American Heritage Girls

I may have told you that Rachel joined a newly formed American Heritage Girls troop last October. AHG is a Christian scouting organization complete with merit badges and level awards including a BSA Eagle comparable called the Stars and Stripes Award. Their mission statement is Building women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country.

For more AHG info, go here.
Since they are a new troop, exploring their books has consumed some of their meeting time. One fun component of the book is the song section in the back.

There are the traditional camp songs such as "Boom Chicka Boom" and "Bug Juice" plus the ever popular "Kum Ba Yah". Also included are songs to help the girls learn the AGH creed, oath and service pledge.

However, the words, not the music are all that's there so unless there's leader materials containing the tunes, I guess we just make up our own.
That's Rachel in the baby blue.
Jackie & Linda are the adult leaders pictured.
This looks like "Lord I Lift Your Name on High" but I suspect it's something else.






Here we are starting the family Christmas party meeting with pledges and oaths: "As an American Heritage Girl, I promise to love God, Cherish my family, Honor my country and serve in my community.



Prior to digging in to the goodies, the girls pose for this photo op. Rachel is the oldest (& tallest) in the group.



One of the requirements for a cake decorating badge in the Family Living Frontier section of the book is making a ginger bread house. Don't these look yummy?




Jackie read a Christmas themed story to the kids.

Note the devastation surrounding the goodie table: a sure sign of a good party.


Last night was an official joining ceremony. Rachel, as the oldest AHG member, had the privilege of reading/directing the flag ceremony as the Color Guard Commander.



Jackie recognizes Linda & Elizabeth as foundational leaders.


As a part of the ceremony, a candle was lit.
I found it humorous that couple of Boy Scouts were on hand with a lighter to accomplish this task. Once some of the girls earn the Fire Safety badge, I expect they'll be able to light their own candles.
Each girl was called to the front, given a candle to light from the group candle then stood at the front letting her little light shine.

We have a nice group here. Rachel is still hoping for some older girls to join. (Pssst: Hint! Hint!)

While up front, still holding their lit candles and displaying the AHG sign, the girls quoted their oath and creed:

As an American Heritage Girl I promise to be:
Compassionate

Helpful

Honest

Loyal

Perseverant

Pure

Resourceful

Respectful

Responsible

Reverent

Before sitting down, Jackie presented joining pins to each girl who had completed the initial requirements - but she was too fast for me to get a photo. Maybe next time.

I'll keep you posted.