A Day of Joy, Spirit, and Community
By Robyn Rice Olmstead, RScP
This year’s RGCsl Annual Labor Day Picnic brought us back to our beloved gathering place at Elena Gallegos Open Space—and what a return it was. The location was familiar, but Spirit clearly had a little adventure planned for us as we arrived, cars loaded with burgers, beans, side dishes, ice chests, and enthusiasm… only to find the campground completely locked down. No ranger. No key. No sign of movement. However, we were clearly prayed up and had activated our secret, super power…Liz Hamilton! She arrived first, assessed the situation and quickly alerted “the powers that be” so the magic could begin!
The phone calls were in motion, and by about 10:45 am., what we did have was about fifteen early‑bird helpers, fully prepared to pivot, innovate, and even relocate the entire picnic back to the Center if needed. But as we know, when you gather a group of New Thought, positive‑minded, spiritually anchored people, the question becomes:
“How many spiritually practicing folks does it take to open a campground on Labor Day?”
There may never be an official count, but whatever the number was, it worked. The connection was made, the gates swung open, and everything flowed right back into the Divine Plan already held in the Mind of Spirit.
Once inside, the day blossomed.
🍔 The Grill, the Games, and the Goodness
The grill fired up immediately, sending the scent of burgers and veggie dogs drifting through the warm air. Mike Hacker stood at the helm of the grill, turning simple ingredients into magic.
Behind the scenes, our beloved organizer Liza Kerr, along with partner Brian Anderson, kept everything running smoothly. They were definitely our quiet heroes of coordination and care.
Kids burst onto the scene with giant squirt guns (Uzi‑style!), determined to let the heat know it had met its match. Laughter echoed across the hills as they turned cooling off into a full‑scale water adventure.
Meanwhile, the game players wasted no time shuffling, dealing, and anteing up for round after round of cards. Fellowship was everywhere—under the shade, around the tables, across the trails. Our own Rev. Gil took command of the troops by standing on table tops and making many informative announcements, one of which was the call out for group photo time.
There was a moment of doubt as to truly being able to get everyone (60-70 people at that point) in one shot, but faster than the speed of light an angel emerged with a tripod in hand! Thank you Chaya Rose! Rev. Gil—never one to shy away from creative problem‑solving—lifted the whole setup onto a picnic table. Miraculously, it didn’t wobble, topple, or launch into the beans. Instead, it captured some fantastic shots of all of us. A perfect blend of ingenuity, teamwork, and just a tiny bit of holy daring.
Throughout the day our in‑house photographer, Ms. Tamara Williams, captured the joy, the connection, and the radiant faces of our community. Although there were many cell phones raised and clicking, if you have pictures to share we would love to see them.
💛 A Community Showing Up in Love
While many of you were missed, we were blessed with over 80 attendees, including a wonderful turnout from our ACSL family. We met new friends, deepened connections, and enjoyed a day overflowing with gratitude, laughter, and ease.
A special appreciation goes out to our unofficial clean‑up crew, those who come early, stay late, and make everything look effortless. You know who you are. You are loved. You are appreciated.
🌶 Looking Ahead — Ideas Brewing for Next Year
As we packed up and headed out, the ideas for next year were already flowing. One favorite suggestion: A Chili Cook‑Off! A perfect topping for your hotdog and a delicious way to roll into fall.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or would like to join next year’s Picnic Planning Committee, please reach out to our volunteer coordinators Michele Coleman or Gracie Woods and they will find a place for you.
✨ Great day. Great food. Great friends. Great Spirit. See you next year!
