First Holy Communion

My little princess is growing up sp fast! Yesterday was her First Holy Communion and what a wonderful day it was. From the moment she woke up to when she eventually went to bed she was so excited, which was a relief considering how nervous she was during the lead up to it.


The ceremony itself was very special, with each child playing a part. Shona brought a gift to the alter, you could see the concentration on her face. One of things Shona was worried about was the taste of the eucharist. When she did receive it and turned to walk back down to her seat, she glanced over at me, screwed up her face and mouthed the word "yuck", you could hear a little murmer of laughter throughout the church.

Of course there was a few emotional moments for me, how proud I was of my beautiful young girl. I really felt part of a special occasion, sharing it with my Mum and Shona's dad. When the priest talked about the children being so open, trusting and forgiving it really tugged at my heart. The tears were freely rolling down my cheeks :-)

The party back at the house was so relaxed! Our guests started arriving at about 2pm and kept coming all day. Everyone commented on the gorgeous food that my wonderful sister prepared for us and the wine was just delish!!!

I have to say, there was no stress for me even with the run up to the event. When people offered to help I siad "yes, please", I even asked for help on a few occasions, which as my family know can be very difficult (being stubborn and independent). The day would not have been the success it was without the help of my Mum and Dad, my sister and John :-)

On a serious note, the cosmic forces were working over time yesterday. After my parents left the house to go to Kerry, they were envolved in a very serious accident at the Dublin roundabout. They were hit from behind by a jeep, which got caught on my parents jeep. The driver seemed to be accelerating rather than breaking as he was pusing them at speed towards an ESB pole. Only for my dad having the presence of mind to pull on the hand brake I don't think they would have made it. As they broke free and my Mum got control of the jeep, the other vehicle flipped over twice and landed up-side-down.

We're not sure how the other driver is as he was taken away by ambulance but my Mum and Dad are ok, just very shaken up. My poor Mum said to me last night, all she could think as she was being pushed towards the pole, was that they were going to die on Shona's communion.

I know that sounds very depressing but I am feeling thankful to who ever was looking after my parents yesterday. Its times like this you become grateful for what is in your life. Shona and I tell my parents how much we love them everytime we see them. At least that is one thing I am thankful for!

Life can change in a second, so please if there is someone you need to pick up the phone to and tell them you love them, do it now!