When is a rain day not a rain day? When the sun is shining, and a family is reuniting after wet, steamy weather has held them apart!
That was the atmosphere, both literal and figurative, when the annual Ancoura barbecue took place on July 22 after a five-day rain delay. In the end, we could not have asked for more beautiful weather for the gathering at Vincent Massey Park.
Despite the fact that the new date made it impossible for some to attend, it was a good turnout of over 30 residents, volunteers and staff. Conversation was lively and the general feel was one of relaxation as Christian moved around quietly capturing photos. Here’s hoping he got something to eat too! A special highlight of the day was the guest appearance of one of Ancoura’s original residents.
There is always a moment when organizers wonder whether things will fall into place as they should. Last year it was a question of whether the barbecue would arrive on time – which it did, barely. This year the hot dogs were slow to arrive, causing some concern. Luckily, the hamburgers carried the day, with Bill and Jayne slaving over the hot barbecue to make sure everyone was fed. And well-fed we were, thanks to the organizing talents of Jayne, Virginia and Ann as well as the dedicated efforts of our chefs.
The whole event was a strong manifestation of the family feeling of Ancoura, with each member enjoying the sense of camaraderie that comes from living in a close-knit community in which everyone looks out for everyone else. And it was a reminder that, whatever adversity Ancoura may face, that community will continue pulling together to find more sunny days.
