Memorial Day Weekend is here! It’s the (very unofficial) start of summer and is usually a time filled with family and friends taking advantage of the nice, long weekend with a day – or two – off of work and school. We know that there will be swimming, BBQing, and fun happening all around. But why do we celebrate this very special holiday? We’re here to tell you more!

Many people get confused between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day where we remember those who died in active military service. It was traditionally observed on May 30th but now it is officially observed on the last Monday in May. {For this year, Memorial Day falls on May 28, 2018.} Veterans Day, on the other hand, is a day to honor all military veterans (people who served in the United States Armed Forces) and is observed on November 11th.

While we do usually spend the weekend with family and friends, sometimes we forget to honor the reason we have this holiday in the first place. So, we’re here with a few patriotic ways that you and your family can observe Memorial Day this year!

• Explain the holiday to your children! You can find stories or articles online to help you appropriately explain Memorial Day to your children, depending on their age. Remember, what they learn from you, they pass on to their peers, then to their kids, and so on! Keep our rich history alive.
• Go to a parade! There are parades and events scheduled all weekend long in every city and town in the country (just about!) — make some red, white, and blue signs or banners, bring your patriotic spirit, and go show support at your local parade!
• Send a care package to a soldier! A great way to honor and remember those servicemen and women that passed is to honor and care for those that are still here fighting for our country and our freedom. Send some homemade cards, crafts, or supplies — you will surely make an impact on whoever receives your thoughtful package!

However you choose to honor, remember, and celebrate this weekend, be safe!

{Photo source: City of Chicago}

It’s National Barbecue Month and we could NOT be more excited! We love sharing recipes and grilling tips so we’re going to take full advantage and dedicate this entire post to sharing our thoughts on all things BBQ!

You can cook these recipes on a bbq, an open fire (with a grill!), in the oven, or on the stovetop and they’ll be delicious. If you try one, let us know!

• This Camping Mac n’ Cheese is TOP of our list! So easy to make and so delicious — it’s like s’mores…everyone loves ‘em!! A camping menu must-have.
• Wanna keep it on the ‘cleaner’ side? Check out this green recipe – Quinoa Veggie Stir Fry! Serve it as a side dish or an easily accessible snack. YUM!
• One piece of foil is all you need for these Lumberjack Breakfast Packets! These are the epitome of camping all wrapped up in a little, easy to eat package – plus you can customize it with whatever you have on hand!
• Apple crisp? Yes, please! Check out these Campfire Apple Crisp Breakfast if you’re looking for a warm, delicious camping treat!
• Nachos…yes! That’s what we’ve been missing! These Campfire Nachos are perfect any day, at any time – seriously. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!

We’re also sharing some BBQ tips & tricks!

• Remember to check your hoses and controls before you start – safety first!
• Always clean the grill before you “pack it up”…that way it’s ready the next time you want to use it!
• Do your research on your specific grill and use proper tools.

We hope you’re all enjoying the spring camping season at our resort. We’re so happy to welcome all of the wonderful families and friends who choose to camp with us — we hope to see you and your family around our resort in the near future. Happy Camping with us!