Hey, Camp Folks!

The Climbing Wall towers overhead—your camper’s heart pounding with both excitement and fear. Determined to ascend to the top, they take their first step and hoist themselves up. After all, at summer camp, ‘The Sky’s the Limit’. Campers are encouraged to push their boundaries, explore new possibilities, and embrace the spirit of endless possibilities throughout their summer stay.

From challenging outdoor pursuits like rock climbing and zip-lining to creative endeavors like arts and crafts, campers are encouraged to dream big, set ambitious goals, and reach for the stars. Camp provides a supportive and nurturing environment where campers can step outside their comfort zones, discover hidden talents, and develop invaluable life skills.

Now, let's talk about the origins of the phrase ‘The Sky’s the Limit’ Some folks say it came from a book called Don Quixote, written by a famous writer named Cervantes. Don Quixote is a story about a brave knight who sets off on incredible adventures. Although the phrase "The sky's the limit" isn't actually found in the book, people often associate it with the adventurous spirit of Don Quixote.

But here's an even cooler fact for you: "The Sky's the Limit" emerged during a time of progress and optimism, right before World War I in the United States. It was a way to say that there are no boundaries to what you can achieve and that you can aim as high as the sky.

So, Summer Campers, as you ascend the Climbing Wall, navigate the wilderness, and bond with your fellow campers, always remember that your potential knows no limits. Summer camp empowers you to believe in yourselves, dream big, and understand that when it comes to reaching your goals, the sky's the limit.

So, as campers ascend climbing walls, create art masterpieces, conquer new skills, and forge lifelong friendships, they carry with them the timeless message that there are no limits to what they can accomplish. Summer camp empowers them to believe in themselves, dream big, and remember that when it comes to their potential, The Sky's the Limit.

- John

Hey there, Sweet Tooths! (or is it Sweet Teeth?)

A crackling fire on a starry summer night and laughter all around. Who could ask for more? …except for maybe some tasty s’mores with that melted, mouth-watering chocolate bar sandwiched between graham crackers and gooey marshmallows! As we celebrate National Chocolate Day today, let's revel in the versatility of this decadent delight that adds a touch of sweetness to the summer camp life!

Indulgent, irresistible, and loved by all, chocolate holds a special place in the hearts of summer campers and dessert enthusiasts the world over. Its versatility knows no bounds, whether it takes the form of a solid bar, a drizzle, or a velvety stream cascading into a steaming cup of cocoa. Chocolate offers a world of possibilities.

The Journey of the Chocolate Bar

From the humble cacao tree to the mouth-watering candy chocolate bar, each step in the chocolate-making process plays a crucial role in creating the delightful treat we all love. It's a journey that blends science, craftsmanship, and a touch of magic to bring us the joy and indulgence of chocolate in all its delectable forms.

Harvesting

The journey of the chocolate bar begins with harvesting ripe cacao pods from the cacao tree. These football-shaped pods contain cocoa beans—the primary ingredient in chocolate. Using machetes or specialized tools, harvesters carefully cut the pods from the trees.

Fermentation

The harvested pods are then opened and the cocoa beans, surrounded by a sweet and tangy pulp, are extracted. The beans and pulp are placed in large, covered piles and left to ferment for a few days. This is a crucial step to enhance the flavor by breaking down the pulp, triggering chemical changes.

Drying

After fermentation, the beans are spread out on large trays to dry under the sun. Drying the beans reduces moisture and prepares the beans for further processing. It also contributes to the development of flavor characteristics in the cocoa beans.

Roasting

The dried cocoa beans are carefully roasted to bring out their rich flavors and aromas. Depending on the desired flavor profile, the roasting process will vary. This process removes any residual moisture and develop that characteristic taste of chocolate we all know and love.

Grinding

The roasted cocoa beans are ground into a paste called cocoa liquor. This process involves grinding the beans into a fine powder. Continuing to grind, it eventually transforms into a smooth liquid as the grinding process generates heat which melts the cocoa butter and coats the powder specks.  

Refining

The cocoa liquor is further refined to reduce the particle size for a super smooth consistency. This process involves passing the cocoa liquor through machinery like refining mills or conching machines. They grind away and smooth out the particles, ensuring a fine texture and uniform chocolate quality.

Tempering

This step involves careful heating and cooling of the chocolate to specific temperatures. This process ensures the cocoa butter crystallizes in a stable form, giving the chocolate its desirable glossy appearance, snap, and smooth texture!

Molding

Once the chocolate has been tempered, it gets poured into molds where it finds its final shape as a candy bar, a chocolate chip, or any other desired form. The molds are then cooled to allow the chocolate to solidify and retain its shape.

Packaging

After the chocolate’s cooled and solidified, it’s removed from the molds and prepped for packaging. The bars get wrapped in foil or other materials to protect them from moisture and ensure freshness. They are then labeled and ready for distribution to be enjoyed by chocolate lovers around the world.

Whether we enjoy a chocolate bar during a s'mores session at camp or savor it in other delightful forms, chocolate has the power to uplift our spirits and create moments of pure delight. So let’s honor National Chocolate Day. Grab your favorite chocolate treat, gather around the bonfire, and savor the magic of National Chocolate Day. Thanks for reading, Everybody. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Camp Families!

Visiting Day is among the most emotional experiences at camp for both campers and parents. It's important to have some idea of what’s to be unexpected. As summer camp experts and authors of ‘The Summer Camp Handbook’ Dr. Chris Thurber and Dr. Jon Malinowski suggest, Visiting Day is the flip side of homesickness—it's a summer camp reunion filled with intense emotions. That's why I'm here to offer some tips and insights to help you make the most of this special day in the camp calendar!

First things first, mark your calendar and make sure you visit camp according to camp visitation guidelines, on the designated Visiting Day. Unexpected visits can disrupt the campers' sense of independence and even provoke homesickness. If you have any doubts about the appropriateness of your visit, don't hesitate to reach out to the camp director and get the green light.

The Varied Campers’ Reactions on Visiting Day

During Visiting Day, you may encounter a range of behaviors from your child, each expressing their unique camp experience. Let's explore a few examples:

The Fountain of Youth

These campers are bursting with excitement and want to share every detail of their camp adventures with you. From whirlwind tours to rapid-fire stories, they can't wait to show you how much fun they had. Embrace their enthusiasm and join them on this joyful journey!

The Poker Face

While these campers may seem reserved, it doesn't mean they didn't have a great time. Poker Face kids often find it difficult to say goodbye to new friends and the camp experience, leading to a quieter demeanor. Give them time, and they'll open up about their camp memories.

The Tearful Camper

Visiting Day can evoke strong emotions, and some campers may shed a few tears as they bid farewell to their summer home. It's a testament to the power of the overnight camp experience. Respect their feelings, ask if they prefer a quick departure or a longer goodbye, and offer support as they navigate their emotions.

The Sensationalist

These campers love to share their most dramatic camp stories, whether it's a thrilling adventure or a comical mishap. Listen attentively, knowing that all campers have a mix of positive and negative experiences. Get the full picture by encouraging them to share a balanced account of their camp journey.

Tips for Visiting Day at Summer Camp

Now that you're aware of the different reactions you might encounter, let's discuss some practical tips to make your visit to summer camp a successful one!

Be Punctual

Stick to your promised arrival time. Your child will be eagerly anticipating your visit; Arriving on time ensures that you don't disrupt their camp activities or keep them waiting anxiously.

Take a Tour

Your child will love to show you around camp. Supporting campers on Visiting Day is important. Let them lead the way and proudly showcase their favorite spots and activities. Remember, this is their time to shine, so keep any critical comments to yourself and focus on celebrating their achievements.

Keep an Open Mind

If you have questions or concerns about certain aspects of camp, approach the topic with curiosity and seek explanations before passing judgment. Acknowledge and praise your child's accomplishments.

Share Sad News in Person

If there's any sad news to share, such as the loss of a pet, it's best to deliver it in person. Being there to provide comfort and support during difficult times is crucial for your child. Break the news early on Visiting Day to allow ample time for conversation and to address any concerns or emotions that may arise.

Arrange Alternatives if you can't Attend

In the event that you can't attend Visiting Day, it's important to communicate with your child well in advance. While they may be disappointed, make alternative arrangements for them to enjoy the day with a friend's family. This way, they can still partake in the Visiting Day experience and create lasting memories with their camp community.

Remember, Visiting Day can be an emotional time for both campers and parents. You may feel compelled to offer your child a ride home, but resist it. Encourage their continued camp experience and reassure them that you'll see each other again soon. This builds their resilience and allows them to fully immerse themselves in the camp environment.

For further insights and guidance on Visiting Day and other aspects of summer camp, consider picking up a copy of 'The Summer Camp Handbook' by Chris Thurber and Jon Malinowski. Their expertise and advice will help you navigate the camp experience with confidence and make the most of your time together.

Embrace the surprises, cherish the connections, and celebrate the growth and joy that summer camp brings. And remember, your child's journey at camp is a victory in itself. Thanks for reading, and happy Visiting Day!

- John

Happy Fourth, Shoppers!

With Independence Day right on our heels, we're revving up the summer season in full swing here at Everything Summer Camp! Prepare for an explosive celebration with our Fourth of July Sale which is in effect right now! This dazzling sale will keep the fireworks going until Tuesday, July 6th, so you have ample time to grab the hottest deals in town. Get ready to ignite the summer in style!

Unbelievable Discounts Await!

Save with our sale this summer! You’ll find great discounts in our popular store categories such as Name Labels, Bunk & Bath, Camping Gear, and Trunks and Duffels! Read on to get a taste of the major highlights of this sale that’s sure to put a smile on your camper’s face!

Save on Essential Camp Gear

Score big savings on our top-notch Pop Up Soft Trunks! We're offering a $20 discount on all our soft trunks. And that's not all! Shop around for great discounts on select Trunk Accessories that will take your camper's organization and functionality to the next level.

Discounted Supplies for a Thrilling Summer

Label everything with style! Enjoy our prices cut back on labeling products like our Iron-On Clothing Name Labels, our Stick-On EVERYTHING Name Labels, as well as our Clothing Stamp.

Personalized Gear for a Memorable Stay

Lock away your dirty camp clothes in a good looking Laundry Bag. You can find some nice discounts on our Personalized Laundry Bag options as well as all of our cool Designer Laundry Bag options.

Bedding Clearance Bonanza

Send your camper to bed with some serious discounts on specific bedding items like our Autograph Camping Pillow Case, Sweatshirt Blanket, Bunkhouse Plaid Wool Blanket. Find discounts products from the Cabin Comfort brand too with items like Camp Cot Sheet Sets, Memory Foam Egg Crate Mattress, and Graphic Sweatshirt Blanket.

Rolled Back Packs

Prep for the next hiking excursion with discounted packs from fantastic brand names such as Kelty, Deuter, and Sierra Designs—all available right here at Everything Summer Camp.

These mentions are a good start, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg! Be sure to peruse other categories throughout our online store like Travel Accessories, Sleeping Bags, Footwear, Socks, Water Bottles, Fans, and more. Don't miss out on these incredible savings during our Fourth of July Sale. Stock up on high-quality gear, personalize your camper's belongings, and create unforgettable memories. But hurry, these offers won't last long! As always, thanks for reading!

- John

Howdy, Little Loggers!

Today we raise our axes as a salute to the legendary lumberjack of American folklore. June 28th is Paul Bunyan Day. A towering figure, his immense frame filled with extraordinary strength, Paul worked tirelessly, felling trees in the bountiful forests of North America during the lumber industry's golden era, the mid-1800s.

According to the tales, Paul Bunyan and his loyal companion, Babe (the Blue Ox), roamed the North American forests, leaving behind a legacy of incredible stories. His exploits were told around campfires, with the stories getting more embellished all the time. From creating the Great Lakes with his enormous footsteps to carving out the Grand Canyon with his trusty axe, Paul Bunyan's exploits were said to have shaped the very landscape of our country.

Back in those days, logging was a thriving profession, driven by the demand for wood to fuel the growth and development of our great nation. From mighty ships that sailed the seas to sturdy homes that sheltered families, wood played a vital role in crafting the world around us.

Even footlocker trunks, essential for travel storage, were fashioned from this precious resource. Inspired by Paul Bunyan's understanding of the importance of forests and their abundant resources, we proudly carry forward the legacy of wooden craftsmanship with our remarkable C&N Footlocker Trunks—crafted with the same dedication and attention to detail as those long ago.

Our trunks are built to withstand the test of time and the rugged roads of adventure at summer camp and beyond. Just as Paul Bunyan commanded respect with his unwavering might, our C&N Footlocker Trunks stand tall as symbols of quality construction and reliability.

Here at Everything Summer Camp, we recognize the importance of preserving our forests and cherishing the trees that provide us with such valuable resources. That's why we've partnered with One Tree Planted, a remarkable, nonprofit organization that’s dedicated to reforestation efforts. For every camp trunk sold, a new tree is planted, contributing to the preservation and restoration of our natural landscapes.

As you embark on your own adventures, let the spirit of Paul Bunyan's legend inspire you to cherish the wonders of nature and forge lasting memories at summer camp. Thanks for reading, Lumberjacks and Lumberjills. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John