This weekend we visited the Ulster American Folk Park near Omagh in County Tyrone. I hadn't visited since I was a child and had vague memories of it. It is a really enjoyable day out for all ages. The weather stayed dry for us and it wasn't too busy-just the way I like it! You can explore the various homesteads easier when it isn't crowded. It follows the journey of Irish emigrants from their homes in Ireland, across the Atlantic to their new lives in America. It is fascinating to learn about all those brave people who left our shores to begin a new life in America. In total there are over 40 buildings to explore including traditional Irish thatched cottages to large American log cabins. Along the way you can explore the buildings, meet the costumed characters who tell interesting stories and demonstrate crafts. We particularly enjoyed the lady spinning yarn in the Weaver's Cottage. Below are some images of the Irish thatch cottages. They range from a weaver's cottage, to a small farm cottage, vestry and large homestead. I will post more photographs of the traditional american homesteads in another post. If you haven't visited the Park, you must visit over the Summer months... We had a really enjoyable day... 

 

What have I been up to lately?
Below is a little collage of photos I took recently. I have spent a lot of time indoors as the weather hasn't been great. Today was miserable, however whenever I go out I bring my camera with me.

From top left:
1.Sunset yesterday evening over the lake shore- how beautiful is that sky.
2. A lovely graceful swan on the lake
3. Sparkly fairy lights on my kitchen dresser, I visited IKEA a few weeks ago and bought more fairylights.
4. Reading The Hidden Cottage- I'm enjoying it but reading it quite slowly.
5. A winter walk in the local woods- the landscape is just beautiful in Winter.
6. Eating fruit this weather to keep the colds and flus away.
7. A visit to the park.
8. Another evening sky at home, spot my favourite tree too.
9. Our cottage through the hedge.

What have you been photographing lately? It is hard believe it is the 1st December, I'm listening to Michael Buble Christmas and drinking tea at the fire. Roll on Christmas......

This weekend was a bank holiday weekend here in Ireland :-) Don't you just love long weekends! I hope you all had a nice weekend, did you get up to anything nice??? I Spent some time with my boyfriend and enjoyed the good weather :-) Here are a few photographs I took of the Forest Park...