November 2022, Week Four

 Well my lovelies, I've been here a whole month already, and the time has just flown by. I feel more settled and happy here than I have ever felt anywhere else in my life. It feels like home, and I am so grateful to be able to live here. It's what I've always wanted, and I have not been disappointed! I've made several new friends already, and everyone I've met has been so genuinely lovely and considerate. It's a small town, so any newcomers will stand out a bit, and I probably stand out more than most, with my blue hair and American accent, 😆 but I feel like I have been welcomed with open arms. 

Morning Cloud over Bulaba/Bulbin.

 

One of the things I really love about the people in this area is how accepting they are. Before I moved here, so many people expressed concern, or confusion, as to why I would want to live in such a remote area, with no job waiting for me. I told them that I've always wanted to live here, and I'm going to chase my dreams at last, focusing on my creativity as a writer and artist, but I could see the scepticism on their faces. I've been told so many times that I'll never make it, that my dreams are unrealistic. Which is always fun to hear. However, when I tell people from this area that I moved here because I've always wanted to, and I want to be a writer and artist, they understand instantly! There are so many creative people in this area, whether they were born and raised here, or found their way here later in life, so it doesn't come as a surprise to most people. And after all, they are surrounded by this beautiful scenery every day, and can see how inspiring it is. Of COURSE I wanted to live here!
I know that the path I've chosen won't be easy, but I have to at least try, and this is the time to do it.

Leek and Potato Soup at Nancy's Barn.

Steak and Red Wine Pie and Chips, Nancy's Barn.

Grey Skies over Glashedy Island.

My fourth week here was another full one, and I loved every moment of it. Gareth came to visit me and we had a wonderful time exploring the area some more, as well as going out with new friends and exploring the inside of a few pubs. Another thing that people were concerned about on my behalf, was that I would be very lonely here. I didn't think that would be the case, but it's nice to be right!

Standing Stone with Raghtin Mor in the Background.

Clonmany River Walk.

Sunday was an especially good day. Gareth and I went to see the Gap of Mamore, a narrow pass in the Urris Hills which provides spectacular views of the area. I've never had the chance to go before, and we were lucky to have a clear day to enjoy the view.

Looking towards the Fanad Peninsula and Lough Swilly from Slievekeeragh.

Driving up to the Gap of Mamore.

View from the Gap of Mamore.

View from the Gap of Mamore.

Looking out over Leenankeel Village and Leenan Beach, with the Fanad Peninsula in the Distance.

From the top of the Gap we saw a lovely sheltered cove called Leenan Beach, and decided to see if we could make our way down to it to have a wander about. It was perfect! A long stretch of sand sheltered on both sides, with a beautiful view of the Fanad Peninsula across Lough Swilly, and fishing boats in the bay. We could just about make out Fanad Head Lighthouse in the distance too. 

Leenan Beach looking across Lough Swilly.

  

Urris Hills and Leenan Beach.

Fishing Boats in Leenan Bay.

 

Leenan Beach.

After our adventure on Sunday, we went for a drink at the Rusty Nail to warm up, and later in the evening we were out in Clonmany with some friends. Did I mention that I'm living my best life?! I'm so happy to be here!

Guinness at the Rusty Nail, Crossconnell, Clonmany.