Maze Fancy Star Zirconia Overlay Baseball Cap

This fashionable sparkly Polyester hat is suitable for all ages and has 5 available colors.

Heading down to the tranquil beach or hanging out poolside with a frozen beverage is a great way to spend an afternoon. Enjoying the company of friends and families and forgetting our busy life schedules is medicine for the soul.

Having the correct outdoor items can allow the day to run even smoother. There are exciting Beach and Pool Accessories available to enhance your worry-free day. 

Everybody these days has a cell phone. And many people frequent the beach or have fun at a pool. Cell phones are super expensive and inconvenient to replace.

When we are by any body of water, we should protect our cell phone. Whether at the beach, poolside, on a boat, fishing pier, surfing, rafting, canoeing, skiing, etc, the last thing we want to do is see our cell phone land in the water.

My husband and I are the couple that have a pool and the ones that host pool parties! Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, and we can’t forget Sunday Funday’s. We live in Texas so it is hot! Hence, lots of fun at the pool.

During these events, I see cell phones hiding in inconspicuous places around the pool in hopes to not overheat and especially to stay dry, away from the water. Low and behold, there is always a phone missing at the end of the party.

One holiday we had friends and family over and my husband couldn’t find his phone. The next day as we were finishing cleaning, he found his phone at the bottom of an ice chest! And he did not have a Waterproof Phone Case.

Cell phones are used these days for more than just a phone call or text message. They provide a Bluetooth feature that allows you to connect to WiFi and listen to music accessories. From this, a lot of battery gets used up.

Who wants to be at the beach or poolside enjoying your favorite tune and all of a sudden, your phone dies. Well, so does the party! Be the party saver and pull out your Solar Cell Phone Charger!

So we now have taken care of our cell phones, next we need to address our beverages. A party isn’t a party without beverages. The last thing we want to do is get out of the pool or walk in from enjoying the waves to grab a drink. That could be a lot of walking!

To make things easier, there is a Beverage Cooler Float. This easy to use inflatable beverage cooler holds an ice chest and sits directly in the water and floats! No reason to walk out of the water for a cold one. My kind of relaxation. 🙂

For those of you who prepare your own beverages, there is something just for you, an Inflatable Drinks Holder that holds four of your beverages and has a center area perfect for holding bottles of your favorite mixes, liquor, and ice! Now all you need is a bartender. 🙂

We can’t forget our wine! Wine is my favorite. Having glass around a pool is a No No. How can we have our wine at poolside or beach with a glass bottle? Last time I checked, wine didn’t come in a plastic bottle. How about a Neoprene Wine Tote?

It is insulated to keep the wine chilled and holds up to four bottles. No worry of getting sand in the wine with the easy to use on and off spout.

If you are someone who loves your drinks to stay nice and cold, a Yeti Koozie or Yeti Tumbler can do just that! I have personal experience with both of these items and they truly work. I live in Texas and after 24 hours of being outside, my drink that was in the Yeti Tumbler still had ice in it!

If anyone will be venturing out on a boat, jet ski, wave runner, or riding the wave on a Body Board you may need a Life Jacket. I like having my own personal life jacket and not relying on someone else to keep me safe and afloat.

The sun is beautiful and some of us prefer a bronze tan but there is a time when we need a little shade. Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella can give you the escape you want and the pole tilts so you can adjust it with the sun!

• Floating Waterproof Case
• Ideal for iPhone 6s, 6, 6s Plus, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, Samsung Galaxy s8, s7 LG V20, Google Pixel HTC10, and all devices up to 5.7 inches
• Takes underwater pictures
• Can be submerged 49 feet deep
• Comes in a pair – you get two!

• 25,000mph capacity
• Waterproof
• Solar panel charge
• Multiple Safety Features
  • LED Flash Light
  • Color lights
• Three USB ports
• Two Inputs
• 24 Month Warranty

Mega Chill II Floating Beverage Cooler – U.S Top Seller!

• 48″ x 38″ inch
• Holds a 48 quart cooler afloat 
• Ice chest holds up to 72 cans and ice
• 6 individual cup holders
• Patch included for repairs

Solstice SunSoft Inflatable Drink Caddy

• Four cup holders
• Ice holder to keep your favorite liquor, mixers, and ice
• Soft fabric
• Can be used in or out of the pool

YETI Rambler Stainless Steel Tumbler with Lid

4.3 out of 5 stars 3,815 customer reviews

• 20 oz. Tumbler, beverages stay ice cold or piping hot longer
• Double-wall insulated tumblers 
• No Sweat Design 
• Dishwasher-safe
• Shatter Resistant Lid

 YETI Rambler Stainless Steel Colster

YETI Hopper Flip Portable Cooler

Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella

4.2 out of 5 stars 831 customer reviews 

Amazon’s Choice

• Tilt and Telescoping Aluminum Pole
• Vent on Top Canopy for Added Stability from Wind
• Blue/White UPF 50 Lining
• Built In Sand Anchor 7 feet

O’Neill Men’s Superlite USCG Life Vest

4.3 out of 5 stars 282 customer reviews

Approved Personal Flotation Device; Perfect For Waterskiing, Wake Sports, Swimming, Tubing

• Minimal Bulk Design 
• Strong Durable Exterior made of Polyester Shell Coating
• Soft and Comfortable
• Lightweight Polyethylene Foam 
• Most Relaxed Fitting Vest 

Inflatable Floating Island

• 3 Person Raft
• Great for the River, Lake, or Pool
• 2 air chambers for additional Safety
• Three comfortable backrest Cushions
• Open bottom

Summer is slowly creeping in. It seems as soon as we have our first pool party or get invited to one we panic, “I have no tan!” Well no worries! There is a SAFE and very effective way to get that golden tan we all dream about.

Sunless tanners and bronzers give you the results you want quicker than the dangerous tanning beds, cheaper, and will not flirt with getting skin cancer.

Many of you are thinking, “they make my skin orange and dark in spots!” Rest assured, there are some super products out there. We just need to find them! That is what I am here for.

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There are two types of sunless tanning products:

• Sunless tanning products that stain the skin and will remain until it is sloughed off with ordinary daily activities. They usually last 3-7 days and can be reapplied as needed.
• Cosmetic bronzers are applied and have no staining affect. They are removed simply with soap and water, similar to makeup. It is personal preference which one you use.

Do Self Tanners Work?

A darkening agent called DHA that is in all self tanners is a color-producing sugar that interacts with amino acids in the outermost layer of the skin which causes the skin to become darker. It is FDA approved and very safe to use.

It is advised to test the product on a small area of your skin first to make sure there is not an allergic reaction. Some people have sensitive skin so it is best to find out on a small area than your entire body!

Sunless Tanner Application

Tips on Applying a Self Tanner:

Wax or shave the day before you will be applying the sunless tanner. If you have any knicks or cuts the self tanner lotion, oil, gel, etc. can sit in the damaged area and can cause the area to appear darker. So it’s best to wait a day to let the minor skin irritation heal.

Exfoliate your dry areas on your body prior to applying product: elbows, knees, feet, and hands. Dry skin causes the skin to have creases so the tanner has somewhere to penetrate.

Moisturize! Apply a moisturizer to the areas where you exfoliated. This will inhibit the tanner from soaking in and darkening. If you have any age spots, apply lotion on them as well. Don’t forget your fingertips. Our fingertips tend to be dry from using our hands so much.

Wear gloves that fit well before applying the tanner.

Shake the product well before using mix up all the ingredients. Start with the legs first and massage the tanner in a circular motion to prevent streaks. Next apply it to the arms, torso, neck, and face if you are using the tanner on your face. If so, apply only one coat so the face doesn’t get too dark. I recommend using a separate product on your face. A bronzer is recommended for your face but again, its personal preference.

Lightly apply the product to your feet and hands. These areas are where we tend to see self-tanning mistakes. Use a washcloth to remove any excess on your knuckles. When applying to your hands, put it on the back of your hands and rub them together. Be careful not to get any on your palms. Use a washcloth to remove any tanner from the creases of your hands and blend the product on the sides by your palm.

Dry! Let the product dry before putting on any clothes or you may accidentally stain your outfit. Try to reduce any activity so you don’t sweat and cause streaks. Wash your hands after applying to remove any excess product.

Wait several hours before showering. The longer the better. Try to wait at least eight hours before showering and do not exfoliate for at least 24 hours. Let the product soak into your skin. This also means staying away from any water activities like the pool or beach. So prepare the best time to apply your Top Rated Sunless Tanner!

Moisturize! The key to longevity with your sunless tan is hydration! Apply lotion daily.

Top Rated Sunless Tanners

Tanceuticals CC Self Tanning Body Lotion

#1 RATED BEST SELF TANNER – Tanceuticals has received numerous awards by beauty editors worldwide

Easy to Apply, Easily Blends

Gorgeous Dark Shade of Bronze

Inviting Coconut Scent

Made from Healthy Cosmeceuticals – Acai Berry, Mango Butter and Vitamin E 

   984 customer reviews

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse

Awards: ELLE Beauty Awards, In Style Best Beauty Buys Winner

Super-light-weight Tinted Mousse

Rich Golden Natural- Looking Glow

Dries in 60 Seconds

Great Citrus Fragrance

 1,345 customer reviews

St. Tropez Luxe Dry Oil

Dry Oil with a Brown Tint

Gorgeous Shimmery Glow

Herbal Pleasant Smell

No Streaks

Moisturizes Skin Leaving it Nice n Soft

  59 customer reviews

L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Serum

Easy Spray Application with 360° continuous mist coats skin evenly

Quick Drying

Natural Sun-kissed Tan

Made with Vitamin E and Gentle

Long-Lasting

   440 customer reviews

Clinique Self Sun Tinted Lotion

Tinted Lotion with a Glowing Shimmer

Immediate Results with a Beautiful Medium Shade

Streak-Free

Moisturizes Skin to Keep Skin Soft

Lasts 4 to 5 Days

   51 customer reviews

Clarins Self-Tanning Instant Gel

Award Winner

Great for Pale Skin

Colorless Application that Slowly Darkens

Vitamin Packed Tanner Featuring Aloe Vera

Beautiful Natural Glowing Tan

Great Smell

   29 customer reviews

Fake Bake Flawless

Self-tanning Liquid Spray

Tans darker – Lasts Longer

Dries Instantly for On The Go

Rich Dark Brown Thin Liquid

Leaves Skin with a Flawless Glow

1,149 customer reviews

Somerville360 Face and Body Self Tanning Towelettes

Easy-to-Use & Fast Drying

No Mess, No Streaks, No Uneven Skin tone

Gradual, Healthy Looking Tan

Calming Cucumber that soothes and refreshes the face and body

Vitamin E to condition the skin

   61 customer reviews

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The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzer

Features a Pigmented Sheer Color

A Compact Caribbean Getaway

Washes Off – No Staining

Look Beautifully Tanned

   766 customer reviews

Summertime is right around the corner. A time for fun in the sun, vacations, relaxing at the beach or pool. And also time for sun protection. The days are longer and the sun is hotter. We certainly don’t want a sunburn to get in the way of our comfort. There are several sunburn prevention tips we can easily follow to have a positive day in the sun. First and foremost is protection.

What is the best sun protection?

There are so many sunscreens available so it is important to understand what you need in a sun block to be effective. Reading the label and understanding what you are looking for is the golden ticket. Fortunately, The Food and Drug Administration requires all sunscreen labels to follow certain guidelines. First let’s talk about what you will see on a label:

Broad-Spectrum sun protection: there are two types of UV light that can harm your skin, UVA and UVB. UVA rays (aging rays) are what causes age spots, wrinkles, and premature aging. UVB rays (burning rays) are the rays that primarily cause a sunburn. Both UVA and UVB can contribute to skin cancer. All sunscreen products protect against UVB rays but not all protect against UVA.

• Broad-Spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. These products must pass a test to accommodate this label and are the products recommended by the Food and Drug Administration. If a product is not Broad-Spectrum, they must carry a warning label informing the consumer that it only protects against a sunburn, not skin cancer or aging.

SPF: SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor which is a measure of how long skin lathered up with sunscreen will not burn from UVB rays as opposed to unprotected skin. Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30. The higher the number the slightly more coverage from the sun’s UVB rays but there is not a sunscreen that blocks 100% of UVB. The FDA requires sunscreens with less than SPF 15 to carry a warning label.

• SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays
• SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays
• SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays
• SPF 100 blocks 99% of UVB rays

It is very important to know that the higher SPF number does not mean you are protected longer in the sun than one with a low SPF. They both last about as long as the other. For best protection, reapplying the product every two hours is the best way to avoid a sunburn.

Water- Resistant Sunscreen: When a product label mentions it is Water-resistant it means how well the product will maintain in water up to 40 minutes or 80 minutes. The label should specify the time but No sunscreens are completely waterproof. For best results it is imperative to reapply sunscreen after getting out of the water or excessive sweating and every two hours.

When Should I Apply Sunscreen:

Sunscreen should be applied every day whether it is a cloudy day, cold day, snowy day, and, of course, a sunny day. The sun emits harmful UV rays all year long and the rays reflect off of snow, water, and sand. Apply sunscreen on all skin surfaces that will be exposed to the sun: your face, ears, back of the neck, lips, hands, and if you don’t have much hair on the top of your head, don’t forget your head.

About 15-30 minutes before you go outside, generously lather up your body with sunscreen. Most people only apply 25-30% of what is recommended. A good rule of thumb dermatologists recommend is to use as much sunscreen to fill a shot glass, 1 ounce. Of course adjust the amount as necessary to your body size.

Don’t forget the lips. Skin cancer can also form on the lips so apply a lip balm or lip stick that has SPF 30 or higher.

REAPPLY every 2 hours! If sweating or in the water, apply immediately.

Should I use a Lotion or Spray?

The problem with spray sunscreens is that it is difficult to know if your exposed skin is getting enough coverage. Because of this, the FDA continues to evaluate the safety of Spray sunscreens and how effective they are. If you use a spray sunscreen, make sure to use a generous amount and rub it in.

Consider the wind when applying spray sunscreen as well. You can spray the sunscreen in your hand and apply it for safety. Avoid the eyes, face, and mouth too so you or your kiddos avoid inhaling it.

What SPF Sunscreen Should I Use:

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen that offer the following:

• Broad-Spectrum protection
• SPF 30 or higher
• Water resistance

Also, choose a sunscreen that you will use again and again. There are many types of sunscreens available so get the one that is best for you and the area of the body that needs protection. Many cosmetics have sunscreen in them and remember to apply those as well every 2 hours for maximum sun protection.

For extra protection for your face, head, neck, upper back, ears, and lips UV Protected Hats are a great addition to a worry-free day in the sun! With knowledge and  proper sunscreen products you can relax outdoors and feel confident that you and your family will avoid sunburns.

Alarming! Watch This Video

Every year Consumer Reports tests sunscreens and shares with us the results of the tests. This has not happened yet in 2018 but when the reports come in I will update this accordingly.

May 18, 2017 — According to Consumer Reports annual sunscreen report in 2017, about one third of the sunscreens tested provided less than half of the SPF protection written on the label. 58 sunscreen products were tested and 20 of them had less than half of the SPF listed on the label.

Consumer Reports takes their testing seriously and evaluating two different metrics: First, they measure the accuracy of SPF, which measures how long you’re protected against the UVB rays that cause burns, and second, how effective are the UVA blockers, which shield the rays that cause premature aging.

After the testing, Consumer Reports chose only fifteen sunscreens they recommend. The following products received high marks in UVA and UVB protection, and scored perfect results on the accuracy of their SPF claim — meaning you and your skin can enjoy a worry-free summer.

The La Roche has been the number one sunscreen and tested 100% on everything for 2 years.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Melt-In Sunscreen Milk

Consumer Reports Tested and Approved

#1 Lotion TWO YEARS IN A ROW

Scoring 100 % and Met its SPF 60 Claim

The following Sunscreens were tested as well and recommended by Consumer Reports. Keep in mind only 15 of 58 were chosen. 

The summer is right around the corner. Time for our feet to breathe! After our bodies and feet have been wrapped up all winter it is time to get comfy. Flip flops are used in all aspects of a person’s day to day living in the summer. Not only are people wearing flip flops at the beach, flip flops are worn everywhere!

Choosing the most comfortable flip flop is very important to your day. If you will be wearing your flop all day, it is important to choose the right one. Simply stated, your flop can make or break your day. Choose wisely!

Flip flops help our body lower its internal temperature by allowing our feet to release heat. Our precious feet are crucial when it comes to regulating our temperature. Flip flops also encourage a stress free living when it comes to choosing shoes to wear. We simply slide our feet in our flop. No matching socks to find, no shoelaces to tie.. The hardest choice when putting our flops on is which ones to wear.

What are the Best Flip Flops?

Several reasons come into play when choosing the flip flop that’s best for you: Style, comfort, durability, price, material, and support. That’s a lot to think about! So to help you this year with deciding which flop will be suited best for you, I did some homework. I researched three different websites who have chosen the top-rated flip flops for 2018.

There are so many styles to choose from in the design of a flip flop. Some have thick straps, thin straps, a strap in the back, and long straps that travel down the length of your feet. Color also is a big factor affecting your choice. Is an easy black flip flop that matches most outfits best for you or a fun colorful flop that makes a statement?

Comfort

Comfort, to me, is the most important. The other factors will follow accordingly, but I am a 46 year old, so my priorities are quite different than others. The size of the strap is a factor in comfort. Thicker straps have been rated to provide more comfort and thin straps are known to get thinner with wear and tear. Again, a personal preference.

If you have flat feet a flop with support for your arch is a must. Some flops contour to your feet and give them a nice supported feel. Shop for the flop that offers a comfortable foot bed, high traction, and arch support.

Durability

How durable is your flop? After several uses with plastic flip flops you may as well be barefoot! Plastic flip flops flatten to a pan cake with numerous use. Those are the ones you end up purchasing at a gas station because you weren’t prepared for your beach day! Yikes! It is important to choose a flop that has the toe strap sewn directly on the insole, not held together by a button underneath.

There is a lot of various materials used in the construction of flip flops. Rubber, nylon, EVA, leather, and more. Rubber has less erosion on the sole allowing for a better grip. When looking for a flop that will last a while, nylon straps are very hardy. EVA is a popular material used in making tennis shoes. It is safe and many flip flops are made from it. Leather flops are comfortable and are great with those of you who battle sweaty feet. You know who you are. 🙂

Price

When it comes to pricing your flop, you pretty much get what you pay for. The plastic pair can be as cheap as $2 but hence the word, CHEAP! The better the material the better the flop and probably will end up paying a higher price. But, the more durable the material the longer your flop will last. Do the math and see. 🙂

Here are the top ten most comfortable flip flops with the highest ratings.

Clarks Breeze Sea Flip Flops Women

4.8 out of 5 stars    8,116 customer reviews

Clarks has been in business making quality men’s dress shoes for over 100 years. They produce high quality shoes with a wide assortment of styles.

The classy sophisticated flip flop has a look that demands attention. Croslite material is used in the footbed and outsole which has circulations nubs for a massage-like feel. The Sexy t-strap is form fitting providing lots of effortless comfort.

 

Reef Men’s Rover Le Sandal

4.3 out of 5 stars 50 customer reviews 

 

The Reef Flip Flop is a men’s sandal made of full grain leather with extra padded soft liner. It’s made with a triple density construction for instant support, traction, and comfort and a rubber outsole. It is molded with three layers of material: a contoured  foam deck for super-soft and instant comfort, a highly dense rubber outsole for durability, traction, and protection, and a medium-dense midsole for lasting support.

Crocs Men’s Yukon Mesa Slide Sandal

 4.3 out of 5 stars 378 customer reviews 

All Crocs brand shoes feature Croslite which is Crocs’ proprietary closed-cell resin. The Croslite material produces a comfortable, soft, superior-gripping, non-marking, lightweight, and odor-resistant shoes. These elements make Crocs perfect for casual wear, recreational use, and professional wear.

OluKai Ohana Flip Flops

4.6 out of 5 stars    1,718 customer reviews

The ‘Ohana sandals are made with all-natural materials. Contoured footbeds and an anatomical arch support provide instant, lasting comfort. OluKai builds their footwear suppoting the natural dimensions of the foot delivering the perfect balance.

Available in many colors

 

Reef Women Slap 3 Sandals

4.5 out of 5 stars    1,022 customer reviews

Reef flip flops is a genuine surf brand that is very compassionate about surfing, the ocean, the perfect wave, and how to find it. Their inspiration harvests a lifestyle that creates authentic, innovative and fashionable products. Reef Slap 3 sandal has an EVA foot bed that is contoured to your foot offering heel-to-toe support.

Reef Fanning Mens Sandals | Bottle Opener Flip Flops For Men

 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,486 customer reviews 

The Reef Flip Flops Fanning Sandal is the only sandal with a bottle opener. Maximum comfort is embedded in this sandal with an anatomical arch support, heel airbag of 360-degrees, contoured EVA footbed, and a synthetic strap. Slip your feet into the ultimate comfort! The outsole is made of herringbone rubber giving this Reef Flip Flop durable traction control.

Reef Dream Sandals

4.3 out of 5 stars   1,315 customer reviews

 The sporty-chic Dreams sandal gets its name from the quilted, cushy, foam footbed that feels like a mattress than a shoe. A soft fabric toe post provides minimum irritation adding to the incredible comfort. The midsole is made of a flexible rubber enhancing the grip for traction.

 

Under Armour Marbella Flip Flops

4.8 out of 5 stars   12 customer reviews

Under Armour’s Marbella Thong is designed for extreme comfort. It’s synthetic strap has a soft foam lining, the footbed is built with two layers of performance, and a 4D foam gives unprecedented all-day wear. It’s anatomical contours provide additional cushioning along with an outsole that is sculpted with EVA proving lightweight traction.

A make you feel better sandal with two-toned good looks you can wear all day, glossy uppers, bold colors, and a streamlined silhouette. Featuring oofoam technology and patented footbed design to take the stress off tired feet and joints.

I encourage comments so please leave a comment or question below regarding flip flops. If you purchase a pair of flip flops let me know what you think! Enjoy your fun in the sun!