Nothing says small town goodness like a pancake breakfast.

That’s what I couldn’t help but feel this past Sunday, March 16 as my daughter and I traveled home from the 70th Annual Oakdale Lions Club Pancake Breakfast.

It was a morning of who’s who, as we were greeted by longtime community member, volunteer and all things hands on, Melinda Owen. Putting her volunteer hat aside for a minute, Owen was also there in support of the club and a home cooked breakfast.

Not to be swayed by the price of eggs, stacks upon stacks of egg flats were positioned in the Gene Bianchi Community Center kitchen earlier that morning so the service club members could do their thing.

Thanks to Lion Tom Orvis for putting a sneak peek video on Social Media, well before the doors opened.

Fresh scrambled eggs, hash browns, sausage and of course pancakes were plated up by the yellow vest clad club members.

As a longtime community member, it was both fun and exciting to see so many new (to me) faces in yellow vests, as well as in attendance.

As the small-town reporter now spanning over two decades of local news, the Lions and I have a long-time relationship. It’s always fun to sneak into a Lions event to grab a few photos. Always greeted with a hug, a smile and often a quick story or two, Oakdale Lions Club has been and continues to be a good cross section of our town demographic.

Speaking of demographic, I also happen to know they and their families, comprise a good portion of our reader support. I’m grateful for that.

As times have changed, Social Media takes center stage and so few now “call the Leader,” I can honestly say the Lions have remained faithful to our relationship.

In my eyes, it’s a true partnership, as they look to us for help by way of publicity and we rely on them for the gentle reminders.

Sunday, however, I was treated to something which was a first, sitting down to breakfast with my daughter and friends as a community member.

Taking time to pop out of line to give and receive hugs, small talk and updates. It’s truly a special feeling to fall off the map for a length of time and feel so at home and embraced upon your return.

As we lingered over our meal it was great to be the recipient of additional hugs and hellos from Mayor Cher Bairos, as well as City Council Members Christopher Smith and Jeff Kettering; each taking time from their Sunday to be a part of the buzz.

True small-town stuff.

The list of names quite honestly could go on. Many of the who’s who are of course, Lions themselves, which I would gather accounts for the large draw of people.

Now here’s my confession.

In 24 years of calling the 95361 home, Sunday was the first time I actually sat at a table and enjoyed the meal and the company.

I’m embarrassed to share this, but am willing to do so because of the lesson.

We have something truly special here in Oakdale. As the world gets busier, everything becomes more accessible and life seems to move at a speed like never before – this town does take pause. Not only does this town take pause but it does it well.

Sure, our community has grown exponentially. In truth, it’s doubled in size since I bought my first home here. But you know what hasn’t changed several thousand people and two dozen years later?

The quality of life and spirit of those who call it home.

Don’t believe me? Well, that’s okay. I’m not “Oakdale grown,” as so many of those I love proudly tout. Yet I can tell you as a volunteer and a journalist I’ve worked alongside of some of the most big-hearted humans whom have made this community a melting pot.

The beautiful thing about the Lions, as well as the community, is its representation of people who just want to help and do good. No agenda; most go years without recognition. Attitudes left at the door; hands ready to be put to work.

I’m grateful for that.

So … while it may have been my first time to stop and sit at a table, I can assure you it will not be my last. Regardless of what my Birth Certificate may say, this is my home.

Thank you, Oakdale Lions, for giving this Big City girl turned Oakdalean an opportunity to reflect and witness the beauty which is our community.