Blogging Friendships

How is it that in this big wide world we are able to connect through our blogs with friends who may be half a world away or across the continent or in the next province?  We read through the lines and recognize in each other's musings and shared pictures, the similarities and the common interests of other bloggers and a friendship begins.

I was so surprised to find a post written by a blogging friend a few days ago.  We have read each other's blogs and kept in touch over the past several years but have never met.  We have discovered some similarities in our stories and are looking forward to the day we will have a chance to meet. Her gift was to send me photos of blossoms and in doing that she reminded me of springtime in my hometown.

In our adult years we have both been transferred to new places with our families and as she and her readers have pointed out home is where your family is.  I've always known that but at this time of year my heart's home is Victoria, BC.  Thank goodness for my memories.  I know that without fail, we too will see some green leaves and flowers before too long.

Thank you my friend... 

the photos you shared brought a smile to my face 

and I am looking forward to the time we'll meet this summer in Victoria.  

Sunshine Always, Sheila

St Patrick's Day Greetings

Top of the Evening to you!  I felt I couldn't let this day pass by without wishing the luck of the Irish to you.  I've only been to Ireland once but remember it so well.  it was 11 years ago in  the spring when my daughter and I landed in Shannon.  Here are a few pictures in no particular order....

We found our family crest in the airport gift store before boarding the local bus to Adare which is known as the prettiest little village in Ireland.

Thatched cottages that are still in use as family homes and stores line the main street.  We enjoyed talking to the locals and hearing Gaelic being spoken.  We stayed 3 nights in a lovely home and caught the bus to Killarney where we went on a horse cart ride to Ross Castle and through Killarney National Park.

Another day we wandered through historical Folk Park near Bunratty Castle and later enjoyed a Medieval night of feasting and music in the castle.  It was a perfect place to be introduced to the friendly Irish people and to the lovely countryside.   We went to Limerick one day and then crossed Ireland by bus.  I'll save our Dublin experiences for another time but in the meantime would like to say,

"For each petal on the Shamrock,

This brings a wish your way-

Good health, good luck and happiness

For today and every day!"

Happy St Patrick's Day!