Commisioner’s Corner – Sept 17

Recently on arriving at Elmbank Street for a Girlguiding Glasgow meeting, I happened to hold the door open for a new member. What I noticed almost immediately was her smile and after engaging in conversation it became very apparent this was an eagerly awaited moment. This small little person was almost beside herself to try on her Rainbow uniform for the first time. The excitement was infectious and on asking her what she was looking forward to most about becoming a member she responded that was “getting a break from her mum” to which her mum responded “the feeling is mutual pet!!”. It did make me chuckle but clear example of the independence Girlguiding fosters in girls from a young age and it was an eureka moment that reminded me just why I am a member of our organisation. It is that time when our units welcome new members who are starting out in their Girlguiding adventure. Go our new system is now live and thanks must be extended to you all for your patience. With any new major development, there will be teething problems however the team at CHQ are all over it!

Summer is my most favourite months for Girlguiding. I spent a fabulous two weeks in the South of France with Guides and Senior Section. We had an action packed trip with the right balance of adventurous activity and sight-seeing. A personal highlight was paragliding which had been on my bucket list for a while. It was totally exhilarating being on the edge of a cliff and watching Guides and SS members fly across the gorge doing some tricks that would make your stomach flip! It was certainly a Girlguiding mountain top moment for all of us!!
I also managed to squeeze a flying visit to AJ International Jamboree at Auchengillan and also a visit to Airwaves International Camp which is delivered by Girlguiding Ayrshire North. Evelyn and I joined the camp for their opening ceremony. Both fabulous events bringing together members from around the globe to celebrate everything Girlguiding and Scouting have to offer.

A much more chilled out afternoon was spent with friends at our first Achachairdeis BBQ the weather was not as kind as it could have been however fun and friendship was shared by all those that attended. A very special thank you to the members of Girlguiding Glasgow’s Adventure team who made the event possible.

Next on the social calendar was our Thanks and Recognition event for Guide section leaders. I enjoyed joining you all to celebrate your contribution to our County over a cuppa and cake.

At the start of a new Girlguiding term, I hope you and your girls have lots of fun, friendship, and adventure!

Jill