And so ends another trip to Sligo... not a very interesting end to the whole episode, but it is what it is...

Tuesday morning dawned wet and windy. I was up early so I could clean the apartment, complete my packing, load my car and be ready for Dympna arriving - which she did at 10.25 complete with a latté and a gift. Now I knew about the coffee, but I was totally unprepared for the present, or should I say presents? I’ve said many times before how much this lady means to me, but jeez, she proved that she knows me. From the framed Benbulben tile, the Irish flag wave earrings and the copy of WB Yeats’ poems, everything was perfect… and yes I cried. Seems I did a lot of that this weekend.

After our coffee I bid a tearful see-you-soon to Dympna and headed for breakfast. Of course I went to Shells! 🙈 I had a full Irish, knowing I needed to be filled until very late due to the journey. Saiorse gave me a hug, told me I needed to come back soon and said she’d miss me. The people in this town are so unbelievable…

Then the boring part… a bloody long drive to Dublin with one coffee stop along the way. Sat and waited (first in the queue) and read until we could board. It was then a case of buy what I needed from duty free, finding a seat, and trying to stay awake for the journey - which I managed… just! A 2 minute journey from the boat to the hotel and then collapse into bed for a few hours at 10 past midnight. 

Wednesday morning was overcast but warm, and the journey from Holyhead to Yorkshire was as uneventful as the one from Sligo to Dublin… just a lot more depressing. Once ‘home’ I did the usual sorting, unpacking and chilling: well once I’d had a decent cup of coffee lol, followed by an early night. 

I feel it’ll take a little longer to get over this last trip for many reasons, one of which is it’s James’ birthday on Saturday which was also my mum’s. I will say though, that any desire I had to move to Sligo has been increased 1,000,000 fold… so please pray the bungalow sells soon and I can make that dream a reality, because this definitely ISN'T goodbye Sligo xox

Photos: 1 - My beautiful gifts from Dympna; 2 - Breakfast for the road; 3 - I got upgraded to priority boarding for free!; 4 - A bloody expensive, and mediocre sandwich; 5 - Hmmm read it, ignored it and was impatient as usual...

I was up early-ish on Saturday, having slept for over 8 hours again! 😱 Once showered I headed to Shells for my breakfast, continuing the tradition from last year by having The Simple - 2 poached eggs, 2 bacon and 2 slices of toast. It may be called “The Simple” but it’s so filling and perfect for what lay ahead! 

I arrived at the ATU, early of course, and my day was instantly made by the sight of the GG’s foodtruck. Last year I had the most amazing cheese and bacon sandwich at 5.30 on the Sunday morning and I have literally dreamed of it ever since, stalking them on social media in the hopes that they’d be somewhere I could visit when I’m here. When I went to say hello to them, I was greeted by name and told that even though it’s now an off menu item, it will always be available to me. 🥰  Having already eaten, I promised I’d be back the next day…

Making my way to the tent for my team, I genuinely lost count of how many people greeted me by name and hugged me, committee members, volunteers and others that I had met whilst walking last year. I truly felt at home again. After depositing my bag, I wrote the Candle of Hope bags for myself, Fina and Erin, before making my way to the merchandise stand to buy a few bits, including the hoodie I’ve been wanting for a while now. Whilst there, Dan from the Irish Cancer Society reminded me of the promise we’d made last year, and so another tradition continued with our now annual photo op.

Being a survivor I was a part of the opening lap, which again was emotional, maybe more so this year because of the loss of my cousin’s son a few weeks ago and my friend Barbara not being there as she, once again, fights this bastard of a disease. Gillian was there with all three children, and they walked the second lap, but then headed off to Dublin. I can understand why, but more on that later.

The survivors' meal was amazing again: I had rice and beef bourguignon followed by a slice of lemon cheesecake. Reality hit home as to how unforgiving cancer is when the choir sang happy birthday to two young boys who looked to be about 8 or 9 - twins - one in a white team member t-shirt, the other in a purple survivors’ top… yes, I cried a little.

I left for an hour or so to recompose myself, and to take care of a couple of personal things, then returned in plenty of time for the Candle Of Hope ceremony. No photos will ever capture the true emotion and depth of meaning of this part of the Relay, and the silent lap is beyond belief. I didn't take part in it as I was in the team tent crying, and I’m not ashamed to admit it. It’s been a tough 12 months, one way or another, and I honestly didn’t realise how much pent up grief I still have.

With the ceremony complete it was almost time for the Katie Taylor fight! I’m not a fan of boxing, but even I was swept up by the excitement that filled the ATU Arena. I[d seen the timings and thought I had time to visit the loo before Westlife came on stage, but of course, for possibly (probably) the first time in their entire career they were on early, and I missed World of our Own. 😂 Fortunately I saw the whole performance of You Raise Me Up, and again cried - this time for my parents. Dan was on hand to give me a hug when it was over, almost as if he knew to leave me alone whilst I sobbed. Then it was fight time… and my God… it was like being at a gig! Throughout the performance by the lads and the whole fight the pride in that place was UNREAL! The cheers, the singing, the togetherness - there’s nowhere else I’d have rather been that right in that Arena. Unfortunately I can’t post videos on this blog unless I pay business fees, so a photo will have to do.

My time to walk was 11pm to midnight, so with a fantastic band on the stage, I completed my hour and headed home to sleep. Less than 8 hours later I was back and I got my sandwich from GG’s… and boy it did NOT disappoint!! Roll on the next time I can get one lol, even if it means gatecrashing a wedding or a party next time (be prepared Fina!)

The weather held out for the whole event, only raining a little though the wind caused a bit of mayhem. As things began to wind down I made my way around to say bye to people, and make the promise that I would return next year. Then I listened to the final bits from the carpark. I was tired and so overcome with the reception I received, and the heartfelt farewells, that I couldn't possibly remain with everyone else. And that was it - another Relay over, and another astounding amount raised.

I do have to comment on the matter of Shane not being there. I totally understand (especially now) how historic Katie’s fight was, and how much it will have meant to them, but Dublin is a mere 2.5 hour drive away from Sligo (so I’m told by the locals). There was no reason he couldn’t have made an appearance on Sunday, even for the last hour in support of the committee who did an amazing job again. As for Gillian only staying for an hour, and not even bothering to acknowledge the survivors, well that was just downright rude. I didn’t go to see them or anything like that, but I still feel they could’ve made a little more effort for the cause. Anyways, that’s my view. It didn’t diminish my enjoyment or my purpose in going, just pissed me off a little.

My Sunday didn’t end there though. After a rest (my feet and ankles really didn’t like me… they still don’t lol) I met with Dympna at Flipside for my evening meal. I didn’t get any photos of the food (felt weird being sat with the manager’s mum and taking pics lol) but I had the Cool Chick salad and have now discovered my new favourite lol. It was lovely to spend time with Dympna and to get to talk properly with her, and I can’t wait until we do it again, hopefully with Fina joining us as well.

So that was my weekend, and I’ll post about Monday soon-ish…

Photos: 1 - The Simple, 2 - GG's Truck, 3, 4 & 5 - The Candle Bags, 7 - Myself & Dan, 8 - Survivors meal (tasted better than it looked lol), 9 & 10 - The Candle of Hope, 11 & 12 - Some guy on the big screen 😇, 13 - Katie's final fight, 14 - The World's Greatest Sandwich!!!!!! 

I was up early on the 2nd to get my hair and nails done. After picking up yet ANOTHER medication from the pharmacy, I headed straight home and back to bed, in the vain hope of some sleep.... hmmm, think I managed an hour lol. 

After a quick meal, a chat with Fina and a shower my journey began. My own personal departure time was 6pm... so at 5.10pm I set off. 😂The only problem with the drive was that all the Starbucks/Costas at Service stations closed at 6pm! That left me with only McDonalds... and they CAN'T make coffee!!

Thankfully, when I arrived at the port, the café was open, though I ended up with a hot chocolate instead of my caffeine fix. By now it was 10pm and, after a couple of hours waiting we boarded the ship. Usually it's the James Joyce when I sail gere, but this time it was the Ulysses and I want my other ship back! Distinct lack of almost everything, and only 3 Radley bags in the shop! 😱 Now I blame Fina, who actually threatened to ring the ferry company with instructions to remove all Radley products... but she denies it, and I have to believe her, 🤭The only thing that was better was the cabin, which was very spacious. Unfortunately at 1am I was too exhausted to take photos... sorry!

After a remarkable 2 hours 45 minutes sleep... and there is truly no sarcasm there... I got up, bought what they laughingly called a latté, returned to my car and disembarked at 5am.

I was surprisingly awake and gave my first sigh of relief when I got on the road out of Dublin!!! My plans were to make a couple of stops on the way to Sligo, and I managed one at Applegreen's Service - in my opinion one of the best ever! I got myself a cream cheese and bacon bagel with, of course, a coffee... though again it certainly wasn't the best I've had. Serves me right for going to a different shop this time, I guess. Refuelled I set off again, determined to make it to Shells in Strandhill! Resetting the sat nav (which was orginially set for Sligo town) I drove on with renewed faith in myself. 

Side note: I swear the Welcome to County Sligo sign emits dopamine or something because once again, I passed that and relaxed into driving with a smile on my face.

9am and I finally pulled into the car park in Strandhill, and by 5 past I had been greeted by Saoirse with the comment of "You're back! Yay!", before I was presented with a GOOD cup of latté and a sit down chat with Jane who owns the business with her husbind Miles! Seems I'm unforgettable 😂. I then had my free drinks card filled (it wasn't close) so that, apparently, I have to return to claim it... like me not returning was ever gonna happen!

From Strandhill to Rosses Point, unintended but necessary all the same. It was grey, overcast and rainy, but somehow still beautiful, peaceful and truly the place my heart desires. A quick trip to Dunnes (you HAVE to go to Dunnes when in Sligo according to Dympna) and then finally the apartment was ready for me and I could say I was at home, at last. I sorted my luggage and then actually slept for a couple of hours. Again showing the effect this place has on me.

Chilled in the apartment until it was time to shower, dress and go to Flipside for my evening meal 🤤. Was greeted by Paddy, who took a second to recognise me, then rushed to hug me. The food, as always was outstanding: hot honey chicken wings (supposed to be 6 but I swear there were more), the Conqueror burger as a salad (just as filling) and the obligatory Biscoff sundae to finish. Back to the apartment, posted this and then BED!!!

Photos: 1: Relay nails, 2: Holyhead Ferry Port's finest, 3: Lovely bagel - shit coffee, 4: Rosses Point - my heart's home, 5: Benbulben being all moody, 6: Gotta go to Dunnes, 7: Me ready to dine alone, 8 & 9: The Flipside food...

Unfortunately the sleep didn’t happen, so it was a very tired and caffeinated Mandi who took the ferry this morning. I took a wander around the boat and discovered that they sell Radley in the Duty Free shop. Oh dear, one handbag and purse later and I decided to find somewhere to sit and chill out. 

The ferry was ok, and the drive to Sligo began - 129.24 miles (208km). I managed to find the services Fina and I found on our first trip last year, where I got another coffee and a take away Chinese meal for my evening meal. Although completely exhausted, the moment I passed the sign to say I’d entered County Sligo, I felt instantly refreshed and my spirits lifted.

Dympna met me at the apartment and was as welcoming as ever, and Harmony Hill just felt like I’d come home again. I can’t explain what it is about Dympna and her properties, but they always feel safe, comfortable and relaxing. 

After reheating my food, I had an early night, once again praying for some sleep!

Photo one - New handbag and purse

Photo two - First sighting of Ireland...

The first person I saw when I entered was Monica (head of the committee) who, when I said hello to her, almost passed out. After her double take she asked how I got there when I’d only just left (I’m friends with her on FB). I was then greeted by numerous other RFL members, who were all amazed that I’d made the journey. 

The presentation was moving, informative and educational - all speakers with their own stories to tell. Only one person seemed disappointed, but it was obvious she was there for Shane who was in London! There was a message from him though… which I admit brought a smile to my face.

All in all it was an enjoyable evening, and great to get to talk to Cyril (my team leader), Trevor, Breeda and Silé. It never fails to amaze me how they all know who I am… is that a good thing? (I’m joking!) Apparently it’s my dedication (and insanity for travelling) that make me memorable, and again, I can’t wait for September.

Making my way back to the apartment I had to make an emergency stop at Flip Side to wait for my heart rate to come down from a sudden spike. Then it was home, pack and bed.