Why Accreditation is important to Foley

The American Camp Association is a community of camp professionals dedicated to enriching the lives of children through the camp experience. ACA Accreditation means that Camp Foley voluntarily submitted to a thorough review of up to 300 standards by the American Camp Association (ACA) — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management. American Camp Association collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies to assure that current practices at the camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. 

Camp Foley and ACA form a dedicated partnership that promotes summers of growth and fun in an environment committed to safety.

As a leading authority in youth development, the ACA helps all accredited camps provide:

• Camp communities committed to a safe, nurturing environment
• Caring, competent adult role models
• Healthy, developmentally appropriate experiences
• Service to the community and the natural world
• Opportunities for leadership and personal growth
• Discovery, experiential education, and learning opportunities
• Excellence and continuous self-improvement

Camp Foley is proud of its long history of accreditation but more proud of providing a quality experience for the campers and families that we serve.

Make this experience a reality - Register Today! 

Empathy is a Verb.

The Power Of Empathy

The topic of empathy is deep, and it is so important in development. If we expect our children to open their hearts and learn empathy we have to encourage healthy, real life interactions. Anita Nowak pushes her students to practice empathy, and it is brilliant. Check it out in her Ted Talk below! 

Empathy is a verb. It needs to be active. It needs to be meaningful. It needs to be real. - Michele Borba

Camp Creature: Gray Wolf

The gray wolf is making a return appearance on the Rattlin' Blog! Why you ask? Because this species is continuing their comeback after many years of low population numbers. The gray wolf is both an intriguing and inspiring species and therefore deserves a shoutout. 

They have had quite the history here in Minnesota. Wolves have been on and off the endangered list multiple times, federally protected, and the best part is, they have battled back and their populations are seeing consistent rises! According to the Minnesota DNR, Minnesota currently has the second highest population of gray wolves in the country, only behind Alaska. Thumbs up to these resilient pups. 

In all honesty, there has not been a wolf sighting directly at camp in I don't know how long, so calling wolves a "camp creature" is a bit of a stretch. Large predators may seem intimidating to us, but the benefits the ecosystem experiences outweigh any level of fear. Check out how wolves keep Yellowstone National Park in balance.  

We enjoy Minnesota's natural wildlife and want you to as well! Check out these Wolf Cams put on by the International Wolf Center in Ely, Minnesota. 

Have a nature-filled day today, and everyday!  

We Can All Be Leaders

Everyday Leadership

Drew Dudley states, "we have made leadership into something bigger than us." I couldn't agree more. Leadership has been put on this pedestal that makes people question if they are even capable of being a leader. Let me tell you, you are, and can continue to be as strong of a leader as you want to be. Let's see if Drew Dudley can inspire you, check out his TedTalk below. 

We encourage leadership skill development in each of our campers and truly believe everyone is capable of making a difference.   

Earth Day: Let's Celebrate with a Call to Action!

The work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers. - Juliette Gordon Low

Take a moment to really let this quote sink in. What are we doing on this earth if not changing and shaping the planet on a daily basis. Everything we do affects the world around us, and we live with the consequences of our actions (both positive and negative). So let us think about how we are using our impact for the greater good. In less than a week it is believed that ONE BILLION  people in 192 countries will take part in what is the largest civic-focused day of action in the world. 

Let's add to that number as a group! Let me hit you with some facts about Earth Day, our current earthly state, and what we can do to help!

First: Did you know, that the first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970 as a result of the negative impacts from industrial development and the Santa Barbara Oil Blowout of 1969 that spilled three million gallons of oil into the Pacific Ocean? Denis Hayes organized the first day of recognition and Senator Gaylord Nelson played a large role in making it a day of observance for years to come. Next year will be the 50th Anniversary!

"The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we shall have for destruction." - Rachel Carson, Founder of the environmental movement and author of Silent Spring

Second: This year's theme for Earth Day is Protect our Species! Did you know that between one and five species will go extinct annually - BUT scientists are estimating that we are losing species at 1,000-10,000 times the normal rate, with multiple extinctions daily. Species are disappearing before we even learn about them! It's up to us as a human race to minimize our impact, educate ourselves, and be proactive in our protection of Earth.

Third: Here are some neat results of people working together on Earth Day to create positive environmental impacts:

• In 2012 - more than 100,000 people rode bikes in China to reduce CO2 emissions and save fuel
• In 2011 - 28 million trees were planted in Afghanistan
• In Panama - 100 endangered species of orchids were planted and maintained to prevent extinction

A HUGE endeavor and accomplishment is currently taking place. For the 50th Anniversary (2020) Earth Day Network is striving for 3 Billion Acts of Green. This could be no longer using plastic bags, giving up meat, planting a tree, eating organic produce, writing notes to the government, and the list could go on and on! It's anything that you do with a environmentally-conscious effort. 

What can you do to help get to this goal of 3 Billion Acts of Green?

• Check out the link with unlimited ways you can take action!
• Plant a tree/group of trees
• Try composting
• Take a walk in nature and just appreciate it
• Host a recycling party
• Start a letter-writing campaign to the government about ecological concerns
• Start a neighborhood garden
• Clean the highways and streams - litter control
• Monitor electricity being used in your house and cut back (shower length, leaving the lights on  when you leave the room, water faucet usage, TV/Phone screen time. 
• Have a zero-waste day (week, month, year!)

At camp, we're conscious of the amount of electricity we use, we host various schools during the month of May to teach environmental education, focus on taking only what you know what you'll eat while reducing the amount of food you take for yourself. It's important to know that these practices can be part of your life at camp and outside of it!

Most importantly, use these tactics in your daily lives, and together we'll be able to make a difference for our planet. As we prepare to celebrate this special day, I'll leave you with this quote by John Muir while we think of the bigger picture and what our impact truly is:

"When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe." - John Muir, Naturalist, known as the Father of the National Parks

Let's make Earth Day 2019 something we're proud to be a part of!

Who Loves Podcasts?!

Podcasts are increasing in popularity, as you can listen to them while still having the mobility of your hands and take a break from looking at your screen. The speakers are able to keep you informed of newsworthy topics and even provide some humor in the midst of you learning valuable information. We're taking today to give you some suggestions for podcasts you can incorporate in your lives!

If you check out this page on Camp Foley's site, you'll be directed to a part of our website devoted to some environmentally conscious links. There are four kid-friendly podcasts displayed here that are informative for kids (and adults, too)!

For the Family

Brains On is produced by a non-profit organization called American Public Media, and it works to answer questions about the world. Their goal is to encourage natural curiosity - they boast that it can be enjoyed by any age! Here is a list of their 5 most popular podcasts they've done so far.

 The next one we're featuring is The Naked Scientists Podcast which is usually suited for kids (parents may want to pre-listen), and its mission is to deliver scientific reporting and entertainment of the highest caliber. It was started in 2001, and it is currently one of the world's most popular science shows!

The Show About Science is hosted by Nate Butkus, a second grader, who has guests on his show to help investigate and explore scientific topics about the world.  This one is sure to spark some curiosity!

Peace Out is a relaxation podcast that focuses on mindfulness and stories for kids (adults, you'll enjoy this one too!) to practice breathing and visualization exercises. These exercises are great as a before-bed wind-down to help find a smooth transition into quiet mindfulness - or any time of the day.

These 10 TedTalks are specifically meant for the family to enjoy together or individually no matter your age. Though this suggestion is not a podcast, it can be listened to with the entire family!

For Parents

Additionally, this list of 17 Parenting TedTalks, may be something of interest! Topics include Teach Girls Bravery, Not Perfection, How to Raise Successful Kids - Without Over-Parenting, and Love, No Matter What.

Zen Parenting is a podcast run by a husband and wife team whose mission is to use experience, research, pop culture and humor to explore various topics.

*Keep in mind: these are suggestions, and we understand that each of our Foley Families have different values and some of these podcasts may work for you and some may not!

That being said, check them out - see what you like! We hope you enjoy these suggestions and find some valuable information and humor for both kids and adults.

First Time Camper? Check this out: A Beginner's Guide to Camp Foley

A Beginner’s Guide to Camp Foley

Welcome to Foley! As two long time campers (with a combined 10 years at Foley), we know that coming to camp for the first time can be pretty intimidating. So from some formerly terrified first year campers to another, here’s a guide to help ease your fears as much as we wish ours could’ve been. Prepare to make this summer incredible!

First off, the packing list. Now, it’s pretty extensive and has a great outline for all you’ll be needing, but let’s get into the specifics. While some things are definitely necessary to bring with you to camp (deodorant, shampoo, sun screen, etc.), other items are up for more personal preference, like swimsuits, for example. Although the Foley packing list says to only bring two swimsuits, this year we’ll be bringing three. We spend a lot of our day at the waterfront and prefer to avoid any situation where we might have to put on a cold, wet suit. If you're like us, these next 1-4 weeks you’ll be spending a lot of time around the water. Believe us, you'll want that 3rd suit! Next, your actual clothes. Bring some extra layers to put on during those cooler nights, and make sure to bring comfy clothes to wear around on the daily. Most importantly, bring clothes that you feel most comfortable in! To be honest, there will probably be 4-6 outfits that you’ll find yourself wearing almost every day. Make sure they’re ones you’re totally able to move around in, and make sure you don’t care about them too much (not all of our shirts have always survived). Pack some extra accessories, too! Personally, we always bring some sort of camera (to document all of the good times), letter-writing materials (send the Foley address to your friends and family so they can write you!), and friendship bracelet string. Above all, we bring tons of costumes. We can promise you that there will be more than enough opportunities to dress up in wild outfits- make sure to bring enough to stunt on everyone during all of Foley’s special events.

So the day finally arrives! You’re stepping out of the bus or car and into that blinding Minnesota sunshine. What should you expect? For starters, step out with an open mind. Be ready for new experiences. Let yourself be excited! In our opinion, it’s pretty impossible to not have a great time at camp, but making the most out of your time can really help you have the best time possible.

The first day is always a whirlwind of rules, introductions, campfire songs, and spaghetti. It can get to be overwhelming at times, especially if you’ve never been away from home for too long. It can also be really exciting! You get to meet all of the new people in your cabin (they won’t be new to you for too long, though), set up your bunk and unpack, and watch the crazy opening campfire skits. If you’re ever feeling too overwhelmed, talk to one of your counselors. They’re there to talk to you and help you through things- reach out to them!

On the first night, when you’re finally lying down in your bunk, surrounded by the people who are about to become your best friends, take a second to think about what you want to make sure to accomplish in the next few weeks. Set some goals for yourself to live up to. Try to do one thing everyday that scares you. Get out of your comfort zone, talk to as many people as possible, put yourself out there! If there’s any place on earth to take risks and be yourself, it’s definitely camp.

Now- the first morning! The day before, you will have picked your first out of three schedules that you’ll have during your time at camp. When choosing those five activities, here’s what we recommend:

1. Choose two things that you’ve never tried before.
2. Choose two activities you know you love.
3. And choose one activity that’s going to get you out of your comfort zone. 

If you’re not sure where one of your activities begins, don’t be afraid to ask someone. People at camp are some of the friendliest people you’ll probably ever meet, and no one expects you to know where everything is on your first day. So ask around!

The next few weeks will go by in a blur. Win as many canteens as possible, laugh as much as you can, and don’t bet that you’ll eat six pieces of Sodabread (believe us. It’s not worth it). Above all else, make sure to live in the moment. Enjoy the gorgeous nature surrounding you, enjoy the amazing time you have with the people around you, enjoy the little things that make camp what it is. Explore, be open, be curious!

Time spent at camp doesn’t match up to time spent at home. Days can feel as if they’ve gone by in a week, and weeks can feel like they’ve gone by in hours. At the end of your summer at Foley, it might feel as if it’s only been minutes since you first stepped out of that bus or car and into the sunshine. And you’re definitely going to leave already looking forward to what next year’s camp adventures have in store. So before you first walk out into your new home away from home, remember to make the most out of your time. We promise it’ll be worth it. Camp has been one of the most meaningful experiences in our lives, and we hope it’ll be the same for you. Can’t wait to see you this summer!

Faith and Grace :)

Self-Directed Play at Camp Foley: Adventure Playgrounds!

We know that play and structure are two aspects of childhood that are important for the growth and development of youth. With that being said, studies are also beginning to emerge that too much structure and control in a child's activities can hinder decision-making, behavior regulation, and the belief that they are in control of their own lives.

Kids involved in less-structured activities have shown an increase in self-directed executive function as mentioned in Education Week's study, Too Many Structured Activities May Hinder Children's Executive Functioning.  The study defined structured activities as being anything organized and supervised by adults. Being involved in less-structured activities would include free play where the child is in charge of making decisions about what they do.

Play has been declining since the 50's resulting in the side effects stated above and leading to a rise in anxiety and problems with attention. Peter Gray's article, All Work and No Play: Why Your Kids Are More Anxious, Depressed lays out why play is so important for our youth.

In defense of structure, it can be a very beneficial piece of our everyday lives. Repeatable and familiar events decrease anxiety and allow us to prepare for what is likely to happen. Structure can often times be confused with control, where there is an adult (or a "decider") determining what happens. Structure can be positive, and with the right limits and boundaries, it can spur creativity within those boundaries. What if there was a way to spur creativity, autonomy, self-directed play, self-guided interest, and decision-making skills within a structured system?

At Camp Foley, we strive for both - we focus on structure, and we allow time for play! We are a Summer Camp, after all! We are introducing a NEW idea this summer: Adventure Playgrounds! 

We will have designated spots around camp during our non-activity days that have clear limits and boundaries, and campers will be able to choose entirely as to what is done at that spot. Various camp supplies will be in these spots, and kids are free to use them in any way they like within the boundaries and limits established. The point is to have camper-driven spaces in camp that promote kids learning how to interact, play, and choose what they want to do. Think similarly to Free Swim; campers choose things to do based on what's written on our whiteboard. If they opt for Paddlemania, they decide from the items available to them with clear instructions (buddy system, wearing a lifejacket, one person on the swing at a time, etc.). There's a Water Swing, Corcls, Playaks, and Water Mats to choose from. This is a depiction of structure with room for decision-making, free play, and creativity that we have here at Foley.

We can't wait to have Adventure Playgrounds set up all around camp, just waiting for the camper's creativity to PLAY this summer. Be sure to Register Today to make Camp Foley part of your summer!

Maintaining Whitefish -- Don't Let Invasive Species In!

Let's get deep for a second. Let's talk about one of the most incredible aspects of Camp Foley. Let's put aside the friendships and the skills learned over a summer for just a minute. We're going to discuss how fortunate we are to be located on such an amazing body of water. Lower Whitefish Lake is an ideal setting for so many people to learn how to ski, sail, swim, fish - you name it. Whitefish makes it happen.

Campers Snorkeling in Whitefish Lake

The topic that is heavy on our minds is AIS, or aquatic invasive species. Keeping our lakes clean is such a priority to us at Foley, as it is a big part of who we are. We have worked closely with our local lake association (WAPOA) and a few members of the Foley team were trained as DNR volunteers to check boats going into and coming out of the Whitefish Chain for these aquatic invasive species. We feel fortunate that we were able to be trained in this and feel proud that we are protecting our lakes. Campers also had the opportunity to sign up to come shadow us as we checked boats so they felt they contributed to the greater good of our chain as well.

Here's where things get tricky.
Even with our stepped up efforts, over the past few years we have seen a few changes occurring in our treasured lake. Changes due to zebra mussels making their way into Whitefish. With no direct way to get rid of the zebra mussels, we now need to do a better job at ensuring more invasive species don't get in and do what we can to manage the AIS we do have.

Now down to some facts and where you all can help stop the spread of AIS.
Up until 2018 the DNR offered grants to lake associations to go directly toward managing aquatic invasive species. A good portion of these funds went directly to staffing the landings with boat inspectors. In 2018 no grants were available and that is the same for 2019. This means the DNR and volunteers spent 7,500 fewer hours at lake landings inspecting boats in 2018. Senators are currently working to pass a law that would allow for $1 million of General Fund money for matching grants to lake associations for controlling aquatic invasive species.  Lake associations do not have the means to fund their efforts alone, so this law would provide means for continued prevention of the spread of AIS and ultimately keep Whitefish as pristine as possible. We need to be part of this effort together.

As a population who utilizes one of Minnesota's gorgeous lakes, I encourage you all to click the "Take Action" button below to send an email to ask our senator to support this legislation. Let's work to keep the Whitefish water quality high for generations and generations to come. You can also donate directly to WAPOA is this is something that you directly would like to support!

"While AIS is a statewide problem, for too long the costs have been local. Lake Associations deserve support in the work they do to protect the public good of healthy lake ecosystems." - Jeff Forester, Executive Director at Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates 

--> TAKE ACTION <--

Tales of Creativity and Play: A Ted Talk for All of Us

Tales of Creativity and Play

Raise your hand if you believe playfulness helps drive you towards more creative solutions and ultimately more happiness in your everyday life? Our hands are raised high! We love play, and it has a place in as much of our lives as we allow for it. Here are three takeaways that excited us from this Ted Talk:

1.  Having a sense of trust and friendship is what allows us to feel secure in taking creative risks - something we should all be doing and what we strive for at Camp. 
2. Learning is a by-product of play (learning by doing), you don't need a formal workshop to be creative - use what you have around you to think with your hands!
3. Act out flaws in whatever you may be working on. Role-playing can be a great tool for understanding rules of social interaction. Think about "playing house" or "playing store." You are trying out this identity and living through experience to learn what works and what doesn't when it happens in life.

Playful exploration, playful building and role-play are great ways to learn and gain new insight!

In the Ted Talk below, Tim Brown discusses and expounds on creativity and play in schools, in the workplace, at home, etc. Prepare to be inspired to become more playful!  

Ted Talk: Tim Brown Tales of Creativity and Play

Five Love Languages for Showing Gratitude

Happy New Year from all of us here at Foley! As we gear up for 2019 (what?!) we start setting resolutions. We have goals we want to stick to, and with it being National Thank You Month, what's more fitting than adding gratitude to that list of what we continue to progress in?

As we know, people come from all walks of life with different backgrounds, cultures and family traditions - especially at camp. That being said, different people are appreciated in other ways than you might like to be appreciated. You might have heard of the Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman, and as we dive into National Thank You Month, we have the opportunity to appreciate others in deeper, more meaningful ways:


1. Words of Affirmation
Expressing affection through spoken or written appreciation and/or praise.
Words of affirmation is one of the easiest ways to show your appreciation, but often it's neglected. Here are a few fun ways to express gratitude through words of affirmation!

1. Give yourself a thank you quota! Try to say thank you a certain amount of times throughout each day. You can even roll a die to get your quota for the day.
2. Saying any number of these 'thank yous'.
• "You are such a positive light wherever you are!"
• "You're a true friend, and I'm so grateful to have you in my life."
• "I admire and appreciate all that you've done for me."
• Congratulate someone for a job well done!
• "You're great at what you do!"
• "Thank you so much for all the time and energy you've put into _________."
3. Leave a sticky note with something positive written by you!
4. Write a Thank You Letter, poem, song.

2. Quality Time
Expressing appreciation through undivided, focused attention.
You can say thank you by spending quality, focused, conscious time with someone else! Leave your phone behind, get rid of distractions, and enjoy the present moment with that person.

1. Have a meaningful conversation with someone - maintain eye contact, ask reaffirming questions of understanding. It can be as easy as asking how someone's day was.
2. Go out to eat with someone! Enjoy visiting with someone over a delicious meal. Share laughs, good conversation. 
3. Go on a road trip! It could be cross country or just a ride around your neighborhood!
4. Take a class together - art, cooking, wood shop, (think about activities from camp!)

3. Receiving Gifts
Gifting is the symbolic gesture of saying thank you.
This isn't all about the gift itself, so much as it is the thought and love that went into why that gift was given. Say thank you to that person by putting thought and effort into their likes and dislikes!

1. Sneak a snack into their lunch bag.
2. Surprise them with their favorite drink.
3. Handmade gifts tend to be very sentimental and caring, as a lot of thought, time, and effort contribute to make something special for somebody.

4. Acts of Service
Actions that express gratitude and appreciation.
This can be one that is also easily overlooked as a way to say thank you! Think about what they have on their to-do list.

1. Maybe they're in the middle of a large cleaning project- lend a hand!
2. Make a meal for them if it allows them to relax for a bit (or a snack!)
3. Think about chores that would help not just you, but the whole family! Contribute your time and efforts to make someone's day a little easier.

5. Physical Touch
Expressing gratitude with physical touch towards another person!

1. Give that person a high five
2. Hug someone to say thank you
3. Give a pat on the back for a job well done.

Consider using any of these if someone has done something nice for you, and you want to return it with something kind!  Remember that National Thank You Month doesn't have to stop on February 1st, and we can observe these symbolic gestures of gratitude any time of the year. 

As the saying goes, let's "Disconnect to Connect"

Unplugging Our Kids.

Steve Baskin hits the nail on the head when he says, "a fulfilling life starts with face-to-face, interpersonal connections." Check out this insightful TedTalk to hear from another source why helping our kids unplug is so crucial in youth development.  

Unplug with us at Camp Foley! Register Today!

Camp Moves Simon. Participant Spotlight!

This October we saw our highest number of Camp Moves Me participants yet! 20 wonderful members of our Foley family dedicated their October exercise (running, biking, swimming, hiking, walking, kayaking/canoeing, etc.) and asked family and friends for donations. Donations go directly into the Camp Foley Scholarship fund, thus directly impacting our campers. 90% of the money raised will be deposited into our fund so we can help get more kids to camp next summer (the other 10% goes to the American Camp Association). We are ecstatic to say this Camp Moves Me campaign was our most successful yet! Thank you, thank you, thank you, to all of the participants and donors. You are incredible. 

We recently had a conversation with one of our campers who participated for the first time to get his thoughts on the Camp Moves Me campaign. Simon was a first year participant and raised over $400 during the month long campaign. The heart and drive this young man displays to help make this world a better place is inspiring. 

Featured Participant: Simon M.

Age & Years as a camper: I'm 12 and next summer will be my 6th summer at camp!    

                 

Simon racing in Vail, Colorado, while repping a
Camp Foley sweatshirt! 

Hobbies Outside of Camp: football, lacrosse, downhill ski racing, hanging out with family and friends, and helping people in need. 

Favorite Camp Meal:  Pancakes! They are so good!          

Favorite Camp Song: Down By The Bay

Why did you choose to participate in Camp Moves Me? I chose to do Camp Moves Me because I wanted to help raise money for people who couldn’t go to camp and experience the awesomeness of it so that they could go and experience it. 

What mode of exercise did you choose and how many miles did you complete?  I chose biking and I biked 100 miles. 

Completing 100 miles of biking is quite the accomplishment! What motivated you to complete your miles? My motivation was like I said before, because I like to help anyone in need. Also, I love to be outside and biking. 

Do you feel that all kids should have the opportunity to go to summer camp?  Yes, I do think that all kids should be able to go to camp, especially Camp Foley, because it changes your life. It makes you a better person and you have the most fun of your life. 

Would you recommend others participate in Camp Moves Me? Yes, I do think that more people should participate in Camp Moves Me because they are helping other people and it’s a good, healthy choice for them to push themselves to be active.


Way to go, Simon! We are proud of your accomplishments. Thanks again to all of the donors and participants - you help make camp great! 

The Foley Beach

It has been a dream of ours to add a beautiful stretch of beachfront to our Camp Foley paradise. This fall, our dream came true! All of the stars aligned when a nearby neighbors property went up for sale and we took the necessary steps to make it ours. And let us tell you, we are beyond excited for our campers to utilize this incredible space!

Watch our Facebook Live video to see our big reveal of the new beach. It's an amazing piece of property but don't take our word for it, watch the video and SEE for yourself!

The uses for The Foley Beach are endless and we are loving all of the suggestions we have already heard! Here's a quick compilation of some of those suggested programs:

1. Opening and/or Closing Campfires
2. Sand Castle Creations
3. Rock Skipping and Agate Hunting
4. Star Gazing
5. Swimming, of course! Complete with inflatables, canoes, and other general water toys!

Do you have an idea of how we could use this new property?! Email Jordan and let us know!

In the meantime, check out some photos of the new Foley Beach below:

Smooth Sailing into Summer '17

The ice is out on Whitefish and we can't contain our excitement for the fast approaching summer months! As we have watched the ice retreat and leave behind more and more open water, one specific addition to the waterfront comes to mind, the Hartley 12s.

Picture this, you and three of your besties are nervously walking across Foley Green to join 3-4 sailing. I say nervously because this will be your first time sailing in a boat larger than a Bic. When you arrive, you are instructed on the necessary skills required to sail before you even head down to the boats (which helped one friend who has never sailed, but of course you already learned in Sailing Bics). After hearing all this, your confidence is building and you head down the Marina steps and finally get a good look at the new, blue Hartley 12 sailboats, and woah are they beautiful.





As you and your besties begin rigging your boat, you realize these boats are nowhere near as intimidating as you thought. With the ample crew space, deep cockpit, and a high boom, you start thinking you don't need to be a pro to enjoy sailing these boats. One of your friends, who is an experienced sailor, also looks excited as she explains how smoothly a Hartley 12 sails through big waves and she points out that it is a very stable boat so capsizing is unlikely. You and your friends set sail and enjoy the next hour out on Whitefish learning how to maneuver this Hartley 12. By the end of the summer you know you will be confident and ready to teach new friends the exciting art of sailing in the summers to come!

Hartley 12's are a phenomenal sailboat to develop and enhance your skills and we cannot wait to see campers out sailing on Whitefish this summer!

Camp Creature: Bullsnake

Crikey, Mate! Don't. Move. Do you hear that rattle sound? I know what you're thinking, "Dude, we don't have rattle snakes up at camp." You are correct, but did you kno...OH, LOOK! There it is - the elusive Bullsnake. Have no fear, friends, that rattle sound is just a defense mechanism. Bullsnakes are known to mock rattle snakes to intimidate potential predators. Let's cautiously approach this beauty and learn all about camp's NEW RESIDENT SNAKE!

But Did You Know...

Camp's New Critter!

• Bullsnakes are nonvenomous.
• Bullsnakes are the second largest species of snake in Minnesota. They typically max out at around 6 feet long, but have been recorded to reach over 8 feet long!
• In Minnesota, bullsnakes are most commonly found along the shores of the Minnesota, Mississippi, and St. Croix rivers.
• Bullsnakes feed on small rodents, grounds birds, and the occasional egg. Our little critter will be on a diet of exclusively mice! Tasty, eh? 
• Bullsnakes are a reptile with the status of special concern in Minnesota. The primary threat to this species is habitat loss. 
• Bullsnakes are known for their "aggressive" personalities. If they feel threatened they will coil up and beat their tail on the ground rapidly- mimicking a rattle snake. However, once used to handling, they make great pets! They may seem aggressive but deep down they just want to be loved. 
• Bullsnakes are also known to "pretend" strike. They will strike like they will bite you, but they just headbutt you with the top of their head. For more info on bullsnakes the MN DNR is a great source!

Adult bullsnake

This bullsnake completes our educational lineup of six different species of snakes. We are very excited about the newest addition to the Camp Family! My nephew thinks his name should be Curious George, comment your thoughts below! If you have any cool pets at home we would love to hear about them, email your stories to ad@campfoley.com.

In Good or Bad Weather, These Indoor Activities Rock

Oh, boy. Is it March already?

Around this time of year at Camp Foley, we start seeing temperatures well below AND above freezing. With rain, snow, and sunshine all in the same week, how can we plan a fun day? If the weather's got you down, look no further than the trusty indoors. Here are three great ideas to snag for your next rainy day.


1. Bake and decorate cookies.

Cookies are quick and easy, and there are flavors for every picky eater! Grab a couple of friends or family members to help you whip up a batch, and then decorate to your liking. If you're feeling especially artsy, we think these flower cookies are almost too pretty to eat -- give 'em a shot!

2. Build a comfy fort.

What could be better than snuggling up in a blanket fort with a book or movie? Make one big enough to share with pals, or shut the world away for a while and enjoy some alone time. This page has some great ideas for forts that will keep you cozy until the sun returns.

3. Get started on yoga.

If you have some space for a little movement, yoga is a great indoor activity for almost any age and skill level. Not only does yoga strengthen muscles and improve flexibility, it can also be relaxing (especially with the sound of rain outside!).

If you're new to yoga entirely, here's a really helpful beginner tutorial. Parents, this one's a great video for getting your younger ones into it, too!

We know it's tough to stay inside for too long, but every Foleyite knows that fun is everywhere you look, no matter the weather. Let us know what your favorite rainy day activities are! Comment below or fill us in on Facebook.

F is for Faith

Camp Foley was originally founded by Father John P. Foley in 1924 and has proud roots in the Catholic faith. A lot has changed in 91 years, but to this day, campers sing grace before each meal and attend Catholic or non-denominational services every Saturday evening. We know that faith, Catholic or otherwise, is an integral part of each child’s personal development and well-being. We aim to help kids foster their own faith through careful guidance and by encouraging independent and group exploration.

Catholic campers or campers desiring a more traditional service on Saturday nights can experience mass in the stunning Our Lady of Snows Chapel, singing songs and celebrating their beliefs together. This gives campers the ability to take a break from the hustle and bustle of camp life to reconnect with themselves and others spiritually.

Foley counselors also offer a non-denominational service that is open and designed for all campers. Topics explored during non-denominational services include happiness and caring for others, and counselors illustrate these concepts with poetry, books, and hands-on activities. The goal here is to help campers achieve that spiritual connection through a better understanding of the world and people around them.

E is for Engage

There’s a place for everyone at Foley, regardless of interests or skill levels. We believe that every camper deserves to be engaged with camp life in their own special ways, whether it be through intense activities like wakeboarding and archery or through the creative arts activities like photography or guitar. We know that growth occurs when counselors and staff engage campers in activities that allow them to gain confidence and receive helpful feedback.

Never should anyone at camp feel bored or uninvolved; with days and nights packed with fun opportunities to form friendships, learn new skills, and see themselves in new, positive lights, kids are always a piece of the Foley puzzle. Like any team, we need the unique strengths of each and every person in order to be at our best. With that in mind, we seek to give and receive that constant and varied engagement.

D is for Dog

Nike & Norm in Staff Uniforms

Norm on a Boat

Two common sights around Camp Foley are Norm and Nike, the camp dogs. While Nike is known for her fluffy, teddy bear appearance (she is a mini Golden-doodle), excitability and overall carefree nature, Norm is a bit more serious, fiercely loyal (you can always tell where Alli is as he will be waiting outside of the whatever building she is in or following close at her heels) and lovable in a one on one situation.

The two dogs are best buds, often laying in the sun together or harassing chipmunks. However, just like human best friends, they have lots of differences. At any picnics you have to watch your plate if Nike is out, she is stealthy, fast and always in the mood for a good Sloppy Joe or peanut butter sandwich, but Norm will sit by you whining for a snack, however he rarely goes in without an invite. While Nike loves to swim, Norm prefers to chase squirrels. Norm is happy to sit quietly at campfire, Nike, not so much. Norm hates rain boots, Nike hates thunderstorms.

Nike "helping" with Docks

While they add entertainment and smiles to everyone (and sometimes just annoy us), we have found that from time to time, kids feeling a little down or missing home have loved to have Norm or Nike to talk to or pet for a few minutes. A little reminder perhaps of their pets.

Dogs really do make the best friends.