We packed up the bus, bid adieu to our host families of the last three nights and our sponsors who have taken care of us so beautifully, and headed to the the center of Dublin for a final 90 minutes of museums, walking, shopping for souvenirs and lunch, and whatever else the members of our group found to do. I went to the Irish National Museum far too briefly, and was entranced with the fine collection they have. Most impressive to me were the Caravaggio and Vermeer that were wonderful. It would take a day just to walk through all the rooms.
Then off to the ferry and the sad reality of bidding P.J. goodbye. He has been an integral part of our group since Cork, and I have a feeling he might be missing Singers as much as we are missing him. He of the “doesn’t do tender or loving” ilk has been proving himself exactly the opposite as the days have gone by. He spoke to us of the value of the choir, how they’ve touched the people he’s talked with at the concerts, and how wonderful they have been as ambassadors of the country, their families, their church and their university. He spoke of the genuineness and warmth of the choir and leaders. And he was impressed to see the church in action, and not just pairs of missionaries walking along the streets. I believe we have made a true friend, and we wish very much we could have traveled with him the rest of tour.
Stahelis & P.J. Hammond
Check-in of luggage and people at the ferry was a breeze. Airports should take lessons.
Waiting for ferry boarding
We staked out our desired area for the two-hour ferry ride, and hardly even noticed when the journey began. The ferry itself is huge, so no real wave action was felt. Some slept, some read, all ate, some wandered…no one is bored very long in this group.
On the ferry
Our arrival in Holyhead, Wales was just as smooth as our departure. Of course, the walk out to the bus is getting more interesting as the choir’s shopping expeditions are adding to their baggage every day.
We did manage to fit onto the bus with some clever manuevering; it’s probably good there isn’t a lot of time for shopping or things could get even more interesting.
On first impression Wales seems much like Ireland, but with mountains and little towns tucked into the valleys. So very, very beautiful. These photos don’t really do it justice as most were taken through a drippy coach window. But they do give you an idea. Today was misty with occasional rain, and the clouds sat low on the mountains.
Taken on freeway
We stopped in the town that is reputed to have the longest name in the world, though now two others claim that honor. Sister Hall is the only one who can actually pronounce it: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. It means “St. Mary’s church in the hollow of the hazel near to the rapid whirlpool of Llantysilio of the red cave.” It was so named as a publicity stunt in the 1860s, but worth a group photo.
Two semi-detached homes
On way to the group photo op
I love all the consonants in Welsh!
One more photo from the coach window
We arrived at the beautiful Ewloe chapel at 6 on the dot, as promised; and the great hosts had tables set and a delicious dinner ready to go, also as promised. We ate fast, organized and warmed up, and began a fireside at 7:30 for the YM, YW, and YSA of the Chester, England Stake. (That stake has more Welsh wards than English if I understand correctly.) The chapel was just about full, and all seemed to enjoy the evening. I was able to stand in the back and be part of the congregation this time rather than singing, and I love being able to watch the choir from closer than I can in concerts.
Chester, England Stake fireside
We have our fingers crossed for better weather tomorrow as there is quite a bit we hope to see. And we look forward to tomorrow’s concert. To be continued…
7 comments
So glad that you made it safe and sound! It is even sad for us that you are leaving beautiful Ireland but we are looking forward to the rest of tour. Good luck and may the weather and your health be blessed. I hope Annie is taking lots of pictures!! Oh and her cousin Megan had a healthy little girl.
Loved the story about PJ Hammond and his impact on the choir and vice versa. Thanks for all the beautiful pictures and eloquent entries about the choir’s experiences in Ireland, and now into Wales. Thanks to Sandefur’s writing and photography skills, we get a taste of the incredible moments and gorgeous scenery on your tour, and we love having this connection to what you are doing and seeing. Best love to all.
Beej – Tonight, May 14th I will be performing at my last concert of the year. It will be the 4th grade combined with Paxton singers. They are singing a song called “Irish Friendship Wish”. I would like to dedicate the performance and especially that piece to you. I will play it with all of my heart. Here are the lyrics.
May you always have work for your hands to do
May your purse always hold a coin or two
May the sun always shine on your windowpane
May the rainbow be certain to follow the rain
May the hand of a friend always be near you
May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you
Keep this wish safe in your heart
Eventhough we may be apart
Sing this song and it will remind you
Someone sends you this friendship wish.
I love you and can’t wait to see you again! MLAAF…Marm
Wales! If my ancestors hadn’t died crossing the plains, they would be attending the Ewloe chapel now, if they hadn’t died of old age. They lived in Connahs Quay and Hawarden. I am so excited for Singers to be in the land of my forefathers. It is thrilling. I hope your contribution in Wales proves to be as fruitful as your sojourn in Ireland. Sing on!
Wow, you were truly amazing last night at the fireside! Loved you all. Hope to see you again.
Okay….another thought….I’d like to dedicate “Irish Friendship wish” to the entire BYU singers choir and all the wonderful people who have made the trip to Ireland possible!! Keep singing!!
Lovely, lovely pictures. Thanks for inviting us along with you on this amazing experience.