When Summer Ends...

     Fellow countrymen, I feel that it is my sworn duty to remind you that summer, in fact, is still occurring. It will be for a few more days. I have never understood this abrupt September shift into pumpkin-guzzling, sweater-worshiping monsters. Am I the only person who is still wearing shorts, sweating, and going to the beach (fo free)? I suppose. If I see one more pumpkin-related tweet or status I will single-handedly take this place down with a flame thrower. The end of summer is the best time to embrace it as a season. Although I went camping in the middle of August, I'm going to suggest that you go camping RIGHT NOW. Now is the perfect time for such an activity, especially if there is a body of water nearby. Here are some tips and tricks from our experience that will hopefully make your trip a smashing success.

CAMPING 101

1. Make sure you have more than enough food for the occasion. Last year, we managed to leave a whole bag of food behind and returned with one less friend. 

2. Freezing your food/drinks is a great way to pack for multi-night adventures. Have two coolers, one for half frozen fare and one that is completely frozen. The latter of the two can be food for the 2nd/3rd day.

3. Bring more firewood and newspaper than you think you will need. Extra wood means you can make extra meals, like hot breakfast!

4. If you're not sure of the cooking equipment you will have, call up your campsite and inquire. Hopefully they won't be salty, South Jersey women. In any case, bring extra grates, aluminium, and dishes should you need to create a spur of the moment cooking vessel.

5. Try to bring a tent that is roomy so you will be comfortable if it is hot. If you're like us, you will realize that your large tent is mouse-ravaged and you will have to squeeze your four-person crew into this:

6. Even if the forecast doesn't predict rain, bring a tarp to drape over your tent. This saved our lives the first night as an unexpected rainstorm of doom swept through the pine barrens. 

7. If you plan on throwing food into the fire, make sure you bring something to retrieve it with. Good thing I have bear hands of steel.

8. Bring toilet paper/flashlights. You will probably not get placed next to a bathroom, in which case you will be peeing in the dark. 

9. Cards and board games are great for occupying time when it gets dark out. Fifteen-card Uno is not suggested...

10. ...But booze is! Although the park said alcohol is not permitted, I figured we were not likely to start trouble, especially when compared to the tie-dye wearing jugglers pitched next to us. Straight-face, they were nuts. 

There you have it! A complete guide for exploring and enjoying the great outdoors and appreciating the last little bit of summer. I hope you value these last few days and sincerely embrace the season.