I am not sure I actually shared our 6 decades story of JGL after the March Living History Book presentation.
My sister, cousin and I have enjoyed this skit a couple of times.
If you want to see what we did - we might get the video up some day -- until then- you can read about it here - Files from Sarah
About Me
- Sarah Y.
- Check out my other blogs: Sow What Journey http://sarahsowwhat.tumblr.com www.100actsofgreen.org As a homeschooling Girl Scout I am often doing my Journey's as part of my school work. Which means that I have to plan and implement them myself. I have been asked to share this with others. My first blog was with the Senior Sow What Journey. Since I plan to earn 5 other Journeys -- this will be the site for all information.
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Girl Scout History Conferece - SLC 2014
I am at the Girl Scout National Convention -- well really the History Conference that is before the convention. Here I am wearing a 1960's era GS Cadette Uniform. I love the old uniforms.
Day one was wonderful! I hope next time more girls come. I am learning a lot and the dinner was a lot of fun.
I had the opportunity to be part of the program - talking about Helen Storrow and listening to the stories of other Girl Scout greats.
And of course I enjoyed visiting with our CEO - Anna Maria Chavez.
If your around -- come and find me.
Monday, October 6, 2014
Convention - HERE I COME
I am excited to be attending my first National Convention. I am attending as a member of our councils delegation to GSLI.
As you can tell by my blog - I LOVE the Outdoors and think that ALL girls need to get outside! And the Outdoor Discussion is high on my list of activities.
I am also excited to wear all the old uniforms we have -- I have made sure to have earned almost all of the badges on those uniforms - which is really cool.
If you see me -- say "Hi" and let me know that you have visited my blog!
See you soon!
As you can tell by my blog - I LOVE the Outdoors and think that ALL girls need to get outside! And the Outdoor Discussion is high on my list of activities.
I am also excited to wear all the old uniforms we have -- I have made sure to have earned almost all of the badges on those uniforms - which is really cool.
If you see me -- say "Hi" and let me know that you have visited my blog!
See you soon!
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Outdoor Journey with STEM Connections
During my Advocacy Journey - I did research on what older girls really wanted in outdoor girl scout programming and then wrote a Journey with that focus.
I would love to see more councils use this Journey. It is designed to be led by the girls (not the adults) and their is only ONE guide.
If you have questions - contact me: sarah@discovergreenyel.org
CLICK HERE TO GET THE JOURNEY
I would love to see more councils use this Journey. It is designed to be led by the girls (not the adults) and their is only ONE guide.
If you have questions - contact me: sarah@discovergreenyel.org
CLICK HERE TO GET THE JOURNEY
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
300 Badges and More!
Did you know my sister and I have a blog that we use during cookie season?
http://300badgesandmore.blogspot.com/
Since someone asked me today how many vintage/retro badges I have -- I thought I would share the evolution of my khaki vest as well :) (and the hair).
This is also my 100th post on this blog!
http://300badgesandmore.blogspot.com/
Since someone asked me today how many vintage/retro badges I have -- I thought I would share the evolution of my khaki vest as well :) (and the hair).
This is also my 100th post on this blog!
2012 -- the goal is 100 IP's during the 100th anniversary. I did it. -- the first 2 rows you see on the front of the vest are the same badges my mother earned in 1983-1987.
2013 - some of my favorite fun patches on the back along with all the council own IP's
2014 - new vest - everything re-sewn thanks to my grandma -- the only NON badge on the vest is the African Jamboree patch from 2012 -- the total number is about 141 including the current version and the 21 - 1934 badges for my Golden Eaglet.
Family Photos - Girl Scout style
So the last three years - my mother, sister and I have had our annual Girl Scout photos taken. It has been fun.
We started it during the 100th anniversary - including my grandmother. I am so lucky to be a fourth generation scout -- my great grandmother was a Canadian Girl Guide in the 1920's.
We started it during the 100th anniversary - including my grandmother. I am so lucky to be a fourth generation scout -- my great grandmother was a Canadian Girl Guide in the 1920's.
Monday, May 19, 2014
I love getting these :)
There are a few followers of my blog that send me emails. Last week my mom encouraged one of my regular emailers to come to the presentation today. It was great that she could come -- and tonight -- Thank you Ms. Karen -- you make my day.
Sarah might enjoy this article I found about a spunky lady in a nursing home! I was looking up more stuff about the Gold Eaglet today at home, and found this. You may know I am a hearty scrapbooker, and today will certainly have a special place in my 11th GS album of all my years as a leader and SU member. I was so glad I took off school today and came up! So proud of you, Sarah!
http://blog.sfgate.com/mpark/2010/09/29/a-73-year-wait-and-at-long-last-a-golden-eaglet/
Karen
Sarah might enjoy this article I found about a spunky lady in a nursing home! I was looking up more stuff about the Gold Eaglet today at home, and found this. You may know I am a hearty scrapbooker, and today will certainly have a special place in my 11th GS album of all my years as a leader and SU member. I was so glad I took off school today and came up! So proud of you, Sarah!
http://blog.sfgate.com/mpark/2010/09/29/a-73-year-wait-and-at-long-last-a-golden-eaglet/
Karen
AWESOME!
What can I say - my family and my council managed to pull the biggest surprise EVER!
Not only did I get an early graduation present that is the best - my Grandfather got me a Golden Eaglet pin.
To make it even better - Anna Maria Chavez was visiting our council and SHE pinned me!
I don't even know how to describe the feelings.
This photo was a staged photo -- entirely because of the photo below with Juliette Gordon Low pinning a Golden Eaglet.
Not only did I get an early graduation present that is the best - my Grandfather got me a Golden Eaglet pin.
To make it even better - Anna Maria Chavez was visiting our council and SHE pinned me!
I don't even know how to describe the feelings.
This photo was a staged photo -- entirely because of the photo below with Juliette Gordon Low pinning a Golden Eaglet.
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Requirements
According to the 1934 Proficiency Badge book the scout has 6 requirements -
1. Must be an active member of a Girl Scout troop and must have been registered for at least 3 years. -- I have been registered for 12 years
2. Must be 16, 17 or 18 when she completes the requirements and the application. - I am currently 16
3. Must have been a First Class Girl Scout for at least 6 months before the application for the Golden Eaglet award is made; must have earned 21 proficiency badges of which 17 must be those listed on the application form. - See previous blog posts
4. Must have camped at least 2 weeks in a Girl Scout camp approved by National Headquarters. Either 2 consecutive weeks or 2 1 week encampments. OR the 3rd way is 2 weeks in a approved troop camp experiences.
My Interpretation of #4 -- last summer I attended 2 10 day destinations events. One in Ireland and One in Iceland. The year before I attended a 3 week camping/lodging/jamboree in Ghana, Africa. Not to mention my plans for summer 2014 - including leading a 10 day journey camp, 10 days sailing in the Virgin Islands and 2 weeks as a CIT II.
5. Must have given satisfactory training to one or more Girl Scouts in the work for the First Class ranch with exception of proficiency badges and swimming.
My experience during the planning and execution of the Golden Eaglet Special Award and proficiency badges - I taught 14 girls how to put up and take care of a tent. Took a group of 47 girls on a night hike during our service unit spring campout and identified constellations, animal sounds, tracks and plants/trees. Finally, I worked with different Girl Scouts in my troop and council wide on their Bronze and Gold Awards. As the youth director for Discover Green - I facilitated 4 Bugs, Flowers and More events with a total of 62 girls participated in the events. These events included community service and learning about native plants and monarch butterflies.
6. Must independently a satisfactory answer to a letter sent from National Headquarters about what she has done in Girl Scouting -- that will be the next blog.
1. Must be an active member of a Girl Scout troop and must have been registered for at least 3 years. -- I have been registered for 12 years
2. Must be 16, 17 or 18 when she completes the requirements and the application. - I am currently 16
3. Must have been a First Class Girl Scout for at least 6 months before the application for the Golden Eaglet award is made; must have earned 21 proficiency badges of which 17 must be those listed on the application form. - See previous blog posts
4. Must have camped at least 2 weeks in a Girl Scout camp approved by National Headquarters. Either 2 consecutive weeks or 2 1 week encampments. OR the 3rd way is 2 weeks in a approved troop camp experiences.
My Interpretation of #4 -- last summer I attended 2 10 day destinations events. One in Ireland and One in Iceland. The year before I attended a 3 week camping/lodging/jamboree in Ghana, Africa. Not to mention my plans for summer 2014 - including leading a 10 day journey camp, 10 days sailing in the Virgin Islands and 2 weeks as a CIT II.
5. Must have given satisfactory training to one or more Girl Scouts in the work for the First Class ranch with exception of proficiency badges and swimming.
My experience during the planning and execution of the Golden Eaglet Special Award and proficiency badges - I taught 14 girls how to put up and take care of a tent. Took a group of 47 girls on a night hike during our service unit spring campout and identified constellations, animal sounds, tracks and plants/trees. Finally, I worked with different Girl Scouts in my troop and council wide on their Bronze and Gold Awards. As the youth director for Discover Green - I facilitated 4 Bugs, Flowers and More events with a total of 62 girls participated in the events. These events included community service and learning about native plants and monarch butterflies.
6. Must independently a satisfactory answer to a letter sent from National Headquarters about what she has done in Girl Scouting -- that will be the next blog.
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Sarah's Bio
As an Ambassador Girl
Scout and Gold Award recipient, Sarah’s Girl Scout activities and involvement
definitely demonstrate her understanding of classic and contemporary Girl Scouting. She loves camping, hiking, backpacking, rock
climbing, Girl Scout destinations, is a Mariner Scout, enjoys learning new
things including different areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Sarah is a member of our Girl Scout Hack for
Change team, Area 4 honor guard, is 3rd highest cookie seller and
represents girls interests on the council travel committee and board strategic
planning committee. Sarah’s Take Action
project for the Ambassador Advocacy Journey included an Outdoor Interests study
of over 2000 girls across the country and the creation of the Outdoor STEM
Journey pilot program.
Outside
of Girl Scouting
Why did she do this?
Sarah is fascinated with
Girl Scout history. Owning several
vintage uniforms, she is a fourth generation Girl Scout/Girl Guide and has
compiled her families Girl Scout history stories during the 100th
anniversary. As a 16 year old high
school senior she still had 2 years left as a Girl Scout and her aunt
challenged her, in fun to earn the other Girl Scout Higher Awards – Golden
Eaglet, Curved Bar and First Class. This
challenge excited her to learn more about all three higher awards. Thanks to eBay she was able to get all the
manuals, badge books and even the badges for all three awards. Her mom has her keep everything in a journal
and a blog. She also cannot do the same
“badge” for all three awards and she cannot count what she did for one badge
(regardless of the era) for another one.
“I want to learn and be proficient in new subjects – this is one way to
make sure that I stay outside my comfort zone.”
For example the “tree finder badge” – she cannot earn it for the Curved
Bar or the First Class since she earned it for the Golden Eaglet.
In addition to Girl Scout
activities, Sarah is the Youth Director for Discover Green – a 501(c)3
nonprofit organization, member of the Keep America Beautiful Youth Advisory
Committee and the City of Pflugerville ,
Parks and Recreation Commission.
Golden Eaglet - Hostess
Thanks to my Grandmother, I have been drilled with etiquette and know how to set a table with speed and accuracy. I have taken numerous classes on manners and how to present ones self with, also, my Grandmother. As a result several of the requirements for this badge regarding being a guest were review and I was able to prove my proficiency quickly.
The only thing that I had trouble with was... being a hostess. I do not have friends over much, so I was not used to having to play that role. Until around a month ago, I was an expert at playing a Hermit, this badge changed all of that. I now am playing hostess once or twice a week. Which means that I can receive and introduce guests and bid them good bye.
I have had to write a note of invitation for various events. I did this using traditional and modern methods. I think I prefer facebook events :)
The last part was to actually plan a part/event and assume I didn't have a serving maid (that was easy). This was successful - not traditional - but we did have food, beverages and entertainment. Understanding the roles of a hostess for a guest who is staying a few days or more - was something I was familiar with and was able to name those responsibilities without any issue.
The only thing that I had trouble with was... being a hostess. I do not have friends over much, so I was not used to having to play that role. Until around a month ago, I was an expert at playing a Hermit, this badge changed all of that. I now am playing hostess once or twice a week. Which means that I can receive and introduce guests and bid them good bye.
I have had to write a note of invitation for various events. I did this using traditional and modern methods. I think I prefer facebook events :)
The last part was to actually plan a part/event and assume I didn't have a serving maid (that was easy). This was successful - not traditional - but we did have food, beverages and entertainment. Understanding the roles of a hostess for a guest who is staying a few days or more - was something I was familiar with and was able to name those responsibilities without any issue.
Golden Eaglet - Pioneer Woman
I have always enjoyed camping, thinking of it as one big adventure. Doing this badge was kind of like review... just harder.
One requirement that I particularly thought was useful, was being able to spot what or what is not a good place to set up camp. For example, do not set up camp at the base of a hill, due to rain and other things that could roll down the slope. Also if you are camping near a source of water, camping upstream is ideal. Never camp under a single tree, even if you are sure that there will be no storm.
I also learned about different ways to set up a fire, such as the Scouts fire. For this you have to have two fairly large logs, large in width and length. Position them in an upside down V shape, not closing the narrow section. Place the widest part of the V away from the wind and the fire near the narrow section. To cook eight place a pot directly on the logs, or place a flat rock to use as a sort of stove. Use the part of the logs at the far wide end as benches. All things fire was 3 of the requirements and 2 were cooking on a fire. I loved it all. I cooked in a dutch oven -- all by myself (usually I do it with groups).
I also has to share what I know about edible plans, getting water and shelter. These are just a few things learned through this badge, other things I learned I have written in a manual for my Journey Camp. This is also another reason why this badge was very helpful.
After completing this badge - I finished writing up the Outdoor STEM Journey resource guide. It makes me smile to think that Juliette would approve of my Outdoor STEM Journey.
I hope if you are following me and my blog -- that you know I have a facebook group for the Journey - https://www.facebook.com/groups/CSAGirlScoutsOutdoors/ and another blog that is not about Journeys or the Golden Eaglet. But much more cookies :) http://300badgesandmore.blogspot.com/
One requirement that I particularly thought was useful, was being able to spot what or what is not a good place to set up camp. For example, do not set up camp at the base of a hill, due to rain and other things that could roll down the slope. Also if you are camping near a source of water, camping upstream is ideal. Never camp under a single tree, even if you are sure that there will be no storm.
I also learned about different ways to set up a fire, such as the Scouts fire. For this you have to have two fairly large logs, large in width and length. Position them in an upside down V shape, not closing the narrow section. Place the widest part of the V away from the wind and the fire near the narrow section. To cook eight place a pot directly on the logs, or place a flat rock to use as a sort of stove. Use the part of the logs at the far wide end as benches. All things fire was 3 of the requirements and 2 were cooking on a fire. I loved it all. I cooked in a dutch oven -- all by myself (usually I do it with groups).
I also has to share what I know about edible plans, getting water and shelter. These are just a few things learned through this badge, other things I learned I have written in a manual for my Journey Camp. This is also another reason why this badge was very helpful.
After completing this badge - I finished writing up the Outdoor STEM Journey resource guide. It makes me smile to think that Juliette would approve of my Outdoor STEM Journey.
I hope if you are following me and my blog -- that you know I have a facebook group for the Journey - https://www.facebook.com/groups/CSAGirlScoutsOutdoors/ and another blog that is not about Journeys or the Golden Eaglet. But much more cookies :) http://300badgesandmore.blogspot.com/
Friday, May 16, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Home Nurse
Haven taken CPR and First Aid, this
badge was not too difficult. Also having a mother who is always willing to help
and demonstrate certain aspects is also very helpful.
With this badge, I had to be able to
know and show that I could help a “sick” person maneuver and do simple daily
tasks. One that I had a particularly fun time doing was changing the sheets on
a bed while it was occupied. I learned to roll a patient by placing hands on
their shoulder and hip and then rolling them towards you, never away or they
could fall off the bed. It goes the same for CPR and First Aid.
Never leave
a patient, even for a second, on a bed without sheets, it can be uncomfortable
to them as well as it can contaminate the mattress. You want to have the bottom
sheet ready as you undo the corners nearest you, and then put on the new under
sheet. With the side that has not yet been put on the bed, scoot it as close to
the patient without making them uncomfortable, then roll them towards you and
with them still on their side, take the new under sheet and the old one and tug
on them gently until you can roll the patient and they are laying on the new
under sheet. Take the old under sheet and put it in the hamper. Put the new
one’s last corners on. Changing the over sheet is the easiest part; always
start from the top, so the patient isn’t smothered with the old and the new
over sheet. After that, depending on the sick person, you will either tuck a
loose hospital corner or a taught one, and then reapply the quilt.
I enjoyed
this badge, like all the others. My sister makes for a great patient, although
she giggles at every touch.
Golden Eaglet - Cook
With all the badges - I have to demonstrate the proficiency of my skills. I am glad to have been cooking my own meals since I was 6,
because it made this badge easier. Knowing that I had cooked, I was able to do
many of the requirements quickly.
However I
learned how to do a few things I had never done before. Like how to poach an
egg.
I used the whirlpool method that I found online -- What you
want is a “pot” with water (excluding 1 inch from the top) with two teaspoons
of Kocher salt and ¼ of white vinegar, let the water simmer on medium heat.
While the water is heating, crack your egg in a ceramic small bowl. Once the
water is finished, take the handle of a spoon or spatula and create a
whirlpool. Then, in the middle of the whirlpool drop in the egg. Put a lid on
the pot and let it sit for 3 minutes - depending on how firm. Then after about three, get a holed
spoon, take it out and eat it. If you don’t want to at the time, put it on ice
and you can keep it in the fridge for up to eight hours, then you can heat it
up in some hot water.
I enjoyed
learning new things, after taking cooking classes since I was seven or eight, I
couldn’t believe I hadn’t ever done this before. Since I don't like eggs -- my mom ate it -- and my sister wanted me to make her one next. So it looks like I'll be cooking these more than just a couple of times.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Wildflower Badge
This year was a great year for Central Texas wildflowers. They were beautiful and I was fortunate enough to do this during the wildflower season.
This badge was difficult in the beginning because I had to
be able to identify 50 different wildflowers. After a couple months I was able
to, and although I am still working on being able to identify some of them with
just looking at them, I know the vast majority of them all.
Also another part of this badge was to know three poisonous
plants, I ended up finding four. One is Poison Ivy, it can irritate the skin,
Buttercup can injure the digestive system if you eat any part of it. So never
eat a small yellow flower. Then there is also the Iris, it can upset your
digestive system if you eat the underground stem portion. Bull-nettle or Mala
Mujer, is also poisonous, all but the seed pod you cannot eat. And I do not
know the symptoms, but I just wouldn’t eat it.
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Housekeeper
Housekeeper had a bit of everything, some things I had
learned in previous badges. But practiced them more during this one. Either
way, I learned valuable skills in this badge.
A very
helpful thing I learned was in what order you would clean a room. One tip is
“always start from the top”. The fan, then the window blinds, the window, then
any surfaces in the room, the bed, then the baseboard. The last thing you do is
sweep the floor, and if you have a carpet in a tile or wood floored room, you
vacuum before you sweep as well.
An
efficient way to wash and dry dishes is to put the things with crusty or hard
food on them in the sink first so that they can soak. Then you put the medium
sized in then the smaller things. Anything really big will go last because you
might need new water by then anyway. Always rinse and dry as you go, as well as
put things up. Some people may leave things out to air dry but I never do
because I like to see that I have finished something from start to finish and I
won’t have to come back and finish it later.
*** Mom note: My mother wanted me to add that my room is almost never clean. Except when I was working on this badge.
Goldent Eaglet - Where to put them???
So - during my last 5 years as a Cadette+ - I have been busy and have a lot of badges on my uniform. I only have one fun patch. (which is actually from my trip to Ghana).
I still have to finish edging four of them. But here they are. I am basically finished - I am just writing them up and have one last one to show my proficiency.
I still have to finish edging four of them. But here they are. I am basically finished - I am just writing them up and have one last one to show my proficiency.
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Rambler (Gardener, Water Life Finder - Fresh, Land Animal)
The Rambler Badge |
My Rambler includes (Water Life Finder- Fresh, Gardener and Land Animal Finder)
Water life Finder-Fresh Water:
Nature Pfest - 2014 |
The waterlife finder badge includes drawing a map of the stream - Gilleland Creek is the water feature I chose to study. The typical plants and animals include ligustrium - which is an invasive species. Native trees include cedar elm, pecan, mulberry. The creek area is also full of green briar and poison ivy.
The macroinvertebrates in the creek are very important for the life of the creek. I loved watching the animals and teaching the kids about them.
Land Animal Finder:
I had to study 15 animals and record observations. A careful study of 6 that included 2 of each - lower animals, domestic animals and wild animals. I laughed because the example of wild animals they gave me included squirrel, chipmunk, bat and deer. I did spend too much time studying the squirrels at my grandparents. The bats and field mice were not as interesting. Walking sticks and the household cat - were others that I enjoyed. Creative writing course this semester gave me an opportunity to write a story about a circus.
Gardener
This badge was the first one I started since it required me to make a garden and take care of it for an entire season. I did not succeed with all the plants. I found that weeds and insects were not much of an issue during the season. I also taught a workshop to brownies, daisys and juniors on how to design and install different types of gardens. Specifically the making of monarch way stations.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Athlete
One of the
requirements for this badge is to hold the Health Winner badge… check! And in
having the Health Winner badge I know that exercise is a very important part of
everyones life. It helps to keep them fit and healthy, as well as mentally fit.
The hardest
part of this badge was being able to throw a baseball accurately up to 40 feet.
I don’t play baseball, so I wasn’t good at the beginning. But after a few
pitches with my brother, I was able to throw the baseball almost the entire
length of my side-yard, with both my right and left, pretty accurately. My
brother told me that he should be able to catch the ball without extending his
arm out all the way and without having to take a step or lean over. After a
couple dozen pitches I was able to, but not with my left.
Also one of
the requirements was to help lead a game for a group of people. At the home
school field day I was co-captain for capture the flag and helped to lead two
“missions” with two other people into the red “territory”.
Another
requirement for this badge is to hold the Swimmer badge… check!
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Dressmaker Dress - Marie on Stage
So -- I added photos of me making the dress to the previous blog. I thought I would add this video of my sister on stage.
Golden Eaglet - Dressmaker
I never
really enjoyed sewing, but I enjoyed this badge! And I plan on using the skills
I learned to create more dresses for my sister in the future.
For this
badge I had to sew two articles of clothing using a sewing machine. And since
my sister is in the SCA - Society for Creative Anachronism I made two more over dresses for her costume. While
making the two, I learned about measuring and how to layout the pattern to get
the most out of your fabric.
I also used
a piece of equipment that I had never even heard of called a serger. A Serger
is used to bind the edges of the fabric to prevent fraying, which linen tends
to do quite often and quite easily. Once the fabric was measured, cut and
merged, I sewed the two pieces of fabric together using a regular sewing
machine. What really confused me though, was that I also sewed the top where my
sister’s head was going to go.
After it
was all sewn (even the top part!?), I measured and cut a pattern for what is
called the neck facing. I pinned that to the dress’s top (the part that confused
me) and then I sewed it to the dress. After it was sewn I cut a hole in the
center, and VIOLA! I had my sister’s dress!
I made one
purple and one maroon overdress for my sister as a birthday present and I think
she enjoys wearing them. I loved earning this badge, and I hope that you get as
much fun out of it, as I did!
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Bird Finder
My love of birds first began when my grandfather came to Texas with a bird feeder
and binoculars. He organized a week long “birding camp” and that was where I
learned how to identify birds and count them as they come to the feeder.
Now because of this badge and all the classes I’ve had over
the years, I can identify 25 plus different types of birds. Some I can even
tell just by the silhouette as they are flying and also their flight pattern.
For example, the Turkey Vulture’s wings have a slight up
turn to them and the always extend their wings at an 85 degree angle instead of
all the way. The purple martin has a zig zag pattern of flying and the red
tailed hawk flicks its tail as it flies.
I’ve had fun with this badge and I will use it to teach
other girls on hikes as I progress in the Scouting Career!
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Lifesaver
Life saver
I am quite confused about the life saver badge. Because most
of the requirements are the same as the swimmer badge. And both badges are required badges...
The following have been checked off by a certified Life
Guard:
-
Tread water for 30 seconds
-
Float motionless
-
Perform 2 dives: Plain and racing
-
Swim 100 yards
-
CPR (supposed to have witnessed… but I’ve done
it. This counts right?)
-
Swim 50ft (legs only)
Golden Eaglet - Swimmer
Pflugerville Certified Life Guard signed off on my swim
test. I needed the swim test to continue my mariner training. These are the same as the 1934 Swimmer badge:
-
100 yards freestyle
-
Treading water for 1 minute
-
Demonstrate back and breast stroke
These of course were not from the swim test - -but, I knew how to do them.
-
Recover from man overboard
-
Play three water games
-
I am CPR and First Aid certified
-
Demonstrate “look before you dive”
-
And NEVER swim without a buddy
Golden Eaglet - Child Nurse - Part 2
I survived the 24 hour span of watching a little person.
Learning that it is difficult to watch and entertain children for a long period
of time. And that Candy Land can supply 3 hours of fun for my baby cousin.
Creating lists of ideas was helpful, because I always had a
plan, in case she got bored or tired of one thing. To earn this badge I had to
be able to bathe a child, feed and entertain a child and create a list and/or
schedule for a day to keep a child occupied. As well as know when a good time
is to go outside.
For example, after the three hours of playing Candy Land,
Emily (whom I was babysitting) complained that she was bored and that she had a
head ache. I knew by her head ache that she needed water and outside time, so
we played some “baseball” outside for an hour. Until she complained it was too
bright and it was “burning her eyes”.
I enjoyed doing this badge, partially because I got to play
for an entire day!
Golden Eaglet - Tree Finder
I thought that since I had been
planting trees for almost eight years now, I’d know everything about trees. I
could never have been more wrong! The photo is actually during my Gold Award in the fall of 2012 when I distributed 500 free street trees to my community. Alvin and his wife asked me if I would plant theirs. It felt great planting it.
One of the things I learned most about trees is what the different types of woods can do. For instance, Apple wood is good for cooking, Walnut for gunstocks and cabinetry, Mahogany is warp resistant so it’s good for boat construction. Oak doesn’t swell or take in moisture so it is often used in boat framing, Cherry wood for boat trim and Spruce wood for boat spars and masts. Cedar is good for dock planks and from my own experience with Cedar, its good for making bows because if you get the right branch it bends well but it’s sturdy. And Cherry wood is a hard wood and is difficult to work with making it great for instruments so it can resonate sound… it also tends to have a pretty grain and vibrant color once stained.
One of the things I learned most about trees is what the different types of woods can do. For instance, Apple wood is good for cooking, Walnut for gunstocks and cabinetry, Mahogany is warp resistant so it’s good for boat construction. Oak doesn’t swell or take in moisture so it is often used in boat framing, Cherry wood for boat trim and Spruce wood for boat spars and masts. Cedar is good for dock planks and from my own experience with Cedar, its good for making bows because if you get the right branch it bends well but it’s sturdy. And Cherry wood is a hard wood and is difficult to work with making it great for instruments so it can resonate sound… it also tends to have a pretty grain and vibrant color once stained.
And from my
experience with trees, I had fun studying ones I knew so I could identify ten
just by either bark, seed or flower.
If you like environmental badges or environmental anything -- the 1934 and even the 1947 versions of Bird Finder, Tree Finder, Conservationist, Land Animal Finder, Fresh Water Life Finder, Wildflower Finder, etc. Are awesome for hands on field work and observation skills. This is more work than most of my science classes combined -- for just one of the badges.
I enjoyed
this badge… much better than the current Cadette tree badge.
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Junior Citizen
As part of the requirements for this badge, I have earned
my first aid badge, as well as I am studying for my Drivers Ed, test. These two
have helped me meet the first two requirements.
Because I am working on the 1934 badge, there was no way
to “call” 911. Instead you would find your nearest station. But sometimes that
would be too far away, so in case of an emergency, you would either find your
parent, or the first aid kit. If neither of those are readily available, find
the nearest adult, or neighbor. If you were lost in a city, you would go into
the closest shop and ask the clerk where the nearest fire station is located.
Why you would ask for the fire station, is because there are more of those in a
city than a police station, so there would be a better chance you would be
closer to one of those.
Because I am
studying for my drivers test, I now pay more attention to where I am going in
the car, and can now help direct where the police station, fire station,
library, City Hall, nearest park, nearest Skate Park ,
and two different churches are. As well as where the nearest Baskin Robins is.
As I am homeschooled, I have no “school health services”
except for what my parents pay.
My community puts the trash in the bins and a commercial
service comes and picks it up to take it to the dump. However in 1934, that
would have not been the case. I’m not sure how they would have disposed of
their trash, but that is how I dispose of my trash.
In my community to protect trees and wildlife, we plant and
mulch trees every so often on different days of service. And protecting
wildlife can be as easy as not picking or stepping on wildflowers, hunting or
hurting animals, as well as not polluting streams as well as not littering.
Golden Eaglet - First Aid
I have been trained in First
Aid and CPR and I can do the following as according to the 1934 badge
requirements:
-
Treat a fainting person
-
Bandage a sprained ankle with a triangular bandage
- Put on a sling
- Treat a scratch, cut and blister
-
Stop bleeding by means of pressure
- Remove a splinter
-
Remove a speck from the eye without rolling back the eyelid
- Treat a burn
- Treat poison Ivy
-
How to properly
use a triangular bandage
-
Control severe
bleeding
-
Transport an
injured person
-
Know how to treat
a sprain, strain, bruise, nosebleed, choking, insect bite, sunstroke, frostbite
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Child Nurse - part 1
As I have worked on the 1934 Merit Badges - a few have forced me to learn a lot of new information. It has been an educational journey. Reminding me that badges are designed to "Educate NOT Decorate".
I thought the Child Nurse badge would be easy for me -- I have been actively watching younger children for 5 years. With most of my time with kids under age 5. However, I realized there was still so much to learn.
I also knew that the time I spent before -- would not count toward this badge. I had a required 24 hours to spend in this role. It could have been in 2, 3 or 8 hour blocks. I wanted to do something I hadn't done before - so I went for a 24 hour block of time - including bed time routine, all meals and of course activities, reading, etc.
I am 12 hours into the 24 -- look for the final blog tomorrow (maybe Thursday -- tomorrow I am making two dresses for the dressmaker badge). Along with a few others (I have 7 other badges finished -- it has been a great experience
I thought the Child Nurse badge would be easy for me -- I have been actively watching younger children for 5 years. With most of my time with kids under age 5. However, I realized there was still so much to learn.
I also knew that the time I spent before -- would not count toward this badge. I had a required 24 hours to spend in this role. It could have been in 2, 3 or 8 hour blocks. I wanted to do something I hadn't done before - so I went for a 24 hour block of time - including bed time routine, all meals and of course activities, reading, etc.
I am 12 hours into the 24 -- look for the final blog tomorrow (maybe Thursday -- tomorrow I am making two dresses for the dressmaker badge). Along with a few others (I have 7 other badges finished -- it has been a great experience
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Health Winner
This next badge was all about your health and being conscious
of how you do everything that might affect your body and how you function.
The first
and second requirements were about posture and sleep. The first I’m not too
good at, but completing this requirement brought my attention to how I should
sit and stand. Always sit up straight, because it can help with your breathing
and it can and will reduce lower back pain as well as neck pain. And sleep is
important because without it, no one is functional. I am 16 and I go to bed at
8:00PM almost every night and get roughly 11 hours of sleep. Other girls my age
don’t get this much sleep, but everyone in their teens (because they are either
growing or are about to) should get 8 to 10 hours of sleep every night.
The third
and fourth requirements were concerned about the eyes and fresh air. Caring for
your eyes is so simple and easy. Lighting is important, such as, when reading,
writing or typing even, always have enough light. Especially if you are using a
computer, the harsh light if you are in a dark room, can mess up your eyes to
where you can’t adjust as quickly as you should to various lighting. And fresh
air is also important, something as simple as taking a walk can help with moods
and headaches. Playing outdoors is important because its proven that time spent
outside can actually help with strengthening your ability to focus and retain
information.
The fifth
and sixth requirements were simply about staying clean. Washing hands before
and after a meal to wash off dirt and other materials and germs from other
activities you’ve done during the day. Washing hands also helps with skin care
and nail care. Taking showers regularly can also help with skin, nail and hair
health. Taking a shower either every morning or every night, or even every
other day is important because personal hygiene is crucial for not only your
health, but it can also be a big part about your mood and how you present
yourself.
The last
three were about eating right, dressing right and not attending gatherings when
one is sick. Eating fruits and vegetables everyday can help with reducing
stomachaches, headaches, cramps and it can help with other parts of your body
such as carrots help with your eyes and milk helps with your bones and meats
with your muscles. It’s important to eat a balance of fruits, veggies, dairy
and protein everyday to look, feel and be your best.
Wearing the
right clothing during an activity is important because it can be the difference
of either a won game or an injury. Wear close toed shoes with low heals when
doing an activity that requires running so that you don’t trip over the ends of
your shoes, also so that you don’t break a toe or sprain an ankle. Cut your
toenails frequently so they don’t snag on your socks and create infection.
Always wear socks when you wear shoes to prevent foot infection, smell and
blisters. If you do get a blister, do NOT pick at it, put a band-aid over it
and leave it alone for a couple days, then take the band-aid off and then
again, leave it alone.
The last
and most important is staying at home when you are ill. Never go to a gathering
with people if you know you are sick because you can spread it to other people.
Also, stay in bed, don’t run around the house or be near family members because
they can get it too. But also make sure, if you can, you open windows to get
fresh air when you are sick so you don’t breath in the same germs over and over
again in your room or home.
Golden Eaglet - Wildflower Finder, Tree Finder, Bird Finder, Rambler
Currently, I am working on six different badges. The rambler badge is actually the equivalent to three merit badges - my choices are land animal finder, water life finder and gardener. The badge itself has 11 choices.
They require me to observe and study things I didn't know. My Land Animal Finder requires me to observe land animals - I am enjoying watching the squirrels.
I think that doing these badges is more science and observation than science classes. These 6 badges are definitely a years worth of high school Natural Science.
Since I have four elective badges to earn - several of mine are also options for the Rambler Badge. - The Tree Finder, Bird Finder and Wild Flower Finder. Mine are based on my interests as well as what my mom could find on ebay.
Watch for more on those badges as I work on this award.
They require me to observe and study things I didn't know. My Land Animal Finder requires me to observe land animals - I am enjoying watching the squirrels.
I think that doing these badges is more science and observation than science classes. These 6 badges are definitely a years worth of high school Natural Science.
Since I have four elective badges to earn - several of mine are also options for the Rambler Badge. - The Tree Finder, Bird Finder and Wild Flower Finder. Mine are based on my interests as well as what my mom could find on ebay.
Watch for more on those badges as I work on this award.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Laundress Badge
Like many of the 1934 Merit Badges -- I am having to spend a lot of time researching -- so instead of my mom or Grandma telling me, I am using YouTube videos and google. In 1934, a Girl Scout would be quizzed by her Captain to show her proficiency. My mom encouraged me to continue the blog so that others can view my proficiency. Feel free to post comments and ask me questions about how I did something. Or where I learned something.
With this badge I learned how to care for clothing and how
to treat stains correctly. For example, if you have a dirt stain, a great way
to get it out is to apply vinegar and baking soda (stress on the baking its
important) (also mixed together) to the stain and let it sit. After an hour or
so, (I waited longer) spray with Shout and wash in COLD water. I learned that hot water will
set the stain into the fabric.
When washing cotton articles, use cold water, regardless of the color and when in the dryer
put in for only a small amount of time and check it frequently. You don’t want
to leave it in the dryer for too long. It will wrinkle a lot.
When ironing (pressing) a
cotton article, there is usually a cotton setting if not, put it on medium or
low heat and NEVER leave the iron on the fabric for too long in one spot - it will burn.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Golden Eaglet - Needlewoman - The comfiest badge yet
This has been, by far, the comfiest badge, old and new, I
have ever done. For this merit badge I learned the differences of the hand
needles. Crewel needles are good for embroidery but not ribbon embroidery; you
use Chenille Needles for that. Tapestry Needles are used for canvas work and
embroidery.
I tidied up my sewing kit, throwing out old thread spools
and organizing my needles by type and size. As well as adding more thread to
the “selection”.
But the aspect of this badge that I enjoyed most was making
my own pair of pajama pants. The badge originally had the girls make a simple house dress. For me this wasn't practical -- I will be making three in the dressmaker badge.
I enjoyed this badge and I can’t wait to do the Laundress
badge and Dressmaker!
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Golden Eaglet
Blog Post #1
My fascination with vintage badges started during the 100th anniversary when I looked through the 1947 Intermediate guide that would have been the same my grandmother used when she was a scout. I earned some old badges that she earned. They are part of our family legacy badges (those my mom and grandmother earned -- now I have earned them and we have extras for my sister and future daughters.
I have finished the Journeys, interesting current Ambassador badges and over 100 of the IPP's from 1985-2002. So I have continued to try and find a challenging goal for my next year or so as a girl scout.
I looked at
the Golden Eaglet. And as crazy as it sounds, I’m going for the Golden Eaglet. Because, once an award, always an award. -- Have you seen the Golden Eaglet video? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5UBGJAeDFM
So the next series of blogs are going to be about the 21
merit badges I will have to earn to earn the Golden Eaglet.
Needle Woman and Laundress are first. I hope
that in reading this, maybe you too will earn some of the older merit badges.
They have more requirements, but I think they are more interesting
than any of the badges they have now.
Summits completed - What's Next?
So I have completed all three Senior and Ambassador Girl Scout Journeys.
This means I have earned the Senior and Ambassador Summit pins.
If you have read my blog - you know I have also earned my Gold Award.
My Gold Award has been recognized by Keep Texas Beautiful and Keep America Beautiful.
http://www.statesman.com/news/news/local/community-news-for-pflugerville/nd6B7/
I am honored to be moving forward with the GSUSA - National Young Women of Distinction nomination from my council as well.
See what I have planned next.
This means I have earned the Senior and Ambassador Summit pins.
If you have read my blog - you know I have also earned my Gold Award.
My Gold Award has been recognized by Keep Texas Beautiful and Keep America Beautiful.
http://www.statesman.com/news/news/local/community-news-for-pflugerville/nd6B7/
I am honored to be moving forward with the GSUSA - National Young Women of Distinction nomination from my council as well.
See what I have planned next.
Did you know ?
Did you know that I have another blog that we share our "cookie stuff" on?
http://300badgesandmore.blogspot.com/
http://300badgesandmore.blogspot.com/
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Justice - Ambassador Journey - Session 9
Inspiring Justice
Talking to
the Pflugerville Parks Director gave us the opportunity to speak to the parks
commission about the Pflugerville
Outdoor Nature
Center . Matthew gave a
presentation at the Parks and Recreation Commission on December 19th,
2013. All commission members agreed with the idea on the house becoming a Nature Center
for the kids of Pflugerville. So now the next step is to get it inspected and
make repairs as well as fundraise.
This Nature Center
will address the issue of Environmental Education, because the best way to
preserve our environment is to teach others how as well as about it. This Nature Center
will give kids of Pflugerville the opportunity to come and learn about
Marshland, Blackland Prairie and the wildlife around Pflugerville Lake .
I am excited for this Nature Center
and think that it will be a great asset to the Pflugerville community!
Justice - Ambassador Journey - Session 8
Who will listen
Last May,
Matthew and I talked with Jim Bowlin, the Parks Director at the time. He
enjoyed and agreed with the project and we got fairly far with the plans for
the Nature Center . However the middle of May Mr.
Bowline was fired and our project came to a stop.
Last month
(November) a new Parks Director was hired, James Hermenes. On December 17, 2013
Matthew and I went and presented the plan to him. He enjoyed the idea and said
that he would help with creating a Nature
Center . Mr. Hermenes
stated that “I can’t see anything else that this house could be…”
On the 19th
is the commission meeting and Mr. Hermenes gave us a slot to present the plans
and overall thought of a Nature
Center . I hope it goes
well.
Justice - Ambassador Journey - Session 7
What's the
Equation?
The simple plans for the Nature Center
are almost finished. Now the next step is to plan a meeting with the new
Pflugerville Parks Director, James Hermenes.
I think that in order for this Nature
Center to be a reality the parks director and the commission need to agree on
the project as well as agree to help in some way. I will also talk with
Pflugerville Independent School District to see if they are interested in
helping to fundraise. I am also going to reach out to Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts
and 4-H to see if they are willing to help with any projects needed to be done
around the Nature Center, such as the trails, bird walk, painting or
plantings.
And since I am almost done with this
journey I will also be planning the Court of Awards, not only for my
achievements but for my entire Troop's achievements. With my finishing of the
last available Girl Scout Journey as well as four Juniors earned their Bronze.
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