Happy First of May, Summer Lovers!

The sun casts its golden rays, the forests are full with foliage once again, and the water invites you in. May has arrived—time to enjoy hiking through lush green forests, swimming in crystal-clear lakes, and simple picnics in the park. With nature coming alive all around us, there's no better time to indulge in the great outdoors and soak up the beauty of the natural world than the month of May.

Its very name comes from Maia, the Greek goddess of fruitfulness and fertility. Similar to how this month brings us blooming flowers, buzzing bees, and the start of summer fun, Maia was all about growth, abundance, and new beginnings! Here are some other interesting facts about May:

The Green Birthstone

Among some of the most precious birthstones on earth like rubies and diamonds, May has one of the rarest gemstones associated with it. Which one? The Emerald! This beautiful green stone represents love and success—just like the warm friendships and awesome adventures you'll find at summer camp.

Always a New Day

May is like no other month! Why? Throughout the year, other months will repeat which day of the week they begin on. This year, for instance, the first of November will land on a Friday—the same day on which March began. May, however, never starts or ends on the same day of the week as any other month! Isn't that cool? May has its own special way of dancing through the days to make it unique!

On This Day in History

On May 1, 1931, The Empire State Building opened its doors—a towering marvel of engineering! It held the title of the world's tallest building for nearly four decades until newer skyscrapers came along, reaching new heights on the skyline. But Empire State Building remains an iconic and breathtaking symbol of New York City.

May also brings with it a sense of excitement and anticipation for the summer camp season. As the school year comes to a close, thoughts turn to the adventures that lie ahead at camp like making new friends, learning new skills, and creating memories that will last a lifetime!

The camp season will be here before you know it, so take the time to acquire the proper gear and review important information with your camper, such as emergency contact numbers, medical information, and instructions from the camp. Have them pack personal items they’ll want to bring along like books, games, and photos from home. Thanks for reading, Camp Fans. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Zipper-Snappers!

Today is National Zipper Day as it’s celebrated each year on April 29th. Such an everyday, ordinary object, the zipper actually revolutionized our means of closure for a vast number of items like clothing and a long list of camping gear like sleeping bags, backpacks, duffel bags, toiletry bags, and more! Zippers were first invented in 1893 to be a faster, more efficient alternative to what people did before than: button up.

When it comes to the world of zippers, there’s one company that reigns supreme: YKK. Renowned for their time-tested design, appearance, and longevity, YKK zippers are used to fasten all sorts of things.

A Lot Going On

You wouldn’t think it just looking at one, but a typical zipper has over a dozen parts, including teeth, sliders, and a pull tab. The teeth are the interlocking parts of the zipper that make it work, while the slider is what moves up and down the teeth to open and close the zipper. The pull tab is the part of it you hold it by to move the slider. There’s a lot to get right—and on such a miniscule scale. But YKK has been getting it right for nearly the last century.

A Name of Initials

The company was founded in 1934 by Tadao Yoshida in Tokyo, Japan. I can’t pronounce it, but the full company name is ‘Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha’ which essentially translates to “Yoshida Company Limited” in English. Over years of stamping their initials onto the pull tabs of their zippers, this abbreviation got to be recognized as the company's trademark.

Take a Number

Did you know that the number listed for a zipper (i.e. #10 Zipper) refers to the length in millimeters across the fabric on either side of the teeth? This measurement is used to ensure that the zipper will fit properly on the garment or item it is intended for.

When it comes to camping gear, zippers are pretty important so we want to make sure you’re informed when you’re shopping our online store here at Everything Summer Camp! The next time you're zipping up a rain jacket or accessing your sleeping bag, take a moment to appreciate the power of the modest, yet mighty zipper. Happy National Zipper Day, Everybody. Thanks for reading. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Camp Folks!

Once you’ve arrived at camp on Opening Day, unloaded your vehicle of all the camp gear you brought, and been assigned a cabin, it’s time to get your bunk area set up! When it comes to setting up your bunk area, a good game plan goes a long way. Make you camper’s bunk area feel like home-away-from-home! Just check out these great ideas for creating an inviting space in your camper’s cabin.

Pack Smart

Start by packing your trunk in reverse, with essentials like fitted sheets, sleeping bags, and pillows on top for easy access. This not only saves time but also gives you a cozy spot to sit and unpack.

Just Like Home

Stuffed animals, throws, and small pillows all add warmth and coziness to your bunk during lounge time or throughout bedtime. Don't forget to keep a box or container handy for storing books and activities.

Clean and Organized

Keep your bunk area tidy by designating spots for essentials like laundry bags and garbage cans. Bringing an extra set of sheets allows for easy changes in the middle of camp. You can also put a fun Floor Mat down next to your bunk to help keep sand and dirt off the mattress.

This Time it’s Personal

Make your bunk feel like your own by adding touches of personality and comfort. Battery-operated string lights and fans create comfort. Decorate with family photos and mementos can help stave off homesickness and make your space feel more personal as well.

By following these tips, you can transform your bunk area into a cozy retreat where your camper can relax and recharge after a day of camp adventures. With a little creativity and preparation, your bunk can become your own slice of home away from home. Thanks for reading, Camp Folks! And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Camp Folks!

Imagine hiking through a landscape of towering mountains, serene lakes, and rugged coastlines along the picturesque coast of Maine. Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature, you’ll have the experience of a lifetime at Acadia National Park—a treasure trove of natural wonders and diverse terrain. From exposed granite domes to cobble beaches, this place is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and summer camp fun.

At the heart of Acadia lies Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the Atlantic Coast. Standing atop this mighty summit, you'll be treated to sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape—a breathtaking view that will leave you in awe.

But Acadia's beauty is more than just what you see; it has a rich history that dates back more than 10,000 years. From the indigenous Wabanaki people to European explorers and families on vacation, the park's story is as rugged and enduring as the land itself. Thanks to the efforts of conservation-minded individuals like George B. Dorr, Acadia became a beacon of preservation, safeguarding its natural wonders for generations to come.

Whether you're exploring the park's historic carriage roads, hiking its rugged trails, or paddling along its pristine coastline, Acadia offers endless opportunities for adventure. And with our National Parks Designer Trunk collection, you can carry a piece of Acadia's rugged beauty with you wherever you roam.

Embark on your own journey into the wild and commemorate your adventure with our Acadia Trunk. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time visitor, there's no better time to experience the wonders of this natural gem. Will you be fortunate enough to have an adventure of your own in this cool, natural setting? Tune in to our next ‘Places to Visit’ Blog post about the Everglades National Park in Florida. Thanks for reading, Camp Folks. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Camp Folks!

As trunkmakers, here at Everything Summer Camp, we have incredible respect for the craft of woodworking—steeped in tradition all throughout history. Our trunks speak for themselves when it comes to their integrity, but tricks of the trade have helped us create such indestructible footlockers. How about the folks who came up with the tricks? There have been a select few who have truly left their mark on the industry. Today, let's take a peek at some of the most influential figures who have shaped woodworking as we know it:

Thomas Chippendale

Born in 1718 in London, England, Thomas elevated woodworking from a mere craft to an art form. His designs, featured in his book ‘The Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker's Director,’ continue to inspire woodworkers to this day.

William Sheraton

Born in 1751 in England, William believed in making fine furniture accessible to all. His designs, showcased in ‘The Cabinet Dictionary,’ focused on affordability without compromising quality.

Gustav Stickley

A champion of the Arts and Crafts movement, Gustav, born in 1858 in Minnesota, simplified furniture design by emphasizing natural materials and functionality over ornamentation.

George Nakashima

Japanese-American woodworker George, born in 1905 in Pennsylvania, viewed woodworking as an art form. His furniture designs, influenced by his upbringing in Japan, are celebrated for their craftsmanship and beauty.

Sam Maloof

Sam, born in 1916 in California, was known for his innovative furniture designs using local materials. His pieces, often crafted with individual wood strands, showcased his dedication to craftsmanship and creativity.

Wendell Castle

Born in 1932 in Kansas, Wendell pushed the boundaries of woodworking with his incorporation of paper mache into his designs. His work, delicate yet striking, continues to inspire artists and craftsmen worldwide.

James Krenov

James, born in 1927 in California, dedicated his life to creating beautiful pieces of art through woodworking. His teachings and writings have inspired countless woodworkers to pursue their craft with passion and dedication.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh

Scottish architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh, born in 1868 in Glasgow, drew inspiration from nature to create modernist designs that left a lasting impact on architecture and the arts.

Bunzo Mikuni

Dubbed ‘the George Nakashima of Japan,’ Bunzo, born in 1915 in Tokyo, elevated woodworking through his furniture designs and craftsmanship. His legacy continues to influence woodworkers the world over.

In conclusion, the contributions of these influential woodworkers have shaped the craft of woodworking and left an indelible mark on its history. From their innovative designs to their dedication to craftsmanship, their legacies continue to inspire generations of woodworkers to come. Thanks for reading, Wood Fans! And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John