17 Comments
User's avatar
Mike Scully's avatar

* My maternal grandfather was born in Shanagolden, Co. Limerick. His 2 brothers who remained in Ireland each had 13 kids, several of which later moved to Australia. I assume voluntarily. Looking forward to the Rugby World Cup in 2027, already have tickets to the opening round Ireland v Scotland in Perth. Hoping to do a lot of research between now & then to hopefully meet some relatives. I will also keep my eyes peeled for O'Connors ;)

Eileen O'Connor's avatar

Fantastic! And no worries about keeping your eyes peeled, you'll be stumbling over O'Connors all over the place. (Please start a Substack for that event so you can keep us posted.)

Leslie Van Buskirk's avatar

As always, I’m in awe of your way with words 😻

Colleen Franchini's avatar

Tack on 20%. What are you waiting for? Also this made me laugh out loud in the airport: “seasoned with tears over the soaring cost of antidepressants and bitter regret”.

I’m too old and smart to think that the looks I received after my laughter outburst were those admiring me LOL!! I only thank God that Paul was not with me to witness the silliness.

xoxo Eileen - keep writing ✍️ 😊🙏💕

Eileen O'Connor's avatar

I will - thanks Colleen! XX00

Natasha Garland's avatar

There should be a special announcement for new arrivals to US airports. 'In this country, bar and waiting staff receive no wages, tips are ALL THEY GET - SO PLEASE TIP, and GENEROUSLY' That might get the reality through. I think non Americans just don't know, and probably wouldn't believe it if they heard it without emphasis

Mary Kay's avatar

Geed luck this weekend Eileen, I love the plan!

Eileen O'Connor's avatar

Thanks, have a good weekend!

Marcelo Ramon's avatar

⚽️⚽️⚽️

Anthony's avatar

"Seasoned with tears over the soaring cost of antidepressants and bitter regret". Brilliant. 🤣

Armondo de Grandpré's avatar

A “tip” for Maureen Robinson for the impact she has on your extraordinary command of the English language! ❤️

Jennifer  Barrett's avatar

Like all good coaches she recognized genius when she saw it - and brought out the best in Eileen

Eileen O'Connor's avatar

I was lucky to have her as a teacher and drama coach when my brain was still mush and focused on cheerleading tryouts...! (Thanks for the comment, I was worried about coming off a little peevish in this one, but... I am peevish.) 😂

Peg Rabideau's avatar

You are a genius😘

Tineke's avatar

Paying people a decent wages should be the norm. Tipping is insane. ( says she who lives in a no tipping country)

Eileen O'Connor's avatar

Agreed. it's a nutty system, but it's the one we've got.