Standing beside the Peace Bell at Aras

I was at a garden party yesterday. Was I starting my Canada Day celebrations early? No, it was actually a very Irish event. The garden party was hosted by President McAleese at Aras an Uachtarain to honour volunteers. I was privileged to attend it with fellow members of Fermanagh Creative Writing Group.

I love historic buildings so it was wonderful to tour the public rooms of the residence. And the party was great – even in such an elegant setting it had a warm, relaxed feel and the staff were friendly and helpful. We won’t talk about the very tasty food and beverages – I should have been avoiding them if I’m ever to lose a few pounds…but I didn’t. And there was also a feast of music, especially vocal – a strong tenor, an amazing barbershop quartet and Paul Brady to top it off.

I think the highlight of the afternoon for every member of our group was meeting President and Senator McAleese. We presented the President with a copy of our first publication, Stories From Charlie’s Bar. I hope they both enjoy our stories and poems and that the book will evoke memories of Fermanagh for Senator McAleese.

FCWG meets President and Senator McAleese