Senior Girls Scout Troop 159 of Germantown, Maryland ventured overseas for a fantastic trip to Poland July 7 - July 17, 2005.

They experienced the beauty of the incredible architecture - from Market Square in Krakow to castles, to gorgeous Cathedrals, and admired the majesty of the Tatra Mountains in Zakopane. They also learned much about the long and eventful history of Poland and experienced the culture, the food and the people of another country. They met with Girl Guides in Poland and compared notes with them on Girl Scouting there versus in the United States. The girls overcame personal fears and accomplished many things they didn't think they could do. The smiles of pride as they completed a challenging nine hour hike in the Tatra Mountains were, as the commercial says, "Priceless!" Everywhere they went, the girls were complimented on their behavior, politeness, genuine interest in the history and culture, their spirit of helpfulness and camaradeire within the group and their warm and welcoming attitude toward the Polish Girl Guides and others they met along the way. The trip offered all who attended a once-in-lifetime opportunity that they all grew personally from and that will be a lasting memory for all. A special thanks to one of the moms in the troop, Yolanta Barnes, who is originally frm Poland, and who made sure that the troop got the most out of every opportunity while were there.