Floaties & Cheese: Poolside Nachos That Shouldn't Exist

There’s something deeply unholy about the moment you realize your nachos are floating next to you in the pool. Not metaphorically. Literally. In a flamingo-shaped snack tray with a side of melted cheese bobbing like a dairy-colored jellyfish.

This whole misadventure started on one of those brain-melting July afternoons where you desperately want the luxury of a resort, but you’ve got a kiddie pool, three inflatables from last summer, and a dream. So naturally, I built a floating nacho bar. Because when life gives you limited funds and an above-ground pool, you grab the chips and get weird with it.

Execution is everything. Too much melted topping and the tray leans like a sinking cruise ship. Too little, and you're just shamefully paddling after a drifting pile of crunchy disappointment. I found that a pair of pool noodles and a barbecue tong—duct-taped together like a mad scientist’s salad claw—made for excellent snack retrieval.

Is it practical? No. Hygienic? Also no. But it’s a hot, strange summer and we’re out here chasing joy in whatever chlorinated corner we can find. Float responsibly, snack recklessly, and remember: some ideas are too weird not to try.