Declan lead Cailin and Darren into the reception room at the Connemara Coast Hotel.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the Mr. and Mrs. have arrived, finally!” he announced as they entered to a huge cheer.
Cailin and Darren were lead to the center of a long table decorated in white linens and crystal glasses. Everything seemed to sparkle, including the chandelier in the center of the room. The colors were lush deep greens and blues with draperies bordering the windows that looked out past the rocky shore to Galway Bay. The bride and groom were flanked by the groomsmen and bridesmaids. As Cailin and Darren looked past their table they saw their families sitting a round tables just to the outside of the long table with a dance floor set up right in front of them.
Suddenly there was a uproar of clinking of crystal glasses calling for a kiss between the bride and groom. Cailin and Darren obliged willingly with a long loving kiss. Then a shorter tapping of a glass followed by a “here, here” for an announcement.
Declan was the bearer of the glass and appeared ready to make the first official toast. He began,
“A first official toast is a very special one and should always be given by a family member. I may be a great friend of Darren's, but I'm not a family member.”
As Declan held everyone's attention and continued his speech on family, that seemed to be endless, a figure slipped in the door and quietly moved to the back of the room.
“So to conclude this toast, I ask, is there a family member who would like to make this first toast to our lovely couple?” Declan glanced over to Philip as if he expected Philip to make the toast.
The lone figure at the back of the room announced, “I would be honored to bring the first toast to this celebration for my brother and his new wife!”
The room was abuzz. Maura suddenly broke down in tears and Philip was holding her, while Philip himself was beaming. Their son, Conner, had come home.
As he talked, Conner moved to the center of the room. Darren's older brother had a polish to him that Darren had not seen before. Obviously this had to do with his banking job in America. Darren also noticed out of the corner of his eye that Jessica, Conner's wife had slipped into the room holding their son, John. Maura did not catch this yet as her eyes were glued to Conner.
“My brother has discovered that there are some very special women who come here to visit and end up stealing an Irishman's heart. His Irish sweetheart will be there for him when times are difficult, and when times are sweet. This I know as I have found my American sweetheart who fills my everyday. Conner glanced back to Jessica as she acknowledged Conner's statement.
And my toast is this Irish blessing:
There are 4 things you must never do: lie, steal, cheat, or drink.
But if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love.
If you must steal, steal away from bad company.
If you must cheat, cheat death.
And if you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away...
May you both live as long as you want, And never want as long as you live.
Slainte!”
And the party began.
Showing posts with label New York. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New York. Show all posts
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Travels in Eire #74
The ride to the Connemara Coast Hotel was in Darren's parent's car, but it was just Darren and Cailin. They wanted to have just a few moments together to savor the ceremony and would not have the time as the day wore on. Cailin noticed that Darren seemed a little distracted. She had become more adept at reading him over time. Most emotions she could easily read, but there was something else here.
“Darren, is everything okay? What is it?” Cailin gently tried to pry Darren's closed demeanor open.
“I just thought....No I was sure......It was supposed to be......,” is all Darren would say.
“Darren, you are making no sense. What was supposed to be?” Cailin was totally confused.
“I trusted him to make it happen. He told me he could handle it just fine.” and now Darren was getting angry.
“Darren, stop! Pull over here!” Cailin demanded and Darren responded by pulling to the side of the road just a short way from the hotel.
Darren turned to Cailin and responded, “My brother.”
“What about your brother?” Cailin realized there was something she did not know about that was not happening the way Darren had planned.
“He was supposed to fly over with his wife and baby and be here for the wedding. He promised he would make this visit. I thought I would see him at the church, but I didn't. I haven't heard from him for the last 3 days when they were supposed to leave America,” Darren's voice was shaking from both concern and disappointment.
“Darren, there is nothing you can do about it at this point. We have a few hundred guests waiting for us at a reception. What about your parents? Do they know?” Cailin was still trying to get some information from Darren.
“It was to be a huge surprise for them with my brother coming to visit with his wife and the baby. I was so worried about you arriving at the church late that I totally forgot that I should have seen him also. Then there was the rush to the ceremony and now,” Darren was almost shaking. “I have no way to contact him.”
“Darren, I don't know how to help you through this. I'm really surprised about this whole thing. You never told me either. I wish I knew what to do for you,” Cailin was on the verge of tears with worry for Darren's brother. “We can't sit here like this. We need to get to the reception and have someone help. I'm sure your da would know what to do.”
“Cailin, I need to get over this. It's OUR wedding day and I'm ruining it with this problem that has upset me so much. I'll share the information with my parents when we have a minute at the reception and then we'll all work it out together.” Darren was putting on his work face as a problem solver and determined not to let this spoil the reception.
As they turned into the parking lot Declan was pacing back and forth in front of the door. He had a worried look on his face that lit up when he saw Cailin and Darren pull in.
“What in God's earth has taken the two of you so long? The hotel rooms are here! Everyone is waitin' on ya,” he shouted breathlessly. “And Darren I need you first. There's some trouble a brewin', and we need to take care of it. Cailin can you just wait here for a few?” Declan ordered. He seemed so much more in charge than earlier today.
It was only a few moments when Darren returned and seemed a lot more relaxed.
“Darren, what was that all about?” Cailin knew something was up.
“All in due time, honey, all in due time,” and he smiled the smile that caught Cailn's eye from the beginning.
“Darren, is everything okay? What is it?” Cailin gently tried to pry Darren's closed demeanor open.
“I just thought....No I was sure......It was supposed to be......,” is all Darren would say.
“Darren, you are making no sense. What was supposed to be?” Cailin was totally confused.
“I trusted him to make it happen. He told me he could handle it just fine.” and now Darren was getting angry.
“Darren, stop! Pull over here!” Cailin demanded and Darren responded by pulling to the side of the road just a short way from the hotel.
Darren turned to Cailin and responded, “My brother.”
“What about your brother?” Cailin realized there was something she did not know about that was not happening the way Darren had planned.
“He was supposed to fly over with his wife and baby and be here for the wedding. He promised he would make this visit. I thought I would see him at the church, but I didn't. I haven't heard from him for the last 3 days when they were supposed to leave America,” Darren's voice was shaking from both concern and disappointment.
“Darren, there is nothing you can do about it at this point. We have a few hundred guests waiting for us at a reception. What about your parents? Do they know?” Cailin was still trying to get some information from Darren.
“It was to be a huge surprise for them with my brother coming to visit with his wife and the baby. I was so worried about you arriving at the church late that I totally forgot that I should have seen him also. Then there was the rush to the ceremony and now,” Darren was almost shaking. “I have no way to contact him.”
“Darren, I don't know how to help you through this. I'm really surprised about this whole thing. You never told me either. I wish I knew what to do for you,” Cailin was on the verge of tears with worry for Darren's brother. “We can't sit here like this. We need to get to the reception and have someone help. I'm sure your da would know what to do.”
“Cailin, I need to get over this. It's OUR wedding day and I'm ruining it with this problem that has upset me so much. I'll share the information with my parents when we have a minute at the reception and then we'll all work it out together.” Darren was putting on his work face as a problem solver and determined not to let this spoil the reception.
As they turned into the parking lot Declan was pacing back and forth in front of the door. He had a worried look on his face that lit up when he saw Cailin and Darren pull in.
“What in God's earth has taken the two of you so long? The hotel rooms are here! Everyone is waitin' on ya,” he shouted breathlessly. “And Darren I need you first. There's some trouble a brewin', and we need to take care of it. Cailin can you just wait here for a few?” Declan ordered. He seemed so much more in charge than earlier today.
It was only a few moments when Darren returned and seemed a lot more relaxed.
“Darren, what was that all about?” Cailin knew something was up.
“All in due time, honey, all in due time,” and he smiled the smile that caught Cailn's eye from the beginning.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Travels in Eire #73
Cailin sat in the back of the car with her gown carefully placed so as not to wrinkle or soil it. Her mother sat next to her and her father sat next to Declan. The church was only a few miles away, so it was a short drive and would only take a few minutes. At least that was what everyone thought!
Just as Declan turned on to the main road heading toward the church, the car started to make a strange sound. Declan calmed everyone with his words, “No worries all, it always does that.”
But as they traveled the road the sound turned into a grinding, and then everyone could smell something burning. Declan pulled over to the side of the road and started shouting, “Everyone out, quickly!”
As Cailin exited the car she could see black smoke coming from the engine compartment. She, her mum and dad had a look of horror on their faces. Declan just had a dumbfounded look of surprise.
“Guess we are going to have to find some alternative transportation,” Declan announced.
None of the passengers had their cell phones with them and there was no one they could contact at this point. Cailin was trying to stay calm, but in her anger all she could do was laugh. Before she realized it, all of them were roaring with laughter.
“Okay, I'm going to start walking,” Cailin announced. “There doesn't seem to be any traffic on the road today, so there is no catching a ride.”
What a scene, with Cailin's mum and dad helping Cailin to hold up the train to her gown as they walked down the road followed by Declan as he mumbled to himself about the fact that he should have had his car fixed before this. On a calm summer day this would have been fine, but as always on the Connemara coast there is at least a slight breezed coming off Galway Bay, or sometimes a strong wind. Today was a moderate breeze and Cailin's veil was like a tail on a kite, blowing in the wind, as they walked along. They still had about a mile to go and were already late for the ceremony.
As they walked they started to hear a sound behind them. It was a clopping sound of a horse and cart. Declan hailed down the driver and before anyone knew it, Cailin and crew were situated in the cart trotting down the road behind a white Connemara pony. The cart was not made for passengers, so here was Cailin sitting on the back with her legs hanging off and her gown carefully tucked up still trying to keep it fresh and clean. The fresh part was pretty much gone now, but she did the best and her mum held her veil from flying all over as they trotted along.
It did take longer than expected and as they arrived at the church a few people were standing outside looking for them to arrive, including a worried Darren. When he saw this pony and cart coming down the road and got a glimpse of Cailin in her white gown he doubled over in laughter. It was just so much like their lives – everything totally unexpected.
One of the groomsmen headed in to the church to let everyone know that Cailin had arrived. Once everyone was in place, and Mary and Sean seated, the ceremony began. Despite the wrinkles and slight soils in Cailin's gown, and extra tendrils of her unruly hair that had fallen from her up do, Darren looked down the aisle knowing in his heart there was no one else he would have chosen to be his wife. Life would bring many unexpected surprises and they would weather them together both in joy and sadness.
The ceremony that followed was touching and memorable. Ryan's voice and choice of music carried the congregation through with tears and laughter. The church was full of well-wishers and friendly faces. Cailin and Darren tried to absorb every minute.
They suddenly realized it will all done as the priest asked to turn to the congregation and introduced them as Mr. and Mrs. Darren Ryan. A huge cheer filled the sanctuary as Darrren and Cailin headed out of the church and on to the reception at the Connemara Coast Hotel.
Just as Declan turned on to the main road heading toward the church, the car started to make a strange sound. Declan calmed everyone with his words, “No worries all, it always does that.”
But as they traveled the road the sound turned into a grinding, and then everyone could smell something burning. Declan pulled over to the side of the road and started shouting, “Everyone out, quickly!”
As Cailin exited the car she could see black smoke coming from the engine compartment. She, her mum and dad had a look of horror on their faces. Declan just had a dumbfounded look of surprise.
“Guess we are going to have to find some alternative transportation,” Declan announced.
None of the passengers had their cell phones with them and there was no one they could contact at this point. Cailin was trying to stay calm, but in her anger all she could do was laugh. Before she realized it, all of them were roaring with laughter.
“Okay, I'm going to start walking,” Cailin announced. “There doesn't seem to be any traffic on the road today, so there is no catching a ride.”
What a scene, with Cailin's mum and dad helping Cailin to hold up the train to her gown as they walked down the road followed by Declan as he mumbled to himself about the fact that he should have had his car fixed before this. On a calm summer day this would have been fine, but as always on the Connemara coast there is at least a slight breezed coming off Galway Bay, or sometimes a strong wind. Today was a moderate breeze and Cailin's veil was like a tail on a kite, blowing in the wind, as they walked along. They still had about a mile to go and were already late for the ceremony.
As they walked they started to hear a sound behind them. It was a clopping sound of a horse and cart. Declan hailed down the driver and before anyone knew it, Cailin and crew were situated in the cart trotting down the road behind a white Connemara pony. The cart was not made for passengers, so here was Cailin sitting on the back with her legs hanging off and her gown carefully tucked up still trying to keep it fresh and clean. The fresh part was pretty much gone now, but she did the best and her mum held her veil from flying all over as they trotted along.
It did take longer than expected and as they arrived at the church a few people were standing outside looking for them to arrive, including a worried Darren. When he saw this pony and cart coming down the road and got a glimpse of Cailin in her white gown he doubled over in laughter. It was just so much like their lives – everything totally unexpected.
One of the groomsmen headed in to the church to let everyone know that Cailin had arrived. Once everyone was in place, and Mary and Sean seated, the ceremony began. Despite the wrinkles and slight soils in Cailin's gown, and extra tendrils of her unruly hair that had fallen from her up do, Darren looked down the aisle knowing in his heart there was no one else he would have chosen to be his wife. Life would bring many unexpected surprises and they would weather them together both in joy and sadness.
The ceremony that followed was touching and memorable. Ryan's voice and choice of music carried the congregation through with tears and laughter. The church was full of well-wishers and friendly faces. Cailin and Darren tried to absorb every minute.
They suddenly realized it will all done as the priest asked to turn to the congregation and introduced them as Mr. and Mrs. Darren Ryan. A huge cheer filled the sanctuary as Darrren and Cailin headed out of the church and on to the reception at the Connemara Coast Hotel.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Travels in Eire #71
The weather for the drive to Connemara was beautiful, and Darren and Cailin enjoyed every minute of this trip talking about details for the wedding that they wanted to make sure they took care of. Cailin was an organized person and kept notes that they could refer to also. Darren was in charge of making sure the Ryan and Keith knew what they needed to know and were in place for both the wedding ceremony and the reception. Ryan would be singing at the church at Keith was in charge of the music for the reception. Darren knew Keith would gather together a few friends and rock the place until the wee hours of the night.
The last few days leading up to the wedding itself were as busy as could be. Emails and phone calls were flying back and forth between members of the wedding party and family. Every night Darren and Cailin were invited someplace new for a reception or get together. Once Cailin's parents arrived at Darren's parent's B&B, there was a gathering so everyone could get to know each other. The Guinness and Irish whiskey were flowing, and often when Cailin awoke she was not sure what day it was or what she needed to do. These days were full of Irish “craic” and family love.
Friday evening came and it was time for rehearsal. Everyone in the wedding party had arrived in Spiddal and the surrounding small towns, and had made their way to the church for the rehearsal. When Darren and Cailin arrived they saw Ryan talking to the priest and organist. Ryan Kelly was not only talented, but had a plan and wanted to make sure all went well for his part in the wedding. He waved to Darren and Cailin as they entered the church. Ryan had chosen all the music for the ceremony over several weeks of emails back and forth with Darren and Cailin. For the Prelude they chose the Love Scene music from Tristan and Isolde. For the bridesmaids processional he chose “Air-Your the One” from Circle of Friends and for when Cailin walked down the aisle they chose “Lark in the Clear Air” by James Galway.
Ryan would be singing “Give me Your Hand” during the lighting of the Unity Candle, and also and also a Communion song. Then Ryan would sing a song he wrote especially for Darren and Cailin. Cailin was so surprised that Ryan would do this for them. For the recessional Ryan would be singing the Irish Wedding Song rather than a serious classical ending. Both Cailin and Darren felt so lucky to have Ryan handling all the church music for them.
The bridesmaids and groomsmen arrived and they all had a quick run through of the ceremony. Cailn felt like she was dreaming as she went through the motions of the ceremony. Her life had changed so drastically since she first had come to Ireland for a vacation.
After the rehearsal all the participants headed over to Darren's parents for a huge rehearsal dinner and celebration. Maura, Darren's mom, and Mary, Cailin's mom, had been cooking and preparing for the for the last 2 days. They were fast friends already and were having a great time together. Sean and Philip had also hit it off well and seemed to be spending more time down at the local pub picking up a game of snooker when they could, and bragging about the upcoming wedding.
This was the party to beat all that had come before. The food was amazing and the booze was flowing. And then Keith arrived with his guitar, Ryan with his, and one of the friends Keith brought along that Darren had been trying to get for a fund raiser, named Damian McGinty. When the music started the party actually became even more lively, filled with love, friendship and laughter.
There would be many sore heads in the morning but it seemed no one cared, and neither did Cailin or Darren. What a way to get to the wedding!
The last few days leading up to the wedding itself were as busy as could be. Emails and phone calls were flying back and forth between members of the wedding party and family. Every night Darren and Cailin were invited someplace new for a reception or get together. Once Cailin's parents arrived at Darren's parent's B&B, there was a gathering so everyone could get to know each other. The Guinness and Irish whiskey were flowing, and often when Cailin awoke she was not sure what day it was or what she needed to do. These days were full of Irish “craic” and family love.
Friday evening came and it was time for rehearsal. Everyone in the wedding party had arrived in Spiddal and the surrounding small towns, and had made their way to the church for the rehearsal. When Darren and Cailin arrived they saw Ryan talking to the priest and organist. Ryan Kelly was not only talented, but had a plan and wanted to make sure all went well for his part in the wedding. He waved to Darren and Cailin as they entered the church. Ryan had chosen all the music for the ceremony over several weeks of emails back and forth with Darren and Cailin. For the Prelude they chose the Love Scene music from Tristan and Isolde. For the bridesmaids processional he chose “Air-Your the One” from Circle of Friends and for when Cailin walked down the aisle they chose “Lark in the Clear Air” by James Galway.
Ryan would be singing “Give me Your Hand” during the lighting of the Unity Candle, and also and also a Communion song. Then Ryan would sing a song he wrote especially for Darren and Cailin. Cailin was so surprised that Ryan would do this for them. For the recessional Ryan would be singing the Irish Wedding Song rather than a serious classical ending. Both Cailin and Darren felt so lucky to have Ryan handling all the church music for them.
The bridesmaids and groomsmen arrived and they all had a quick run through of the ceremony. Cailn felt like she was dreaming as she went through the motions of the ceremony. Her life had changed so drastically since she first had come to Ireland for a vacation.
After the rehearsal all the participants headed over to Darren's parents for a huge rehearsal dinner and celebration. Maura, Darren's mom, and Mary, Cailin's mom, had been cooking and preparing for the for the last 2 days. They were fast friends already and were having a great time together. Sean and Philip had also hit it off well and seemed to be spending more time down at the local pub picking up a game of snooker when they could, and bragging about the upcoming wedding.
This was the party to beat all that had come before. The food was amazing and the booze was flowing. And then Keith arrived with his guitar, Ryan with his, and one of the friends Keith brought along that Darren had been trying to get for a fund raiser, named Damian McGinty. When the music started the party actually became even more lively, filled with love, friendship and laughter.
There would be many sore heads in the morning but it seemed no one cared, and neither did Cailin or Darren. What a way to get to the wedding!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Travels in Eire #67
The long weekend ended and Cailin and Darren headed back to Ireland after a trip to Cailin's office where everyone who was not at the party could meet Darren. Rob, Cailin's boss, took the couple out to lunch and interspersed work talk with social talk. He was pretty blunt about making sure he would be invited to the wedding. It would be a great excuse to come to Ireland for future prospects for the company, he mused.
The couple left Rob and headed back to the house to finish packing and get ready to head to the airport for the evening flight to Dublin. Cailin could see that her parents were already suffering from the ensuing separation, so she tried to keep the mood as light as possible.
“Mom, before you know it you will be the one packing to come over to Ireland. Now mind how heavy your bags are. Can't have dad lugging bags for you and gran.” Cailin smiled at her mother.
“And you are more than welcome to come and visit anytime. My parents would love to have you visit them, even though it's not very near to Derry. They would welcome some American visitors so they can take you to church and introduce you to their friends.” Darren wanted to be encouraging also.
“You two have got to stop this. We'll be there in plenty of time for the wedding and be able to visit with both of you and Darren's parents. We just will miss you so much,” Mary was trying to hold back tears.
“Then mom, we'll be doing Skype so we can see each other,” Cailin looked at Sean for some fatherly help.
“The taxi is here and you two need to head off to the airport. Your mum and me will be starting to make our list for our trip tomorrow. Before you know it we'll be pestering you all over again.” Sean smiled as the two headed for the door.
And with that Darren and Cailin headed back to Ireland to work and finish planing their wedding. With an uneventful flight and the bus ride back to Derry, both of them were exhausted for the next day's work. Cailin had the option of taking an easy day since she had just been in her office, but Darren was going to have to run on fumes. Another charity concert was in the works and he would be very busy until just after it ended.
With Ruth back in the United States, Cailin realized that she really didn't have any friends other than the acquaintances she had me through Darren. And with the hours that Darren kept during charity event time, he was barely home from work. Cailin decided it was time for her to get out on her own in Derry and meet some new female friends. Just how she was going to do this posed another problem.
Cailin's skill as a researcher was put to work here in Ireland. She found some volunteer opportunities with a conservation organization that allowed her some outdoor time and a chance to do some gardening while she was at it. Cailin's thinking was that if she got out and participated in some of the local activities, she would have the chance to meet more people and possibly connect with some women her own age. Finishing work early because of her US connection, she had some time to devote to this project. There were random assignments and locations and not very many young women.
This was not going to be as simple as Cailin had thought it would be. She needed some female friendships and could not always depend on Darren to be there for her. Over a short period of time Cailin realized that there was no easy way to meet new friends in Derry and hanging out at the pubs as a single woman was not a great idea either. Very slowly an idea crept into her head that she felt might work. And as this idea formulated in her mind she started to take action on it.
The couple left Rob and headed back to the house to finish packing and get ready to head to the airport for the evening flight to Dublin. Cailin could see that her parents were already suffering from the ensuing separation, so she tried to keep the mood as light as possible.
“Mom, before you know it you will be the one packing to come over to Ireland. Now mind how heavy your bags are. Can't have dad lugging bags for you and gran.” Cailin smiled at her mother.
“And you are more than welcome to come and visit anytime. My parents would love to have you visit them, even though it's not very near to Derry. They would welcome some American visitors so they can take you to church and introduce you to their friends.” Darren wanted to be encouraging also.
“You two have got to stop this. We'll be there in plenty of time for the wedding and be able to visit with both of you and Darren's parents. We just will miss you so much,” Mary was trying to hold back tears.
“Then mom, we'll be doing Skype so we can see each other,” Cailin looked at Sean for some fatherly help.
“The taxi is here and you two need to head off to the airport. Your mum and me will be starting to make our list for our trip tomorrow. Before you know it we'll be pestering you all over again.” Sean smiled as the two headed for the door.
And with that Darren and Cailin headed back to Ireland to work and finish planing their wedding. With an uneventful flight and the bus ride back to Derry, both of them were exhausted for the next day's work. Cailin had the option of taking an easy day since she had just been in her office, but Darren was going to have to run on fumes. Another charity concert was in the works and he would be very busy until just after it ended.
With Ruth back in the United States, Cailin realized that she really didn't have any friends other than the acquaintances she had me through Darren. And with the hours that Darren kept during charity event time, he was barely home from work. Cailin decided it was time for her to get out on her own in Derry and meet some new female friends. Just how she was going to do this posed another problem.
Cailin's skill as a researcher was put to work here in Ireland. She found some volunteer opportunities with a conservation organization that allowed her some outdoor time and a chance to do some gardening while she was at it. Cailin's thinking was that if she got out and participated in some of the local activities, she would have the chance to meet more people and possibly connect with some women her own age. Finishing work early because of her US connection, she had some time to devote to this project. There were random assignments and locations and not very many young women.
This was not going to be as simple as Cailin had thought it would be. She needed some female friendships and could not always depend on Darren to be there for her. Over a short period of time Cailin realized that there was no easy way to meet new friends in Derry and hanging out at the pubs as a single woman was not a great idea either. Very slowly an idea crept into her head that she felt might work. And as this idea formulated in her mind she started to take action on it.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Travels in Eire #66
Cailin rushed into the house to see he father and Darren sitting in the living room enjoying a cold Guinness.
“What's going on?” she shouted looking at both of them. “Dad what were you doing playing snooker. You know how mom feels about that.” Cailin was visibly shaken about this. She worried around money being lost foolishly.
Darren started first, “Cailin, you should have seen your dad. He was as good as any pro I've ever seen.”
“And.....” Cailin wanted answers.
“Sweetie,” her father always called her that, “I did fine. No losses this time.”
“Sean, what do you mean, you did fine? You blew the opposition away! You were the big winner for the day!” Darren couldn't contain his excitement.
“So dad, big day, you won a hundred bucks?” Cailin was now curious since Darren was making such a fuss. She new the guys at the pub didn't bet much as a rule.
“Cailin, let's put it this way. I have now taken care of 2 round trip flights to Ireland for your wedding for you mom and I.” Sean answered smiling at his daughter.
“ARRGH.... you two drive me nuts. Did you actually do any sightseeing?” Cailin asked.
“We took a quick trip to Times Square and the Empire State building. I'm hoping we can take a quick trip to the Statue of Liberty tomorrow since we leave on Monday,” and there was that smile from Darren.
Cailin smiled back and nodded. They only had limited time on this trip and Monday she needed to get into work for a couple of hours before their evening flight back to Ireland.
The evening was a quiet one spent with family. After dinner Darren and Cailin took a walk around the neighborhood. They spent a lot of time talking about wedding plans and plans for both their futures. This was actually the first serious talking they had done in a long time.
“Cailin, aren't you going to miss being here in New York?” Darren asked. “I would hate for you to make the decision to permanently move to Ireland and regret it later. You know I won't leave there except for vacations.”
“Darren, I'm an Irish citizen now, or almost as soon as the paperwork comes through. The one thing is that I have always felt so at home in Ireland. For me New York is the place to visit now. I will miss my parents, but they are only a flight away.” Cailin tightened her hold on Darren's waist as they walked to reassure him.
“Cailn, we have never talked about children. You do want children, don't you?” Darren almost seemed hesitant in asking.
“Darren, I hope you are not planning on children immediately after the wedding. Yes, I want children, but I do hope we have some time to just be together before we start our family.” Cailin was hoping that Darren would agree with her.
“Of course, I don't want to rush. Just checking here,” and Darren smiled back. “You know we are going to have to find a new place to live, right?”
“I think my place is just fine. You should permanently move in with me – after the wedding though!” Cailin teased back since Darren was almost already moved in to her place. “At least we can live there for a while.”
“I hope you don't mind that you will probably be earning more than I do.” Darren seemed a little embarrassed at this statement.
“Darren, it will be both our money. I was never concerned about how much you earn. Your work is so important. It's getting late. Let's head back to the house.”
The two of them were almost back to the stoop of the house when they saw a figure sitting on the steps. Cailin immediately tensed. It was Nick. Darren saw that it was Nick at the same time, and held Cailin a little tighter to make her feel secure.
“Hey there Nick, buddy!” Darren shouted as they neared the stoop.
Nick stood with a big smile on his face. “I'm so glad I caught up with you guys before you went back to Ireland.”
Cailin was not happy to be seeing Nick, but didn't want to cause a scene outside of her parents. “What can we do for you Nick?” she asked curtly.
“Cailin, baby, I know you were hurt when I dumped you, but I think it was the right thing for both of us.” Nick started his speech. “I can see you found the guy who is just right for your temperament.”
Once again Nick was trying to cover, but before Cailin could comment back to Nick, Darren stopped her.
“Nick, my man, you have no idea. She's a handful, but I'm more than up to the challenge. And she's good enough to put up with me too! I can't imagine being with anyone else.” and he turned and smiled at Cailin.
“I just wanted to stop by and apologize for passing out at your party. Guess Darren here is used to pounding them down more than me.” It was difficult for Nick to admit defeat, but he did.
“No problem Nick. It was great craic. Now we've got to get going. Time's running short,” Darren whisked Cailin up the stairs to the front door, and left Nick staring into blank space wondering what just had happened.
Cailin and Darren held their laughter until they were inside the door and out of earshot of Nick. He had been had once again.
“What's going on?” she shouted looking at both of them. “Dad what were you doing playing snooker. You know how mom feels about that.” Cailin was visibly shaken about this. She worried around money being lost foolishly.
Darren started first, “Cailin, you should have seen your dad. He was as good as any pro I've ever seen.”
“And.....” Cailin wanted answers.
“Sweetie,” her father always called her that, “I did fine. No losses this time.”
“Sean, what do you mean, you did fine? You blew the opposition away! You were the big winner for the day!” Darren couldn't contain his excitement.
“So dad, big day, you won a hundred bucks?” Cailin was now curious since Darren was making such a fuss. She new the guys at the pub didn't bet much as a rule.
“Cailin, let's put it this way. I have now taken care of 2 round trip flights to Ireland for your wedding for you mom and I.” Sean answered smiling at his daughter.
“ARRGH.... you two drive me nuts. Did you actually do any sightseeing?” Cailin asked.
“We took a quick trip to Times Square and the Empire State building. I'm hoping we can take a quick trip to the Statue of Liberty tomorrow since we leave on Monday,” and there was that smile from Darren.
Cailin smiled back and nodded. They only had limited time on this trip and Monday she needed to get into work for a couple of hours before their evening flight back to Ireland.
The evening was a quiet one spent with family. After dinner Darren and Cailin took a walk around the neighborhood. They spent a lot of time talking about wedding plans and plans for both their futures. This was actually the first serious talking they had done in a long time.
“Cailin, aren't you going to miss being here in New York?” Darren asked. “I would hate for you to make the decision to permanently move to Ireland and regret it later. You know I won't leave there except for vacations.”
“Darren, I'm an Irish citizen now, or almost as soon as the paperwork comes through. The one thing is that I have always felt so at home in Ireland. For me New York is the place to visit now. I will miss my parents, but they are only a flight away.” Cailin tightened her hold on Darren's waist as they walked to reassure him.
“Cailn, we have never talked about children. You do want children, don't you?” Darren almost seemed hesitant in asking.
“Darren, I hope you are not planning on children immediately after the wedding. Yes, I want children, but I do hope we have some time to just be together before we start our family.” Cailin was hoping that Darren would agree with her.
“Of course, I don't want to rush. Just checking here,” and Darren smiled back. “You know we are going to have to find a new place to live, right?”
“I think my place is just fine. You should permanently move in with me – after the wedding though!” Cailin teased back since Darren was almost already moved in to her place. “At least we can live there for a while.”
“I hope you don't mind that you will probably be earning more than I do.” Darren seemed a little embarrassed at this statement.
“Darren, it will be both our money. I was never concerned about how much you earn. Your work is so important. It's getting late. Let's head back to the house.”
The two of them were almost back to the stoop of the house when they saw a figure sitting on the steps. Cailin immediately tensed. It was Nick. Darren saw that it was Nick at the same time, and held Cailin a little tighter to make her feel secure.
“Hey there Nick, buddy!” Darren shouted as they neared the stoop.
Nick stood with a big smile on his face. “I'm so glad I caught up with you guys before you went back to Ireland.”
Cailin was not happy to be seeing Nick, but didn't want to cause a scene outside of her parents. “What can we do for you Nick?” she asked curtly.
“Cailin, baby, I know you were hurt when I dumped you, but I think it was the right thing for both of us.” Nick started his speech. “I can see you found the guy who is just right for your temperament.”
Once again Nick was trying to cover, but before Cailin could comment back to Nick, Darren stopped her.
“Nick, my man, you have no idea. She's a handful, but I'm more than up to the challenge. And she's good enough to put up with me too! I can't imagine being with anyone else.” and he turned and smiled at Cailin.
“I just wanted to stop by and apologize for passing out at your party. Guess Darren here is used to pounding them down more than me.” It was difficult for Nick to admit defeat, but he did.
“No problem Nick. It was great craic. Now we've got to get going. Time's running short,” Darren whisked Cailin up the stairs to the front door, and left Nick staring into blank space wondering what just had happened.
Cailin and Darren held their laughter until they were inside the door and out of earshot of Nick. He had been had once again.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Travels in Eire #65
Ruth and Cailin had been texting back and forth since Cailin arrived from Ireland. Cailin didn't want to spend an exorbitant amount for her wedding dress and Ruth found the perfect place for them to shop. It was called The Bridal Garden. They gowns were donated from famous designers, all one of a kind and heavily discounted. All proceeds from the sales went to benefit charities supporting children in New York City. This was exactly the kind of thing that appealed to Cailin.
After a quick breakfast with Darren, Cailin headed out. Sean, Cailin's dad, had taken such a liking to Darren that he decided to venture out and take Darren sightseeing. This was a rarity for Sean as he hated to be the tour guide. Who knew where the two of them would end up. But Cailin was happy for this time they had to get to know each other.
Cailin hopped the subway to 23rd Street and walked the couple of blocks to 21st Street to find the shop. She found Ruth out front peering into the window.
“Can't wait till it's my turn to do this,” Ruth commented as Cailin came up beside her.
The two girls walked into the shop and it was only a moment till they were searching through designer gowns and “oohing” and “awwing” as they giggled and laughed. Ruth and Cailin agreed on two very different gowns for Cailin to try on. One was very simply stated, but elegant, the other more romantic. The simple one was a beautiful white satin that draped softly over Cailin's body. It was not fitted, and puddled at the floor. Caiin had pulled her long black curly hair up for today. This way the dress looked very sophisticated. Ruth snapped a quick photo with her phone, so Cailin would have a reference later. Then Cailin put the second dress on. When she came out of the dressing room Ruth's mouth dropped open.
“Cailin, put your hair down,” she commanded. Ruth stood up and walked around the pedestal that Caiin was perched on. “Oh, my bejeezus!” she squealed, “I'm without words. You look like you just walked out of a romantic fairy tale. Cailin, this is the most beautiful gown I've ever seen on anyone. And with your hair down it's just so darn amazing. ”
The gown was not pure white but just off white making it look slightly aged. It was a combination of lace and satin with a five foot train. The bodice was cinched in to show Cailin's small midriff. It just flared out enough to flow as she walked. The neckline was an open sweetheart design so Cailin could wear her Connemara heart and it would be seen.
While they had been chatting the sales lady came by and placed a veil on Cailin's head. With her hair down she could not wear something that poofed at the back of her head. This was a small tiara type headband with a long lace-edged veil that met the hem of the dress. When Cailin took a look in the mirror she couldn't believe what she saw. Tears started to flow down her cheeks. Happy tears, but tears, nonetheless. Ruth noticed and was immediately at her side blotting the tears.
“Can't soil this dress before the wedding now, can we?” as she stepped back and nodded. “So have we found the perfect dress?”
Cailin could barely speak so she nodded and smiled.
“Then it's time to tea for us girls. Get this paid for and let's go find a nice cuppa.” Ruth was always ready for a good cup of tea.
Cailin took care of purchasing the dress and veil. She'd have it sent to her parents and they would bring it back to Ireland for the wedding, and the two girls headed off to a small cafe a few blocks away. On the way Cailin called Darren to see how things were going between Darren and her dad. When he answered she could barely hear him because of all the background noise.
“Darren, where are you and dad?” Cailn asked.
“Cailin, amazing thing. I didn't know your dad played snooker!” Darren was shouting into his phone.
“Oh no! He didn't!” Cailin shouted back. “Put my dad on the phone,” Cailin yelled.
“Can't honey, he's in the middle of a heated game. Gotta go, talk to you later,” and then the phone clicked off.
Cailin knew how much her dad loved snooker and would consider a stop at a pub for a “quick” game if he had the chance. There was also a lot of betting that went on during these games, and Cailin had known her dad to lose quite a few dollars in a night. And now Darren was there with him. She could smell trouble brewing just as she and Ruth ordered their brewed tea. But there was nothing she could do.
Ruth was full of news about her move with her sister Joyce to New York City. They had played a few gigs, and were getting ready to perform as a first act to a larger touring group. Cailin was hoping that their schedule would allow Ruth to return to Ireland for the wedding, but with the tour, it looked like it was not going to be possible. After a chat, some tea and sandwiches, they parted and Cailin headed back home, never knowing what to expect.
After a quick breakfast with Darren, Cailin headed out. Sean, Cailin's dad, had taken such a liking to Darren that he decided to venture out and take Darren sightseeing. This was a rarity for Sean as he hated to be the tour guide. Who knew where the two of them would end up. But Cailin was happy for this time they had to get to know each other.
Cailin hopped the subway to 23rd Street and walked the couple of blocks to 21st Street to find the shop. She found Ruth out front peering into the window.
“Can't wait till it's my turn to do this,” Ruth commented as Cailin came up beside her.
The two girls walked into the shop and it was only a moment till they were searching through designer gowns and “oohing” and “awwing” as they giggled and laughed. Ruth and Cailin agreed on two very different gowns for Cailin to try on. One was very simply stated, but elegant, the other more romantic. The simple one was a beautiful white satin that draped softly over Cailin's body. It was not fitted, and puddled at the floor. Caiin had pulled her long black curly hair up for today. This way the dress looked very sophisticated. Ruth snapped a quick photo with her phone, so Cailin would have a reference later. Then Cailin put the second dress on. When she came out of the dressing room Ruth's mouth dropped open.
“Cailin, put your hair down,” she commanded. Ruth stood up and walked around the pedestal that Caiin was perched on. “Oh, my bejeezus!” she squealed, “I'm without words. You look like you just walked out of a romantic fairy tale. Cailin, this is the most beautiful gown I've ever seen on anyone. And with your hair down it's just so darn amazing. ”
The gown was not pure white but just off white making it look slightly aged. It was a combination of lace and satin with a five foot train. The bodice was cinched in to show Cailin's small midriff. It just flared out enough to flow as she walked. The neckline was an open sweetheart design so Cailin could wear her Connemara heart and it would be seen.
While they had been chatting the sales lady came by and placed a veil on Cailin's head. With her hair down she could not wear something that poofed at the back of her head. This was a small tiara type headband with a long lace-edged veil that met the hem of the dress. When Cailin took a look in the mirror she couldn't believe what she saw. Tears started to flow down her cheeks. Happy tears, but tears, nonetheless. Ruth noticed and was immediately at her side blotting the tears.
“Can't soil this dress before the wedding now, can we?” as she stepped back and nodded. “So have we found the perfect dress?”
Cailin could barely speak so she nodded and smiled.
“Then it's time to tea for us girls. Get this paid for and let's go find a nice cuppa.” Ruth was always ready for a good cup of tea.
Cailin took care of purchasing the dress and veil. She'd have it sent to her parents and they would bring it back to Ireland for the wedding, and the two girls headed off to a small cafe a few blocks away. On the way Cailin called Darren to see how things were going between Darren and her dad. When he answered she could barely hear him because of all the background noise.
“Darren, where are you and dad?” Cailn asked.
“Cailin, amazing thing. I didn't know your dad played snooker!” Darren was shouting into his phone.
“Oh no! He didn't!” Cailin shouted back. “Put my dad on the phone,” Cailin yelled.
“Can't honey, he's in the middle of a heated game. Gotta go, talk to you later,” and then the phone clicked off.
Cailin knew how much her dad loved snooker and would consider a stop at a pub for a “quick” game if he had the chance. There was also a lot of betting that went on during these games, and Cailin had known her dad to lose quite a few dollars in a night. And now Darren was there with him. She could smell trouble brewing just as she and Ruth ordered their brewed tea. But there was nothing she could do.
Ruth was full of news about her move with her sister Joyce to New York City. They had played a few gigs, and were getting ready to perform as a first act to a larger touring group. Cailin was hoping that their schedule would allow Ruth to return to Ireland for the wedding, but with the tour, it looked like it was not going to be possible. After a chat, some tea and sandwiches, they parted and Cailin headed back home, never knowing what to expect.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
INFORMATIONAL POST
For anyone who stumbles across this and wants to read the story from the beginning, you must go back in the archives to November of 2009 for Chapter 1. Hope you enjoy reading this. :)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Travels in Eire #64
Cailin and Darren were pretty much attached to each other as the evening began. This was mostly so that Cailin could introduce Darren to the friends and relatives and help him remember who he had met along the way. There was no question that Darren was a charmer. Everyone loved his Irish accent and wonderful smile. He could be selling Irish dirt and everyone would be buying! As Darren felt more relaxed he and Cailin moved around the room separately.
It could have been the drinks, or just the casual atmosphere but Cailin was really enjoying herself. She had been so tense about this party, but everything was going just perfect.
That was until Shannon arrived at the party. Shannon was a friend from the office, but Cailin didn't know that she had been invited. Bonnie, her co-worker, and Rob, her boss, were at the party and neither had said anything about Shannon attending. Unfortunately Shannon was not alone, and it appeared that she had been doing some drinking before she arrived. Shannon, evidently, was crashing the party with none other than Nick!
Cailin's relaxed feeling suddenly turned to panic as she searched across the room for Darren. Darren saw her and immediately headed over to where she was.
“What's the matter Cailin?” Darren asked as he reached Cailin and noticed her color had turned ashen.
“He ruins everything,” is all Cailin could respond.
Darren immediately picked up on what was going on as Nick approached the two of them.
“Well Cailin, sweetie, I just couldn't let this party happen without me.” Nick leaned over to grab Cailin and was met with a strong arm on the shoulder that stopped him in his tracks.
“So you're the one who threw her away for me to find? Gotta say I'm the lucky man here. Nice to meet you, I'm Darren, Cailin's fiancé,” Darren put his hand out to interrupt Nick's movement to Cailin and stop his aggressive posture.
Nick was so taken aback that he was suddenly speechless.
“Here, let me get you a drink,” Darren was ever the master at this, and Cailin was so happy for that. He pulled Cailin toward the bar as he went to get Nick's drink.
“So give me the the five second version here so I can get some liquor in him and talk him into leaving,” Darren was obviously in charge here.
“Old boyfriend, Nick, who was a....” Cailin couldn't even finish.
“Got it Cailin. Leave this all to me,” Darren seemed to have a plan in place already.
“Nick”, he called across the room, “Come on over and have a little toast with me.”
Darren gently nudged Cailin back into the party. She dreaded what was going to happen, but had to leave this to Darren. She turned around to see Darren hand Nick a double shot of Jameson. Cailin had never seen Nick drunk before and was worried he might be a very mean drunk. He was a big guy, had played football in high school.
“Cailin dear, come over hear and meet our new neighbor,” Cailin's mom was calling and she could no longer watch what was going on between Darren and Nick. Cailin couldn't remember how long it had been since Darren sent her away. Every time she tried to peek at what was going on, she was pulled further away.
That was until she heard some loud noise coming from the bar area.
“Slainte!!” “Slainte!!” “Salinte!!” Cailin turned around to see Darren and Nick in a challenge of Jameson shots! She knew from her father that is was never a good idea to challenge an Irishman to a duel of shots. She also noticed that her father had put a chair just behind Nick. As Nick lifted his hand and tilted his head back for the next shot, he fell back into the chair and passed out.
There was a huge cheer throughout the room. And Darren politely raised his last shot as a toast to the crowd and downed it like a champion. Cailin walked over the Darren and wrapped her arms around him. She couldn't have been happier.
“Darlin, I'm as drunk as a skunk. Can we say our good nights now?” Darren whispered in her ear as he leaned on Cailin for support.
“I'm thinking this is the perfect end to the night Darren,” Cailin whispered back.
They watched Sean and another neighbor help Nick out the door with Shannon as they had called a taxi to get him home. Nick was going to have a sore head the next morning and not want to do anything. He had been beaten at his own macho game and lost. It was all over now.
Cailin and Darren bid their farewells to the guests as they headed up the stairs. Darren was more difficult to maneuver that Cailin would imagine, but she managed to get him into bed, and pull off his clothes as he fell asleep as soon as he hit the bed.
Cailin smiled as she left Darren's room and entered hers. Darren was her knight in shining armor tonight. No man had ever done anything like this before for her. She continued to smile as she climbed into bed and pulled up the covers and fell sound asleep.
The party had been a huge success. And tomorrow she would be shopping for her wedding dress with Ruth.
It could have been the drinks, or just the casual atmosphere but Cailin was really enjoying herself. She had been so tense about this party, but everything was going just perfect.
That was until Shannon arrived at the party. Shannon was a friend from the office, but Cailin didn't know that she had been invited. Bonnie, her co-worker, and Rob, her boss, were at the party and neither had said anything about Shannon attending. Unfortunately Shannon was not alone, and it appeared that she had been doing some drinking before she arrived. Shannon, evidently, was crashing the party with none other than Nick!
Cailin's relaxed feeling suddenly turned to panic as she searched across the room for Darren. Darren saw her and immediately headed over to where she was.
“What's the matter Cailin?” Darren asked as he reached Cailin and noticed her color had turned ashen.
“He ruins everything,” is all Cailin could respond.
Darren immediately picked up on what was going on as Nick approached the two of them.
“Well Cailin, sweetie, I just couldn't let this party happen without me.” Nick leaned over to grab Cailin and was met with a strong arm on the shoulder that stopped him in his tracks.
“So you're the one who threw her away for me to find? Gotta say I'm the lucky man here. Nice to meet you, I'm Darren, Cailin's fiancé,” Darren put his hand out to interrupt Nick's movement to Cailin and stop his aggressive posture.
Nick was so taken aback that he was suddenly speechless.
“Here, let me get you a drink,” Darren was ever the master at this, and Cailin was so happy for that. He pulled Cailin toward the bar as he went to get Nick's drink.
“So give me the the five second version here so I can get some liquor in him and talk him into leaving,” Darren was obviously in charge here.
“Old boyfriend, Nick, who was a....” Cailin couldn't even finish.
“Got it Cailin. Leave this all to me,” Darren seemed to have a plan in place already.
“Nick”, he called across the room, “Come on over and have a little toast with me.”
Darren gently nudged Cailin back into the party. She dreaded what was going to happen, but had to leave this to Darren. She turned around to see Darren hand Nick a double shot of Jameson. Cailin had never seen Nick drunk before and was worried he might be a very mean drunk. He was a big guy, had played football in high school.
“Cailin dear, come over hear and meet our new neighbor,” Cailin's mom was calling and she could no longer watch what was going on between Darren and Nick. Cailin couldn't remember how long it had been since Darren sent her away. Every time she tried to peek at what was going on, she was pulled further away.
That was until she heard some loud noise coming from the bar area.
“Slainte!!” “Slainte!!” “Salinte!!” Cailin turned around to see Darren and Nick in a challenge of Jameson shots! She knew from her father that is was never a good idea to challenge an Irishman to a duel of shots. She also noticed that her father had put a chair just behind Nick. As Nick lifted his hand and tilted his head back for the next shot, he fell back into the chair and passed out.
There was a huge cheer throughout the room. And Darren politely raised his last shot as a toast to the crowd and downed it like a champion. Cailin walked over the Darren and wrapped her arms around him. She couldn't have been happier.
“Darlin, I'm as drunk as a skunk. Can we say our good nights now?” Darren whispered in her ear as he leaned on Cailin for support.
“I'm thinking this is the perfect end to the night Darren,” Cailin whispered back.
They watched Sean and another neighbor help Nick out the door with Shannon as they had called a taxi to get him home. Nick was going to have a sore head the next morning and not want to do anything. He had been beaten at his own macho game and lost. It was all over now.
Cailin and Darren bid their farewells to the guests as they headed up the stairs. Darren was more difficult to maneuver that Cailin would imagine, but she managed to get him into bed, and pull off his clothes as he fell asleep as soon as he hit the bed.
Cailin smiled as she left Darren's room and entered hers. Darren was her knight in shining armor tonight. No man had ever done anything like this before for her. She continued to smile as she climbed into bed and pulled up the covers and fell sound asleep.
The party had been a huge success. And tomorrow she would be shopping for her wedding dress with Ruth.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Travels in Eire #63
Cailin, her mother, and gran were busy in the kitchen making food displays for the tray that would be put out and preparing the last of the food. Darren was with Cailin's dad as they were bringing in chairs and setting up the bar area. Cailin had no doubt that her dad and Darren would throw back at least one shot of Jameson as they were getting things set up. In fact, she was sure she heard a quiet “slainte” coming from the other room and smiled to herself.
Party time was about an hour away and Cailin and Darren headed upstairs to get ready. Darren was assigned the room next to Cailin and she showed him the shower.
“What, no jet shower?” Darren teased as he knew some things would be different.
“Just don't you go using all the hot water Darren Ryan. I'm not about to take a cold shower for tonight!” Cailin reminded Darren that it was not as readily plentiful as in Ireland using a water heater.
“I'll be quick, lassie,” Darren smiled and said as he headed to the shower.
Darren was true to his words and was finished in a few minutes even leaving Cailin plenty of hot water for her turn. The rest of the family were already done for the day, so it was just the two of them upstairs. Cailin hurried through her shower also so she would have plenty of time to dry her long curly hair. She walked out of the bathroom with a bath towel wrapped around herself only to see Darren standing in his doorway with a bath towel wrapped around his waist with that devilish smile on his face.
“I thought you'd be dressed by......” Cailin started to say as Darren pulled her into his room and closed the door. Cailin was now up against the door and Darren had his two arms on the door above her shoulders.
“And what are you expecting to do here Mr. Ryan?” Cailin knew very well what Darren had in mind as he leaned in to Cailin with a passionate deep kiss that seemed to last forever. Cailin's heart was pounding. She could feel his warm chest and smell his freshly washed skin. She wanted this every bit as much as Darren. She also knew she was in big trouble here if she didn't get a hold of herself soon.
Cailin pried her arms between them up against Darren's chest. There was a momentary pause of weakness as she touched his strong chest, but she gathered all her nerve together and pushed Darren apart from her.
Darren started to laugh, almost uncontrollably.
“What is going on?” Cailin couldn't understand the reason for the laughing.
“I just wanted to make sure you remembered who is waiting for you in bed at night. I'm not silly enough to toss you in bed in your parents house when we are not even married yet. But the thought did cross my mind,” Darren teased Cailin.
“Better lock your door Mr. Ryan, I may come after you!” Cailin teased back, turned quickly and headed to her room.
As soon as Cailin dressed and dried her hair she knocked on Darren's door. There was no answer. She started down the stairs and saw her handsome finance standing by the bar with a drink in hand chatting up her father. They obviously had hit it off quiet well. She knew her parents would like Darren. How could they not? Handsome, talented, and very out-going.
Cailin had her engagement ring on and also the Connemara marble heart that Darren had given her just after they first met. She reached up to touch it and realized it had a warm feeling to it, even though marble is a cool stone.
Brinnnnggg!! The first of the guests were starting to arrive.
Party time was about an hour away and Cailin and Darren headed upstairs to get ready. Darren was assigned the room next to Cailin and she showed him the shower.
“What, no jet shower?” Darren teased as he knew some things would be different.
“Just don't you go using all the hot water Darren Ryan. I'm not about to take a cold shower for tonight!” Cailin reminded Darren that it was not as readily plentiful as in Ireland using a water heater.
“I'll be quick, lassie,” Darren smiled and said as he headed to the shower.
Darren was true to his words and was finished in a few minutes even leaving Cailin plenty of hot water for her turn. The rest of the family were already done for the day, so it was just the two of them upstairs. Cailin hurried through her shower also so she would have plenty of time to dry her long curly hair. She walked out of the bathroom with a bath towel wrapped around herself only to see Darren standing in his doorway with a bath towel wrapped around his waist with that devilish smile on his face.
“I thought you'd be dressed by......” Cailin started to say as Darren pulled her into his room and closed the door. Cailin was now up against the door and Darren had his two arms on the door above her shoulders.
“And what are you expecting to do here Mr. Ryan?” Cailin knew very well what Darren had in mind as he leaned in to Cailin with a passionate deep kiss that seemed to last forever. Cailin's heart was pounding. She could feel his warm chest and smell his freshly washed skin. She wanted this every bit as much as Darren. She also knew she was in big trouble here if she didn't get a hold of herself soon.
Cailin pried her arms between them up against Darren's chest. There was a momentary pause of weakness as she touched his strong chest, but she gathered all her nerve together and pushed Darren apart from her.
Darren started to laugh, almost uncontrollably.
“What is going on?” Cailin couldn't understand the reason for the laughing.
“I just wanted to make sure you remembered who is waiting for you in bed at night. I'm not silly enough to toss you in bed in your parents house when we are not even married yet. But the thought did cross my mind,” Darren teased Cailin.
“Better lock your door Mr. Ryan, I may come after you!” Cailin teased back, turned quickly and headed to her room.
As soon as Cailin dressed and dried her hair she knocked on Darren's door. There was no answer. She started down the stairs and saw her handsome finance standing by the bar with a drink in hand chatting up her father. They obviously had hit it off quiet well. She knew her parents would like Darren. How could they not? Handsome, talented, and very out-going.
Cailin had her engagement ring on and also the Connemara marble heart that Darren had given her just after they first met. She reached up to touch it and realized it had a warm feeling to it, even though marble is a cool stone.
Brinnnnggg!! The first of the guests were starting to arrive.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Travels in Eire #61
The next few weeks seemed to pass very quickly. Cailin and Darren had been attending several parties in their honor and began making their wedding plans. During this time Darren was also in the midst of working on a new fund raiser for the hospital and spending late nights at work. Cailin was trying to work out many of the details on her own in Derry without much knowledge of where to look. She did decide that a trip back to New York was a must to find her wedding dress. What she really wanted was for Darren to go with her to meet her family and friends.
Cailin contacted her new friend Ruth to help with some ideas about planning for the wedding. Ruth was a wealth of information and Cailin leaned on her for the few days that Ruth had available before she headed to the United States herself. Cailin was so happy the she would be able to return the hospitality to Ruth when she headed home to look for a dress.
Darren and Cailin had decided on an Irish wedding shortly after her citizenship papers came through, so there was not much time for planning. Availability for reservations were few and far between in Ireland. Cailin's parents and a few close family and friends would fly over to Ireland for the wedding. But Cailin and Darren would make a trip to New York City as soon as Darren's next fund raiser was over for an engagement party so that her New York friends and family could meet Darren.
While they wanted the wedding to be at Darren's family church in Spiddal, the small local church would not be large enough. Cailin's parents would probably stay at Maura and Philip's home, and most of those flying over would be at the Connemara Coast Hotel. The reception after the wedding would also be located there. So the decision was made to have the wedding there also.
Considerations also had to be made for invitations to all of Darren's friends from Derry and the musician friends he had worked with. It was going to be a large wedding. The day before would be a wedding mass at Darren's family church, and the civil ceremony would be with the large group at the Connemara Coast Hotel.
The most difficult thing to do was to set a date. It was not unusual in Ireland for a wedding to be during the week, which made the flying arrangements a little difficult for those coming from the United States. Darren and Cailin were trying to juggle arrangements for some of the attendees. So while it was close to Christmas, they decided for mid-December.
On of the reasons that they felt they wanted to wait was because they had asked Ryan Kelly to sing at the ceremony, and wanted Keith Harkin to help out with the entertainment for the reception and both of them would be out of town until mid-December.
Plans were all coming together and Darren and Cailin had made arrangements to fly to New York City for a long weekend. So much to do and so little time in New York City.
Cailin contacted her new friend Ruth to help with some ideas about planning for the wedding. Ruth was a wealth of information and Cailin leaned on her for the few days that Ruth had available before she headed to the United States herself. Cailin was so happy the she would be able to return the hospitality to Ruth when she headed home to look for a dress.
Darren and Cailin had decided on an Irish wedding shortly after her citizenship papers came through, so there was not much time for planning. Availability for reservations were few and far between in Ireland. Cailin's parents and a few close family and friends would fly over to Ireland for the wedding. But Cailin and Darren would make a trip to New York City as soon as Darren's next fund raiser was over for an engagement party so that her New York friends and family could meet Darren.
While they wanted the wedding to be at Darren's family church in Spiddal, the small local church would not be large enough. Cailin's parents would probably stay at Maura and Philip's home, and most of those flying over would be at the Connemara Coast Hotel. The reception after the wedding would also be located there. So the decision was made to have the wedding there also.
Considerations also had to be made for invitations to all of Darren's friends from Derry and the musician friends he had worked with. It was going to be a large wedding. The day before would be a wedding mass at Darren's family church, and the civil ceremony would be with the large group at the Connemara Coast Hotel.
The most difficult thing to do was to set a date. It was not unusual in Ireland for a wedding to be during the week, which made the flying arrangements a little difficult for those coming from the United States. Darren and Cailin were trying to juggle arrangements for some of the attendees. So while it was close to Christmas, they decided for mid-December.
On of the reasons that they felt they wanted to wait was because they had asked Ryan Kelly to sing at the ceremony, and wanted Keith Harkin to help out with the entertainment for the reception and both of them would be out of town until mid-December.
Plans were all coming together and Darren and Cailin had made arrangements to fly to New York City for a long weekend. So much to do and so little time in New York City.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Travels in Eire #59
The next week was a flurry of activity. With Darren and Cailin both working, they kept their news secret from everyone until they could sit down and make a plan to tell their families and friends. Darren brought over enough clothes to Cailin's flat so that when he did spend the night, which was more often than not, he was able to leave for work the next morning and not go back to his place first. They loved this private time together with just the two of them to celebrate their feelings. Cailin loved waking up in the morning knowing that Darren was next to her.
Since Cailin had the most flexible schedule, Darren worked out a time when they could take a long weekend and travel to Spiddal to visit his parents. This was not something he wanted to share with them over the phone. They planned to call Cailin's parents while they were there.
During this time Cailin had also been working on a surprise for Darren. She thought when they were in Spiddal that would be the perfect time to share it with both him and his parents. It was now just under 3 months from when she had first visited Ireland on vacation. She was sure this was not something that Darren would expect.
For this trip, Darren and Cailn would be renting a car for the drive. A bus would take them over 4 hours to get to Galway and they didn't want that long of a drive for just a short weekend. Darren's parents were thrilled that they were coming for a visit. Darren had told Maura that they just needed a weekend out of the city and they both loved being on the Connemara Coast.
Friday morning came quickly, and after Darren gathered what he needed at his flat, he picked up the rental car and headed for Cailin. Cailin was packed and ready when Darren arrived. Both were excited to be getting away for the weekend and anxious to share their wonderful news. The weather was beautiful and the drive uneventful.
This was the first visit to Darre's parents where Cailin was not feeling overwhelmed or nervous. She and Maura had moved passed any worries that Maura had about Cailin taking Darren away from Ireland, especially after their trip to the psychic in Derry.
On the way passed Galway heading toward Spiddal, Darren pulled the car over again by the Connemara Coast Hotel. The had stopped here the last trip, but for very different reasons. Darren knew how much Cailin loved this area as he did with the rocky coastline along the bay. They found their favorite spot where they could sit upon some large rocks and look across the bay to the Burren. And the day was clear enough that they could just make out the Aran Islands.
They sat quietly in each other's arms just taking in the beauty of it all. A group of young children ran by laughing and screaming at each other to break their quiet thoughts.
“Time to move on, Cailin,” Darren said as he helped her up from the rock.
Cailin smiled knowing this was going to be a very special weekend, full of many surprises.
“As they pulled up to the B&B that Philip and Maura owned and lived in, Darren honked the horn to let everyone know that they had arrived. The first outside was Philip with open arms and a welcoming smile.
“Mum's in the kitchen cooking up a storm, boy. She's been at it since this mornin'” Philip chirped as he reached for a hug with Cailin and then one with Darren.
“Gramps,” Darren yelled to his granddad who came out of the door next. There seemed to be some secretive exchange between the two of them, but Cailin knew better than ask.
They all piled into the house to the smell of amazing aromas wafting out of the kitchen. Philip was chattering with Cailin as they walked down the hall asking about her job and living in Derry. It had only been a few weeks since Philip and Maura were in Derry for a visit, but you'd think it was longer. Darren and his granddad lingered behind whispering about something.
“Cailin, so glad to see you again!” Maura walked away from stirring the pot on the stove to give Cailin a big hug which Cailin returned in kind. “I'm so glad the two of you decided to spend a weekend here on the coast.
The conversation turned to the beautiful weather and all things that were going on with Cailin and Darren and their work. Maura even asked about Cailin's parents. This was the first time she showed any interest in them and knowing about their life in New York. Conversation continued all through dinner and was light and engaging. Cailin was thoroughly enjoying herself this visit.
Cailin and Darren talked before they left Derry and decided that Cailin would not wear her engagement ring until after they told Maura and Philip. They were trying for a big surprise and hoped they could pull it off.
Dessert time came and Maura had made a lemon and orange carrageen pudding. Darren opened a bottle of wine.
“Before we all partake of our dessert, I'd like to make a toast.” Darren announced as Cailin carefully removed her engagement ring from her pocket and placed in on her finger under the table. “I would like to toast my wonderful parents and my beautiful fiancée!” Darren finished with a huge smile on his face.
Maura was dumbfounded, but for a moment only, and tears began to streak down her cheeks. She was speechless. Philip bounded up from the table toward Darren and grabbed him in a huge hug then turned to Cailin and did the same. Cailin was worried that Maura was very upset about the engagement.
“Don't worry lass, they are happy tears. I know the difference since we've been married so long.” Phillip interjected as he could see the worry on Cailin's face.
Maura rose from the table, and came face to face with Cailin. And before she could even say anything the two of them were both in tears. Happy tears, but tears no less.
“So are we going to get on with the toast for these two kids?” Granddad chirped in still holding his glass of wine.
“Yes, definitely yes,” said Maura as she pulled away from Cailn wiping her eyes in her apron. “This is a joyous occasion and we need to celebrate!” Maura had finally pulled herself together and was now ready to celebrate.
“Darren, does Cailin know about her engagement ring?” Granddad asked Darren as they all clinked glasses and took their first taste of wine.
“I haven't even had time to tell her yet how you helped me with all this,” Darren replied. “Cailin this was my grandmother's ring. A few weeks ago I contacted my granddad and asked him about it. He was more than happy to allow me to have it so I could give it to you, so he sent it to me in the mail.”
“Darren, it's a beautiful ring. I love that it has so much in the way of family memories.” Cailin got up from her seat and give Darren's granddad a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you so very much.”
The evening ended with more wine and cheerful conversation. Cailin was so happy that Maura didn't broach the subject of a wedding yet, she still had her secret to share with Darren and his family.
Because of the five hour difference they all decided it would be best to wait until morning to call Cailin's parents. Breakfast time would be perfect for that and more surprises.
Since Cailin had the most flexible schedule, Darren worked out a time when they could take a long weekend and travel to Spiddal to visit his parents. This was not something he wanted to share with them over the phone. They planned to call Cailin's parents while they were there.
During this time Cailin had also been working on a surprise for Darren. She thought when they were in Spiddal that would be the perfect time to share it with both him and his parents. It was now just under 3 months from when she had first visited Ireland on vacation. She was sure this was not something that Darren would expect.
For this trip, Darren and Cailn would be renting a car for the drive. A bus would take them over 4 hours to get to Galway and they didn't want that long of a drive for just a short weekend. Darren's parents were thrilled that they were coming for a visit. Darren had told Maura that they just needed a weekend out of the city and they both loved being on the Connemara Coast.
Friday morning came quickly, and after Darren gathered what he needed at his flat, he picked up the rental car and headed for Cailin. Cailin was packed and ready when Darren arrived. Both were excited to be getting away for the weekend and anxious to share their wonderful news. The weather was beautiful and the drive uneventful.
This was the first visit to Darre's parents where Cailin was not feeling overwhelmed or nervous. She and Maura had moved passed any worries that Maura had about Cailin taking Darren away from Ireland, especially after their trip to the psychic in Derry.
On the way passed Galway heading toward Spiddal, Darren pulled the car over again by the Connemara Coast Hotel. The had stopped here the last trip, but for very different reasons. Darren knew how much Cailin loved this area as he did with the rocky coastline along the bay. They found their favorite spot where they could sit upon some large rocks and look across the bay to the Burren. And the day was clear enough that they could just make out the Aran Islands.
They sat quietly in each other's arms just taking in the beauty of it all. A group of young children ran by laughing and screaming at each other to break their quiet thoughts.
“Time to move on, Cailin,” Darren said as he helped her up from the rock.
Cailin smiled knowing this was going to be a very special weekend, full of many surprises.
“As they pulled up to the B&B that Philip and Maura owned and lived in, Darren honked the horn to let everyone know that they had arrived. The first outside was Philip with open arms and a welcoming smile.
“Mum's in the kitchen cooking up a storm, boy. She's been at it since this mornin'” Philip chirped as he reached for a hug with Cailin and then one with Darren.
“Gramps,” Darren yelled to his granddad who came out of the door next. There seemed to be some secretive exchange between the two of them, but Cailin knew better than ask.
They all piled into the house to the smell of amazing aromas wafting out of the kitchen. Philip was chattering with Cailin as they walked down the hall asking about her job and living in Derry. It had only been a few weeks since Philip and Maura were in Derry for a visit, but you'd think it was longer. Darren and his granddad lingered behind whispering about something.
“Cailin, so glad to see you again!” Maura walked away from stirring the pot on the stove to give Cailin a big hug which Cailin returned in kind. “I'm so glad the two of you decided to spend a weekend here on the coast.
The conversation turned to the beautiful weather and all things that were going on with Cailin and Darren and their work. Maura even asked about Cailin's parents. This was the first time she showed any interest in them and knowing about their life in New York. Conversation continued all through dinner and was light and engaging. Cailin was thoroughly enjoying herself this visit.
Cailin and Darren talked before they left Derry and decided that Cailin would not wear her engagement ring until after they told Maura and Philip. They were trying for a big surprise and hoped they could pull it off.
Dessert time came and Maura had made a lemon and orange carrageen pudding. Darren opened a bottle of wine.
“Before we all partake of our dessert, I'd like to make a toast.” Darren announced as Cailin carefully removed her engagement ring from her pocket and placed in on her finger under the table. “I would like to toast my wonderful parents and my beautiful fiancée!” Darren finished with a huge smile on his face.
Maura was dumbfounded, but for a moment only, and tears began to streak down her cheeks. She was speechless. Philip bounded up from the table toward Darren and grabbed him in a huge hug then turned to Cailin and did the same. Cailin was worried that Maura was very upset about the engagement.
“Don't worry lass, they are happy tears. I know the difference since we've been married so long.” Phillip interjected as he could see the worry on Cailin's face.
Maura rose from the table, and came face to face with Cailin. And before she could even say anything the two of them were both in tears. Happy tears, but tears no less.
“So are we going to get on with the toast for these two kids?” Granddad chirped in still holding his glass of wine.
“Yes, definitely yes,” said Maura as she pulled away from Cailn wiping her eyes in her apron. “This is a joyous occasion and we need to celebrate!” Maura had finally pulled herself together and was now ready to celebrate.
“Darren, does Cailin know about her engagement ring?” Granddad asked Darren as they all clinked glasses and took their first taste of wine.
“I haven't even had time to tell her yet how you helped me with all this,” Darren replied. “Cailin this was my grandmother's ring. A few weeks ago I contacted my granddad and asked him about it. He was more than happy to allow me to have it so I could give it to you, so he sent it to me in the mail.”
“Darren, it's a beautiful ring. I love that it has so much in the way of family memories.” Cailin got up from her seat and give Darren's granddad a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you so very much.”
The evening ended with more wine and cheerful conversation. Cailin was so happy that Maura didn't broach the subject of a wedding yet, she still had her secret to share with Darren and his family.
Because of the five hour difference they all decided it would be best to wait until morning to call Cailin's parents. Breakfast time would be perfect for that and more surprises.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Travels in Eire #58
“Time for a little wall walking,” Darren directed as they left the diner. “We need to work off that great meal. Are you full now?”
“I'm stuffed and a walk on the walls would be great!” Cailin followed Darren up a set of stairs that led to the start of a walk on the old walls of Derry City.
The day was beautiful. Sunny and just cool enough that they could walk at a quick pace. Every time you turned a corner there was a different view of the outskirts of Derry. One view of the Guildhall and gathering area around it. Another of the rolling landscape just outside of Derry. They would stop periodically to look at the view and talk about what could be seen.
As they approached the view that overlooked the boglands Cailin stopped in her tracks.
“Darren, do you know where this is?”
“Cailin, of course I know where this is,” Darren was quick to answer. “A couple of months ago I was passing out fliers for a concert I had arranged, and I saw this beautiful girl looking out over the edge of this wall. Right here on this spot and I asked her to come to the concert.”
Cailin blushed. This was the place on the Derry wall where they had first met.
“It's still a beautiful view, Darren,” Cailin sighed as she turned to look over the landscape in front of her. She realized that Darren had gotten very quiet.
As Cailin turned back she had to look down. Darren was on one knee. She was so taken aback that her hand went up to her chest in surprise.
“Cailin, I love you very much. I think I've known that since the beginning. I also know that I can't live without you. My life has changed so much for the better since you came into my life. I want to spend the rest of my life with you by my side, and me by yours.” There was as big pause as Darren seemed to run out of breath. “Cailin, will you marry me?”
All this time Cailin was astounded by what was happening. She knew how much she loved Darren, but she was afraid at the same time. All she could do was look down at Darren who looked like he would hyperventilate if she didn't answer.
“Darren, I never thought it would happen this way. You are the most caring, gentle man I have ever met. You always put others before yourself. It's this kind of man I want to spend my life with and wake up next to every day for the rest of my life.” Cailin took a big breath... "Yes, I would love to marry you!”
And all of a sudden there was a cheer! Cailin and Darren had been involved so much with each other, they had not noticed that they had drawn a crowd.
Darren reached over to Cailin and took her hand in his placing a beautiful antique diamond ring on her finger. He had to hold her hand still as Cailin was shaking with excitement. Darren then took her by the shoulders and pulled her close for a long loving kiss. Cailin melted in his arms. The bystanders cheered again and Cailin and Darren turned to them all smiling.
Darren turned to Cailin and smiled, “Time to call home, yours, and mine.”
The final leg of the walk on the walls was more a stroll with Darren's arm around Cailin's shoulders, stopping often to share a kiss and smile at each other.
“I'm stuffed and a walk on the walls would be great!” Cailin followed Darren up a set of stairs that led to the start of a walk on the old walls of Derry City.
The day was beautiful. Sunny and just cool enough that they could walk at a quick pace. Every time you turned a corner there was a different view of the outskirts of Derry. One view of the Guildhall and gathering area around it. Another of the rolling landscape just outside of Derry. They would stop periodically to look at the view and talk about what could be seen.
As they approached the view that overlooked the boglands Cailin stopped in her tracks.
“Darren, do you know where this is?”
“Cailin, of course I know where this is,” Darren was quick to answer. “A couple of months ago I was passing out fliers for a concert I had arranged, and I saw this beautiful girl looking out over the edge of this wall. Right here on this spot and I asked her to come to the concert.”
Cailin blushed. This was the place on the Derry wall where they had first met.
“It's still a beautiful view, Darren,” Cailin sighed as she turned to look over the landscape in front of her. She realized that Darren had gotten very quiet.
As Cailin turned back she had to look down. Darren was on one knee. She was so taken aback that her hand went up to her chest in surprise.
“Cailin, I love you very much. I think I've known that since the beginning. I also know that I can't live without you. My life has changed so much for the better since you came into my life. I want to spend the rest of my life with you by my side, and me by yours.” There was as big pause as Darren seemed to run out of breath. “Cailin, will you marry me?”
All this time Cailin was astounded by what was happening. She knew how much she loved Darren, but she was afraid at the same time. All she could do was look down at Darren who looked like he would hyperventilate if she didn't answer.
“Darren, I never thought it would happen this way. You are the most caring, gentle man I have ever met. You always put others before yourself. It's this kind of man I want to spend my life with and wake up next to every day for the rest of my life.” Cailin took a big breath... "Yes, I would love to marry you!”
And all of a sudden there was a cheer! Cailin and Darren had been involved so much with each other, they had not noticed that they had drawn a crowd.
Darren reached over to Cailin and took her hand in his placing a beautiful antique diamond ring on her finger. He had to hold her hand still as Cailin was shaking with excitement. Darren then took her by the shoulders and pulled her close for a long loving kiss. Cailin melted in his arms. The bystanders cheered again and Cailin and Darren turned to them all smiling.
Darren turned to Cailin and smiled, “Time to call home, yours, and mine.”
The final leg of the walk on the walls was more a stroll with Darren's arm around Cailin's shoulders, stopping often to share a kiss and smile at each other.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Travels in Eire #42
As the week had progressed Cailin took time in the evenings to pack and organize for the move. She and her dad had arranged for a friend with a pickup truck to come by the apartment on the following Wednesday to load up those things that would be stored at her parents indefinitely. The same day she had a storage company coming by to load up all her furniture to store while she was gone. Cailin had considered selling it, or giving it away, but she had spend a lot of time choosing this furniture and was not ready to part with it just yet. There wasn't a lot, but she could not expect her parents to store everything. She made arrangements for a 3 month storage. After that time, she would need to decide what to do with all the furniture.
Cailin had a discussion with the building super the week before about not being able to give a month's notice. But this was New York City and housing was at a premium. He already had a waiting list for when apartments became available and said if he could rent it quickly it was not problem. She had stopped by his apartment on the first floor on her way home and found out he already had someone to move in the apartment the week after she left. With Cailin moving out on Wednesday, that would leave the super 2 days to get the apartment ready for the new tenant.
As Cailin was packing those things that would be shipped over to Ireland she had to make some very difficult decisions. Over the years she had collected so many keepsakes that were very dear to her. She wished she could take all of them along. She loved her music collection but was worried about being able to play her CDs and DVDs in Ireland. She had to take into consideration the difference in electrical needs. Even with converters in every plug, it would be difficult. To avoid some of the problems she made sure all her favorite music was loaded on her iPod. Most songs were already there including a lot of Irish musicians such as Celtic Thunder, The High Kings, Lunasa, and many others.
She wondered if she would be able to use her ipod with a player that she might purchase in Ireland. That would be a question for Darren.
As Cailin packed, she kept a list of questions for Darren that would help her make decisions for what to take. Sometimes Darren needed to find out some of the answers, but mostly he knew what she would need. In there many conversations Darren shared that he had told his parents about Cailin's move to Derry. Cailin was very curious to know how Darren's mum, Maura, felt about this. Darren relayed to her that for the most part his mum was cautious, but positive. His da couldn't be happier. He did state that his granddad told him that he knew this would happen all along.
All this time Cailin had been wearing the Connemara marble heart that Darren had bought for her. Whenever she started to question her decision, or feel a little insecure about what she was planning, she reached up and held on to it. There was something about the stone that took her right back to that moment in the store when Darren put the necklace on her. It gave her a very settled and warm feeling. It was then she felt at home.
As Cailn checked of the list of things she needed to deal with, she suddenly realized that she needed to take care of where all her mail was sent. For work she dealt with mostly emails and faxes, she hadn't even thought about getting her mailing address in Derry The easiest thing to do was have all her mail forwarded to her parents until she got settled. There would be no bills to deal with, and through regular contact with her parents she could find out what needed to be handled. Over time she would share her Derry address with friends. It would probably be a PO Box, and that would be fine. As she was considering all of this she paused and realized that she was thinking long term here and not just three months.
Just then her bell rang. Cailin answered the call from downstairs, “Yes?”
“Cailin, it's Sherry, are you ready to get some dinner? Or did you totally forget about tonight?” Sherry, a good friend, had made arrangements with Cailin to go out this Friday night.
“Oh, Sherry, come on up! I was just lost in all this moving and packing,” Cailin buzzed the door open laughing at herself for getting so enmeshed in packing.
The two girls spend a few minutes surveying Cailin's slightly unorganized apartment and headed out for Chinese food for a long leisurely dinner to catch up with each other. This was one person who Cailin would share information about Darren. Sherry could hear Cailin's excitement and knew that this was something very special for her.
“Guess I'm going to have to come visit you in Derry to check out this handsome man!” Sherry teased.
“Sherry, you are one person who I would love to come and visit. It would be great to see someone from over here. And just maybe Darren has a friend who might catch your fancy!” Cailin knew she would miss some of her friends and Sherry was one of them.
The two girls chatted and laughed for what seemed like hours and then headed back to Cailin's apartment where Sherry said her good-byes. As Cailin entered her apartment, she suddenly felt a little sad. She had made this amazing life for herself in New York City, and now she was leaving it not knowing for sure what was going to happen. On one hand she was excited for the new adventure, on the other, she was a little afraid.
Cailin had a discussion with the building super the week before about not being able to give a month's notice. But this was New York City and housing was at a premium. He already had a waiting list for when apartments became available and said if he could rent it quickly it was not problem. She had stopped by his apartment on the first floor on her way home and found out he already had someone to move in the apartment the week after she left. With Cailin moving out on Wednesday, that would leave the super 2 days to get the apartment ready for the new tenant.
As Cailin was packing those things that would be shipped over to Ireland she had to make some very difficult decisions. Over the years she had collected so many keepsakes that were very dear to her. She wished she could take all of them along. She loved her music collection but was worried about being able to play her CDs and DVDs in Ireland. She had to take into consideration the difference in electrical needs. Even with converters in every plug, it would be difficult. To avoid some of the problems she made sure all her favorite music was loaded on her iPod. Most songs were already there including a lot of Irish musicians such as Celtic Thunder, The High Kings, Lunasa, and many others.
She wondered if she would be able to use her ipod with a player that she might purchase in Ireland. That would be a question for Darren.
As Cailin packed, she kept a list of questions for Darren that would help her make decisions for what to take. Sometimes Darren needed to find out some of the answers, but mostly he knew what she would need. In there many conversations Darren shared that he had told his parents about Cailin's move to Derry. Cailin was very curious to know how Darren's mum, Maura, felt about this. Darren relayed to her that for the most part his mum was cautious, but positive. His da couldn't be happier. He did state that his granddad told him that he knew this would happen all along.
All this time Cailin had been wearing the Connemara marble heart that Darren had bought for her. Whenever she started to question her decision, or feel a little insecure about what she was planning, she reached up and held on to it. There was something about the stone that took her right back to that moment in the store when Darren put the necklace on her. It gave her a very settled and warm feeling. It was then she felt at home.
As Cailn checked of the list of things she needed to deal with, she suddenly realized that she needed to take care of where all her mail was sent. For work she dealt with mostly emails and faxes, she hadn't even thought about getting her mailing address in Derry The easiest thing to do was have all her mail forwarded to her parents until she got settled. There would be no bills to deal with, and through regular contact with her parents she could find out what needed to be handled. Over time she would share her Derry address with friends. It would probably be a PO Box, and that would be fine. As she was considering all of this she paused and realized that she was thinking long term here and not just three months.
Just then her bell rang. Cailin answered the call from downstairs, “Yes?”
“Cailin, it's Sherry, are you ready to get some dinner? Or did you totally forget about tonight?” Sherry, a good friend, had made arrangements with Cailin to go out this Friday night.
“Oh, Sherry, come on up! I was just lost in all this moving and packing,” Cailin buzzed the door open laughing at herself for getting so enmeshed in packing.
The two girls spend a few minutes surveying Cailin's slightly unorganized apartment and headed out for Chinese food for a long leisurely dinner to catch up with each other. This was one person who Cailin would share information about Darren. Sherry could hear Cailin's excitement and knew that this was something very special for her.
“Guess I'm going to have to come visit you in Derry to check out this handsome man!” Sherry teased.
“Sherry, you are one person who I would love to come and visit. It would be great to see someone from over here. And just maybe Darren has a friend who might catch your fancy!” Cailin knew she would miss some of her friends and Sherry was one of them.
The two girls chatted and laughed for what seemed like hours and then headed back to Cailin's apartment where Sherry said her good-byes. As Cailin entered her apartment, she suddenly felt a little sad. She had made this amazing life for herself in New York City, and now she was leaving it not knowing for sure what was going to happen. On one hand she was excited for the new adventure, on the other, she was a little afraid.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Travels in Eire #41
The remainder of the day flew by for Cailin. She worked with the HR department to hammer out the details of her contract making sure she felt it was what she wanted and would serve both the purposes of her office and her needs. It was all typed up and ready for her signature when the realization of what she was doing finally hit her. She would be leaving all her friends here at work and basically working alone in her flat in Derry.
Cailin sat down at her desk a little maudlin thinking about all she would be giving up at her end. Up to this point she had only focused forward and her rush to be with Darren not considering what she would be leaving behind. Suddenly she realized that someone was standing in her doorway. It was Rob.
“Are you changing your mind, Cailin?” he could see the look on her face.
“I guess the reality of it all is setting in.”
“Cailin, remember, nothing is permanent at this point. This is a three month trial. You can always come back here. And mostly this is your choice.” Rob knew Cailin well.
“Rob, thanks for all of this. You've been so supportive.” Cailin turned to the signature page of the contract and signed her agreement.
Rob leaned over Cailin's desk to put his signature on the line below Cailin's. “Don't you thing we should go announce this to the rest of the staff?”
By the time Rob and Cailin walked into the meeting room, everyone else was there. You could hear the buzz of rumor suddenly hush as they walked into the room. Cailin took a seat next to Bonnie, and Rob got the meeting started. Everyone was very excited and supportive for Cailin and this new venture. There were more questions about Ireland and Cailin's reason for moving there than she could answer. They all decided on a bon voyage party for that Friday where Cailin would have time to answer questions and they could send her off appropriately. Her office loved a reason to party.
The remainder of the week went flying by as Cailin finished up research that she needed to complete and briefed Bonnie on how they would handle communication with the five hour time difference. Cailin started to work on communication instructions for the remainder of the staff, so they could reach her with assignments as needed. There would also be weekly conference calls, and Skype calls. As far as Cailin could tell, clients would not even realize that she was working outside of the office. She rarely had contact with the actual clients, other than a phone call for information, so this was not a problem.
Friday came so quickly that Cailin felt she was not ready. As the week had progressed she had been talking to Darren almost daily for information that she needed and support at his end. Her plane reservations were made for the following Friday. Darren would take the day off of work and borrow a car to pick her up in Dublin when she arrived. She could hear how excited he was that they were only apart for three weeks since she left Ireland. He told her that he had big plans for the two of them that weekend. Cailin was afraid to ask knowing that Darren would not tell her anyway, and finished that phone call with a big smile.
Cailin and Bonnie had boxed up any important documents that she might need in Ireland and set a time for them to be shipped off to Cailin's new flat. She wanted to make sure she was there before they arrived. Other than her work laptop, everything else would stay at her desk. Bonnie would FedEx anything else she needed. Cailin would purchase a fax machine in Ireland to accommodate the electrical and phone difference.
The work party was a blast, as all their parties were. Rob was very careful in choosing employees who would work well together. Even with age differences and personal lives differing, the staff all got along better than most, so parties were lively and friendly. Cailin mingled with everyone and answered as many questions as she could. She tried to stay away from questions about Darren and mostly explained that she felt a strong connection to Ireland and felt the need to move there for a while to see if it was something she wanted on a permanent basis.
Cailin said her last goodbyes to Rob and Bonnie and armed with her laptop headed back to her apartment in New York to pack up and move out.
Cailin sat down at her desk a little maudlin thinking about all she would be giving up at her end. Up to this point she had only focused forward and her rush to be with Darren not considering what she would be leaving behind. Suddenly she realized that someone was standing in her doorway. It was Rob.
“Are you changing your mind, Cailin?” he could see the look on her face.
“I guess the reality of it all is setting in.”
“Cailin, remember, nothing is permanent at this point. This is a three month trial. You can always come back here. And mostly this is your choice.” Rob knew Cailin well.
“Rob, thanks for all of this. You've been so supportive.” Cailin turned to the signature page of the contract and signed her agreement.
Rob leaned over Cailin's desk to put his signature on the line below Cailin's. “Don't you thing we should go announce this to the rest of the staff?”
By the time Rob and Cailin walked into the meeting room, everyone else was there. You could hear the buzz of rumor suddenly hush as they walked into the room. Cailin took a seat next to Bonnie, and Rob got the meeting started. Everyone was very excited and supportive for Cailin and this new venture. There were more questions about Ireland and Cailin's reason for moving there than she could answer. They all decided on a bon voyage party for that Friday where Cailin would have time to answer questions and they could send her off appropriately. Her office loved a reason to party.
The remainder of the week went flying by as Cailin finished up research that she needed to complete and briefed Bonnie on how they would handle communication with the five hour time difference. Cailin started to work on communication instructions for the remainder of the staff, so they could reach her with assignments as needed. There would also be weekly conference calls, and Skype calls. As far as Cailin could tell, clients would not even realize that she was working outside of the office. She rarely had contact with the actual clients, other than a phone call for information, so this was not a problem.
Friday came so quickly that Cailin felt she was not ready. As the week had progressed she had been talking to Darren almost daily for information that she needed and support at his end. Her plane reservations were made for the following Friday. Darren would take the day off of work and borrow a car to pick her up in Dublin when she arrived. She could hear how excited he was that they were only apart for three weeks since she left Ireland. He told her that he had big plans for the two of them that weekend. Cailin was afraid to ask knowing that Darren would not tell her anyway, and finished that phone call with a big smile.
Cailin and Bonnie had boxed up any important documents that she might need in Ireland and set a time for them to be shipped off to Cailin's new flat. She wanted to make sure she was there before they arrived. Other than her work laptop, everything else would stay at her desk. Bonnie would FedEx anything else she needed. Cailin would purchase a fax machine in Ireland to accommodate the electrical and phone difference.
The work party was a blast, as all their parties were. Rob was very careful in choosing employees who would work well together. Even with age differences and personal lives differing, the staff all got along better than most, so parties were lively and friendly. Cailin mingled with everyone and answered as many questions as she could. She tried to stay away from questions about Darren and mostly explained that she felt a strong connection to Ireland and felt the need to move there for a while to see if it was something she wanted on a permanent basis.
Cailin said her last goodbyes to Rob and Bonnie and armed with her laptop headed back to her apartment in New York to pack up and move out.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Travels in Eire #40
It felt so strange waking up on Monday morning earlier than she had in the past couple of weeks. It was time to return to her research job in Manhattan. Cailin knew that the news of her pending departure would have spread like wildfire through the office even though she had only met with her boss, Rob, for lunch on Friday. That was if he leaked the conversation. She also suspected that Nick had been blabbing about her dumping him to all her friend over the weekend, and some of those friends worked at the office. Fortified with the confidence that she could handle all of this, she put on her power look and headed off to work.
This was summer in New York City, so even while it was still early in the day, the humidity was rolling in. Cailin wore a cotton shift dress with a sweater in the morning so she would be comfortable by the day's end. The heels on her white sandals tapped on the marble floor as she exited the elevator on the 5th floor. She took a deep breath as she entered the office doors.
To her surprise, the first person she passed, Rob's receptionist, turned to her saying, “Way to go Cailin.” And there were more of these compliments as she walked by open offices down the hall to her work area. She expected this universal support had more to do with Nick than anything else. Everyone was supporting her in getting rid of him. She hardly expected this. Maybe Rob had kept her desire to work remotely very quiet.
Cailin shared a work space with another young woman researcher for the firm. Bonnie was still having a great time clubbing and dating a vast array of young men. She was not ready to settle down at all. But she was fun to work with and quite capable of supporting Cailin here in New York while Cailin worked in Derry and kept up on what she needed to do for the firm.
Bonnie's desk was empty and Cailin figured she must be off doing some research for an assignment. Cailin dropped off her purse and headed to Rob's office. She was hoping to find out if Rob had made a decision about her working from Ireland. She really needed to have a job that would support her and this would be the best way.
“Hi Rob, can we chat for a few?” Cailin was upbeat and cheery as she stood in Rob's doorway.
“Cailin, I've taken a lot of time to think about your proposal to work from Ireland. Here's what I'd like you to do today. Write up an agreement that we can both live with that spells out all the details of how this will work. I also want you to put in it a clause that it is a temporary and trial situation for 3 months. After that we will renegotiate the details of the agreement, or cancel it. Does that sound fair enough?” Rob seemed to have thought about this a lot over the weekend.
“Rob, does that mean you are approving this idea?” Cailin could not believe what she was hearing.
“Hold on Cailin. I have to get approval from the partners, but after much thought I figured if we treated it like an outside consultant contract, I would feel much better about it. Your pay would be the same. I'm not sure how we would handle benefits, but we'll leave that up to HR.”
“Rob, that's wonderful. I'll get to work on the contract immediately. I also have some outstanding research and will finish that up by mid-week. I'd like to have next week off to transition over to Northern Ireland and get everything set up and settled. Would that work?” Cailin was already thinking ahead. This is what made her such a good researcher.
“Okay, Cailin, so off with you and get me that contract so we can make your dreams come true,” Rob said this with a wink and a smile. He had heard about Nick too, and this was his way of telling Cialin she did well to have finally gotten rid of him.
Cailin could barely wait until her lunch break to call Darren. He would be just about off work for the day. they only had a few minutes, but she could hear how excited Darren was in his voice. His big question was “When?”. And all Cailin could tell him was very soon. She didn't want to spoil it and didn't even have her ticket for her flight back yet.
She and Bonnie went to lunch together and she told Bonnie about her plans. Ever the adventurous, Bonnie was delighted and said that would be great working that way, thinking she might get a trip to Ireland out of this. Cailin felt it was more likely she would be making trips back to New York, which was great because she could visit her family too.
In the meantime Rob scheduled a meeting for all the staff at the end of the day. Cailin expected he would be announcing her departure and plans to work from Ireland. All she needed was approval of the other partners, but from what Rob had said, that was almost a moot point.
This was summer in New York City, so even while it was still early in the day, the humidity was rolling in. Cailin wore a cotton shift dress with a sweater in the morning so she would be comfortable by the day's end. The heels on her white sandals tapped on the marble floor as she exited the elevator on the 5th floor. She took a deep breath as she entered the office doors.
To her surprise, the first person she passed, Rob's receptionist, turned to her saying, “Way to go Cailin.” And there were more of these compliments as she walked by open offices down the hall to her work area. She expected this universal support had more to do with Nick than anything else. Everyone was supporting her in getting rid of him. She hardly expected this. Maybe Rob had kept her desire to work remotely very quiet.
Cailin shared a work space with another young woman researcher for the firm. Bonnie was still having a great time clubbing and dating a vast array of young men. She was not ready to settle down at all. But she was fun to work with and quite capable of supporting Cailin here in New York while Cailin worked in Derry and kept up on what she needed to do for the firm.
Bonnie's desk was empty and Cailin figured she must be off doing some research for an assignment. Cailin dropped off her purse and headed to Rob's office. She was hoping to find out if Rob had made a decision about her working from Ireland. She really needed to have a job that would support her and this would be the best way.
“Hi Rob, can we chat for a few?” Cailin was upbeat and cheery as she stood in Rob's doorway.
“Cailin, I've taken a lot of time to think about your proposal to work from Ireland. Here's what I'd like you to do today. Write up an agreement that we can both live with that spells out all the details of how this will work. I also want you to put in it a clause that it is a temporary and trial situation for 3 months. After that we will renegotiate the details of the agreement, or cancel it. Does that sound fair enough?” Rob seemed to have thought about this a lot over the weekend.
“Rob, does that mean you are approving this idea?” Cailin could not believe what she was hearing.
“Hold on Cailin. I have to get approval from the partners, but after much thought I figured if we treated it like an outside consultant contract, I would feel much better about it. Your pay would be the same. I'm not sure how we would handle benefits, but we'll leave that up to HR.”
“Rob, that's wonderful. I'll get to work on the contract immediately. I also have some outstanding research and will finish that up by mid-week. I'd like to have next week off to transition over to Northern Ireland and get everything set up and settled. Would that work?” Cailin was already thinking ahead. This is what made her such a good researcher.
“Okay, Cailin, so off with you and get me that contract so we can make your dreams come true,” Rob said this with a wink and a smile. He had heard about Nick too, and this was his way of telling Cialin she did well to have finally gotten rid of him.
Cailin could barely wait until her lunch break to call Darren. He would be just about off work for the day. they only had a few minutes, but she could hear how excited Darren was in his voice. His big question was “When?”. And all Cailin could tell him was very soon. She didn't want to spoil it and didn't even have her ticket for her flight back yet.
She and Bonnie went to lunch together and she told Bonnie about her plans. Ever the adventurous, Bonnie was delighted and said that would be great working that way, thinking she might get a trip to Ireland out of this. Cailin felt it was more likely she would be making trips back to New York, which was great because she could visit her family too.
In the meantime Rob scheduled a meeting for all the staff at the end of the day. Cailin expected he would be announcing her departure and plans to work from Ireland. All she needed was approval of the other partners, but from what Rob had said, that was almost a moot point.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Travels in Eire #39
On Sunday Cailin received the pictures of the flat from Susan and all the rental information paperwork that she needed to complete and fax back to Ireland to finalized the rental. She talked to Darren for a long while and he assured her that the flat was exactly what she needed and would work out well for her. It was surprising to her how well she and Darren got along this far apart. He constantly reminded her how much she was missed, and she did the same for him. They took the time to share everything that was going on in their lives, Darren with his hospital and fund-raising projects and Cailin with her plans to move. Even while they were so far apart she felt they were going closer together. One thing Cailin did not share with Darren was what had happened with Nick. As far as she was concerned it was over. She had not heard from Nick since Friday when he was planted on her stoop, and felt she had handled that situation. No reason to worry Darren about something that was a non-issue.
Sunday also brought another visit to her parents to share all her information on her move and the new flat. Everyone thought that the flat was perfect and kept asking if there was any help that Cailin needed to get moved. Cailin couldn't think of anything except for continued support in this venture. Her dad would help with moving all her stuff to a storage facility the next weekend and Cailin would move home to her old room for a few days as she made her final preparations to fly back to Ireland. That would give her time to pack up and ship some things over before she left.
Now she was looking forward to getting back to work on Monday and hoping that Rob would support her decision to work remotely. All it would take was a week of catching up on current research and seeing what needed to be done to organize her work from Ireland. The time difference was a concern, but Cailin figured she could always get up extra early to accommodate the difference so that work could be completed. Between email, phone, and web conversations for meetings, it should all work out. She had to keep emphasizing that this was a 3 month experiment, with hopes of a longer time to come.
All in all it had been a good weekend and Cailin felt things were moving along without too much trouble. Why did she still have this gnawing feeling that this was too easy? Did things really happen like this?
Sunday also brought another visit to her parents to share all her information on her move and the new flat. Everyone thought that the flat was perfect and kept asking if there was any help that Cailin needed to get moved. Cailin couldn't think of anything except for continued support in this venture. Her dad would help with moving all her stuff to a storage facility the next weekend and Cailin would move home to her old room for a few days as she made her final preparations to fly back to Ireland. That would give her time to pack up and ship some things over before she left.
Now she was looking forward to getting back to work on Monday and hoping that Rob would support her decision to work remotely. All it would take was a week of catching up on current research and seeing what needed to be done to organize her work from Ireland. The time difference was a concern, but Cailin figured she could always get up extra early to accommodate the difference so that work could be completed. Between email, phone, and web conversations for meetings, it should all work out. She had to keep emphasizing that this was a 3 month experiment, with hopes of a longer time to come.
All in all it had been a good weekend and Cailin felt things were moving along without too much trouble. Why did she still have this gnawing feeling that this was too easy? Did things really happen like this?
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Travels in Eire #38
Cailin was checking off those things that she needed to do to complete her move to Ireland and insure she still could work. She now felt that the biggest obstacle for her, Nick, was taken care of. Her family was very supportive in this venture and she had high hopes for Rob allowing her to work remotely.
She was glad it was the weekend, so she could spend more time talking to Darren on the phone. Weekdays were more difficult with his work schedule. They used Skype so not only could they talk, but they could see each other also. Even though there was a 5 hour time difference, they worked out times to call when they would both be at the computer, so it was strange that Darren was not there when Cailin called this Saturday. She left a message on Skype and just figured he got held up for a while and would return the call in a few minutes. Cailin went about organizing her apartment to prepare to move out.
Two hours had passed when she realized that she had not heard back from Darren. She wasn't sure if she should be concerned or not. Cailin thought she's try to call again, even though it was passed their agreed calling time. This time the call rang through and a woman answered, “Hello?” Cailin was so shocked she disconnected the call immediately before the video image came up. She had never considered that Darrren might find someone else to see while she was in New York. She felt they were in a committed relationship, but then they had not really known each other that well or for that long. From their discussions Cailin knew that Darren only had a brother, so this was not a sister. Who was the woman? Cailin was dismayed. Had she vested too much into this relationship?
Before Cailin had too much time to think about all of this, her computer rang with a Skpe call. It was Darren.
“HI, my American Lass. How are you doing?” Darren was upbeat and happy. She could easily see this through the video on her computer.
“Darren...I....I...I called a while ago and some woman answered,” Cailin was beyond beating around the bush with men any more. It was straightforward or nothing at all from now on.
“Cailin, no worries, that was Susan the rental agent. She thought it was strange that you hung up. I was next door dealing with a noisy neighbor when you called. We had just returned from seeing the rental.”
“But Darren we have a pre-arranged call time. Where were you?” Cailin wanted to get to the bottom of this mystery.
“Cailin, take a breath here. I was with Susan looking at a place for you and we were detained. I haven't had a minute to call you until now. I'm just so glad you are home and can talk. I'm really sorry we missed our call time. Can you talk now? Susan is here and she'd like to talk to you about the rental. I think we found a perfect place.” Susan stepped into the web cam view and Cailin could see that there was nothing to worry about. Susan was more mature and business like. Not some young girl.
Cailin's blood pressure seemed to return to normal. She was very cautious after her relationship with Nick. Things seemed normal and talking to a rental agent was something she could easily handle.
The conversation with Susan went smoothly after the very awkward start. It seemed that Darren had known Susan for a while through fund raising at the hospital and she had even helped Darren find his current place. Susan was friendly and seemed enthusiastic about meeting Cailin and helping her make a smooth move to Derry. She found a flat that was halfway between the hospital and Darren's current location that was right on the bus route to Derry proper. Everything was within easy walking distance and there had been an upgrade of broadband services in the building, so Internet would be readily available.
Susan agreed to sent some photos of the flat to Cailin and fax over a rental agreement. The price was a little more than Cailin had planned, but if the flat was everything Susan was promising, it would be perfect. Darren was excited because he knew that he could always stop by on his way home from work. Cailin realized this might mean less take-out and more cooking for her. She smiled at the thought of cooking for someone special in her life.
The flat would be available the first of the month which fit into Cailin's time frame perfectly. It was fully furnished with dishes and linens included which was a big help. Less to ship over, or purchase while she was there.
Cailin finished talking with Susan and told Darren they could catch up on Sunday once she had a chance to see the pictures of the flat and got the agreement from Susan. After a shaky start to the conversation, Cailin felt all things were going smoothly. But it was just this feeling that gave her made her uneasy deep down in her thoughts. Should this all have been so easy?
She was glad it was the weekend, so she could spend more time talking to Darren on the phone. Weekdays were more difficult with his work schedule. They used Skype so not only could they talk, but they could see each other also. Even though there was a 5 hour time difference, they worked out times to call when they would both be at the computer, so it was strange that Darren was not there when Cailin called this Saturday. She left a message on Skype and just figured he got held up for a while and would return the call in a few minutes. Cailin went about organizing her apartment to prepare to move out.
Two hours had passed when she realized that she had not heard back from Darren. She wasn't sure if she should be concerned or not. Cailin thought she's try to call again, even though it was passed their agreed calling time. This time the call rang through and a woman answered, “Hello?” Cailin was so shocked she disconnected the call immediately before the video image came up. She had never considered that Darrren might find someone else to see while she was in New York. She felt they were in a committed relationship, but then they had not really known each other that well or for that long. From their discussions Cailin knew that Darren only had a brother, so this was not a sister. Who was the woman? Cailin was dismayed. Had she vested too much into this relationship?
Before Cailin had too much time to think about all of this, her computer rang with a Skpe call. It was Darren.
“HI, my American Lass. How are you doing?” Darren was upbeat and happy. She could easily see this through the video on her computer.
“Darren...I....I...I called a while ago and some woman answered,” Cailin was beyond beating around the bush with men any more. It was straightforward or nothing at all from now on.
“Cailin, no worries, that was Susan the rental agent. She thought it was strange that you hung up. I was next door dealing with a noisy neighbor when you called. We had just returned from seeing the rental.”
“But Darren we have a pre-arranged call time. Where were you?” Cailin wanted to get to the bottom of this mystery.
“Cailin, take a breath here. I was with Susan looking at a place for you and we were detained. I haven't had a minute to call you until now. I'm just so glad you are home and can talk. I'm really sorry we missed our call time. Can you talk now? Susan is here and she'd like to talk to you about the rental. I think we found a perfect place.” Susan stepped into the web cam view and Cailin could see that there was nothing to worry about. Susan was more mature and business like. Not some young girl.
Cailin's blood pressure seemed to return to normal. She was very cautious after her relationship with Nick. Things seemed normal and talking to a rental agent was something she could easily handle.
The conversation with Susan went smoothly after the very awkward start. It seemed that Darren had known Susan for a while through fund raising at the hospital and she had even helped Darren find his current place. Susan was friendly and seemed enthusiastic about meeting Cailin and helping her make a smooth move to Derry. She found a flat that was halfway between the hospital and Darren's current location that was right on the bus route to Derry proper. Everything was within easy walking distance and there had been an upgrade of broadband services in the building, so Internet would be readily available.
Susan agreed to sent some photos of the flat to Cailin and fax over a rental agreement. The price was a little more than Cailin had planned, but if the flat was everything Susan was promising, it would be perfect. Darren was excited because he knew that he could always stop by on his way home from work. Cailin realized this might mean less take-out and more cooking for her. She smiled at the thought of cooking for someone special in her life.
The flat would be available the first of the month which fit into Cailin's time frame perfectly. It was fully furnished with dishes and linens included which was a big help. Less to ship over, or purchase while she was there.
Cailin finished talking with Susan and told Darren they could catch up on Sunday once she had a chance to see the pictures of the flat and got the agreement from Susan. After a shaky start to the conversation, Cailin felt all things were going smoothly. But it was just this feeling that gave her made her uneasy deep down in her thoughts. Should this all have been so easy?
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Travels in Eire #37
Knots were building up in Cailin's stomach as she approached the stoop of her apartment. There was no getting away from this now. It had to be addressed head on, but she had had no time to prepare for this.
“So Sweetie, how are you? Did you miss me?” Nick said as he stood to greet her, leaning toward her to give her a kiss. Cailin quickly turned her face to avoid as much as possible. Nick chuckled at her attempt to avoid his kiss.
“Nick, there is nothing funny here. You obviously are not getting my message. We're through. Done. There is nothing to discuss. I'm not interested in seeing you, I don't want you to bother me anymore. Are you getting this?”
“Babe, I know you are just saying that because you are a little upset with me.”
“UPSET!!! You are kidding. And I'm not your babe. Save that for some other sucker. I'm done with you. And if I have to get a restraining order, I will. Again I ask, are you getting this?”
“Cailin, I didn't realize I hurt you so much. You do understand that I'm very sorry for my indiscretions, right? We are meant for each other. Everyone knows that.”
“Nick, I'm going into my apartment now. Do not call me. Do not try to contact me. Do not bother me, ever again. We are not meant for each other. I'm in love with someone else.” Cailin was not sure she should have said that last information, but was hoping that was something that could get through to Nick.
Suddenly Nick was frozen in his tracks. He said nothing. The look on his face was one of disbelief. Jaw open with no words being uttered. And suddenly all he could muster was, “So you were the one cheating on me. Typical. And I'm the last to find out Who is this new sucker of yours. That's it, I'm done here.” Obviously Nick was trying to save face. He turned and walked away without another word.
Cailin was sure that by tomorrow Nick will have slammed her to all their friends. If they believed him, she knew they were not really friends. Those who knew her, knew that she wanted out of the relationship and also knew Nick's reputation. But for now she drew a breath of relief hoping this was finally over.
What surprised Cailin was that her statement about being in love with someone else came out so easily. It was the first time she had said it out loud. As she climbed the stairs to her apartment she smiled at the thought. Now all she needed was approval from her boss for her move and she could make moving plans.
“So Sweetie, how are you? Did you miss me?” Nick said as he stood to greet her, leaning toward her to give her a kiss. Cailin quickly turned her face to avoid as much as possible. Nick chuckled at her attempt to avoid his kiss.
“Nick, there is nothing funny here. You obviously are not getting my message. We're through. Done. There is nothing to discuss. I'm not interested in seeing you, I don't want you to bother me anymore. Are you getting this?”
“Babe, I know you are just saying that because you are a little upset with me.”
“UPSET!!! You are kidding. And I'm not your babe. Save that for some other sucker. I'm done with you. And if I have to get a restraining order, I will. Again I ask, are you getting this?”
“Cailin, I didn't realize I hurt you so much. You do understand that I'm very sorry for my indiscretions, right? We are meant for each other. Everyone knows that.”
“Nick, I'm going into my apartment now. Do not call me. Do not try to contact me. Do not bother me, ever again. We are not meant for each other. I'm in love with someone else.” Cailin was not sure she should have said that last information, but was hoping that was something that could get through to Nick.
Suddenly Nick was frozen in his tracks. He said nothing. The look on his face was one of disbelief. Jaw open with no words being uttered. And suddenly all he could muster was, “So you were the one cheating on me. Typical. And I'm the last to find out Who is this new sucker of yours. That's it, I'm done here.” Obviously Nick was trying to save face. He turned and walked away without another word.
Cailin was sure that by tomorrow Nick will have slammed her to all their friends. If they believed him, she knew they were not really friends. Those who knew her, knew that she wanted out of the relationship and also knew Nick's reputation. But for now she drew a breath of relief hoping this was finally over.
What surprised Cailin was that her statement about being in love with someone else came out so easily. It was the first time she had said it out loud. As she climbed the stairs to her apartment she smiled at the thought. Now all she needed was approval from her boss for her move and she could make moving plans.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Travels in Eire #36
Cailin was awakened by the ringing of her house phone. She rolled over in bed and sleepily grabbed the receiver.
“Helloooo,” she groggily answered.
“Hey Babe, I was wondering when I'd catch you. Good morning sleepy head.” chirped Nick as if they had just left each other.
“Are you there, Cailin?” Nick was wondering why the other end of the line was silent.
Cailin was trying to figure out what to say. She kept thinking about hanging up as an option.
“Not now Nick, I'll call you later. This is not a good time,” Cailin wanted to wait to deal with Nick.
“Your call, Babe. Just know I'm waiting to hear from you and won't take no for an answer for very long,” Nick was being insistent as he hung up the phone.
Cailin rolled over in bed and groaned. This was not the way she wanted to start this day. She needed to be focused and sure about herself when she met with Rob. His decision would mean a lot to her and she wanted to make sure he agreed with what she wanted to do in terms of working in Ireland. She took a look at her clock and realized she had already overslept and needed to get moving to get ready to meet Rob for lunch.
Cailin walked to Luigi's after getting off the bus. It was a warm and slightly humid day and she was wearing a flowered cotton tank dress that floated away from her as she quickly strolled down the street. As she approached the entrance to Luigi's she could see Rob sitting in his regular seat by the window. She flashed back to Rorey sitting in the cafe by the window and smiled.
Rob stood as Cailin approached the table and gave her a welcoming hug.
“Hope you had a good trip Cailin,” Rob was curious as to what Cailin wanted to talk about.
“It was a wonderful trip, Rob. I found my family roots and saw some amazing sites along the way,” Cailin wanted to broach the subject slowly.
This was followed by small talk about Cailin's trip, some catching up with office news, ordering their lunches, and general family discussion. As Cailin and Rob finished lunch, Rob was the first to broach the reason for this lunch meeting.
“So Cailin, have you come back to tell me you are quitting and leaving the company?”
“Rob, you should know me better than that. I love my job. But I am interested in the possibility of making a few changes in how I do my work.”
“What do you mean changes, Cailin?”
“Rob, you know as well as I do that the work I do can be done as easily from home as it can be done from the office. So what if I worked remotely?” Cailin was trying to be careful about how she approached this idea.
“You have a point, Cailin. So are you saying you want to work from home, now? Or are you thinking about working from somewhere else?” Rob was quick, and had an idea of what Cailin was proposing.
“Rob, I have a feeling you are way ahead of me. So I'm just going to throw this out here. What would be the possibility of my working remotely from Ireland?” Cailin bit her lip and held her breath.
“Cailin, you must have some very special reason for wanting to move to Ireland to work. I never expected you to come back from vacation and propose this. But I can't just say yes. I need a little time to think this over. And I also get the feeling that you don't want to wait very long. It's Friday now, how about I let you know on Monday. And I need some information from you about all this. How soon would you want this to happen? A week? A month? And what if we needed you for client meetings, would you be agreeable to fly back and forth? You may not think there is a lot of detail to arrange something like this, but there is, and I need some time.”
Cailin could see Rob trying to cover all the questions that might arise. She felt that this was going better than she had envisioned and was happy that Rob could see how serious she was about this plan. She also respected the flexibility that he always seemed to have with his employees. They agreed to talk again on Monday when Cailin returned to work. Rob understood that she was hoping that she could make this happen within two weeks or less.
Cailin left the meeting feeling that all things were going just as she had envisioned. As she left the bus stop and approached her flat, she realized that her biggest problem yet had to be dealt with. Nick was sitting on the steps of the stoop of her apartment.
“Helloooo,” she groggily answered.
“Hey Babe, I was wondering when I'd catch you. Good morning sleepy head.” chirped Nick as if they had just left each other.
“Are you there, Cailin?” Nick was wondering why the other end of the line was silent.
Cailin was trying to figure out what to say. She kept thinking about hanging up as an option.
“Not now Nick, I'll call you later. This is not a good time,” Cailin wanted to wait to deal with Nick.
“Your call, Babe. Just know I'm waiting to hear from you and won't take no for an answer for very long,” Nick was being insistent as he hung up the phone.
Cailin rolled over in bed and groaned. This was not the way she wanted to start this day. She needed to be focused and sure about herself when she met with Rob. His decision would mean a lot to her and she wanted to make sure he agreed with what she wanted to do in terms of working in Ireland. She took a look at her clock and realized she had already overslept and needed to get moving to get ready to meet Rob for lunch.
Cailin walked to Luigi's after getting off the bus. It was a warm and slightly humid day and she was wearing a flowered cotton tank dress that floated away from her as she quickly strolled down the street. As she approached the entrance to Luigi's she could see Rob sitting in his regular seat by the window. She flashed back to Rorey sitting in the cafe by the window and smiled.
Rob stood as Cailin approached the table and gave her a welcoming hug.
“Hope you had a good trip Cailin,” Rob was curious as to what Cailin wanted to talk about.
“It was a wonderful trip, Rob. I found my family roots and saw some amazing sites along the way,” Cailin wanted to broach the subject slowly.
This was followed by small talk about Cailin's trip, some catching up with office news, ordering their lunches, and general family discussion. As Cailin and Rob finished lunch, Rob was the first to broach the reason for this lunch meeting.
“So Cailin, have you come back to tell me you are quitting and leaving the company?”
“Rob, you should know me better than that. I love my job. But I am interested in the possibility of making a few changes in how I do my work.”
“What do you mean changes, Cailin?”
“Rob, you know as well as I do that the work I do can be done as easily from home as it can be done from the office. So what if I worked remotely?” Cailin was trying to be careful about how she approached this idea.
“You have a point, Cailin. So are you saying you want to work from home, now? Or are you thinking about working from somewhere else?” Rob was quick, and had an idea of what Cailin was proposing.
“Rob, I have a feeling you are way ahead of me. So I'm just going to throw this out here. What would be the possibility of my working remotely from Ireland?” Cailin bit her lip and held her breath.
“Cailin, you must have some very special reason for wanting to move to Ireland to work. I never expected you to come back from vacation and propose this. But I can't just say yes. I need a little time to think this over. And I also get the feeling that you don't want to wait very long. It's Friday now, how about I let you know on Monday. And I need some information from you about all this. How soon would you want this to happen? A week? A month? And what if we needed you for client meetings, would you be agreeable to fly back and forth? You may not think there is a lot of detail to arrange something like this, but there is, and I need some time.”
Cailin could see Rob trying to cover all the questions that might arise. She felt that this was going better than she had envisioned and was happy that Rob could see how serious she was about this plan. She also respected the flexibility that he always seemed to have with his employees. They agreed to talk again on Monday when Cailin returned to work. Rob understood that she was hoping that she could make this happen within two weeks or less.
Cailin left the meeting feeling that all things were going just as she had envisioned. As she left the bus stop and approached her flat, she realized that her biggest problem yet had to be dealt with. Nick was sitting on the steps of the stoop of her apartment.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
