Hey, Camp Fans!

Your camp stories were great! I had a great time reading through them all and now I’m excited to share them with all our readers online and post each submission right here on the Blog! After announcing our ten lucky winners who took larger prizes, we’ve since been publishing each submission here on the Everything Summer Camp Blog. The following entry is from Tabitha H. who wrote in to us after her summer stay at Camp Champions. Here is her submission right now:“It was super fun when I got to go on a jet ski! I liked when we got to have treats. Our teachers were great. And I think Camp Champions is a great camp! Thanks for letting me go.”

Thank you so much for sharing your awesome camp experience with us! Riding a jet ski sounds like such an exciting adventure—how fun! And who doesn’t love treats at camp? It’s great to hear that you had such amazing teachers and that Camp Champions made such a great impression on you. We’re thrilled you had a super fun time and hope you get to enjoy even more adventures next summer!

If Tabitha’s tale has piqued anybody else’s interest in Camp Champions, click here to check out their website. Thanks for reading, Camp Folks! Till next time.


- John

Hello, Writers!

Creative writing has a rich history that spans centuries, with storytelling being a fundamental aspect of human culture. From ancient myths and legends to modern novels and poetry, writing has always been a powerful tool for communication and self-expression. It wasn't until the advent of summer camps in the 20th century that creative writing found its way into the camp scene.

At camp, creative writing offers a unique blend of inspiration and camaraderie. Campers gather in cozy cabins or under the shade of towering trees, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. They come together, creating a sense of community as they embark on a literary adventure.

Just like in traditional writing workshops, camp writing instructors guide campers through a series of prompts and exercises, sparking their creativity and honing their writing skills. Campers are encouraged to explore different genres and styles, from fiction and poetry to memoir and journalism. The practice emphasizes self-expression and encourages campers to find their unique voice.

But it's not just about the writing itself. Creative writing taps into the essence of what summer camp is all about—creativity, connection, and growth. It provides a safe space for campers to explore their thoughts and feelings, to share their stories and experiences, and to connect with others who share their passion for writing.

The popularity of creative writing at summer camp continues to grow. Campers delight in the opportunity to unleash their creativity, to express themselves freely, and to discover the joy of storytelling. It's a practice that strengthens imagination, cultivates empathy, and instills a deep appreciation for the power of words.

So, whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or brand new to the world of writing, make sure to join in on a creative writing workshop next year at camp. Experience the magic of writing in the heart of nature, and discover a newfound sense of inspiration and connection. Thanks for reading, and, as always, Happy Camping!

 

- John

Hey, Camp Lovers!

We’ve still got some camp stories in our pocket from the Everything Summer Camp 'Share Your Camp Story' Contest! We're presenting each submission individually on our Blog, one by one. Next up, we have Susan R., who wrote in to tell us about touring a summer camp with her granddaughter and the summer camp stay she had at Camp Bernadette for Girls. Keep reading—her submission is right here:

“My 11-year-old Granddaughter received a grant to attend Camp Bernadette. I went with her to tour the camp. We both thought the camp was beautiful and offered many activities including archery, basketball, swimming, crafts, bonfires and chapel. This camp is on beautiful Lake Wentworth in Wolfeboro NH. She had 2 wonderful weeks and hopes to get a grant for next summer.”


Thank you so much for sharing your granddaughter's camp experience with us, Susan! How incredible that she received a grant to attend Camp Bernadette—it sounds like a dream with all those fantastic activities, from archery to bonfires by the lake! Touring the camp together must have made the experience even more special and we're thrilled to hear that she had two wonderful weeks on beautiful Lake Wentworth. We’re crossing our fingers she gets the grant again next year for another unforgettable summer!

If anybody else wants to look into Camp Bernadette, click right here to jump over to their website and poke around. As always, thanks for reading, Camp Fans!


- John

Hey, Camp Lovers!

There are still more camp stories to share from the Everything Summer Camp 'Share Your Camp Story' Contest! We're presenting each submission individually on our Blog, one by one. Next up, we have Charlie Q., sharing his thrilling summer spent at Swift Nature Camp. Keep reading—his camp story starts right now:

“The best thing that I love about camp was meeting new people and making friends. Also the counselors were pretty great too. The thing that meant the most to me was when a CIT helped me when I went tubing. Also a guy named Marty helped me a lot, and I do mean A LOT. Whenever I was homesick. This camp helped me get over my fear of real guns when I did Riflery. Even though I missed my parents for 3 weeks I recommend it at 100%”


Fantastic to hear how much meeting new people and making friends meant to you, Charlie. Sounds like Marty and the CITs really made a big difference in your time at camp—especially when you were feeling homesick. Overcoming your fear of guns with Riflery is such a big accomplishment—that’s amazing! We're so glad camp gave you the confidence and support you needed and we hope to see you back for even more adventures next year! Thanks for sharing with us, Charlie!

Anybody else that wants to look into Swift Nature Camp can do so by clicking right here. We’ve still got a handful of stories to share before the year is out so keep checking back for more camp stories. As always, thanks for reading, Camp Fans!


- John

Hey, Winter Lovers!

These post-Thanksgiving days ring in the coming holiday season along with dropping temperatures and shorter days—the perfect season for getting cozy with a blanket and enjoying a good movie. While hunkering down and staying warm definitely has its appeal, there will be plenty of time for that! But don’t miss out on this beautiful season indoors the whole time! Grab your mittens, put on your snow boots, and embrace the great outdoors, staying happy and active this winter season!

Growing complacent in a sedentary lifestyle during the winter months can have a serious impact on our health. Prolonged periods of inactivity have been shown to result in a number of health issues like weight gain, muscle loss, and higher risk of diseases. That’s why it’s important to stay active—even when it’s cold outside.

Let’s take a look at some of the fun, active things you can do outside in the next few months:

 

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a fun way to stay active during the winter months. It improves balance, coordination, and leg strength. Plus, it's a great way to enjoy the crisp winter air and beautiful scenery. 

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore the winter landscape while getting a great workout. It strengthens leg muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances balance and stability. Plus, it's an excellent way to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of snowy forests.

Building Snowmen

Building snowmen is a timeless winter activity that encourages creativity and imagination. It also promotes teamwork and social interaction when done with friends or family. Plus, it's a fun way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is a fantastic aerobic workout that engages both the upper and lower body muscles. It improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens core muscles, and enhances balance and coordination. Plus, it allows participants to explore scenic winter trails and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Winter Hiking

Winter hiking offers a unique opportunity to experience the great outdoors in a peaceful and serene setting. It provides an excellent cardiovascular workout and strengthens leg muscles. Plus, it allows participants to enjoy the beauty of snowy landscapes and spot wildlife along the way.

Sledding

Sledding is a classic winter activity that kids love. It provides a thrilling rush of adrenaline as they slide down snowy hills. Sledding also promotes physical activity and outdoor play, which is essential for overall health and well-being.

Snowball Fights

Snowball fights are a fun and playful way to stay active during the winter months. They promote agility, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination. Plus, they provide an opportunity for social interaction and bonding with friends and family.

Building Snow Forts

Building snow forts is a creative and imaginative winter activity that promotes teamwork and problem-solving skills. It also provides a great upper body workout as participants lift and pack snow. Plus, it's a fun way to spend time outdoors and enjoy the winter weather.

 

These outdoor winter activities not only keep kids physically active and healthy but also help them develop essential life skills such as teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills. These activities also provide an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and create lasting memories with friends and family. So bundle up, head outside, and embrace the magic of winter! Till next time, Folks. And, as always, thanks for reading.

 

- John