Summer’s Leader App
——————— may 2024
✧ Scratch Writing Camp ✧

Introduction:

If I had a nickel for every time I introduced a leader app, I’d have two nickels. Which isn’t a lot, but it’s weird that it’s happened twice.

That being said (thank you, Dr. Doofenshmirtz, for your eloquence), welcome, one and all, to the one thing you’ve all been waiting for- summertime! (Or at least torturingly close to it, anyway.) And what is summer without the classic, zany, inventing duo, Phineas and Ferb? Though I’ve changed a lot over the past few years (and apparently become much wordier- brace yourself), I will never stop enjoying Phineas and Ferb or SWC. Sit back and enjoy the ride, and I hope this really is the best summer ever.

About Me:

Whatcha doing? Hey all! I’m Summer (she/her), your local coding, crafting, ChST dwelling, language loving theater kid! I’m a Christian, and I was homeschooled for ten years, which really helped shape my personality. However, this year was my first year at school, which means it’s also the first year that I can fully appreciate summer vacation. I’m a devoted reader, and I’ve added several titles to my repertoire this year, including Wonder, The Hound of the Baskervilles, The Rithmatist, and Ella Enchanted. Some of my old favorites are the Ramona Quimby series, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and The Penderwicks. My family and I are huge book and movie nerds, and I will forever be known as “the girl who recited the entire Avatar opening segment for trivia day during spirit week.” (Long ago, the four nations lived together in harmony…)

How could I introduce myself without mentioning theater? I’ve been in eight productions so far, and I’m currently in the middle of Lion King Jr. Although it can be rough sometimes, something about performing keeps drawing me back to it. Currently, this is just a hobby of mine, and I’m not sure if I’ll ever take it to a career level. I’ve recently started taking singing lessons, though, so who knows what the future holds for me!

One thing I do know about my future is that I want a career in the arts. Creativity and self-expression has always been appealing to me, and it’s manifested itself in a variety of ways as I get older. I play clarinet and piano, and I’m thinking of starting flute. I see languages as an amazing cultural art form, and I’ve studied several (though I’ve always been focused on Spanish.) For the past few years I’ve been working on my digital art, and I’ve definitely seen some improvement! I love making cute crafts when I have the time, and I recently picked up finger knitting. And of course, writing has been and always will be one of my many passions.

Experience:

This session will mark my one-year anniversary in this amazing community. It’s truly unbelievable how quickly time has flown. I’m so glad I got to spend a year with you all. My first interaction with Scratch Writing Camp was July 2023 in Poetry, with Finley and Niko as my leaders. It didn’t take me long to realize I was hooked.

As soon as that session was over, I began work on my first leader app. That app was accepted by SWC’s very own gummy bear, Miss Moonsy, and I became a co-leader for Fantasy alongside Sun. I can’t thank Moonlit enough for giving me that chance, and showing me the ropes in my first session as co-leader. Though I didn’t quite feel the same magic as I did in my first session, I learned many valuable lessons about both writing and leading. Being a part of the MBC was also an awesome first experience.

Last session was a wild ride! For one thing, I was accepted as leader before I’d even finished the project version of my app (though I went ahead and finished it anyway.) Poetry turned out to be more spectacular than I could’ve hoped, and that’s mainly thanks to the efforts of my two cos, Recca and Sophia. I was given the opportunity to be a part of the MBC a second time, which was really fun. March’s session taught me a lot about managing my screen time, and finding the right balance between life and SWC.

My other experience has come both on and off scratch. On-site I’ve led several studios, which requires being able to put together a team and make sure the rules are followed. I’ve also hosted a MAP, and the final product was stunning. (I’m currently hosting another- this is shameless advertising, folks!) Off-site I’ve taken the leadership role in several group projects, including a skit for my Bible class (in which I wrote the script and kept everyone on task our rehearsal time), and a presentation for History. Along with my love for theater comes an interest in filmmaking, and I’ve directed several home movies with my siblings and cousins. I also spent a year running the nursery for my homeschool group. This year I entered two writing competitions at my school, and made it into the top 10 for both. (The final placings will be announced on the 22nd- wish me luck!)

Cabins:

This section of my leader app has always been a combination of exciting and challenging, but this session I’m really pleased with my cabin ideas. I hope you enjoy them!

I’ll start off by listing genre preferences (for convenience if this is being viewed as a co-leader app.) I’m open to (co)leading almost any cabin, although I’d rather not (co)lead Horror. My top preferences (in no order) are Illustrated Fiction, Fairy Tales, Script, and Epistolary. I’d also enjoy (co)leading more fast-paced genres, such as Myth or Adventure.

Now comes my favorite part, cabin themes! (Again, these aren’t in any order of preference.) One theme idea I have that could work well for several cabins (namely illustrated fiction or fairy tales) is a dollhouse. The leaders and campers are all an assortment of dolls in a dollhouse, but their owners are beginning to outgrow them. In fear of being discarded or redistributed, they make discreet attempts to reignite the siblings’ interest in them and escape the dreadful fate of a thrift store- or worse, the garbage. Campers would each decide what sort of doll they were, and create a backstory of how they arrived in the dollhouse. A collaborative-story type storyline is something I’ve never tried before, and I’m eager to give it a shot. (This idea is inspired by The Doll People by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin.)

I’ve seen several campers give voice to the need for variety in Mythology cabins, and I feel the same way. Although I don’t have any cultural ties to specific mythology, I would love to explore global myths and find out more. Celtic mythology is intriguing to me, mainly due to the movies made by Cartoon Saloon. A cabin based around one of their movies (perhaps Wolf-walkers, or Song of the Sea) would be especially interesting.

My final idea circles back to this application’s theme, and although it’s a bit wonky, hear me out. What if, during this 104-day summer vacation, campers could join a Phineas and Ferb themed cabin? Action, Adventure, or even Bizzaro-Fi (you have to admit, P&F is pretty bizzare), could work with this theme. Campers would be working together to write and design crazy inventions, and make this session the “best summer ever!” These activities would be a fun way to express creativity and laugh together. Even though this may be a very niche theme, the colorful graphics and the wacky, fun-loving atmosphere could appeal to a variety of campers.

I gave a lot of thought to TCTWNW last session, when my competitive streak eventually became exhausting. This session I’d like to create a cabin with the focus off of competition, however, not completely off the leaderboard. So while I suppose I am open to leading The Cabin That Will Not Win, if there is no one else fit for the role, it would definitely be quite low on my list of preferences.

Excerpt:

My excerpt for this leader app is my writing competition entry from last session! You can find it here: https://scratch.mit.edu/discuss/post/7874133/

Dedication:

To the best of my knowledge, there are only two events which will detract from my activity this session. From July 1st to July 6th I will be at summer camp, during which my activity will range from a few minutes a day to not at all. We are leaving for vacation on the 19th, which will lower my activity for a few days as we fly, as I won’t be able to access wifi. Once we reach our destination, I should be able to dedicate a minimum 15 minutes a day, if not more, to camp for the rest of the session. Except for those two events, I will be able to spend around two hours a day on SWC throughout June and July. (Realistically I will most likely be able to be online more, but I don’t want to let my screen time get out of hand.)

Time management:

Since starting school, I’ve realized where my shortcomings lie when it comes to time management, but I’ve also been able to improve in several areas.

I am good at scheduling and identifying priorities, though both are still a struggle to implement. I find I work best when I commit to following a routine, and create a relaxed and focused atmosphere. When assigned a large task, I am able to determine the sub-tasks, and complete them systematically over the set time frame. Starting a daunting task can be difficult for me, but I’ve discovered that the best thing you can do in that situation is start. As soon as the blank slate is gone, ideas will start to flow. Although distractions often get the best of me, I’ve been working to decrease my screen time and increase productivity, and I’m beginning to see results.

Staying on task is a constant struggle for me. Even when I’ve planned out the order in which to complete my jobs, I still sometimes find myself working on the more entertaining instead of the most important one. This can make deadlines sneak up on me until I end up speed-running the task in question. However, with accountability and open communication, I have begun to work at this weakness. The first step is simple: don’t volunteer for more than you have time for. This requires scheduling foresight, and the ability to say no even when something sounds fun. When I’m running behind on something, it’s all right to admit it and ask for help. By staying honest with people about my progress, I’m encouraged to stay on task and be responsible with my time.

Teamwork:

When I’m on a team, I tend to naturally take on the role of leader, which is both a strength and a weakness. I am good at negotiation, making sure everyone has a fair workload, and keeping people together even when they aren’t all as dedicated as I am. However, this tendency can sometimes lead me to be too bossy, especially when the position of leader is not mine to claim. I’m working on being respectful of others’ ideas regardless of whether I am the leader, and recognizing my place when I’m not.

A crucial part of being a successful team is having open and transparent communication. I don’t shy away from asking or answering questions, but I make sure that I am always considerate in doing so. If everyone is on the same page and being honest with each other, especially when they feel they’ve been mistreated, disagreements will be much easier to deal with. Part of being transparent is creating a safe environment where others are comfortable with being honest as well.

One thing I’ve had to come to grips with as I learn to be a good team member is accepting others’ ideas, and not being upset when not all of mine are implemented. A cabin is an amalgamation of many people’s ideas, and it’s better that way than it would be if it was designed by only one person. Still, it can be difficult when your thoughts aren’t used. As I’ve thought about this in the past, I’ve realized that others must feel the same as I do, which is a good reason to consider each person’s input equally. This means not favoring my own or submitting too much when one idea is rejected.

Leader Quality:

When I was new to SWC, I tended to look at the top of the leaderboard to find the “best cabins,” and by extension, the “best leaders.” Yet as time went on I began to realize that cabin placings are often out of a leader’s control, and are certainly not a good judge of their leading quality. What is, then? As it turns out, a great leader possesses myriad skills and talents that make SWC what it is. Skills like time management and planning have their place, but that's why leaders have a team. The one quality I deem most important, without which SWC would collapse, is empathy. What does empathy look like in a leader? Well, it’s most prominently noticed in the big things, like being an understanding mediator for both sides of a conflict, or encouraging a camper in their lowest moments. But it’s perhaps the little things that make the biggest difference. Things such as taking the time to learn everyone’s names (and being humble when you inevitably make mistakes), asking people how they’re doing, being genuinely interested in their hobbies, and praying about even their smallest struggles. A leader who could fully and consistently embody this character trait would be perfect. But, as humans, we are rarely described with that adjective. I haven’t always been as empathetic as I could be. However, a new school year is coming, and a fresh session of SWC. I am inspired to go forward and create a safe and welcoming space for everyone, in Scratch Writing Camp and beyond.

Atmosphere:

I aim to lead a relaxed cabin with a focus on friendships and writing skills, with an engaging, interactive storyline to foster team-building. (142 characters.)

I would accomplish this by including a variety of storyline activities that exercise campers’ creativity and connect them with other campers, such as collaborative stories. Although I wouldn’t pressure competition, competitive and ambitious campers wouldn’t feel hampered by this relaxed environment. Hopefully it would cultivate their enthusiasm and make excelling fun, instead of just a chore.

Three Part:

A:
✓ I am applying for both leader and co-leader.
✓ I’m willing to share a promotional project for SWC.

B:
I can and will fulfill all of the requirements and responsibilities of a (co)leader if I am selected.

C:
If a (co)leader on my leading team goes inactive without warning for three or more days, and attempts to contact them have been unsuccessful, I will notify the hosts. If I am a leader, I will divide their responsibilities among the remainder of my leading team, and select another co-leader if necessary. If I am a co-leader, and my leader goes inactive, I will convene with the other co to determine who will take on the responsibility of leader. If there are some things that cannot be done without the leader, such as updating word counts, I will create temporary solutions until further notice.
If for any reason I should be forced to go inactive, I will do my best to notify the hosts and leaders as early as possible. I will make sure that my responsibilities are fully accounted for before I leave, and if I am a leader, will transfer studio host to one of my cos. If something urgent comes up, and I’m not able to follow these measures, I will notify the hosts and leaders of my situation as soon as possible after the fact.

Conclusion:

That concludes my third leader app! Thank you so much for sticking around until the end, and standing by me throughout this journey. I don’t know where I’d be right now without this wonderful community, but one thing’s for sure: I wouldn’t be half as good of a writer. So I’ll see you in July, whether as a camper or a (co)leader.

Oh, there you are, Perry!

May 7th 2024
—— critique for @poppywriter

Hi Poppy! First of all, thank you for critiquing my answers. I hope this can be helpful to you! Line-by-line first, then general critique, you know the drill

I’ll be keeping my timezone private for online safety reasons, but I’m normally active between 3pm and 4am UTC.

I totally get this! However, since giving your timezone is optional, if you wanted to draw less attention to it you could probably omit the first part.

I’ve always liked storytelling, but I started taking up the actual art of writing stories around 2019 or 2020, when I realized that getting the words down helped drive away the stresses of the world, just for a little while.

Personal preference, but this is a bit wordy. Consider splitting it into two sentences?

I've recently been working on plotting a dark fantasy thriller with a bit of a mythology-esque twist- and I'm having the time of my life.

Woah can I read it :0

the foreboding presence of a certain bird causes some trouble…

CAW NEVERMORE (ahhh this cabin sounds so cool!!!)

When it comes to time management, I’m very good at managing my time so that I’m not working up until the very end of the deadline.

Having “time management” and “managing my time” in the same sentence is a little repetitive.

Examples of this smooth transition would be informing everyone involved and making sure that cabin-related tasks (storyline, word counts, replacement co/leader, etc.) are prepared enough ahead of time so that there's time for the rest of the leadership team to adapt to the loss/change of a (co)leader before taking on more tasks.

This sentence is very long and difficult to follow. I would split it into two sentences, personally.

That's it for the line-by-line, now on to general critique!

About me: There's nothing I'd change about this! It's really comfortable and familiar, and it gives a good overview of you and your interests.
Experience: I know you said you had a difficult time coming up with real-life experience examples, but never underestimate babysitting and being and older sibling xD I'm on the same page as you there <3
Cabins: Again, there's really nothing I'd change. I love all your ideas, especially the Poetry one. I'd never thought of having a poetry cabin like that, and it's a very unique idea.
Excerpt: I didn't read this all the way through, but I love the tone established in the beginning <3 Mysterious, scary, but also somehow safe, at least in the moment.
Time Management and Collaboration: I really like how transparent you are in both of these sections. However, I feel like these sections could benefit from more details. When you talk about a strength or weakness, try to elaborate. What tactics do you use to prevent procrastination? In what ways have you worked to become less demanding?
Trait: This is great. It's short and sweet, and it gets the point across perfectly.
Commitments: The only thing I have to say about this section is that in part C you use the word “should” a lot. Otherwise good!

Your answers are all great, and I wish you the best of luck. I can't wait to spend another session with you! <3

Bougainvilleas
—— an acrostic poem

Authors note: I wrote this a few months ago for my grade’s poetry contest, which I won! Finley asked to see it, so here it is. Forum stalkers, I know you’re out there ;)

Blooms of white in bright perfume
Ornamental afternoon
Unassuming island pride
Guam’s state flower, visitor’s guide.
Autumn, summer, spring grows bright
Inflorescences of light
Nature’s mark of love and peace
Vibrant signs: “Let suffering cease.”
Idyllic memories of home
Lovely relic of where I’ve roamed
Look closely at the paper flower
Each hidden bloom in colored shower
And think upon what God has made
Simple show of beauty arrayed

November 2nd 2024
—— daily for myth

Dear Future Summer,

Today was a good day. I spent a morning volunteering at the foster care conference, and got to hold several squirmy, adorable babies. Children are so precious. I can’t wait to get to be part of some more events like that. Then I went to my rehearsal, and I really think it went well. I think I’m coming out of my shell. I had a lot more fun this week than in previous ones. Although I didn’t make the team this year, I hope this training will help me to improve for next year.

I’ve been brainstorming for the past hour or so. I really hope this novel idea I have comes to fruition, because if it did that would be spectacular. Hopefully participating in NaNoWriMo helps some. On the SWC side of things, I want to become the enthusiastic participant I used to be this session. I hope that I’ll come to the end of November feeling satisfied that I have improved as a writer.

Throughout my writing “career” I’ve had plenty of ideas that I just haven’t given enough care to get started. I don’t want that to happen again. This can be the month when it changes. I’ve read that any idea can become a great story if you’re dedicated to it, and I want to give my ideas that chance in the world.

But in the end, even if this month is a huge disappointment, please don’t stop writing! You have your whole life ahead of you. Keep honing your skills.

Love,
Summer

P.S. You got this <3

November 7th 2024
—— daily for myth

The winged beasts from mounts on high
Come listen to their silvery cry
But do not near their sacred cage
Or face the mountain terror’s rage

Every step was a struggle as the rain fell harder, yet Celie knew she had to reach the summit. Though every other thought had been cleared from her mind, she could still see it, as though it had been burnt into her consciousness with a hot iron. The weight on her chest was heavier with every breath. She could not stop, would not stop, until she saw the sun once again.

The unknown things lie past their jaws
Their seeing hearts and sharpened claws
The desperate come despite the stakes
To fix the cost of their mistakes

When the rocky ground became too unstable to go on, Celie felt her way over to a large boulder to shelter herself from the winds. The water pelted her relentlessly, but it didn’t seem to bother her anymore. She had taken worse, and it would all be worth it once she reached the sanctuary.

As the rain began to lighten, Celie pulled her way up the side of the boulder and felt across the ground with her staff. If she started off again in the wrong direction all would be in vain. Once she had felt her surroundings and was sure of her trajectory, she began her journey once again.

From the forest below she heard the mournful cries of wolves. From above she heard the wailing of the beasts.

Press on, dear soul, though the path is steep
Or plummet to the shadowed deep
And waver not when the night turns black
For now’s too late for turning back

The ground had begun to shake. Celie stumbled forward with dread and determination. She was too close to stop now. Suddenly, as she rounded a corner, she was shaken off her feet. She had reached them. She could hear their menacing growls, smell their putrid breaths, and feel the flap of their enormous wings on her face.

The beasts.

Oh wanderer, prepare your heart
The beasts can see it, every part
The final trial in your path
Is to escape the creatures' wrath

Now was the time. Trembling in fear, Celie bowed low. With her face to the ground, everything was louder, all her senses heightened. They would judge her, and if they found her worthy, she could pass. All her trials would be over. If they found her unworthy…

Louder even then the cries of the beasts was Celie’s own heartbeat. She had come so far, and endured so much. She had reached the summit, all on her own, to regain the sight that she had lost. But it could all end here.

A minute passed.

Then the beasts ROARED. Celie braced for impact… but it did not come. Then, with a warmth like sunrise, she knew that they had granted her passage. Smiling, she stepped into the sanctuary.

And the world had never held so many colors.

November 10th 2024
—— poem for critiquitaire

So wonder at the worlds within your mind;
imagination withers with neglect.
See colors in each empty space you find.

A notebook filled with paper thinly lined
can hold a thousand lives that you collect,
so wonder at the worlds within your mind.

A canvas has no meaning yet assigned
until each thought and memory reflect
new colors in each empty space you find.

There are those whose dreams are undefined,
for others life and fantasy connect.
So wonder at the worlds within your mind.

And when this world is trying and unkind
and you are filled with burdens of regret,
see colors in each empty space you find.

And if we know this world has been designed,
then we should not our maker’s ways reject.
So wonder at the worlds within your mind,
see colors in each empty space you find.

Hi! I experimented with capitalization, I’d love to know whether or not you think it works, or if I should stick to capitalizing each line. Thanks!

Summer’s Spidersona
—— action march 2025

About
Name: Summer Cassidy (she/her)
Age: 16
Job: Performs on weekends with her band at a local festival
Appearance: Waist length reddish brown hair, green-blue eyes, likes baggy clothes and hightops



Spidersona Name: Silk Siren

Abilities
Siren Song
- When Summer sings, she is able to direct it at a certain person who is then under her control. These effects only continue as long as she is singing, and it is very difficult for her to control several people at once.
Sonic Webs
- Summer can cause her webs to vibrate with sound waves at high frequencies, disorienting enemies. With enough power, she can cause a sonic boom that temporarily debilitates enemies from its painfully loud volume.

Weaknesses
Cold
- If Summer’s body temperature goes below a certain point, her vocal cords tighten and she’s unable to perform her siren song.
Soundproofing
- Summer’s abilities are significantly weakened if she is near soundproof material.

Spider Suit
Color: Peach with turquoise accents
Design: Ripple design on the suit resembling sound waves. She usually wears it with blue high tops.
Features: Mask designed to amplify her singing, and padding near her ears to shield her from her sonic booms.

March 1st 2025
—— action event 1

Light shone through the branches overhead, reflecting in speckled patches on the confused group of teenagers. To give them credit, it had been quite the unusual afternoon. Not only had they ALL been bitten by spiders, the spiders were apparently radioactive and the students were now spider-heroes. Coincidentally, their teachers were also spider-heroes, and were giving them training in the woods. Not your typical high school field trip.

One student looked particularly phased. Summer Cassidy stood apart from the group, running her fingers through her hair, and trying and failing to give off the appearance of being perfectly fine. This had possibly been the worst afternoon of her sophomore career, and she’d had some pretty horrible afternoons. Despite her deathly fear of spiders, she’d been forced to visit their exhibit, had actually been bitten by one, and was now being told that she was part of some sort of superhero society. It was definitely time to switch school districts. She began to hum the song she’d been practicing that morning. She always hummed when she was nervous, and it helped her nerves settle down a bit.

One of the teachers, Ms Ayla, began to walk towards her with a concerned look on her face. Summer hummed louder, and tried to send the subliminal message “I’m fine! But please don’t talk to me!” To her surprise, the teacher’s expression went blank, and she turned to walk robotically back towards the other students. Summer stopped humming, and took a few deep breaths. But as soon as her music stopped, Ms Ayla started towards her again, with a look of dazed confusion. “I wish she’d go,” Summer thought to herself, but it was no use this time. Ms Ayla walked up to her, muttering “That’s strange… why did I…”

Suddenly, something clicked in Summer’s mind. It was impossible… but still, she had to try. She began to sing, at the same time thinking “Go. Walk back to the group.” Once again, Ms Ayla’s face went blank as she followed Summer’s mental instructions. She was controlling her animals teacher. This was absolutely insane.

Breaking off mid-song, Summer ran up to Ms Ayla, who was now staring at her with bewilderment. “What just happened?” Summer grinned. “I think… I might’ve just unlocked mind control through singing.” Slowly, a smile crept onto Ms Ayla’s face. “Well, that’s definitely new! Come on over and get a webslinger, and then we can see if you have any more powers hidden away.”

This wasn’t a normal afternoon. But where was the fun in normal, anyway?

March 1st 2025
—— daily for action

The world morphs around me, taking whatever shape I wish it to. And I am in the center, alone and content in my little universe.

Why, hello there. I’m Summer.

A pleasant cafe, with a table set for two. Take a seat, won’t you? Tea, coffee? I think I’m in the mood for some hot chocolate. And jazz. Wouldn’t it be nice to have Laufey perform here in person? There she is. Yes, I think this is perfect.

As I said, I’m Summer. I have my place in the “real” world, but life is much more fun in my little paradise. Quiet, comfortable spaces are a treasure, and I have an infinite supply in here. I only have company when I feel like it. In fact, you are nothing but a figment of my imagination. Would you like some sugar in that? Anyways, this is my introverted side you’re seeing. I can be much more chaotic under the right circumstances. You really want to see? It won’t be nearly as cozy as this place. All right then, if you’re sure.

Doesn’t this music just make you want to dance? This place isn’t quite defined by physics, but who cares! Clips from my favorite musicals flash all around, and the soundtrack is a nearly unintelligible mashup of Wicked, Epic the Musical, and Hamilton, but I’m still singing along. Come on, join the party! All my wacky theater kid pals are in attendance.

Oh, look at that! It seems we’re backstage for Lion King Jr. If you’ll excuse me, I’m playing Timon tonight and I really need to get my makeup done.

Goodness, that’s a drastic change of scenery! I guess we’re back to the introvert. I do love libraries. Find a couch and a book and make yourself comfortable, but don’t disturb me. I need to finish this chapter of Little Women.

Sometimes I wish I could live inside a book. Lucky for me, I can do anything in here. Welcome to Hogwarts! Have you been sorted yet? I’m a Ravenclaw. Quick, let’s get to the Great Hall, dinner is starting!

And that’s who I am. Any questions?

Yeah, I don’t make a lot of sense. Don’t worry, I’m sure we’ll figure me out in time.

I sit back at my desk, proud of the crazy little slice of my world that I managed to fit on the screen. I close the computer, and with it my little universe, ready to be called upon whenever I need it.

March 2nd 2025
—— 1k word intro

Hello everyone! I’m Summer, and I’m thrilled to be back for another session of SWC. It’s been almost a year since I really participated actively in SWC, this March I want to bring back the enthusiasm I used to show each session. So here’s 1000 words about me to kick off this session in style.

Let’s begin with my SWC history! I first joined in November of 2021 I believe, but I was completely inactive. (I don’t think I even visited the main cabin- I was completely confused about how SWC worked.) My first real session was July 2023 in Finley’s (@essayist) Poetry Lighthouse. I was immediately hooked. The community and fun that SWC brought to writing was totally new to me, and couldn’t wait to experience more.
The next session, I created a co-leader application. Miraculously, I was accepted by the wonderful Moonlit! (She has since become a gHostie but we will keep her in our hearts forever <3 miss you Moonlit!) Fantasy November 2023 was definitely a great learning experience for me. It didn’t have all of the first time magic of July, but I still enjoyed it, and I learned a lot about teamwork and what’s really kept SWC alive all these years.
A few months later I created yet another leader application… and somehow made it in as an actual leader! That was the beginning of Poetry March 24, The Forgotten Valley. After my first, this was definitely my favorite session. I’m so proud of the cabin that my co-leaders and I were able to bring to life. The one downside to this session was that I was perhaps overly zealous, spending too much time on SWC and neglecting some real-life things. But this was also the session that I placed in the writing competition for the first time, so there are plenty of good memories to go around.
In July I created a leader application, and became co-leader in Poppy’s Sci-Fi! (Poppy has also since left Scratch- love you Poppy!) Unfortunately, this is where my activity and enthusiasm started to go downhill. I helped set up the cabin in the months before SWC, but when the actual session rolled around I was very inactive. It was discouraging, so I decided to just be a camper the next session. In November I was sorted into Mythology, but I was inactive once again. That brings us up to this session, and I’m determined that this time will be different.

Now let’s focus a little more on my personality! I’m an INFP, but I think you’ll learn more about me from my hobbies. We’ll start with reading. I am a passionate reader- you’re more likely to catch me reading a book under my desk at school than checking my phone. Reading helps keep me away from doom-scrolling, though sometimes I can still get lost in it. My most recent reads were Little Women, The Luckiest Girl (by Beverly Cleary), and Ella Enchanted, and some of my favorites include the Harry Potter books, the Percy Jackson series, The Light in Hidden Places, and The Giver (and many, many more.) My goal is to read 100 books in 2025. So far I’m fifteen books in and going strong!
As evident by my presence in Scratch Writing Camp, I am a writer. Though I haven’t done as much writing lately, it’s a hobby I’ve enjoyed since I was younger and my aunt started encouraging me to write poetry. Last year was a great time for me, as I placed in three different writing competitions (one being SWC’s, the other two in my school.) I would love to someday write a novel, it’s just difficult to know where to start.
One huge aspect of my personality is that I am a theater kid. I’ve been a part of over ten productions, the most recent being Lion King Jr and The Play That Goes Wrong. The stage is my happy place, but what I really love about theater is the community. It’s a place where you can be wacky and fit in just fine. Though there are some downsides, like drama and gossip, in my experience the good outweighs the bad. It’s my dream to pursue theater as a career, which is why I recently started taking beginner ballet. It’s a bit of a late start, but better late than never!
Another interest of mine is languages. I’ve studied Spanish and Latin, and little bits of Korean and French, and I’m currently taking Japanese in school. Languages and their nuances are just so interesting to me, and I’ve considered linguistics as a career if acting doesn’t work out. Through the years I’ve developed a few of my own conlags for fun, and I’d love a chance to create a new one for my writing this session.

For the final section of my intro, I’ll share some of my favorites.
To start with, music! This summer I discovered my favorite artist, Laufey. She is a real life Disney Princess, and her music is just the greatest thing ever. She topped my Spotify wrapped last year, and I was a top 2% listener (even though I only downloaded Spotify in September.) After Laufey, my listening consists mostly of hymns and musicals. For hymns, I usually listen to Acapeldridge. My favorite musicals at the moment are Hamilton, Wicked, and Epic the Musical. I’m interested to see what my wrapped will look like this year.
Next up, favorite foods! I’m a firm believer that you can’t make a bad white chicken chili, and I have yet to taste one that proves me wrong. Runners up are tacos and chicken fettuccine alfredo. As for desserts, you can’t go wrong with ice cream, but I do love pumpkin pie. And literally any lemon dessert- I swear those things were made in heaven.
Rapid fire! Favorite color? I like most pastel colors, but my favorite is probably a light lavender. Restaurant: probably Raising Canes. Movie: the Spiderverse movies! (And I promise this was my answer even before getting sorted into action. <3) Show: Gravity Falls, Phineas and Ferb, or The Clone Wars. School subject: English usually, although this year my favorite class is science since the teacher is just so amazing. Video game: Stardew Valley. And of course, favorite online writing camp: SWC <3

And that’s just a little glimpse into who I am! If you’re reading this, please say hello! I’d love to get to know you, and I can’t wait to see what this session has in store.

Love, Summer

March 2nd 2025
—— daily for action

my words: whisper, thread, lantern, ripple, key
tw: starvation, dark thoughts

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Water leaks through the stone roof of the dank dungeon cell, collecting in a puddle beneath. A small slit at the top of the wall offers the room’s only light, revealing a figure huddled dejectedly in the corner. Hours pass by without any movement in the room except the ripples in the puddle. After an indefinite amount of time, the figure stirs, crawling slowly to the puddle to catch the falling droplets in her hands. The fading light illuminates her sullied features, her youthful eyes that have lost their shine. She cannot be more than twelve.

The girl lifts the water to her slit of a mouth and drinks breathlessly. Suddenly, voices seep through the door, and she recoils, retreating in petrified silence to her corner.

“A witch, they said… bread and water… filthy… soon be hanged, I heard…”

A slot on the door is opened, and a dingy tray with bread crusts in a pile of water is shoved through. Once the soldiers’ laughs have retreated down the corridor, the young girl scuttles forward and quickly finishes her meal. She lays against the wall then, and wishes for the end.

Time goes by. It could be seconds. Or days. But gradually, the girl’s dormant mind notices something. It would seem nothing to the guards, if they saw it at all. But it is everything to this prisoner.

A thread. Likely snagged from a chef’s apron, or a guard’s tunic. Thin and short. Faded white. Her saving grace.

The little girl, the witch (so the guards believed), moved slowly to the tiny window, thread in hand. Her cracked lips move to speak, but all that leaves them is a hiss. After several attempts, she manages to produce a whisper.

“Texere viam.”

The lifeless little thread begins to twitch. The girl’s dim eyes are now alight. She chants the phrase methodically in her thin whisper. “Texere viam. Texere viam. Texere viam.”

A faint blue glow emanates from the thread and the young girl’s eyes. She continues her chant as if in a trance as the thread begins to move of its own accord. It flows gracefully towards the dungeon door, disappearing in the crack.

“Texere viam. Texere viam. Texere viam.”

Suddenly, in a burst of blue light, the door is gone. The girl awakens from her trance with a start. Her eyes are on fire now, with hope, and with something more mystical. She continues her whispered chanting as she grabs a lantern from the wall of the corridor. The thread continues its journey, and the girl follows, as rays of power seem to flow from her with every step. Finally, they reach a door, and the witch girl speaks two words with a force as if she had shouted.

“Texere viam.”

The door is gone, and the girl is free.

March 3rd 2025
—— daily for action

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March 6th 2025
—— daily for action

Stories must have beginnings. That is the way of things. But where do you begin in this story? Do you begin with the priestess, subjected to a gruesome fate? With the mother and son, stranded in a cruel ocean? Or with the boy, whose destiny was written in the stars? All of these tales must be told. So, we will examine all three beginnings. It is up to you to decide which has more import.

Once, long ago, there was a priestess to Athena, serving her goddess in a distant island temple.
The priestess’ name was Medusa.
Ah, yes. You know this story.
Medusa was beautiful. So beautiful, in fact, that she caught the attention of the gods. One god in particular.
Poseidon.
As a priestess, Medusa had sworn a vow of maidenhood. But the gods will do as they please.
They were caught in the temple by none other than Pallas Athena herself. Her fury shone like thunder. Poseidon made himself scarce.
Medusa was left to carry all the blame. All the punishment.
And you do not want to be punished by the gods.

Once, long ago, there was a mother, locked in a casket, lost in a storm-tossed sea. She cradled her newborn son in her arms as she slowly abandoned all hope.
And once again, her plight was noticed by the gods. Who do you think calmed the waves and carried her prison to shore?
After what seemed like eternity, she felt her coffin being lifted from its watery grave, and heard the cries of astonished fishermen. Her second life had begun.
The mother was beautiful. So, like many beautiful women in those ancient days, her fate was decided for her. When a nearby king heard of her beauty, he sent for her to wife.
She refused.
Kings are used to getting their way. This one was not pleased, but he was cunning. He told the woman that if her son could complete a task for him, he would relinquish her.
Certain that the boy could complete whatever labor the king might require, mother and son agreed.
The king smiled slyly, and named his challenge.
To bring back the head of Medusa the gorgon, whose gaze turned men to stone.
The boy was as good as dead.

Once, in yet another temple by the shore, a boy was raised. He was strong and agile, and loyal to his mother. His name was Perseus.
When he was given his impossible quest, he did not lose heart, but set off to find one who could direct him towards Medusa’s lair.
Who do you think acknowledged his bravery, and decided to meddle in this story once more?
When he had hardly even begun his journey, Perseus met the gods. Two of them. Athena and Hermes, warrior and messenger. It seemed they were pleased with his resolve, and provided him with magical tools which would aid him on his mission.
It wasn’t long until he made it to the monster’s den.
Armed with Hermes’ sword and Athena’s shield, Perseus was well-prepared for battle. Using the reflections in the shield to target Medusa, he was able to avoid her deadly stare.
It was a quick fight.
Now bearing the head of the gorgon, which was lethal even in death, Perseus returned home a hero.

We have given you the beginnings. Yet all stories must have an ending, and will find that ours does as well. When Perseus died, the gods placed his soul in the night sky. Perhaps you can see him now, as the glittering stars depict him holding Medusa’s head in triumph. But did he truly earn his fate? Did any of them? Who really deserved the acclaim and immortality Perseus received? Was it the misused priestess-turned-monster, whose life was repeatedly stolen from her? The persevering mother, who had no say in her own future? Or was it the determined boy who was predestined for greatness? We have told you our story, reader. Now you must decide.

March 9th 2025
—— late weekly for action

Part 1
In the world of Kitabe, which is Chadeki for “the wide earth,” all that is known is the soil and stone. The people spend their lives beneath the ground, where surface is as foreign to them as outer space. Legends say humans used to reside there, but many say that’s just an old wives’ tale, for the air is far too toxic to support life now. What matters in this world is the vast network of tunnels and caves which connects its people, and it is all that any of them have ever known.
The further down you go, the poorer inhabitants you’ll find. When you live underground, the only direction you can go is down, and so the lowest levels house the tunnel diggers and the miners. Nearest to the surface are where the wealthy spend their days, far from the heat and manual labor below. The highest levels were built by the ancestors, and many of the dwellings there were passed down from generations before.
No one really keeps track of how many levels there are. Hundreds, maybe, and each stretches for miles and miles. Yet each level has its similar components. Running water (sourced from the surface, perhaps, or else submerged caves), fungi and Ketike (cave cow) farms, and government caves can be found on every level. Most levels have a central plaza that its homes and stores open up to, where the children can play in the moss and the adults can exchange the day’s news. It’s always bustling, no matter what the time. Day and night matters little in caves, and many Kitabis don’t believe they ever existed. Kitabe time is based on the bloom of the Tonda flower, which opens and closes every twelve hours. Jobs and school schedules are divided into the open and closed shifts. Two shifts make up what we would consider to be a day. 500 shifts make up a year. One month is 50 shifts.
The jobs in their world are quite similar to ours. First there are those who provide sustenance, the farmers and water crew. Then there are those who dig and maintain tunnels and keep up existing caves. Other essential jobs include healthcare workers and emergency personnel (in case of cave-ins, earthquakes, or medical emergencies.) Apart from those professions, much of the workforce is devoted to ease-of-life and artistic pursuits.
The people of Kitabe are quite creative. The beautiful waterfalls and unique rock faces of their world would inspire anyone. Sculpting is naturally quite a popular hobby. Many towns host monthly sculpting contests. Anything pigmented is rather hard to come by, but the few flowers which grow underground as well as the shells of some animals found in the water can make several colors, and the dedicated artist puts them to use in their creations. Painting is an uncommon art, and any artist who can paint well is in high demand.
The Kitabe language, Chadeki, relies heavily on the aspirated consonants k, t, d, b, and ch. They are usually pronounced with force at the tip of the tongue. This is due to echoes in the caves, where a more forceful sound will travel faster. Most Chadeki words will include one or more of these sounds. If a word does not, then it is classified as a “soft word.” These words are usually more privately spoken, such as the word for love between spouses. (Chadeki has several words for love.)

Part 2
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1144548625/

Part 3
Not the full 500 words, but since I’m posting this late I can do what I want.

The Kotoe Herald

ATCS: A Blessing And A Curse
By Dega Chomi - 9/41/4500
The most pivotal new technology of Kitabe is the automatic tunnel construction system, or the ATCS. However, its creation has been highly disputed and has also caused several conflicts. In this article we’ll dig deeper into what’s really going on beneath us.

An automatic tunneling device has been dreamt of for decades. Inventions are all born from a need or hardship, and tunnelers are faced with grueling physical labor daily. The first step towards the system of today was the tunnel computer, created by tunnel engineer Mack Bear. This device was capable of mapping out new routes to dig, but did not control the machines which did the digging. Additionally, its routes were not always the most accurate and occasionally cut into existing systems. Regardless, it was an important milestone.

Several automated systems were tested in the years to follow but all failed to be consistently accurate and safe. Finally, the ATCS of today was created. But the question remains: is it any improvement on previous failures? Though its routes are usually safely located, its digging and maintenance work is subpar. Additionally, there has been several occasions of the system breaking into already established tunnels, and even residential caves. Unless the technology is improved, the public outcry will be too great for tunnelers to continue using it.

No part four. Maybe I’ll write one later idk