First Edits from Ireland

This is the first round of edits gleaned from my trip to Ennis, County Clare, Ireland in October 2018. Due to my (now former) fear of flying, this was my first trip overseas in my life, and obviously was my first visit to Ireland. I guess you could say that my burning desire to be in Ireland was stronger than my fear so I just did it. While I do know that there are many pretty things to see in Ireland, my only goal was to get off the plane with my fiddle, my cameras, and a change of clothes and immerse myself in the music and the town. My plan (or non-plan, as it were) did not disappoint, as I was literally pulled from one pub session to the next, day by day, night by night, as if by an invisible thread - just as I had hoped would happen. My goal was to become part of the music, the people, and the streets of Ennis - and a friendlier, welcoming group of people I have never experienced - and my hopes, however vague, far exceeded anything I could have imagined. I will be back, as Ennis (from the Irish word Inis, meaning island, I was delighted to find out) and its music, people, and streets are now burned indelibly into my soul.

(slide show may take a minute or two to load)

Labor Day 2018

Last night's fun. We were small but mighty; a day enhanced by visitors and mystery guests galore - folks from Cape Breton, India, England, Ireland, Belgium, and who knows where else. And honestly, I can't remember when I've seen more people passing by the porch. That's what it's all about here on my piazza - a potpourri of friends, strangers, family, and neighbors. All are welcome here. #piazzaspiazza #belikeapiazza #ilovemylife #mvirishtrad #vineyardtrad



Mike stopped by a couple of years ago, was back on the Island and remembered our session, showed up this year armed with a couple of songs and a couple of salads, plus friends and family. Brilliant! Thanks for coming!


Warming up.



Liam

Liam

Liam

Irene

Billy

Irene, Billy, and Mike

Liam and Mike

Francesca, whom I know as the lady from Chappy who raises fancy Indian horses, randomly stepped up to the porch and gave us a lovely rendition of  Pleasant and Delightful (or The Larks they Sang Melodious)

The gentleman on the right, whose name I forget, offered an a cappella Eagles set. 





Testing the Go Pro's low-light capabilities. Not impressed, but a lovely tune.