Wednesday 21 May 2008

A Dublin Weekend

So, we are just back from our whirlwind weekend in Dublin. I have to say that it was quite weird to be back, especially since we were really only there for a day and a half. It was like my brain was in Berlin but my body was in Dublin - very unsettling. We arrived on Saturday evening and basically went more or less straight from the airport to our friend Daithi's 40th birthday party (the main reason for our visit).

It was held upstairs at the Teacher's Club on Parnell Square in a lovely restored Georgian room with high ceilings and chandeliers. The room was packed with all Daithi's friends and family, lots of tasty sandwiches and even a couple of musicians in the corner that played all night. It was great to see everyone there.

Another part of the entertainment was this very funny questionnaire that Daithi's wife Bridget made up. The theme of it was 'So you think you know Daithi Doolan?' and consisted of questions all about his life, from where he went to secondary school to when he left Ireland for London, to what his favourite joke is, which by the way he made up himself (How do you spot a kinky chicken? He's into studs and feathers (?!)). Needless to say that his mother and his auntie won the competition, though I think that Eric might have helped them with that joke.

And let us not forget the cake! Daithi's wife Bridget got a delicious Black Forest gateaux big enough for 60 people and 40 candles. Daithi, of course, with the pair of lungs that he has had no problems blowing them out!

It was also great to see our friends' kids, whom we miss seeing over here. Above is a photo of Baby Peter, Dee and Richie's little one (with Richie and Michael) who has grown alot in the six weeks we have been gone. He is just plain gorgeous, with a smile for every person he sees.

And there is probably no introduction needed for this pair - Siofra and Paddy. We went to see them on Sunday morning and boy, were they excited! (So were we of course). I wish we could have brought them back to Berlin with us, though I think Bridget might have had something to say about that.

Then we went on to my Mum's house where we had lunch. It was really nice to see her and to spend so time with her. Her garden looks amazing at the moment, though you can't really see it from this photo. Talk about green fingers! (It may have been sunny but it was bitter, which is why I am all bundled up).

And lastly, this is a photo of her dog Kanu (named after a former Arsenal striker) which I just had to post. Check it out! He's not the smartest dog on the block but when I said 'Cheese!' for the photo, he actually gave me a grin! Freaky.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

i see where you get your smile your mom not the freaky dog !
peace, love and
happy birthday daithi doolan
the ben

Anonymous said...

i see where you get your smile (your mom not the freaky dog !)
peace, love and
happy birthday daithi doolan
the ben

Anonymous said...

That's a wonderful photo of Eric, Siofra, and Paddy. I bet they miss their "Uncle Eric". It's great that you got to see your friends and your mum. Daithi must have been pleased that you came for his 40th birthday. When I turned 40 I didn't get a big party like Eric and Daithi did. Lucky guys!
Ceci

Anonymous said...

Great pictures! Can you send them to me? I brought my camera, but totally forgot to take any. Was too busy worrying about the cake and the quiz...

Great to see you, and thanks again for coming back for the party, it made it all the more special having you there.

Bridge