On our arrival at Cross & Passion School, Ballycastle the very first unusual feature was, displayed prominently on the front of the hosts vans, was two brightly coloured inflated sun flowers. Now as we know the sun flower is the symbol of brightness, happiness, hope, loyalty and adoration. This must surely have set the scene for the weekend to follow. In the bright sunshine our hosts Claire and Marissa took care of the clerical work as well as distributing chocolates to all, whilst Seamus and Leonard parked everyone up. The beautiful evening gave everyone the opportunity to do what we do best. Have a good aule natter.
Friday evening and our hosts arranged a session of bottle top bingo. This proved to be extremely popular especially with the final call amounting to £50.00 for one lucky punter. DJ Joe finished the evening with a selection of music whilst the meet and greet continued.
Saturday morning again was wall to wall sunshine (Courtesy of the sunflowers) and now time to explore that quaint but beautiful town of Ballycastle. Like all towns, shoppers were out and as usual vying for parking spaces on the street but this town is somewhat different, quite a few of those shoppers were trying to park their tractors. The sound of traffic mingled with the bleating of sheep travelling through town in various trailers. Being a Saturday, they were probably going from grazing in one glen to grazing in another. Lovely cafes abound, Our Dollys, Thyme & Co and the Promenade Cafe all provided our needs and of course did quite well thank you very much. I did note one of the shoppers on his tractor had an improvised link box/platform attached. A round bale lifter with wooden pallet attached. The difference being most of us would have used bolts or even cable ties but no, the best of baler twine was used here. Some great hardware stores as well to keep the husbands interested. I love Ballycastle. One small downside was that walk home, well if viewed as a cardiovascular exercise, even that had its benefits. On top of all that the hosts organised some games on the green, i.e. Putting, hoopla and some game involving a big dipper hanging between the players legs, balls..... you know I think I'll quit here whilst I’m ahead. Saturday night and back to the hall for music and dancing to DJ Norman. Thank you, Norman.
Sunday morning and again that glorious sunshine (Never underestimate the power of the Sunflower) Plenty of chat in the yard before coffee morning time. Margaret O'Donnell and Geraldine Brown provided Tea, Coffee, Cake and Biscuits. Thank you, Ladies, much appreciated. Chairman David Gilmore then addressed the masses graciously thanking the many people involved in running this very successful event and also congratulated Geoff and Joan Hill on the acquisition of their brand-new motorhome. May you have many years and adventures in it.
We are looking forward to seeing you all at the Northwest in a brand-new venue, Mill Strand Integrated Primary School.
Enda & Flo