Solo Departure

My parents have had a tough time of it in recent months. We buried my brother back in September which took the wind out of their sails. And mine for a bit. Not long after that my mother had hip replacement surgery so my father has been doing the heavy lifting. He battled through another bout of covid and an exhausting chest infection. My sisters, aunts and family friends have been brilliant throughout. And now it's my turn to help. 

I journeyed across England and Wales by train to catch the boat to Ireland. I left London on a cold foggy morning. But the sun managed to burn through and illuminate beautiful landscapes as I hurtled along. I used the train windows as a frame to make photographs from time to time. 

Arriving in Fishguard I noticed a smaller vessel than usual. Turns out there had been a crash on the Hollyhead to Dun Laoghaire route which meant the usual Fishguard to Rosslare ship was moved up there.

The Ben-My-Chree is much smaller and given there was a swell of about 10 feet, we had a choppy crossing. 

I survived the churn. But couldn't finish my Guinness.

I'll be in Ireland until 27th January. Full book production will continue from the 28th. 

Thanks for your time. 

© Paul Treacy 2026.