Pool ownership — Is it a Blessing or a Curse?

The whole pool thing perplexes me.

We are people without a pool living in a town where many people do have pools because it gets very hot and, let's be frank, many are lucky enough to be able to afford it.

Our neighbor has a pool. It took a few years, but finally we got the coveted invite to partake in an actual pool party. Of course we stayed until midnight so that will probably never happen again.

So all you pool owners, is having a pool just endless fun and games or are you constantly hounded by freeloaders looking for some cheap thrills? Are you eternally relaxed from rejuvenating dips or stressed over the costs of upkeep and repairs?

Fortunately (for my neighbor's sake) I discovered the city has an amazing deal. Residents can get a family membership at the Aquatic Center on Black Avenue for just $150. It covers all immediate members and is unlimited use during recreational swim times.

This three-pool complex with a water slide, snack bar and plenty of room to sit beneath mature trees shading grassy knolls has saved us from permanent pool purgatory. And now, the pressure on our pool owning friends is officially off.

Anyway, what's the verdict Pleasanton: pool ownership — blessing or curse? Patch wants to know.