Paul Revere

Paul Revere would be sooo disappointed in us. Yesterday we walked down to the village centre for an Orange March and all that I could think was that "the British are coming." The village of Donaghcloney, where we live, is a British town. Here in Northern Ireland people draw lines based on their being either British or Irish because Northern Ireland is under British rule. We noticed driving in to town that the British flags were flying and that the tiny bridge had British markings on them. So, yesterday there was this Orange Parade celebrating British Victory at the Battle of the Boyne. It use to be during these type parades that the bombings and troubles would take place. However, they are at peace here now (and hopefully it will only continue to get better). I was a little nervous about going, but the neighbors (who are extremely friendly) urged us to go. They assured us that it was perfectly safe and something that Americans should see.

It was a good thing that we didn't grab our grocery bags for beads. There were no beads. In fact, we walked down to the supermarket in the town centre with big smiles on our faces (which is right passed the village butcher and chemist-pharmacy). But we walked back in a more somber mood. Our smiles faded. This was not a true celebration. It was a serious matter. The people both in the parade and on the streets were very serious.

The sounds coming from the drums and fifes were really something to hear. We could actually hear the parade at our house. And the British soldiers were most interesting to see. But as I say, I'm sure that Paul Revere would be so disappointed in us.

We did get to meet several of our neighbors during our walk to the town centre yesterday for the parade. They were all so nice. We have added several names to our prayer list.

You will also notice in the pictures that the sun is shining. Our neighbors informed us that this is a little unusual here. I am sure that God let us bring a little sunshine and warmth with us to help us acclimate. The weather has been beautiful.

It is also interesting to note that these pictures were taken at about 8:30 in the evening. The days are very long this time of year and it doesn't get completely dark until almost midnight!