Water Balloon Toss

Bonneville Radio held their annual 4th of July BBQ at the Triad Center last week. The Carriage Cafe provided their grills for our hamburgers and hot dogs, and we all enjoyed a favorable lunch around the rushing waters of the Triad Center fountain. Tickets were dispersed and prizes were given to celebrate the birth of this nation.

The best prizes were yet to be given: satisfaction, victory, and $25 to use at the Gateway.

Yes. We had a water balloon toss.

The principles of the water balloon toss are simple. There must be one or two referees. Participants are divided into teams of two (the number of teams is limitless). Team members face each other, standing a few feet apart. Each team has one water balloon. All balloons must start in the same side. At the referees signal, the team member with the balloon must toss it to his teammate. If the catch is successful, mild cheering is allowed. Both members must take a step backward. Then repeat, each time taking a step back. The team who doesn't drop their balloon wins.

And so it was with Brandon and I. Being brothers at the same workplace, it was natural for us to be a team. As the toss progressed, I knew we'd be tough to beat. Our lobs were perfect - soft releases yet with enough force to reach each others hands. Our catches were delicate - extended arms and wide hands initially cup the balloon, then a quick step back and a swinging motion help to cradle the water-filled latex. Throw after throw I was astonished at our success, until we finally defeated the competition. With sweat running down my back, I gratefully accepted the well-deserved Gateway gift card.