The Golden Link - November/December 2003 Volume 29 Issue 10 
Girl Scouts builds on its past successes and keeps up with the times
by Suzanne Engelke
 

Some things never go out of style and that can be said of Girl Scouting. Since its beginning in 1912, Girl Scouts have kept up with the times by offering new and exciting learning activities. At the same time, Girl Scouts have continued to retain the tried and true favorites which have now become traditions among its members.

Girl Scouts is a timeless program based on the values found in the Girl Scout Law


Girl Scouts salute the flag at camp.

and Promise. Girl Scouting indeed has a rich history of badgework, ceremonies, service projects, camping, Cookie Sales, and special days. For an organization that has been around for almost a century, there are so many traditions that comprise Girl Scouting that it is hard to name just one favorite.

This issue's cover girls had varying opinions when asked what their favorite Girl Scout traditions were, but all girls agreed Girl Scouting is a favorite pasttime.

"I like everything about camping," said Leslie S., Junior Troop #12642. "I especially like being out in the wilderness."

Sydney C. of Cadette Troop #12371 said, "Sailing on a boat with my friends is something I enjoy."

"I like roasting marshmellows, making pizza with my troop, singing songs, and making crafts," said Liana L. of Brownie Troop #3645. "I also like the `friendship squeeze' at the end of the meeting."


Girls canoe at Camp Arnold.

Of the more than 4.3 million women in the U.S. who enjoyed Girl Scouting during their childhood, many of them found that the best Girl Scout tradition is simply passing the love of Girl Scouting onto to their daughters, nieces, and even granddaughters.

In an ever-changing world, providing contemporary programs has itself become a Girl Scout tradition. It is something Girl Scouting has done extremely well and with a great deal of pride for many, many years. Because of this, Girl Scouting will never go out of style.


Favorite Girl Scout traditions

My favorite Girl Scout tradition is the Scouts' Own at the end of a camping trip. After a weekend of camping and activities, it gives everyone a chance to slow down and reflect back with a quiet moment. Then we go around the circle and everyone tells their favorite part of the weekend. We close with a group hug before heading to the parking lot. 

Karen Curtis, leader, Junior Troop #3641 and Cadette Troop #3196

Girls lead. Girls do the planning for the activities. Cadette Troop #3078, Melissa Peterson, leader 

My favorite tradition would have to be our summer camping trips as a "family/troop" to different cities in Texas. 
Courtney Huff, Adult Girl Scout

My favorite tradition is "making new friends and keeping the old."
Denise Coburn, leader, Cadette/Senior Troop #8124

 

My favorite thing about Girl Scouting is camping.
Kalynn C., Brownie Girl Scout, Troop #1818

 

There are so many traditions that I love about Girl Scouts. I love building a campfire and making s'mores and singing with the girls. I love making a friendship circle and singing a song or sharing a thought as we pass the squeeze through the ring. However, my favorite tradition is a Scouts' Own. Many times at camp or other events things move so quickly and we have so much fun that we don't really stop and reflect on how much that event has meant to us. I really get a lot from the girls when I hear the things they come up with during a Scouts' Own. It confirms why I am a Girl Scout leader and makes all the work worthwhile.
Bridgett Morales, leader, Junior Troop #1042

 

My favorite Girl Scout tradition is Thinking Day because all Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world take time out to think of one another. This makes me feel special because there are other people around the world thinking of me and my troop.
Danielle S., Junior Girl Scout, Troop #12437

 

I enjoy the tradition of friendships made, past and present.
Wanda Altom, leader, Brownie Troop #1818


My favorite tradition is the Fall Products Sale because it reminds me of why I am a Girl Scout, and nice weather is coming.
Gloria V., Senior Girl Scout

Everyone loves s'mores.
Cadette Troop #3515, Michelle Ogilbee, leader 

Learning new songs is a favorite tradition. Our favorite song is "Pink Pajamas" which we learned at a camp training.
Starla Land and Melinda Presswood, leaders, Brownie Troop #1818

We like the Friendship Circle.
Cadette Troop #3517, Sheila Eiland, leader  

We like swaps/craft time. It is an opportunity to associate with other leaders to get tips and ideas.
collective answer from Bluebonnet Springs Service Unit volunteers