By Cathy Natoli
The Patrick County Girl Scouts were once again able to hold their Fall Camporee. With about 40 girls and adults present, a good time had by all at Dominion Valley Park. It was a little cool at night and early morning, but good times were had.
Friday night had everyone setting up tents. Then after a fire got going, hot dogs were roasted, and everyone enjoyed hotdogs, chips and juices or water.
Girls that were new tie-dyed shirts and all the girls made sit ‘upons’ – homemade, usually waterproof pads that offer protection from the cold and damp while “sitting upon” the ground.
There also was a little time spent on the girls working on requirements for several badges. Before bedtime, the evening brought smores made fresh with marshmallows and cooked over the fire.
Saturday morning began with breakfast of cereal and Pop-tarts. Next, a busy day began with trail mix being created and then the group were led on a hike around the area.
Girls took a break halfway through the hike to enjoy their trail mix and water. A very interesting lizard got the girls attention during the hike as well. As the hike ended, a little free time was enjoyed on the playground.
Next came a little rest as the girls listened to a bit of information on their founder Juliette Gordon Low. Her birthday was on Halloween, so the girls celebrated early with cupcakes in her honor.
Then they enjoyed sandwiches or hotdogs for lunch and got back to working on several badges and a bit of journey work. By mid-afternoon it was time to take down tents and clean up the area. A great time had come to an end.
The girls were also happy about having earned several badges while attending camporee that will show on their badge sashes or vests some of the activities they completed at camp.
Many thanks to Dominion Valley Park for allowing the Girl Scouts to use the park for camping. Plans are to camp for a full weekend in the spring. Thanks to all the leaders and parents who helped make this camping experience a memorable time for the girls.
