A cat in Longford

Today was the day Fergus travelled from Carrickfergus to Longford  - quite a journey for anyone....

 A cat's journey

So we decided to take advantage and make a mini break out of it and explore the area while we were there.

We spotted these two and their Mum in the cemetery in Longford yesterday afternoon and knew from the way they are being cared for, that Fergus was going to receive a warm welcome.

Co Longford has literary links to Oliver Goldsmith (I loved seeing 'She Stoops to Conquer' at Belfast's Lyric theatre when studying 'A' level English) and Maria Edgeworth (I have to shamefully confess I still haven't read any of her work). The area has a thriving arts scene. The event I attended this morning in Longford Library was part of the Aisling Children's Arts festival.

Local children came along to hear the five shortlisted entries in the Longford Writers 'Write a Story for Children' competition. I was delighted to have my story 'Fearless Fergus, King of the Castle' included. The children listened intently as Rose read all five stories to them. Then they cast their votes in the special voting boxes.

I was delighted to her that my writing friend Rhonda's story 'Tooth Fairy Trouble' was voted second in the competition by the children. My story was a runner up.

 

Most importantly though, this morning gave me the opportunity to see and hear the children's reactions to all the stories. And I got to make new writing friends with some of the prizewinners and competition organisers. Thanks to all involved in Longford Writers for a fantastically run competition from start to finish. It was refreshing to have the children judge the competition and great to see such a vibrant, buzzing library. Thanks also for making us feel so welcome.