We arrived in Sligo just in time for the shops to be closing, but not the pubs, so in for a Smithwick’s (my “usual”) and a Bulmers for Bridget before heading out into the country to stay with our new-found friends, the Mekitarians in Lavagh – Noelle, Sinead and Roisin (and Craig) – who welcomed us with open arms and typical overflowing Irish hospitality. Bridget had her heart set on experiencing a traditional Irish music session and Sinead and her friend Pam knew of just the place. After relaxing and recalibrating for a few hours, off we headed to The Border Collie, waaaaaay out in the country, in the tiny hamlet of Mullany’s Cross, where the music promised to be good.

It was better than good. Shortly after we arrived and the bartender had poured us our Guinness and Smithwick’s, a foursome set themselves down at a table up front and began playing. And, oh, were they pleasing to the ear. Our new friend, and inveterate Border Collie denizen, John, encouraged Bridget to pull out her violin and join in, knowing she’d be more than welcome. Well, how cool was that. John and I and the rest of the pub just sat back and enjoyed a night of the best music going, sharing stories of what brought us to this point in our lives. By the end of the night, I had it all figured out how I’d be back this way once more, next time on a more permanent basis. A girl can dream.

Here’s a taste of the Saturday night session – just click on the link …
Music

We headed back to Lavagh and were glad to fall into bed, but morning was here before we knew it. On tap for our day was a little sightseeing around Co. Sligo, including a drive over to the tony Rosses Point and Strandhill for more blustery coastal views.

From Rosses Point …

Strandhill …

Enough of the wind and the rain!! We were more than ready to head back to Lavagh and get out of the cold. But one more stop … From Noelle’s home, in the near distance is Court Abbey – a mid-15th century Franciscan Friary, which is now not totally in ruins, but clearly has seen its better days. Just outside its walls, the sheep graze, with no concern for the centuries-old graves just out of their sight.