Buzz, Buzz, Campers!

Among a long list of great things, summer is filled with swatting away those pesky little bloodsuckers; August 20th is World Mosquito Day! Peacefully enjoying a campfire under the starry sky takes a nasty turn when you’re suddenly bombarded by a scourge of thirsty mosquitoes.

They’re masters at sniffing out the heat from warm-blooded animals like you and all your friends around the fire. Locking onto their target, they skillfully pierce through skin with their needle-like mouthparts to feast upon the blood, drawing it up through their proboscis like milk through a straw.

Prehistoric Pests

Believe it or not, mosquitoes have been buzzing around for millions of years, and they've undergone some significant transformations. In fact, their ancestors were massive in comparison to the tiny bloodsuckers we know today. Can you imagine encountering a mosquito the size of a small cat? Thank goodness they downsized!

Beneficial Bugs

But let's take a moment to appreciate the important role mosquitoes play in the ecosystem. Yes, you read that right! While they may be a nuisance to us, mosquitoes do serve a purpose. They are pollinators, just like bees and butterflies. They play a role in transferring pollen from one plant to another, contributing to the reproduction of various plant species. So, in their own buzzing way, mosquitoes are helping to maintain the balance of our natural world.

Armed Against Mosquitoes

From insect repellent sprays to wipes to bug-repellent clothing, we have everything you need to create a mosquito-free zone. Don't let those little buzzers ruin your camp experience. Arm yourself with bug protection gear and enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about itchy mosquito bites.

As we celebrate World Mosquito Day, let's remember to protect ourselves from these miniature vampires. Whether you're hiking in the woods, roasting marshmallows by the campfire, or exploring the beauty of nature, don't let mosquitoes crash the party. Stay prepared, stay protected, and make sure your summer camp experience is bug-free!

So, Campers, let's raise a can of bug spray to World Mosquito Day! May we enjoy the Great Outdoors alongside each other without them bugging us. And remember, Everything Summer Camp has your back with top-notch bug protection gear. Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey there, Storytellers!

Summer is in full swing, and we don't want you to miss out on sharing your incredible camp story with our camp community! It's time to unleash your creativity and join our 'Share Your Camp Story' Contest, right here at Everything Summer Camp for a chance to win as much as $500! But even if you don’t get a seat in the winner’s circle, you’ll still be part of our storied tradition and win our $20 participatory prize!

We've been collecting all your thrilling camp tales for all of August and there are only two weeks left until this Contest closes at midnight on August 31st. Grab your pen and paper or get your camera rolling and start immortalizing your memories. Remember, every camper who submits gets a $20 gift certificate for our online store. But that's not all! Ten lucky winners will be randomly selected for some bigger prizes! And this year we've increased the prizes!

Once we've gathered all your captivating submissions, the winners will be revealed one story at a time. Will you be our grand prize winner, walking away with a jaw-dropping $500 Everything Summer Camp Gift Card? Maybe you'll snag one of the two second-place prizes for $200. Or maybe you’ll be one of the other two winners for our third-place price of $100. And, after that, we still have five more winners who’ll each receive a sweet $50 Gift Card!

Telling stories is more than just fun—it's a powerful way for campers to relive their incredible adventures and reflect on all the skills they've gained. It's like hitting the replay button on the best moments of your life! Need a little inspiration? Check out the Contest announcement I wrote last month for some storytelling prompts.

Parents, we'd love to hear from you too! Share your unique perspective on your camper's experience or regale us with your own camp memories. All submissions should include your first name, last name initial, the camp you or your child visited, and how many summers you or your camper have visited camp.

Click right here to submit your tale of adventure, friendship, and s'mores! Thanks for being part of our amazing camp community! Unleash your inner wordsmith and keep those campfire stories burning bright!

- John

Once upon a brilliant summer day as the warm rays of the sun enveloped the landscape of the campgrounds, a troop of campers set out to embark on a summer camp adventure. As they began their trek along with the sunrise, the cabin leader called out to share an old saying: "Make Hay While the Sun Shines." Journey back with us to medieval times to discover the roots of this English proverb.

Back then, farmers relied on hay as an essential resource even though it’s a process that requires days of hard work—cutting, gathering, and drying it all. But so much hard work could be ruined with just a drizzle. In those days, wise farmers lived by one simple rule season after season:

"Make Hay while the Sun Shines."

Over time, the phrase went beyond its farming origins and took on a broader meaning. It became a reminder to seize opportunities before they slipped away. Just like farmers made hay when the sun shone, people realized the importance of recognizing and acting on favorable circumstances. It became a down-to-earth version of ‘carpe diem’—a reminder to make the most of every chance.

At summer camp, children embark on a whirlwind of adventures, exploring everything from the natural world around them to their own inner creativity. They forge friendships and create memories that last a lifetime. But camp provides a limited time to fit in so much exploration, education, and growth. Just how the farmers had to work efficiently to gather their hay, summer campers must make the most of their time, embracing every opportunity that comes their way.

So, as your child embarks on their summer camp journey, remind them of the significance behind "Make Hay While the Sun Shines." Encourage them to embrace the adventure, seize every moment, and make the most of the opportunities that unfold before them.

On the farm or at camp, in our personal or professional, the lesson remains the same—seize the opportunities and make the most of every moment. Remember, when life presents you with a sunny day, don't let it pass you by. Embrace the moment and make the most of it! Savor the sunshine and thanks for reading. As always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Camp Folks!

When’s the best time to start planning for next year's summer camp season? RIGHT NOW! That may sound a little too ahead of the game for some of you, but this tactic works great thanks to its ‘top of mind’ benefit. After all, everything is fresh in your camper’s head right now and you can see for yourself the condition certain items are in WHILE you’re unpacking.

Find out what worked well and what didn’t. What needs repair or what needs to be replaced during the process of unpacking and set yourself up for success in next year’s summer camp season RIGHT NOW!

Where to Begin…

Start by reviewing your child's packing list. Did they bring back everything they took to camp? If any items are missing, it's wise to reach out to the camp to inquire if they might have them in their lost and found.

…On to Apparel

Next, let's assess the camp clothing your child brought home. Sometimes you can save these clothes for next year's camp adventure, but if they've outgrown the clothes or you no longer need them, consider donating them, passing them down to a younger sibling, or, if they're beyond repair, bid them farewell.

Clear the Gear.

Now, it’s time to inspect the camp gear. Check for broken or damaged items, such as flashlights or fans. Doing this will identify gear that needs replacing for the upcoming camp season. Why wait until spring when you can take advantage of end-of-season sales and secure high-quality products for your camper?

Straight from the Camper’s Mouth!

Engage your kids in a conversation about their summer camp experience while the memories are still fresh. Ask them about the gear they used—what worked and what didn't? Was the sleeping bag warm enough, or did it make them feel like they were roasting in a bonfire? Maybe the backpack was too small to fit all their essentials.

Gather this feedback and use it to make informed choices when purchasing new gear for next year. Some parents take notes to use the following year while some take advantage of end-of-season sales and stock up on what their camper will need ahead of time.

A Method to the Unpacking Madness:

Your next step in the unpacking process is to divide items into two groups: those to store away until next year and those to use up now.

Items to Use up Now

Use up any liquid toiletries, like sunblock and bug repellent, this summer, as their effectiveness may diminish over time.

Items to Store Away

For the items to be stored away, remove the batteries from any battery-operated devices. And when it comes to storing your camp trunk or duffel, choose a location wisely. If storing in a garage or basement, ensure it's off the ground to protect it from the cold concrete floors that can slowly damage the trunk over time. Consider using a Moso Air Purifying Bag to ward off moisture and mildew and keep things smelling fresh.

I hope these tips help you navigate the post-summer camp season with ease and make next year's camp prep a fraction of the work! Thanks for reading today's Blog post and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Don your life jackets and grab the paddles—it’s time to hit a lazy river for an unforgettable journey. What’s more enjoyable than a gliding canoe trip as you navigate the twists and turns along the calm waters and take in the calm beauty of lakes, rivers, and abounding wilderness. This timeless summer camp activity shows children the spirit of adventure, teamwork, and connection to nature. Let's dip our paddles into the world of canoeing. Hop on in, folks; the water’s fine!

Canoes have a long history! Indigenous peoples from all over, like the Native Americans, used them for travel, hunting, and fishing. They built them tough, using materials like tree bark, animal skins, and hollowed-out logs. Of course we have different means of construction now; today canoes are made of lighter things such as fiberglass, aluminum, or tough plastics.

When You Canoe...

Nowadays, folks love canoeing for the adventure and the unique perspectives they offer in the great outdoors.

Paddle Power

Here’s a little Canoeing 101, for you: hold that paddle tight with both hands—one hand high and the other one halfway down. Dip it into the water, tilt it back a bit, and pull it toward your body with smooth motion. Swap from side to side to go straight. And don't forget, teamwork matters. Talk to your partner, paddle in sync, and enjoy the rhythm as you head towards your destination.

What Campers get out of Canoeing

So what do campers get out of a good canoe trip? It gets your body in shape, working those core muscles, arms, and shoulders.  It also hones your balance, coordination, and sense of space. But it's more than just muscles. Canoeing brings folks together, teaching them teamwork and cooperation as they paddle as one. It boosts campers’ confidence too when they overcome obstacles and master new tricks. Last, but not least, don’t forget about being immersed in the natural world for a deeper connection between your camper and the Great Outdoors.

Good Glidin’

There's something magical about moving along the water in a canoe. It's pure freedom and peace! Paddle in rhythm, feel the gentle rocking, and soak in the amazing sights. While Canoeing, campers get a chance to explore secret spots, spy on wildlife, and uncover the wonders of nature. Appreciate the beauty and calm of the wild.

Consider the timeless adventure of Canoeing. It's an activity that combines physical activity, teamwork, and a connection with nature, providing endless opportunities for fun and exploration. Let your child embrace the joy of traveling on water, create lasting memories, and develop valuable skills through the exhilarating experience of Canoeing at summer camp.

Be sure to check out this previous Blog post, ‘Can You Canoe?’ We’d love for you to share any good Canoeing stories you might have. Feel free to leave it in a comment on this Blog post. Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John