Peace My Friends

About 20 years ago, I was in a peace project called the Ulster Project. They bring Catholic and Protestant teenagers to America, pair them up with American teenagers and plan a month of really fun activities. I was paired with Emily and soon began a wonderful friendship that has lasted twenty years.

A couple of months ago, I received an invite to Emily's wedding. It sat. And sat. I just couldn't send back the reply. I knew that I wanted to go but how could I? It would be expensive and crazy to try. And then one day, I found a super cheap flight. Called my husband and begged. It would be over Labor Day and I would be gone only two work days. I could cover it so that it would somehow work. Then I called dad and he said he'd come too. Then my sister said she had to come and my little sister said she couldn't stay at home if we were in Ireland.

So, this weekend, Indy's family will journey on some crazy timed cheapo flights and land in Dublin where we will be greeted by two of the nicest women we know. We will then stay with them and take in a wonderful small town near Belfast. We will meet up with Ulster Project friends and show Dad the wonderful place he has sent us so many times. And he will stay for a couple of weeks and get to know Ireland.

I am so grateful that I have this chance to go. After losing my mom two years ago, I am more aware that this is a once in a lifetime chance to get to travel to Ireland with my dad. So a huge thank you to my husband for making this dream trip a reality. It means more to me than anyone would ever know. And to my friends in Ireland who are letting us stay with them, thank you. We could never pay to stay somewhere for all of the days. You are blessing us with your company and hospitality. In the Ulster Project, we had a song called "Friends and Friends Forever." I remember crying when Emily left and feeling a huge void that I thought would never be filled. We have truly made our friendships last. I am so blessed.

My family and one of our Irish teens back in the late 80's. I am the goofy one with plaid shorts.