The On Clouds Phenomenon

Do you have a pair?  If not, you have to know someone that does.  If you’re unsure what I’m talking about, let me try and explain.

On Clouds are what many of us would refer to as tennis shoes or sneakers…

I’m not sure when they first appeared on the scene, I am sure I was late to the party, because I’m always late to the party, even real parties.

I’m not even sure how I was introduced to them.  I’m sure someone was probably wearing a pair and I started asking questions.  There’s also this possibility, that I was at Lionel Smith’s in Aiken, and they introduced me to them.

To date, I’ve had five pairs.  Two are gone, I still have three.

Let me quote from their literature, ”The most visually distinctive feature of an On Cloud shoe are the hollow little 'clouds' or pods that run the length of the sole, adding cushioning and dispersing pressure, but also because they move laterally as well as vertically, they propel you forward and transition quickly”.  I’m not sure I’ve ever been “propelled” by my On Clouds, but they are comfortable and convenient.

Let me share a couple of stories.  Lisa is very conscious of what she wears, not unlike most women.  She saw my On Clouds and was less than impressed.  I kept trying to sway her.  What finally won her over was traveling through airports with them.  Now that we have to take our shoes on and off for TSA checks, the On Clouds with their bungee option are perfect for that sort of thing.  I’ll add this to the story.  We traveled to Denver a couple of weeks ago and the amount of folks in the airport in their On Clouds was astonishing.  I bet if they ONLY sold to people traveling on airplanes it would be a good business.

As I stated, I currently have three pairs.  All, a little different.  My oldest pair, not shown, are the pair I knock around in all the time.  The ones I wear around the apartment.  The second pair, pictured below are the ones I wear out and about most often.  My third pair, the newest are “Cloud Monsters” with an enormous sole.  I can tell, I’ll fall in love with these quickly.  They’re not that appropriate for “everyday” wear, much more suitable for longer walks or when I’m going to find myself standing for a long period of time.

I have yet to find someone that has a pair that doesn’t like them.  If you haven’t tried them yet, you might want to investigate.  I do feel compelled to let you know that they price out at between $160 and $200.  Rather pricey.  If that doesn’t scare you away, go for it, and let me know what you think.

School is wrapping up, and that means summer is on the way. Are you hoping to keep your kids active and learning this summer? There are various summer camps in the CSRA that offer a variety of activities to stimulate their minds and keep them moving this year.

For working parents, summer camp can be a solution for finding childcare during the summer. But not only does it provide a safe space for your child, it can be a great opportunity for your child to make new friends and learn new things.

Many summer camps offer a variety of activities throughout the summer. These can range from arts and crafts, sports, science, swimming, and more. Some camps host themed weeks throughout the summer to focus on different areas. This can include dress up days or field trips to learn more about the weekly topic.

There are many great benefits for kids going to summer camp, including building new friendships, fostering independence, learning life skills, and more.

Most camps are day camps, but there are a few overnight camp options around the CSRA. You can see the different camp options below. Be aware that summer camps in the CSRA can fill up fast, so you'll want to reserve your spot as soon as possible.

Keep in mind that some day camps are not open for early drop off or late pick up. This could be a determining factor when you're planning which camp you choose. Most camps are closed on holidays that fall within the camp calendar (Memorial Day, 4th of July).

Also, some camp costs include lunch and snacks for campers, while others require you to send lunch and snacks with your child each day. Keep this in mind when looking into camps to fit your budget.

Costs vary by camp, and some may include additional costs for field trips or days where campers can purchase special treats (ice cream, snacks, etc.).

See some upcoming camp options here in the CSRA, and remember to reserve your spot before they book up!

The Family YMCA of Greater Augusta offers a range of summer camps, including overnight and day camp.

Overnight camp is hosted at Camp Lakeside in Lincolnton, GA, and runs Sunday through Friday. This is for ages 8 to 12. Sessions start on May 26th and runs through July 25th. Get details HERE.

Day camps are hosted at nine of the YMCA locations across the CSRA. These camps offer a variety of experiences for your child with arts and crafts, swimming, sports, and S.T.E.A.M. activities. Camps are divided by age groups starting at 5 years old and going up to 12 years old. Learn more about day camps HERE.

The Salvation Army Kroc center hosts Kroc Camp, which is an ACA accredited day camp program. Kids can enjoy swimming, arts and crafts, group games, sports, and more. Camps begin on Tuesday, May 28th, and are available on a first come, first served basis. Camp is available for ages 5 to 12, and are divided by age group.

Campers need to bring snacks and lunch each day. Camp runs through August 2nd. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Learn more about Camp Kroc HERE.

Episcopal Day School offers a variety of camp options. Their day camp is an 8 week camp for children ages 3-12. Campers will participate in games, arts and crafts, outdoor activities, and more.

Day camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Half days end at 1 p.m. They also have extended day options running until 5 p.m. and early care that starts at 8 a.m.

Camps are held at Episcopal Day School's Flowing Wells Campus (1337 Flowing Wells Road) or their Walton Way Campus (2248 Walton Way).

In addition to themed summer camps, EDS also offers football, soccer, baseball, nature adventure, math & reading, baking & decorating, art camps, and more.

Learn more about all the camps at EDS HERE.

Summer camp for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta kicks off June 3rd and runs through July 19th. The camps will be closed July 1st-July 5th). Camps are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Lunch and snacks are provided.

Summer camp with the Boys & Girls Clubs includes S.T.E.A.M., performing arts, sports and fitness, water science, wildlife, and more. These weekly themes each have special activities and some field trips.

Camps are hosted at various locations. Learn more HERE.

Odell Weeks Activities Center hosts summer camp session for kids ages 5 to 12 years old. They have weekly themes, field trips, outdoor activities, swimming, arts and crafts, and more.

The Odell Weeks Activities Center is located at 1700 Whiskey Road in Aiken. Camp runs from June 3rd through July 19th. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a 30 minutes early drop-off and late pickup period available.

Learn more HERE.

Augusta Parks and Recreation have a number of day camps with most beginning on Monday, June 3. Camps are available for kids ages 5 to 12 years old at various locations, starting at $50 per week.

Learn more about Augusta Parks and Recreation summer camps HERE.