So, the summer of 2014 is still a l-o-n-g 8 months away. But here are a few things to keep you warm during the colder months of the year…

1.)    Opening day. Is there any better feeling than that moment the bus pulls up to camp, you step off and are immediately tackled by a herd of camp friends who have waited all year to see you?

2.)    Campfires. Every camp has its own version. In fact, your camp’s campfire is a big part of what makes it your camp. You’re sure of two things: 1.) your camp’s campfire is the best. 2.) S’mores made anywhere other than camp are just not as good.

3.)    Sing-alongs. It’s amazing how much singing silly songs arm-in-arm with your camp friends during the summer makes you feel. Admit it. You find yourselfsinging to yourself throughout the winter. Your school friends catch you. ‘It’s a camp thing,’ you say. You immediately send a vine to all of your camp friends of you singing—doing motions too–of your favorite camp songs.

4.)    Arts & Crafts. Seriously, you can tie-dye at home too…really.

5.)    The official camp video, yearbook, or seasonal newsletter. It should be showing up in your mailbox anytime now. Host a party. Reminisce about this past summer. Know that next summer will be here before you know it. Set goals now. Next summer will be epic.

6.)    Camp Shows. Thespians and camp go hand-in-hand. It’s no coincidence that a lot the biggest names in Hollywood are summer camp alumni. Summer camp is a breeding ground for creativity and the perfect environment for exploring your creative side.  Admit it. You’re still humming the songs from your camp shows this past summer.

7.)    Boats. Camp has lots of boats. Ski boats, sailboats, kayaks, canoes: whichever your choice, one fact hails true: some of the best moments of the summer happen on the water.

8.)    Trips. Is a baseball game at home ever as good as it is when you’re enjoying it with your camp friends? What about a roller coasters? Didn’t think so.

9.)    Camp food. Admit it. You live for chocolate chip pancakes.

10.)  Bunk/Cabin mates. When you come home with something exciting to share during the winter, with whom do you share it?