You May Know What a Minnesota Spring Looks Like...

...but have you seen Japan? As most of us are finishing up our spring break festivities and travels, we at Camp Foley know that some of you went to some pretty cool places. And, in honor of the new season, we'd like to take you on a little tour of some of the coolest spots around the world as spring drifts in.


1. Osaka, Japan

Cherry and plum blossoms are some of the most iconic signs of spring, and Osaka is known for its soft, pink aesthetic right around April. When you think of sweet aromas and delicate flowers, think Japan! Nothing is more beautiful than a setting that perfectly combines the natural soothing elements of spring with the exciting architecture of a world-class city.

2. Aspen, CO, USA
Aspen is just one of many gorgeous places to visit in Colorado, and there is no wrong time to go. The plus side of visiting in the spring? The skiing is magnificent and boasts some of the best views in the country, while temperatures become more moderate for other activities like hiking.

3. Paris, France
What better place to witness the blooming of spring than the City of Love? Paris is magical year round, but flowers popping up around the base of the Eiffel Tower is a sight like no other. Sip on some coffee and stroll through the place that delivers on beauty and style this time of year.

4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Midwestern folks are just dying for a nice, hot day around this time, and a trip to Rio de Janeiro would certainly do the trick. April is moderate in temperature, and Rio is significantly more low-key during the spring and fall -- perfect for a more relaxing experience.

And the list goes on and on! Naturally, we're all missing the cool waters of Whitefish Lake right about now as well, but have you checked your calendars recently? We're just a couple of months away from the start of Camp Foley 2016!

Patience is a virtue, Foleyites, but we know that doesn't make waiting any easier. That's why we're inviting everyone to share their Spring Break stories and plans with us on Facebook and Twitter. Get those photos and memories up, and we'll see you in June!

From New to Cool

When I spoke to Maggie H on the phone the other day, she was happily on spring break and enjoying sleeping in and laying low. That being said, the moment I started talking about camp you could sense the excitement rise in her voice. Suddenly she was off the couch and across 3 states (she lives in Illinois) and was back on the waves of Whitefish Lake (she said waterskiing was her favorite activity). Here is what she said:

Maggie H. During Summer 2011.

So your sister came to Foley for a few years before you joined us, what was it like finally being able to understand what she was always talking about when it came to camp?

It was really cool! She talked about it so much that I knew a lot but now we can talk about it together which I really like. 

What was it like being a first year camper?

Scary. I didn’t know anyone so I was pretty nervous I wasn’t going to make friends. But the minute I got to camp I realized how nice everyone was and they were just so warm and welcoming I felt like I had been there for 5 years. 

What is a skill that you learned at camp that you can use now that you aren’t here?

Well, I am getting ready to go in to high school next year so now I know what it is like to be in a new environment and make friends. I also learned how you shouldn’t have to put on a show for people all the time and that you can just be yourself. 

Do you keep in touch with your friends that you made?

Yes. We use Facebook. Ha. 

Is there anything else you want to say to all the readers?

Camp is so much fun! If you don’t know whether to come or you are trying to decide – do it! You will regret it if you don’t. 

I can’t make this stuff up, people.

Maggie is a twelve year old from Northbrook, IL where she is finishing up 8th grade. Besides waterskiing, she loves making friendship bracelets in her spare time at camp as well as hanging out in the cabin and talking. Thanks to Maggie for spending some of her hard earned spring time talking to me. If you would like to be interviewed for the “Rattlin’ Blog” – email me!

- Alli Faricy, Director