Getting Out and About
Looking back on school days we certainly remember the familiar surroundings and faces, but memories always seem to stand out of those special events: sports day, school concerts and the days when we went out on visits. The treat began with packing lunch, which always seemed twice the size when we had the excuse of being away for the day, and twice as tasty as we delved into the contents. The rolls were called and the bus arrived and excited chatter all seemed to contribute to the mounting excitement. Yes, definitely trips out were a highlight.
As a parent helper on school trips it was fun to re-live the excitement though somehow the responsibility entailed heightened the awareness of our teachers' grey hair! So it was surprising some years later to be a be Brownie Leader in Charge and taking the unit out on adventures and even going away on camp.
It is so much easier to keep to routine and we tend to stay in our comfort zones, but why not change your meeting and go out instead on a Saturday and try a combination of picnic and activity. In the middle of this magazine you will find some ideas: the ideas are endless and we will continue to let you know more as time goes on. If you are planning to study Heritage, we have the gift of the Pioneer Museum at Howick, MOTAT village, our very own heritage uniforms , Highwic House, Alberton….and I am sure you can find more to add. The key to learning is listening, looking and most importantly, doing: combine that with the enthusiasm of going out on a visit and I think you have the makings of a memorable occasion.
As for district teams, we operate usually with supportive family members in the wings…why not gather together as family groups? Alternatively, a ladies night out treat or weekend away is a great way to build a working relationship into a stronger bond.
As for yourself, think of training as a visit out. Yes, you can (and I hope do) visit us on "home ground" at Auckland Guide Centre but do remember that National Trainings are available to you - see Te Rama and adverts in Guidelines for details. In Auckland we are fortunate to have Guide Centres available at North Shore and Manukau. This year we are dipping into their resources and have invited those interested to enrol in the Arahina Course topics at their centres. This way you have the benefit of meeting new faces and seeing new places. Our International Co-ordinator, would like to see more people visiting other countries. The opportunities are there - why waste them.
Happy visiting!
from Guidelines, Mar 2005
