An Irishman Down Under

First of all, a toast. I would like to thank my wonderful wife annabel for organizing and creating our day here together. Whilst I provided much moral supprt and general encouragement, she has done most of the work, so she should get most of the credit. To annabel.

So, Thank you, everyone, for coming here today to celebrate Lias birthday. We realized last night that there are more people here today than were at our wedding which is brilliant! We’ve been in new Zealand over 6 years now and now feel truly at home in this wonderful country.

Aside from a brilliant wife, a very supportive family and wonderful friends, we are so grateful to have received Thomas and now Lia into our lives.

Having children is challenging, yet rewarding. It is tiring but uplifting and its perplexing yet enlightening. I cannot easily express the complete sense of adoration and love I feel when Lia smiles at me. The screaming part we’ll leave out right now, but to be honest there really are are far more smiles than tears.

Anyway, I thought I’d read a little something I found which resonated with me and hopefully you haven’t heard before, at least not too many times.

When others say “It’s hopeless and it really can’t be done.” When they tell you “It’s all over. It’s a race that can’t be won.” And they promise “You could spend your life just lying in the sun.” Follow your dreams girl. Follow your dreams! When the people you admire, but who wouldn’t understand, Tell you “Other roads are safer. Your dreams are much too grand.” Or the doubters and the tempters try to take you by the hand. Follow your dreams girl. Follow your dreams! You should listen to the counsel of the people that you trust But don’t be turned aside just because they might get fussed You live the life that in your heart you know you really must. Follow your dreams girl. Follow your dreams! There is nothing you can’t conquer if you believe you can. No mountains you can’t straddle, no oceans you can’t span. Just conjure up a vision and set yourself a plan. Follow your dreams girl. Follow your dreams!

To lia!