MISC

This celebration could be held either on the anniversary of Johnny Chapman's death, March 11, or on the anniversary of his birth, September 26.

John Chapman, better known as Johnny appleseed, was a historical figure whose wilderness adventures became larger -than-life legends.

Born in Massachusetts during the Revolutionary War, John headed west as soon as he was able. Along the way, he cleared land and planted orchards so he could supply apples to the settlers he knew would follow. When the settlers did arrive, John befriended them, often giving away his trees. Soon he became known as Johnny Appleseed.

Legends about him spread quickly. It was said that he slept in a tree-top hammock, that he had a pet wolf, that he played with a bear family. Everyone seemed to know a story about Johnny Appleseed. And even today people claim to have seen him. Johnny Appleseed's memory glows in our hearts while his deeds live anew every springtime in the fragrance of the apple blossoms he loved so well.

How to have a Johnny Appleseed Ceremony. Be sure to plan it with the girls. Here are some things you might choose from:

	Introduce Johnny with the words above.
	Read the story of Johnny Appleseed together. here are the names and authors of two good books: Johnny Appleseed. by Jan Gleiter and Kathleen Thomson; Johnny Appleseed. A Tall Tale Retold and Illustrated by Steven Kellog.
	Put on a play. Write your own or use " Johnny Appleseed's Vision," from Year Round Programs for Young Players. by Aileen Fisher.
	Sing some songs such as "Johnny Plants and Apple Tree" and the grace, "Johnny Appleseed
	Plant a tree or trees.
	Do some activities that have to do with apples such as these from the book, Snips & Snails & Walnut Whales.Nature Crafts for Children. by Phyllis Fiarotta: Make an Apple Pin Cushion p.186; Apple Head Puppets, P.202; Fruit Printing, p.204.
	Make Apple head dolls.
	Bob for Apples.
	Cook up a variety of apple studded treats such as cobbler, muffins, cookies and pies.
	Decorate a t-shirt with an apple theme.
	Save apple seeds and make a small piece of jewelry
	Share your "appleseeds of kindness: with someone, just as Johnny Appleseed did in memory of him and as a service project.

Johnny Appleseed was a kind and fun loving person, let your ceremony reflect that.

PARENT PROMISE

On my honor, I will try to encourage and support my Girl Scout daughter. To help her troop at all times. And to obey the Girl Scout Parent's Law.

PARENT LAW

A Girl Scout parent . . . Understands the true purpose of Girl Scouting. Gets her daughter to and from meetings on time. Knows a troop is a team effort. Sees the job through to the end. Sets a good example at all times. Is enthusiastic and cheerful. Does not consider the leader a baby-sitter. Brings troop problems to the leader first. Always does his or her part willingly. Is aware that Girl Scouting is for all girls.

	JOHNNY APPLESEED CEREMONY
	SPIRIT CAMPFIRE
	PARENT'S PROMISE & LAW