1. A Refreshing Summer Day Shared Across Generations
On Saturday, August 8th, our family’s weekly place of visit, Yaksu-dong Shinil Church, hosted an outdoor water festival for Summer Bible School from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. While designed primarily for elementary school children participating in the Bible school, the event was thoughtfully organized so that everyone—from families with young toddlers to members of all ages—could join in and enjoy together. Thanks to this inclusive spirit of bringing generations together, the atmosphere was all the more warm and lively. Despite the record-breaking heat wave, the safe and refreshing water play area allowed adults and children alike to thoroughly beat the summer heat and enjoy a meaningful time.
2. Even More Fun Together: Eon and Jung-woo's Water Play
Having had indoor baseball practice in the morning, I joined the event at 3 PM. Once there, I lent a helping hand by assisting at the booth, serving free iced tea to everyone who stopped by. Taking quick glances at the pool between breaks, the best sight was seeing my son Eon and his same-aged cousin Jung-woo playing together in perfect harmony. Watching the two boys in the water—shooting water guns, splashing around, and laughing endlessly as I served iced tea—was truly heart-warming. It was a fulfilling and proud moment to be there, helping out and watching the kids run free and make unforgettable memories.
3. Food Comes First! Hearty and Delicious Water Play Snacks
When it comes to water play, delicious food is an absolute must. The booth offered a bountiful spread—from cool, complimentary iced tea to beat the heat, to a variety of snacks to satisfy hungry bellies after swimming. The highlights were the sweet and refreshing watermelon fruit punch, along with fresh churros and crispy tornado potatoes, which were a huge hit with the kids. Helping out with the iced tea gave me a front-row view of children and church members sharing treats and chatting away. Thanks to everyone who lovingly prepared and served the food, it was a energizing and joyful time for all.
Though it was an exceptionally hot summer day during a record-breaking heat wave, the outdoor water festival at Shinil Church allowed our whole family to spend a cool and delightful day together. I am deeply grateful to Shinil Church in Yaksu-dong for giving the children unforgettable summer memories and providing adults with a comfortable place to relax. Above all, the day shone even brighter thanks to all the volunteers who willingly sweated in the intense heat for the church members and children. As we pass through the middle of summer, the refreshing memories of this water festival will surely help us breeze through the remaining heat. I’m already looking forward to next summer’s event!