BIT 26 – August 9, 2008
Well, we’re now in Northern Ireland and we’ve been having a marvellous time!
We headed up by train to Belfast, and after a long day, ended up arriving in Derry, Londonderry County, where Rev. Morris picked us up and brought us over to the small village of Victoriabridge. 
We met him & his wife Chrismar when I played at a Church in Galway a month ago.
We stayed a week with them at their home and they were so much fun.
We laughed so much and were always going somewhere and seeing the local sights and meeting their friends, it was a great time.
While there Dad and I ministered in his church, and after the evening service I played a Concert plus I was able to play at a picnic event they had set up for the local children.
Rev. Morris is so funny… he’s always joking around, and his Wife is a wonderful cook. Dad told her to pack because she has to come with us as we travel 🙂 We are all going to miss her fine meals!
A few days later Rev. Baxter took us to see the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh, Co. Tyrone. We had an awesome time there.
It is really a “must see” if you are ever in N. Ireland! I’ve posted several pictures of it in this BIT as you can see.
He also took us to see Derry, Co. Londonderry a few times, and we saw some beautiful scenery on our drives! This area is lush farmlands and quiet villages, really very beautiful. 
We then went to Lurgan, Co. Armagh where I ministered at another Church of the Nazarene, and spent a few days. The Pastor, Steve Hughes was very hospitable, and is also a talented Musician and Songwriter as well. 
From there Andy McNeill picked us up and brought us to Ballynahinch, Co. Down. Over this past week we have been blessed to get to know him and his family.
That same day we had the privilege of spending the afternoon with George Lowden.
He is quite a gentleman. He took us on a tour of his “factory”… his guitars are however truly hand crafted, and then he gathered up three guitars for me to try out in the office. A Jazz (Nylon String) model, a Baritone and a standard Steel string.
Each one had a unique voice, but I was especially impressed with the Jazz & Baritone models. It was my first time playing a Baritone. I’ll have one someday I’m sure! The Jazz is a great sounding Nylon string guitar… and great playing too!
The neck really feels like your playing a perfectly set up steel string guitar… it is that comfortable!
While in Ballynahinch we’ve been blessed to stay with a lovely couple, Sam & Naomi, on the outskirts of town. The other day Naomi took us to see Hillsborough Castle.
It is the Queen’s residence whenever she is in Northern Ireland. We took the tour and there happened to be an exhibition by the Silver Trust. It was well worth going to.
A few days ago I also got to see Killyleagh Castle.
The Castle is from the 12th Century, and it is one of the few castles in Ireland that is still a working residence today. It belongs to Col. Rowan-Hamilton.
Last Sunday I played and ministered at three different Churches! It was a very busy day, but it was also a great blessing.
Yesterday, I also was on a Radio Interview in Belfast… It was a great interview, and they invited me back whenever I’m in Belfast!
We’ll probably be heading over to England next week. We’ll see what happens though. Just keep checking my Tour Page to see what’s planned.
Thanks for reading and take care,
–Buddy
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