January 2023, Week Thirteen

 Hello my lovelies, how are you all doing today? It's the last day of January, and I know for most people this month usually drags, but for me it seems to have flown by. Despite my surgery and recovery time, I feel like I have gotten a lot done, and that's a good thing. I'm the type of person that focuses on the negative when it comes to myself and things I haven't accomplished, but I have been working on that. I have multiple health issues which can be pretty debilitating at times, so I have to do what I can on good days, and give myself some slack on the bad days. I am very fortunate to be able to work from home and focus on my creativity right now, and I'm excited to be moving forwards in my latest project. I am getting into Voiceover work, and so far am really enjoying the challenge of combining my creative talents with learning new skills. 

Low Tide at Tullagh Bay.

 

Binion Hill at Tullagh Bay.

Last week I had a few days to myself, where I focused on my Voiceover lessons and coaching, and then Gareth arrived early Thursday morning, so we got to spend a few days together, which was wonderful.
Thursday we went for a drive to Tullagh so I could show him the beautiful shore that I discovered for myself recently. It wasn't as clear a day as when I was there previously, but still dry, and we went for a long walk around the shore and back again, and explored some rock pools. Afterwards we went to McFeeley's Bar in Clonmany for a pint, and warmed up by the open fire. McFeeley's is my favourite pub in the village, so I've been going there quite often lately. It has everything I need, great beer, an open fire, live music, and friendly locals! 

Binion Hill across Tullagh Bay.

Rock Pools at Tullagh Bay.

On Friday, Gareth and I drove to the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland. I love that place, and have been a few times, but sadly, because it is such a popular tourist destination these days, it can get very crowded, especially in the summer. The first time I went, some time in the 1980's, was a magical experience, but the last time I was there, in August 2018, there were so many people you could barely see the rocks, and I felt claustrophobic even out in the open air. So, I wanted Gareth to experience it off-peak season, and we braved the cold to go visit it in January. 

Bay of the Cow, Giant's Causeway.

If you are a National Trust member, as we are, then you get free parking, and a free guided tour of the Causeway, which lasts about 45 minutes. I'm not usually into guided tours, as I prefer to explore on my own, but this was actually really enjoyable! Our guide, Johnny, was a wealth of information on the local area, and could tell you all about the Causeway from both a geological and mythological aspect, complete with the odd "Dad Joke" thrown in for good measure. So, we enjoyed the tour, and then did some exploring on our own, and while there were some other visitors that also braved the cold that day, it was mostly quiet, and much more enjoyable than the last time I was there. 

The Giant's Causeway.

Us. And the Giant's Causeway.

Afterwards, we went to get lunch at the nearby Smugglers Inn hotel and restaurant. Both the food and the pints were fantastic, and we warmed up nicely in the snug traditional bar area. From there we drove back to Donegal along the Causeway Coastal Route, and stopped off at a scenic overlook to take in the view of Dunluce Castle and the stunning cliffs nearby. I have been to Dunluce before and would love to go again, but sadly we did not have time. It just means we'll have to go another day! There really is so much to see and do here, and beauty and history everywhere you turn. 

Drinks at The Smugglers Inn.

Dunluce Castle, from Magheracross Viewpoint.

The Wishing Arch and Cliffs, from Magheracross Viewpoint.

Saturday, Gareth helped me to build and set up a small recording studio, so I will be able to do more work from home, which is exciting! I still have a lot to learn, but I'm enjoying it, so there is so much to look forward to. Sadly, Gareth had to leave again on Sunday morning, but to cheer myself up I went out to McFeeley's later in the evening to see a local band called Tullagh Folk. They were absolutely incredible, and I ended up staying late to listen, and chat with new friends. Once again, I have to comment on how friendly everyone is here, and how welcome I've been made to feel. This is my happy place!