From Pancakes to Play: A Day to Refill the Soul
This morning, we kicked things off bright and early with a trip to one of Calgary’s famous Stampede community breakfasts. The smell of sizzling sausages, buttery pancakes, and fresh coffee filled the air as we joined hundreds of Calgarians under the big prairie sky. But it wasn’t just about the food — there was live country music playing, and before we knew it, a dance party had started! Our students couldn’t resist the rhythm — soon, they were clapping, spinning, and dancing alongside locals, creating a joyful and unforgettable morning moment.
After filling our bellies and our hearts, we took the opportunity to talk with Calgarians, asking questions to practice English and learn more about the city. From long-time residents to Stampede volunteers, people were kind, welcoming, and full of great stories. It was the perfect way to combine language learning with cultural connection.
We returned to camp for our morning lessons, where students reflected on their conversations, learned new vocabulary, and shared their favorite moments. Lunch was a feast: juicy steak, warm Reuben sandwiches, and cheesy tortellini gave us the fuel we needed for an action-packed afternoon.
The sun was shining as we hit the fields for volleyball, football, and soccer. Teams rotated between games, bringing energy, teamwork, and a few hilarious tumbles. Whether it was a diving volleyball save, a touchdown celebration, or a perfectly-placed goal, everyone gave it their all — and had a blast doing it.
To top it all off, we ended the day with a special session at the Loose Moose Theatre, where we got to take part in improv lessons. Students jumped into scenes, played quick-thinking games, and let their imaginations run wild. Laughter echoed through the room as everyone embraced the silliness and creativity that improv invites.
Today wasn’t just about activity — it was about connection, joy, and expression. From dancing with strangers at breakfast to making each other laugh at night, it was a day that reminded us of how much we can learn and grow when we open ourselves to play, conversation, and community.
