There is a summer tradition that we cannot miss anymore. The children in our lives won't allow us to.

It is a combination pirate/luau party in the backyard... inexpensive .. easy to put on... and a day they all anticipate all year long.

The requirements?

Some plastic swords, or cuttlasses is the correct pirate terminology... some pirate hats and eyepatches..... perhaps a pirate flag to hang... and maybe a cd of good old mean pirate songs. These are for the boys.

Some grass skirts.. made of plastic or whatever is the cheapest... some leis and maybe some individual flowers for the hair and a colorful paper parrot to hang... and maybe a cd of Hawaiian luau songs. These are for the girls.

We make it an all day event..... so fix snacks and lunches to fit... something little people find tasty... hot dogs on the grill... or pizza from the local carry out. Nothing fancy.. nothing to prepare days ahead of time. Ice cream cones are the favorite treat.

Now is the fun part. It requires nothing on your part. Just turn the kids loose and you will be amazed at the day they make of it for themselves. All you need to do is sit back and watch their imaginations work as they make their fun.

We have a pool and the pirates have made their captive luau girls walk the diving board plank. You can bet the girls reciprocated.

With paper sacks they have had three legged races. They have fought duels with imaginary invading pirates. The girls have been Hawaiian princesses.

What they do with those imaginations and few props is just endless... and it really is the summer day they all look forward to all year long.

No party favors.

No special cakes or decorations.

No planned games with prizes.

Just kids, a backyard and a time when the adults sit back and allow those imaginations to turn to full throttle.

Your kids will never forget it.