To the Bridge

Hi folks.

Well, it's been two years since we last did this - Abby's Girl Scout troop, led by Kris and Courtney, have 'graduated' (for lack of better term) from Brownies, and therefore it was time, once again, to hold a Bridging Ceremony.

If you'll recall (via the hyperlink above), last time we did this we did it in our own backyard, since we do have ourselves a bridge (recently scrubbed clean, by the way - just need to put some waterproof finish on it.)  Girls line up and take turns crossing the bridge, removing their patch-covered Brownie sashes, and donning the teal vests of the next class of Girl Scout, Juniors.  They then talk about the scout character traits they identify most with, and what they liked most about being a Brownie the last two years.

Following this, everyone - scouts and parents alike - hung out and picnicked in our backyard.  I was grateful that this time around I didn't simultaneously have a shitload of unpacking to do.  Still kinda sucked seeing how it was a school night, though - I really wanted people to eat fast and get the hell out of my backyard.

That shouldn't be all that surprising to anyone, honestly.

So yeah.  Here's another Bridging Ceremony. . .

Swearing fealty to all things Girl Scouts.

Bustin' a gut.  Great composure, kids.

Opening remarks.  Courtney, as usual, did all the talking while Kris handed stuff out.

Abby was the first up.  You could tell she was nervous, because she fast-walked across the bridge - practically jogging - and I barely had time to snap a decent picture of her.  Of course.

She shucked off her sash so fast I didn't get a shot of that either.  Way to go, kid.

Donning the teal.

Presenting Abby with her certificate of completion (or whatever the hell it's called), along with a new Girl Scout water bottle.

Abby tells the assembled masses her favorite things about being a Brownie.

Later, once the entire troop went through the above process.

Attempting to take some group pictures on our bridge. . .

Kinda surprised it held all this weight without buckling, to tell ya the truth.

Another Junior in the house. 

Kris helps set up the potluck table.

Now seriously. . . get the hell out of my backyard, people.

- Brian