March 2023, Week Twenty

 Hello my lovelies, how are you all doing? Last week was another busy week for me, I didn't get out for any longer walks, but I do have some photos to share of the local area, and of course from the St Patrick's Weekend shenanigans, haha! I have been continuing my online classes and courses and I'm still enjoying my studies. I am so close to launching my new business, so I'll be telling you all about that soon.

Clouds over Raghtin Mor.

Crows on top of St. Mary's Church, Clonmany.

As I've told you before, the walk from my house to the local shops is so beautiful, that even if that's as far as I go, I absolutely love the views. And I don't even have to leave my house for beautiful views! Spring is still springing and there are flowers and buds everywhere. Ireland is so green, even in the midst of Winter, that it's difficult to imagine how much brighter things will get, but I see the proof daily. On sunny days, the contrast is just spectacular, but even on grey days there is so much colour and beauty to see.

Pair of Rooks in my garden.

Sunset view from my garden.

Two of my aunts came to visit me on Saturday for lunch, and I took them on a short walk to see the local Standing Stone and the Clonmany River Walk, which was lovely. They know this area very well, but those were things they hadn't seen before, so it was nice to be able to share in something new to them.

Standing Stone with Raghtin Mor in the background.

Bulaba/Bulbin through the trees and hedges.

Friday was St. Patrick's Day, as I'm sure most of you are aware, and it was my first time being in Ireland for that occasion. It is also Gareth's birthday, however, so instead of going out, I stayed in so we could have a virtual Date Night. Long distance relationships can be tough, but we make it work with things like this, marking special occasions and spending time together despite the miles between us. This is the healthiest, most fun and loving relationship I've ever been in, so there may be something to be said for being long distance. We don't spend enough time together for him to get tired of me, haha!

Pint of O'Hara's Irish Stout on Date Night.

The Ballyliffin Lodge and Spa Bar.

Don't feel bad for me by the way, the St.Patrick's Day celebrations lasted all weekend, so while I stayed in on Friday night, I was out with friends both Saturday and Sunday, and got to see some fantastic local live music. Saturday I was at the Ballyliffin Lodge, where Gary McPeake was playing, and Sunday I was in my favourite pub, McFeeley's, where Tullagh Folk was there to entertain us. Before the live music started on Sunday, people were passing around a microphone and singing songs. Everyone joined in, and it was an absolute pleasure to witness something so quintessentially Irish. The sense of community and history, the camaraderie, and the pure talent was all so beautiful to see. It was one of those moments where I felt choked up with emotion, and I just feel so lucky to live here!

Pint of Guinness at the Ballyliffin Lodge.

Pint of Guinness at McFeeley's Bar.