Travels in Eire #5

So with her map and the help of Rorey's plan, the next morning Cailin set off to continue her adventure. Knowing in about a week she would be returning to Mullaghmore and hopeful to see Rorey again.

Cailin headed west from Mullaghmore to Armagh, a major religious center and legendary seat of the Celtic Kings of Ulster. While it was only a stone's throw up the road from Mullaghmore, it was a big and vibrant city. St. Patrick built his stone church here. Not far away are apple orchards and beautiful homes. She spent time checking out the many cathedrals here, all different, but all very beautiful. Cailin stayed here her first night out. She chose the Charlemont Arms Hotel right in the city centre. The hotel had it's own restaurant/bar and this night there was a trad session in the bar with some local musicians. She chose to sit at the bar and before she knew it she was engaged in the talk of the day. Her American accent didn't go unnoticed, and easily drew a group of very talkative natives. This is the kind of experience she was hoping for, full of energy and loads of “craic” (Gaelic for fun). As the evening drew to a close, she happily headed off to her room with a slight buzz from all the drink and talk. Rorey was right, she would find her Ireland on her own terms.

With a good night's sleep and a full Ulster Fry for breakfast, she was ready to start off to her next destination. Cailin had a few choices for roads that she could take. Following some would have her double back to the main road, and others would take back roads through the County Tyrone countryside and Sperrin Mountains. Wanting to get the feel for the countryside, she chose the back roads. First stop was the town of Dungannon, anchored by a cathedral and centered on a square. It was a busy bustling town, and today was market day. It was difficult to find a parking space, but with determination Cailin located one a block off the main square. She loved how vibrant the town was with all the shoppers checking out what the farmers and merchants had to sell. Knowing that she might want a snack along the road, she picked out some fresh strawberries and apples. The sights and sounds were so stimulating Cailin felt energized. Cailin knew she must move on to make the circular route and see more of this amazing country.

After locating her car, she headed just outside of Dunganon following the signs to the Tyrone Crystal Factory. From what she had read about this crystal factory they were in competition with Waterford, but in a smaller scale. Entering their lobby was a case with a beautiful crystal display. The information available told of how a local priest wanted to help provide jobs for the local youth so he brought in a crystal carver to teach the youth. The practiced on empty wine and whiskey bottles to start. Annually the Tyrone Crystal Factory makes the GAA championship trophy. The showroom was full of an incredible display of merchandise to purchase. Cailin found she was drawn to a simple vase with a Celtic design. Before any purchase, she signed up for a tour of the factory.

The factory was slow because of the recession, but at each stop the workers were friendly and ready to show their skill, whether it be blowing the glass, or carving it. With such a small group in the tour, when Cailin lagged behind a carver motioned to her to come closer to show how he intricately cut the design in the bowl he was working on. He told Cailin he was getting ready to retire as he had been at this for 25 years. His work weary smile touched Cailin's heart.

Cailin returned to the showroom and purchased the simple Celtic styled vase and a bowl like the one the carver had shown her. She knew it was one he had made and wanted to remember that special moment. Not wanting to carry these special pieces around, she had them shipped home.

The day was getting late, even though it stayed light until almost 10:00, but Cailin was tired. She found a quaint little B&B on the road to her next stop and was thrilled when they had a room available. The owner recommended a diner down the road, and after dinner, Cailin collapsed on the bed and fell fast asleep.