The recent pannekoek day at Brigadoon Memory Care Centre is quickly becoming a beloved tradition on the Outreach calendar.
Brigadoon, located in the scenic town of Betty’s Bay in the Kogelberg, is home to 26 permanent residents. On a crisp winter morning, the Outreach team, joined by a few enthusiastic volunteers, set out to bring a little sweetness and warmth to the centre.
With pancake pans sizzling, gas cookers humming, and cinnamon-sugar shakers in high gear, the team worked through 20 litres of batter—no small feat! And of course, the inevitable first “flops” of the batch weren’t wasted, but eagerly sampled by the volunteers in what they claimed was “quality control.”
While the pancakes cooked, the volunteers were treated to the home’s daily music and singing session. The staff led the way, while residents, wrapped in crocheted blankets and snug beanies, slowly joined in the fun. A few, unable to resist the mouth-watering aroma of freshly made pancakes, bravely ventured over early, eager to satisfy their sweet cravings.
Adding to the indulgence was the rich scent of percolated coffee, served the traditional way—with condensed milk. Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived: warm cinnamon pancakes paired with sweet, creamy coffee.
The morning ended on a high note with more singing and dancing, this time led by the energetic auxiliary staff. It was a heartwarming reminder of how something as simple as a pancake can bring immense joy and connection.
