Thoughts Along the Path . . .

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WOW – WHAT A DAY IN AYR! Do you sometimes feel that way? I did on Saturday June 22nd and here’s why.

I started the day with my friend Karen as we visited seven locations on the annual garden tour. Throughout the year the North Dumfries Garden Club has many activities and projects, and this event is especially delightful. At every home we were immersed in beauty, ingenuity, and even surprises – all of which the hosts were eager to share. I often admire front gardens as I walk around town, but I could not have guessed what’s growing in the backyards. I am still going through photographs to figure out what to do in my own increasingly shady yard.

We had originally planned to visit the Ayr Farmers Market but ended up being short on time. Though disappointed that we couldn’t go that day, I was happy that the market will be there again next week. It is one of Ayr’s treasures this time of the year.

Next on my agenda was the dedication of the Affirmation Hopscotch area in Jim Schmidt Memorial Park - created by the Baha’is community in honour of Ayr’s 200th anniversary. Arriving early with my husband John to meet others for site set-up, by 2pm we were joined by Mayor Foxton; members of the Township Council and other guests from the Township; Merrie Schmidt, Chair of the Ayr200 Committee; personal friends; members of the public; and even an ice cream vendor.

Leading the official opening and ribbon cutting, Mayor Foxton was, as always, gracious and enthusiastic about local events and volunteerism. She emphasized the spirit of inclusiveness intrinsic in the play area design with its positive message in not only English but also French and 10 other languages present in Ayr. Next Merrie Schmidt spoke about the response from organizations and individuals throughout Ayr in having special Ayr200 projects. While honouring all efforts, she emphasized that this hopscotch play area will have an enduring presence. I closed the program by reflecting on how the idea came about and the group effort that brought it into reality. And then we hosted a special “paint-a-rock-play-the-game” activity until almost 4pm.

Our day in Ayr was not finished though, as John and I next went down the road to Porchfest where we enjoyed music, refreshments, greeting friends, and chatting with new acquaintances. Porchfest itself is a volunteer-driven event with other organizations and projects visible during it. Two notable examples were fundraising for the future pump track and supporting the Kiwanis Club in its many activities. Once again, we were among people who enthusiastically engage in community life.

A few days ago I saw a Facebook posting where someone newly arrived in Ayr asked about living here. I was glad to see more than one recommendation to read the Ayr News. I also found on that Facebook page the suggestion that, if you want to be part of the community, volunteering is a great way to do so.

I’ll close now with a reminder that the Ayr200 committee continues to seek volunteers for events between now and the end of the year. Next up: the big August weekend. For more information: https://www.ayr200.ca/

It’s not too late to create your own “WOW – WHAT A DAY IN AYR” experience.

 

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Submitted to Ayr News by Jaellayna Palmer, June 2024

© Jaellayna Palmer, June 2024