Depression Day?
Nah, more like, PRINCESS PAT DAY! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmCsBNYK6T4

Today, we started off by... Uhm.
Something sad, something so sudden.
BDS Guides, you should know what I meant...

Well, after that, we took all of our poles, twines, newspaper, metal pegs, axe, saw, handbooks, etc. and went to 4H classroom.
We arranged the tables and sorted out the logistics, while Miss Huda went to the photocopier to print us some handouts about the pioneering course! :)

Today was more of the theory session. Next week's the practical.
Miss Huda went through with us the Hand Axe (which consists of the back, eye, cheek, bit, shoulder, neck, haft, heel and toe). Also, we were introduced to the Bow saw (which consists of the rivet, blade, frame, teeth, hand gap, lever and the blade holder).

We were also taught on how to carry an axe in the proper manner (so not to chop yourself!), and how to chop wood... Of course, it's a no no to put your fingers beside the axe when you're chopping! So dangerous! There will be more info about the axes, saws and stuff in the coming weeks, when we're done with our practicals.

Then, we move on to the next segment, firelighting! :)
Basically, we need kindlings, punks and twigs.
Kindlings: thin tree branches
Punks: from the casurina trees or coconut trees
Twigs: thicker tree branches

Firstly, we have to turf the soil. Form a square shape by outlining it. Then start to dig and lift. Be prepared with some newspaper at the side, so the grass could be placed on it (Guides are kind to all living things!)
After that, we are supposed to push a 'Y' shaped twig into the soil. Then, gather some punks and kindlings, and wrap around the 'Y' shaped twig. Ensure that not all parts of the twig is being wrapped. Oxygen is needed to maintain the fire!! Then, put some charcoal wood with the kindlings and stuff, and there you are, you're ready to set the fire.

We were then asked to revise on our map reading skills, especially on topographical maps. Important! :)

We then were taught how to build an emergency shelter out of 2 poles, poncho, twine and some metal pegs. We had a greaaaaaat laugh when Miss Huda was explaining (coughs x2). It was really fun doing the emergency shelter. Mini and cute.

After that, Miss Huda taught us how to tie a ladder out of poles (supposedly spars, but we do not have them). We used some special rope to tie tight. Unfortunately, most of us were struggling during the process as we were totally unfamiliar working with the special rope. In the end, my patrol's ladder was a complete failure. 2 steps, and not tight. Haha! But we will continue to brush up on our ladder-tying skills.

We then were taught on some awesome songs.
Princess Pat
40 something on the Iceburg (Oops, I forgot the exact name!)
Some fish song (I seriously have short term memory!)
On My Honour
(We had a fun time singing the songs and trying out the actions. Epic!)

We were then briefed on the badges that we're supposed to work on. The list is posted below. It looks like we really have to manage our time well to complete all assignments!

For some of the badges, we're required to go on field trips with our patrols!
Old Supreme Court, Old Parliament House, Fort Canning Park, Zoological Gardens, Incinerator Plants...

After the whole briefing, we sang the Taps and were dismissed.
It was certainly a fruitful day indeed.

-------------------------------
May BDS 1st Coy long live and clinch a Gold award next year. :)

Good night, bye bye!

- Yours Truly
DOVE PL a.k.a RODA ROLLA (Y)