St Paddy’s Day in Cork, at the parade, 2003
Spending 14 glorious months in Co Cork and having the opportunity to attend a real Irish St Patrick’s Day Parade on Patrick Street in Cork City; my Irish Hubby and I always raise a glass to our Irish roots.
It turns out (after much family history research) both our families come from Co Cork, about 10 miles from each other ~ but we actually met in the middle of Africa!
My gorgeous Hubby and I celebrating in Oz. 2008.
Inevitably, I can’t help thinking of my dear old Dad who was so proud of his heritage who cannot have his usual Guinness today ~ we lost him 31 years ago.
My Dear Old Dad on holiday in South Africa 1966.
Unconditional
That moment
when I realized
you weren’t asleep,
I couldn’t cry.
I wanted to,
thought I should,
but I couldn’t shed tears
for all those years
when I was loved
unconditionally.
When I knew
no matter what I did
or said, you would always
love me – be there for me.
Put a plaster on my hurts,
fix me up with kisses, give
words to make me feel better.
I’ll never forget your strength.
How your arms encircled me,
the safeness of a oak tree,
dense, caring and complete.
I need that care now!
I need to feel safe again,
to sail into your harbour of care,
find you there, waiting
with open arms, accepting
all my faults, all my mistakes
and letting them go.
You always helped me
move on to new adventures,
strengthened by your love.
Frances Macaulay Forde © 2013
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