Don't know what to pack?

Whenever I go someplace new, I tend to fret about what I should bring - I don't want to bring too much and have to carry it all back home, but you don't want to watch people having a great time in the pool while you didn't bring your swimsuit. I have put together some lists to help you with this sometimes daunting tasks.

What To Bring:

• Comfortable clothes that you can move around in (in case you decide to take in a "New Games" session).
• Dress in layers - if you end up in a room that has a lot of people in it, or if you are moving around a lot you could get too warm.
• Comfortable shoes. Plan to do a lot of walking - just like camp!
• Sandals! You are at a resort, you don't go outside much - who cares if it is snowing! Brush the dust off and get them ready for summer!
• Swimsuit. There are two wonderful pools (one of them you can swim under a wall and be outside...how cool is that??) and a big hot tub. Don't end up sad because you forgot your suit. (My Camp Director Mom advice has to come out, though...you are representing your camp and Mid States - perhaps don't bring the suit you would wear on spring break).
• Camera There will be so many fun things going on and new friends you will be meeting - you won't want to forget the great time you had!
• A CAMP T-SHIRT. Friday is "Wear your Camp T-Shirt Day". Enough said.
• Pens/Pencils. A notebook is helpful, as well. You will be meeting great people with great ideas - exchange e-mails. You will be hearing great ideas in your sessions - write them down to take back to your camp and use.
• Business Cards. If you have them, bring them. They are handy to exchange with people you meet to stay in touch.
• Toothpaste. Yes, I understand that not showering at camp for a couple of days is acceptable, but brush your teeth. Please.
• An Open Mind That Is Ready To Have Fun. There will be times to learn how to be professional, and times to learn how to teach our campers new things and have fun. Be ready for everything.
• Your Ideas! The method of Mid States is to "Learn Together, Grow Together" - we want to learn from you, just as much as you have come to learn from us.
• Shopping Lists. There is no better time than the present to start getting your camp store stocked and new recreation equipment than at Mid States. The vendors in the exhibit hall are happy to answer any questions and get you all set for the summer.
• Your Appetite. Have you hear about the "Dutch Oven Cooking" sessions that are offered. Yes, the food at the hotel is amazing, but being able to eat food that was cooked on a fire outside of the resort is a double win.
• Your Cell Phone. You will be able to receive twitters and updates from our Mid States Camp Conference 2011 - you won't want to miss them.
  

What Not To Bring:

• Your Monkey. There is a policy at the hotel concerning monkeys. Really. If I can't bring my chicken, Gladys, you shouldn't bring your monkey.
• Food to Eat for Meals At the Hotel. The resort has delicious food available to us, why leave? It helps Mid States keep their costs low, and you will be sure to not miss out on what is happening at the resort! Hit Portillo's on your way out of town. ;)
  
• Your Tent. While you are heading to a Camp Event, there are beds and rooms available. Make sure your reservations are made, and enjoy the comfy bed!
• Sleeping Bag. See "tent" statement above, unless planning to sleep on the floor.
  

While there are surely other things to bring, the most important thing to bring is YOU. We are looking forward to seeing everyone.

Travel Safe.