October

I know, I know. I am ridiculously bad at this blogging business now. I guess I should be pleased that my journal is now filled up with handwritten thoughts.

Canada and America were brill. I had such a good time being away with my family. We spent our three weeks travelling around Niagara Falls, Ohio, New York, Boston, Sarnia in Canada and Toronto.

Ohio was probably my favourite.

I spent the summer there four years ago on a cross community project called C.F.P.N.I (Children’s Friendship Project Northern Ireland) where a Catholic and Protestant come together to spend a month with a host family. I was paired with a bird called Caoimhe whom I met on the way to the airport before our trip and we had THE BEST time together. We laughed, cried, shared and grew together through the whole project . We had the most amazing host family known as ‘The Flynns’. I’m not sure the project would have worked and been as successful if it wasn’t for them. It’s families like Monica and Kevins that make this world a better place. They gave of their time, money, love, home and family to welcome two young girls into their lives. Not just for a summer but for forever. Caoimhe and I were truly blessed.

The purpose of our visit to Ohio was to revisit where I stayed those four years ago and it was fantastic. It was so special having my brothers with me this time and sharing in my experience with them. The Flynns Kids, Patrick, Casey, Megan, Brianna and Frankee get on so well with them we wouldn’t have minded staying there for the whole duration of our trip!

New York was incredible when I think about it. Granda surprised us and flew over to hang out with us for the 3 days. He goes to New York about 4 times a year and so it was good to have our own personal tour guide. He is a legend.

3 weeks is a long time when I had barely seen my family for a weekend last year but I would do it all again tomorrow.

October has approached us all very quickly and it’s been a month since I moved into my beaut new house. I’m living with Nicci, Shari and Samantha this year. Our house is lovely. We have a fire, lights that dim, patio doors and great neighbours. We’re easily pleased.

Tom, the guy I got engaged to, ha, when I went to Majorca at the start of July is still working out there. I just got back last Monday from spending the weekend with him in Magaluf. It was so much fun. We get on so well and although he lives in Birmingham, I don’t think I’ve seen the last of him.

Times are exciting and I’m loving the feelings of butterflies’.