My youth in Oudon with student Anaëlle!
Oudon is my home town - I couldn't imagine growing up anywhere else!
In this portrait, Anaëlle tells us about her childhood and her memories of growing up in Oudon, a small town that has charmed her and that she holds close to her heart. Make yourself comfortable and immerse yourself in this story of nostalgia and conviviality.
How did your connection with the Ancenis region begin?
I was born in Nantes but I've lived in Oudon all my life. I went to secondary school in Champtoceaux and then high school in Ancenis-Saint-Géréon. Then I moved to Angers to study. I moved around quite a lot during those three years: first year in Angers, second year as a trainee in Rouen and then in England, and finally the third year between Nantes and Angers. During my time at university, I came back to Oudon almost every weekend to see my family. With my friends and family, we're all spread out between Angers and Nantes, so we'd meet up at home. It was also an opportunity to organise future events for the Oudon youth hostel. And we often went out to Ancenis-Saint-Géréon, which is the nearest town with bars and activities like bowling and billiards, or the guinguette in the summer. And I love eating out, there are some great ones in the Ancenis area, like La Villa Saint Germain in Oudon for example.
What do you remember about your life in Oudon?
Lots of good memories! I remember cycling with my family along the Loire, going out with my friends to the Chêne lake or along the Loire. I also loved the Sunday morning market, which was our little family ritual. And events like the fête de la musique in Oudon are always a highlight. I'm also a big fan of the guinguettes, there are a few of them all over the Pays d'Ancenis, they give you a great atmosphere, especially in the summer. The Pays d'Ancenis is a mixture of everything! The proximity to nature, the friendly, family atmosphere, the many activities available... I've always loved the fact that I can walk around without the traffic of the city. What's more, there are plenty of sporting and cultural associations. My sister has been playing football for years, for example. It's a real asset for young people here, with all kinds of activities and youth centres. I joined the youth centre in Oudon when I was 15. At first, I helped out a bit, but now I'm an active volunteer. We organise the music festival, evenings for volunteers, and even trail runs, the proceeds of which go to charities. It's really rewarding.
Is moving back to Oudon an option?
I'd love to go abroad after my studies, but coming back to Oudon to settle down for good is an idea I really like! I love this town, I have all my family and friends here. And I'd like to give my future children a childhood as happy as mine, in a house with a garden surrounded by nature. It's a truly rejuvenating place.
Why are you so attached to it?
I really like the atmosphere of the Pays d'Ancenis! And Oudon in particular, because it's a town on a human scale, with all the amenities you need in a friendly atmosphere. It's a small town where you feel good, it's ideal for a peaceful and pleasant life. You really want to stay here for a lifetime. Oudon is my heartland, and I couldn't imagine growing up anywhere else, so who knows, maybe I'll come back and settle here.
It's a beautiful life story that illustrates just how strong the bond with the place where you were born and grew up can be, and how full of wonderful memories it can be. Thank you to Anaëlle for sharing it so warmly!