I’ve procrastinated writing about my visit to fair shores of Ireland – it was such an emotional visit; I don’t want the bubble to burst. I’m frightened if I write the words on paper, they may erase from memory and they are truly memories to be cherished!
After an extremely amusing flight from Denmark via Belgium, I excitedly board the flight to Belfast to visit with friends from our Saudi days and who I hadn’t seen for about 8 years. Paul and Maura were the first people I contacted, over 12 months earlier, when I had originally planned this vacation to work around when they would be home, so I could be sure to see them.
The first thing I noticed was young Conor driving! Mairead has grown into the most beautiful young lady, Jack was sporting facial hair and my dear friends, Paul and Maura – just the same – as welcoming as ever! I only had a quick visit with Paul, as he was due to return to the desert and I was thrilled that I was able to celebrate their wedding anniversary with them.
I offered to cook dinner for the family and Paul’s mother and sister joined us. Whilst out shopping I tried to duck out of the way of the ever watchful Maura to grab a bunch of flowers for them. In my haste, it turned out I grabbed artificial flowers – the first time in my life I’ve purchased artificial – it wasn’t until I went to put them into the car, I realised the error of my ways! Deciding they would enjoy a laugh every time they looked at the flowers – I proceeded with my everlasting gift!
It was great to catch up with Paul, albeit a very short visit although his hospitality continued in his absence, he was kind of enough to fill his cellar and leave us the key! Prosecco, Prosecco, Prosecco – bottle, after bottle, after bottle! I’ve finally found a family who can certainly give me a run for my money, I’ve decided my Irish heritage must be the strongest gene I possess!
After a few days, I decided I needed to detox from the Moran household. I took off for a few days to see the Irish countryside. I headed towards Enniskillen which has its city centre located on an island surrounded by the River Erne. With many 14th century buildings, it’s a paradise for the history buffs. The view from the river shows the city in a different light!
Leaving Enniskillen behind me I’m heading in the general direction of Galway in the South – I notice when I cross the border from North to South, the speed signs are now in kilometres as opposed to miles, the road markings also reflect a European flavour – put my Irish pounds away and dig back out the Euro. On my travels I happened across, Carrick-on-Shannon – steeped in history, the town was a picture perfect example of what you imagine a small Irish country town to be.
After checking in to literally the local Inn – I ventured to a pub that opened in 1879 – spent the night sitting at the bar listening to a great local muso and chatting to the many patrons who just couldn’t get over the fact I was here on my own from Australia. Here in Carrick-on-Shannon, to be sure!
Finally arriving in Galway about 3.00pm the next afternoon, I quickly jumped on my Airbnb App and had accommodation within about 10 minutes I found my way to meet ‘Andrew’s Da’ who would show me around. It turns out I had arrived in Galway in time for their racing carnival – it appears to be the biggest event of the year.
I was treated to a personalised tour of the Galway district, visiting the oldest pub in Ireland – one from the 1700’s and ended up spending the evening with the most gorgeous couple as their son had listed their place on Airbnb and I was their first guest! I had a few hours to myself and yes, you’re right visited another pub! Met a group of young people who had been travelling for over 6 months with dreadlocks, tattoos, piercing etc. I don’t think I’ve enjoyed a more interesting afternoon – absolutely wonderful group of young people.
I cannot explain the hospitality of the Irish – you really must visit to truly experience their openness and welcoming nature.
After Galway, I excitedly headed in the direction of Dublin, where I was to meet more friends from my Saudi days – Mark, Marty and two boys who were now men – Colin and Darragh. Marty was working, so Mark met me and we did a double deck bus tour of Dublin, yet again expanding my knowledge of Irish heritage – the divide between the Irish and the English. I urge anyone that visits to take particular notice of the letterboxes – something I definitely would have missed. Thank you Mark!
Deciding that we just didn’t get through all the gossip we needed to, I convinced Marty to jump in the car – literally 5 mins before I left – and come back to Belfast/Antrim with me. I was off to see the monolithic tombs – older than the pyramids. It was disappointing that when I arrived, I found out to actually visit the tombs you need to book weeks in advance. I visited the museum and of course, it’s now on my bucket list to return. It’s a definite MUST SEE, if you visit Ireland – absolutely fascinating and I had never heard of them.
We arrived back in Antrim to begin a weekend that I will treasure for the rest of my life. The only thing that would have made this weekend better, is if my girls – Manon and Dana had been with us. Thank goodness for modern technology – skype was a blessing!
Marion and her daughter Chelsea – Manon’s nearest and dearest friend from Saudi had arrived along with Hayley, who I hadn’t seen since Saudi days. I can honestly say I am truly blessed to have these wonderful people in my life. I know, sounds corny right – but we had the most amazing few days together – there was 15 years between our visits, it was like I had seen them yesterday and we laughed and shared our stories, our children’s achievements, we discussed family, friends and vow to not let it be another 15 years between get togethers!
Words cannot express to Maura, Paul, Jack, Connor and Mairead what my visit to them has meant. Sheila, Leonard, Kate and families – you know you’re now my family too. Sweet, sweet Kaleb! As I write these words, I pause to wipe away the tears (ok I’ve had a few Jameson’s but I really mean it) I’ve had the time of my life! There’s a song in there somewhere. I can’t wait for their next visit to Australia, although I fear it will be me back to Ireland again!
I’m off on my next adventure and of course, more tears! I’m heading back to Edinburgh with Marion and Chelsea and can’t wait to see Connor and Ryan. The Agate family were my family when mine were absent – I have loved, and love, these children as my own. They were beautiful, accomplished, gorgeous young adults! Connor still the rascal of the family – who doesn’t really remember me and couldn’t work out why this bloody Aussie woman knew so many intimate details of when he was small. I firmly believe that if another 15 years goes by before I see them again, my heart will still ache for these children as it does now. Yes, more tears!
Although whilst in Scotland, I have fulfilled a tick off my bucket list – I drive my children crazy, my favourite movie of all time – Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves – not so much for the movie but Bryan Adams music – I’m a die-hard fan of Bryan Adams and the only way to listen to his music is loud and singing along!
Imagine my sheer joy at finding out that he has a concert…
I leave Edinburgh with a promise that I’ll return next year. I only hope the children will venture down under and visit us in Australia!
My next and final destination of this amazing journey is to visit with Kerry, Richard and Ben. It’s an unusual friendship – Kerry and I – although I know, Kerry and I will be friends forever – many years may pass until we see each other although how friendship will always be treasured. Ben – my goodness, an amazing young man who has life ahead of him and of course, who I would love to see my way in Australia!
Kerry came to London to spend the last few days of this intrepid journey with me – the memories of the Harrods’ pastry counter will be forever sketched in my memory as a favoured event! The champagne, the chatter and the Kinky Boots (a story for another time) will bring a smile to my face for a lifetime.
There’s so much more I could write about Ireland, Scotland and England and my visits with the people – I really can’t explain how much their friendship means to me.
I actively encourage all those that read this post, to embrace the friendship – step out of your comfort zone, you never know who you may meet that will change your life.
Oh Paul, I’ve started stocking the fridge with Veuve – let me know the arrival date!
Guilty, guilty, guilty – I had to get that written so I can start on my next journey. I’m on plane to my next venture…
A Stepping Stone 