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Rachel Rose's avatar

Oh, and one more thing--yes to the proud Aunties! It's Mother's Day today in France, and we were taken out and fêted--but the Aunties at the table agreed that there needs to be an Auntie's Day too, as it's a wonderful thing to be!

Anne Marie Corrigan's avatar

I love this idea! Let’s start a trend - and all aunties are allowed to bring at least ten photos and brag about three things they love about each niece and nephew. 💕💕💕

Rachel Rose's avatar

Wow, what a fascinating post--thanks for the Irish history lesson. I had no idea how central poets and poetry were to Ireland's fight for freedom. Nor that discrimination against Irish Catholics was so entrenched and legal.

Anne Marie Corrigan's avatar

Oh yes Rachel. Reading over those Penal Laws is quite the revelation as to how far the Irish were “encouraged” to covert. On my trip last year to Donegal we discovered a place where “rock masses” were performed by priests hoping to avoid the punishment of British authorities. It felt like such an incredibly hallowed space. There were also “hedge schools” where teachers taught students, again in secret places.

Rachel Rose's avatar

What a powerful moment of witness that must have been, finding the "rock masses" and "hedge schools" in Donegal. (Loved the cow too!)

Howard's avatar

Wow , anyone related to someone ( you) who can consistently put together such powerful , enjoyable and illuminating pieces of prose , is bound for greatness. Bravo Sean, Bravo annemarie and Bravo the west cork clan!!

Anne Marie Corrigan's avatar

Greatness might be a tad strong - but sure I’ll take it!!!

Michelle Cook's avatar

This is beautiful Anne Marie. And what a beautiful family! Every single one of you smart and talented! Hats off to your ancestors for fighting to ensure your family had the freedom to thrive and make the world a better place.

Anne Marie Corrigan's avatar

Aww. Thanks Michelle. Hats off to all our ancestors for everything they did so we can be free to be sober or silly and everything in between. Xxxxx

ladybuglover2003's avatar

I always love when you delve deeply into talking about your family and where you come from. An incredible read as always Anne Marie. 💗

Christine Corrigan's avatar

Incredibly emotive Anne-Marie 💚. Xxxxxxxx

Anne Marie Corrigan's avatar

Thanks Christine. You know yourself.

David Nachmann's avatar

Fascinating, and really inspiring how one nation can overcome so much adversity to create so much art, artists and the full gamut of success beyond. Great stuff!!

Anne Marie Corrigan's avatar

Ah yes. The fighting Irish - forever punching above their weight. I think there’s a not so artistic tattoo or two out there depicting that!