Day Twenty-Five: Harriet O'Neill

Mum:

So here it is, the last Advent Lovely. You are indeed the culmination of a month's worth of goodwill and love. I don't think anything I write will ever be enough to tell you adequately how much I love you or how much I appreciate all that you do for me... but I will give it a go!

You have always sacrificed so much to be as good a mother to us all as possible. You were forever trying to make sure we had as great a childhood as we possibly could- and for the record, that didn't go unnoticed by the three of us. We all know how hard you worked then, and continue to work, and how much you provided for us.

Aside from the 'usual' motherly stuff, you have endured more than your fair share of worry and heartache on my behalf. I know at times I wasn't an easy child (or teen, for that matter) to have; but your unending love and patience has guided me through even the roughest of times. I will always be in your debt for that.

Despite our tumultuous relationship in my teens (what girl doesn't dislike their mum at 15?!) I am so proud and thankful of the relationship we now have. Everyone I know knows of my mum, you truly are the most fabulous person I know - and I mean fabulous in the eccentric, loud, bold, flamboyant and wonderful sense! I love how you have never been afraid to stand out from the crowd and never reticent to display your personality through the clothes you wear or the colour of your hair (whether it be pillar box red or that bloody purple streak you have now!). You really are a star!

I think it is testament to our love and relationship with one another as to how honest and frank we are with one another. I think the fact that I still can call on you for any of life's dramas and you will be at my side as quickly as you can shows how close we are. These past few months have been undeniably difficult but your love, care and consideration has never failed to raise me up. I have always had it in the back of my mind to be strong for you- you are the motivating factor to not letting anything come in my way.

I am so thankful and blessed to have a mother like you (I don't think I could have imagined saying that when you turned up to my school in leopard print leggings and newly dyed bright red hair, but such is the passing of time!!!!). I am constantly in awe of your strength and your determination. It used to terrify me that I was turning into you, but now I think I am resigned to the fact that I can only strive to be as fabulous as you are!!

Thank you for all you are and all you do mamma. I will never be able to repay you for all you have done for me, but I promise you this... I will try my best not to put you into Kelly's Nursing Home. That is the best I can do ;)

Love you to the end of the universe and back.... Love, purple hair, leopard print, meals for one from Marks and Spencer (and the other thing) and all that having a wonderful mother-daughter relationship entails. You amaze me. (You're still bloody mental though, don't forget that!!)

Love you muchly Harribo xoxo

Day Twenty-Four: Victoria Erskine

Victoria:

There is only so much I can write on this blog because if I were to write everything you are to me, I would be here all week and also some of it should never be committed to print ;)

Of all those I hold dear to me, we hve probably been through the most! Breakups, makeups, silly mistakes, mammoth mistakes, love, tears, achievements and struggles. You have been by my side (literally or metaphorically) through so many major life events, and vice versa.

There are times when I just can't imagine not knowing you or not having you in my life because no matter what happens, we always without fail, connect with one another. You have been my best friend, my rock and my support through so much, that it would be impossible to truly thank you for all you have done or all you have been to me.

I have never been more proud of anyone as I was when you moved to London. As terrifying as it was, having you move to the big smoke, I always knew it was in your plan. It was essentially what you were designed to do! It took so much courage and yet you just tackled it straight on. You always have had that 'grab life' attitude that I so envy! I am more delighted than words can attest to at how your city adventure is shaping up. You deserve the world Victoria and if I know you at all, I hope you won't stop til you get it.

You have always been one of the most thoughtful and attentive friends I have known. Where my memory is rubbish, you seem to remember every important date and you always manage to send a text or a card when you know I will appreciate it most. I hope you always know just how appreciated it actually is.

Thank you from the deepest recesses of my heart for your love, your friendship, your care and for just being you. I cant wait to know the Vic of ten, twenty or forty years from now- we will still be going to tesco and having challenges to see who can buy the most random purchase!! :)

I love you immensely! Love, amazing shoes, shiny tescos, toy soldiers, gremlins and letters.

I hope that every single dream you have for the next year comes true, and more. xxx

Day Twenty-Three: Amy Joyce

Amy:

I simply don't think there are enough words to express the bond we have. You are one of the most amazing, strong, beautiful and genuine ladies I have ever met. And I am blessed to know quite a few of those type of women- so you're up there!!

I love thinking of how we were when we first met and how far we have come to this point! I love the irony and the randomness of our friendship. I have always said that the testament of a true friendship is when who you call on when big things happen. As you can probably tell now, I am thinking that we have a true friendship! Whether it be panics on the playing fields, breakdowns in card shops or flat tyres, I know that I can call you- and it works both ways.

I cannot even begin to tell you how inspirational you are and you don't even realise it. You have dealt with more in your life than most other 'grown ups' I know, and yet you don't complain, you rarely show anyone the depths of what is going on and you are always able to look after the needs of others before your own. I think it's the fact that you do all this so instinctively without ever expecting anything in return that makes you so amazing! I just hope you know how many people see what you do and think you are beyond wonderful!!

I am so thankful and blessed to have you in my life Amy, you are a true gem and I am forever in your debt for all the support and love you have given me over recent times. You have mopped more tears and downed more jager with me than would be considered healthy!!

I love you to absolute pieces darling and would go to the ends of the earth for you if you needed me to.

Love, jager, dog hairs, shoe sharing, sisterly love, finishing sentences and so so much more xxx

Day Twenty-two :Chris Flack

Chris:

Well, how to begin buddy?! We have been through the best of times and we have been through the worst of times. Always friends, and most definately always there for one another.

I can't think of anyone else who has got me into more random situations than you have and I can't think of anyone that I have drank more coffee with or bitched about the world with more either. You are one of life's good people, one of the individuals that the universe sends along that instantly makes me you think, 'Yep, we could totally be friends'!

I know that I take the piss out of you a lot, and vice versa, but deep down I hope you know what you mean to me. You have always been like a brother to me, always watching out for me, forever protective and constantly reassuring.

I simply do not know how I could have coped those first, dark days without you by my side. Whether it be throwing things at Walls or encouraging (blackmailing) me to eat.... You were there for me in every single sense of the word. I had the potential to fall into a heap but not only did you bring me up, you got me laughing. For the test of my life, I will always remember that.

One of my proudest moments this year was being part of your wedding to the wonderful Raechelle. I have never been so moved by a service and perhaps it was that I knew what journey you had been on to get to that place or maybe it was just the emotion of seeing you so happy. Either way I felt so blessed to be part of it.

Thank you for everything that you have done for me Chris. Whether it's to politically motivate me, to educate me, to encourage me... Even just making me smile. You are one in an absolute million and (dramatic pause) I love you to death.

You are, and hopefully always will be, one of my truest and best friends.

Love, tears, ducks, awful hand ornaments, elections and coffee, so so much coffee... Xxx

Day Twenty-One: Joe and Mary Lindsay

Joe and Mary:

Firstly, I need to start by saying you both a huge pair of treats! Both of you never cease to make me smile anytime we meet and I adore spending time with you guys.

Joe, I encountered you on a number of occasions in the Oh Yeah but it was only when I came in to appear on your radio show to help you quit smoking that you realised I had a 'proper job' as you put it!! That I wasn't just the girl who only ever wore Oh Yeah tshirts and gave out booze!! Those appearances on your show were the most enjoyable I ever had to do within that role. I clearly wasn't very good, as your lingering habit can attest ;) (and as for my own...well!)

I will always remember your generosity when it comes to a cause, whether it be giving up your time to compare/dj or trying your best to raise awareness- you were always so willing to be involved.

From the moment I saw you both together, you have always seemed like such an amazing couple who clearly both dote on another and are the best of mates at the same time. The relationship you have is one I can only wish to aspire to having myself someday! I have never been in your company Joe without you mentioning how beautiful, stunning, amazing, (insert other superlatives here) your wife is. It is so beautiful to witness that, and heartwarming that Mary says the same for you.

I want to thank you both from the bottom of my heart for the support you have offered over the last year! As I said above, it is always an absolute pleasure to spend time in the company of you both. Over these last few months your friendship has been an immense source of support and I can't tell you how much that means. You are both wonderful friends and beautiful people (despite Joe's incessant slagging of me!!) ;)

Thank you again for being there and for all the laughs, hugs and pickmeups!

Love, good tunes, fabulous fashion sense (that one's for Mary) and above all, friendship xxx

Day Twenty: LaFaro

Jonny, Dave, Herb and Alan:

There just aren;t enough words to tell you guys how proud I am of you all, individually and collectively. It's not often you get to say that you are a massive fan of your friends' band- but that's exactly what I am. A massive fan first, friend second.

This year has seen you goes go from strength to strength, whether it be massive tours supporting big bands or releasing an album or recording another one in weeks! It always makes me and Amy smile at gigs to see how crazy people go for your stuff! Its amazing :)

On a personal note, you guys have just been brilliant friends over the last year and especially the last few months. It means the absolute world to know you have friends like you guys, always willing to stand up for you and there when you need them. Thank you.

Jonny:
When I look back on this year, it feels like you and Amy dominated it for me. You both have been there for me more than most. I love you to bits pet, and being the person who introduced me to Amy, I have to thank you immensely for that- I simply cannot imagine not having either one of you in my life. Thank you for everything, the hugs, the smiles, the car fixing, the teaching of cars, the general Jonny-ness. Thank you xx

Dave:
I cant explain how one text asking me if I wanted a cup of tea can make the world of difference, but it can. The fact that you guys were there when I most needed someone to be there will always stand out for me. I cant thank you enough for your friendship pet.

Herb:
Your reaction when I phoned you that night will always stay with me, the fact that you were there in minutes is one of the most touching things I can remember. Thank you for all your support, all the late night chats, all the drunken dinner parties and all the hugs, especially the hugs.

Alan:
I am so proud of where you are at right now. You have no idea just how amazing a person (and a drummer) you actually are. I know it takes time for you to trust people and come round to them, but I am so glad I get to call you a friend, and vice versa. You deserve the world hon, go get it! :)

Thank you to all four of you, you have made this year better, just by being around...

"It's the spaces in between that make sense of everything"

All my love xxx

Day Nineteen: Marie Adams

Marie:

Any friend of mine knows you as my 'second mummy' and that is probably as apt a description as one can muster. You have known me the longest, bar Mum and Dad of anyone I am really close to and have always been the most amazing source of care, compassion and support.

You may not think it but you are one of the most amazingly strong people I know. I realise that there are times that you don't believe it of yourself, but you are. You have dealt with the blows life has dealt you with dignity, courage and hope. That is one of your best features. You take things in your stride.

You are possibly one of my most formative role models, aside from my mum, you are the most important female figure in my life. You have always taught me to see the other side of the story, to regain perspective and to always, always believe in myself. I can't tell you how much you mean to me, because there are simply not enough words in the English language to adequately define the depth of love there.

As I have grown up you have always been the one to fight my corner with mum when I was a messed up teenager, and simalarly you were always the one to fight mum's corner when I was a petulant teenager! Always the go-between and the peace-keeper, your role has been instrumental in the relationship I have with mum now. I hope when I am your age that I have a best friend like you that (if I have any) my daughters can call to for support.

Thank you for everything you have done for me and thank you for everything you are. (In case you don't know, everything you are is a little bit wonderful!!)

All the love in the world, babby toothy smiles, ballyclare high knickers, red wine, the best cooking and drunken ramblings xxxx

Day Eighteen: Janine Hamilton

J-Bird:

My soul sister! I feel like it truly was fate that you applied for a volunteer role when you did! I cannot imagine having went to America with anyone other than you now! You are one of the most amazing people I know and such a treat to work with!

I was so aprehensive before meeting you because I had no idea what to expect, especially because I know the intensity of the programme we would be involved with. Instantly though I knew we get on just fine, I don't know if it was the accessories or the ease with which we were able to chat... I just knew.

However, I had no clue just how much we would have in common and how much support we would get from one another. It took me by surprise just how well we got on and, like I said, I just can't imagine having had to share that experience with anyone else.

I have told you this so many times before but the sake of you hearing it once again, I think you are a brilliant Youth Worker, you have many strengths that I wish I had! You connect with the young people in such an effortless and caring manner that it never seems forced and never seems like you have to. Your compassion and your empathy are two of your other key strengths. The way you allowed yourself to be emotional and open to the experiences of the group is very moving and lovely to watch.

Thank you for everything bird, both in America and here. Our chats, the hugs and the 'debriefs' were the only thing that kept me from going to bits in the USA! You are one of the most wonderful people I have had the fortune of coming into contact with and as cheesy as it may sound, I hope we will be FF ;)

Love, Junior Mints, debriefs, Holister spray, airport serenading and hugs xxx

Day Seventeen: Jonny Baxter

Jonny:

Well, matey! Where to begin? When I think of you, there are so many favourite memories that I couldn't just choose one. Whether is be The Bridge, Romania, Belgium, Ballycastle, the With or Without You moment..... Like I said, too many to choose from!

I can't tell you how much the support you have given me over the last few months (and beyond) has meant. That lunch in The House that day is one of the nicest things that happened around that time. The fact that you cared enough to come all the way over touched me so much and it's something I just can't thank you enough for.

All your little check ins, whether they be glances or text messages mean the world to me. You have a way of texting me just when I need to be cheered up, or when I need some encouragement or even just reasurance that God is listening ;)

One of my favourite things about working for the YMCA is the fact that I actually have an excuse to check in with you, to go on training sessions with you and of course, to go to London the odd time too. You are one of my favourite people to work with and I don't know whether it is because we have known one another for so long- but even if it isn't, I always have so much fun when we co-facilitate and you have such a knack for putting me at ease when delivering sessions.

Thank you for everything Jonny, I know there have been ups and downs, but I feel like these past few years have seen our friendship grow strong enough that if you needed anything, there would be nothing I wouldn't do, and recently has shown me that you would definately step up for me. Thank you for giving me encouragement to follow my faith as well, I don't find it easy and you always seem to make it a reality for me. And I will never forget the original sentiment of PUSH, that got me through more than I can tell you.

Love, giraffes, pamplemoose, duckb.... ;) , U2, angels and PUSH bracelets... xxx

Day Sixteen: Charlotte Dryden

Charlotte:

Well, we have already drunkenly reminisced about the first time I met you up that there mountain, hi. At the time I offered you that flump I had no idea at that time that we would end up spending so much time with one another and I now count you as one of my dearest friends.

I dont think Oh Yeah would be the place it is today without your passion, drive and enthusiasm for the place. As much as one place is not defined by individuals alone, I think it is clear for all to see that you too have been instrumental in the growth of the centre and the work it does.

On a personal level, I have loved getting to know you over the last few years and no matter when we hang out, there is always banter and craic to be had... and quite a few hangovers to recover from! From dropping bottles of Jager to counting enough pennies to send you to Peru, there is never a dull moment!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your care and support over the last few months. It means more than I can tell you to have someone as wonderful as you in my social circle! I know that I could scoot up the road to you at any time and be welcome. The same can be said for your wonderful fiancé! The warmth exudes from you both and I can't thank either of you enough for your friendship.

I hope you have a fantastic Christmas and that 2011 is the year that all your dreams come true!

Love, Jager, derry wans, gigs and more... xxx

Day Fifteen: Staff at the YMCA

I am absolutely blessed to get up everyday and come to work in a place like the Belfast YMCA. Yes, I do love the work I do and I enjoy the groups I work with- but the biggest strength of the Y is the people who work within it, by a country mile ;). I have never felt so supported and cared for as I have whilst working here and the compassion for each member of staff is just awe-inspiring. I feel it is everything a workplace should be.

Geraldine:
You are quite possibly the loveliest, most caring 'co-worker with authority' that I have ever encountered. Your care for those you work with is unrivalled and it shines through in every interaction. I remember you stopping your car as we were driving out one day just to sya hello to one of the daycare workers who was having a hard time. That level of compassion is so rarely seen in anyone in authority. You have been so understanding and warm over these past tough months and for that I will always be grateful, many other 'co-workers with authority' would have been less flexible in the circumstances. I hope you always know how much I appreciate your support, and your friendship. It's not often one can say that about their 'co-worker with authority' ;)

Kathy, Diane and Aly:
You three are three of the nicest and most genuine ladies I have ever met! Just like Geraldine, your support has been absolutely invaluable to me over these past few months. Just knowing that you are there to pop in to and have a wee bitch, or a moan or even a wee cry... Well, it means more than you can ever know. You are the model of what a supportive, Christian organisation should be. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Howard:
Your knowledge and unending answers relating to anything as diverse as technologicial advances in printer ink to the supportive nature of Croc shoes always fascinates me. Thank you for your general expertise and for the way that you always have some interesting angle on whatever debate we appear to be having at coffee time!

There are so many other members of the Y team that I feel have made my working experience here my most positive employment to date, but unfortunately they have moved on to pastures new. One of which was mentioned in an early advent calendar- Brian. Also notable mentions to Ziad (the gentleman of the Y) and Debs (who will always be my shopping/gossiping buddy).

I am so very blessed in being able to do the work I do, but even moreso due to the people I get to interact with in this office everyday.

Merry Christmas guys, here is to a productive and properous New Year in 2011.

Love, cups of earl grey, Christmas half hours and health and safety issues ;) xxx

Day Fourteen: Mary Young

Mays:

You, my dearest, are one in a million. Maybe even a billion! A smile that can light up rooms and a heart so big it could fit the whole of Scotland in it (if you reallllly wanted!!)

It seems absurd that we are as close as we are when we don't see each other from one month to the next and at times don't talk for a little while. But with you, time doesn't seem to factor into it at all. You are one of the very few people in my life that I could pick up the phone to you having not spoken in weeks and it be like I saw you an hour ago.

I have always loved your generosity and warmth Mays, you always remember about important things to people and you know how to make people feel valued and appreciated as friends. I will never forget the package of mix CDs you made me for at one of my low points. Such a little thought that meant the entire world to me.

I have had some of the best gig experiences with you as well, every time we meet we seem to have the knack of being at the most amazing events that knock us for six! I have seen two of my absolute fave bands with you and it made it all the more special to do so!

I dont see you as often as I would like, but I promise, a visit to Glasgow is in order for me very soon.

I hope you realise exactly how wonderful you are and much you mean to me. Thank you for everything darling.

Love, VIPin it up, free burgers, sleazys, white russians and battered burgers xxxx

Day Thirteen: Davy Matchett

Davy:

I remember the first time we ever met- outside Auntie Annies for a John D'Arcy gig that I no-one to go with and you offered to be my gig buddy for the evening! I don't even think I knew what you looked like then! And since then there have been countless gigs and a multitude of musical delights shared!

You are one of few people whose taste in music I always trust, you just seem to have a knack for liking bands I really like so when you offer me mix CDs, I always get excited! Thank you for introducing me to many a great tune and well, we all know about my well documented love for a certain Northern Irish band!

Thank you for always having a smile on your face when you see me and a hug for me. Whether we be sober or inebriated, passing ships or drinking together. You always make the time for a quick catch up and check in and it is such a lovely quality. I also love the wise cracks, that seem to come from absolutely nowhere but can have me in wrinkles.

I am so very proud and inspired by the big step you took professionally this year. It takes so much courage to just go for it and I commend you, wholeheartedly for giving it your best shot. I hope and pray you have every bit of success in this venture as you deserve!

Thank you for the music (not the Abba tune, mind) for the chats, for the hugs, for the giggles and for the offer of an iPod ;)

Love, sleep-filled festivals, tinnitus and musical memories... xxx

Day Twelve: Conor and Kerrie O'Neill

Conor and Kerrie:

I want to say thank you to you both for the support you have shown me in the last few months. Getting me straight on a flight to Tralee was such a practical way of helping and keeping my mind off everything that was going on around me. I will always appreciate that.

Conor, I know that we may not be the closest of siblings... but to know that you would step up and support me in the way you did means more than you will ever know. So thank you for that. I know that the emotional support side of things comes harder for you than I find it so it means a lot.

Kerrie, you really are amazing! I watch you as you deal with having twin babies, a little madam of a daughter who could buy and sell me, run a house AND study. You are an inspiration and I just don't think you are told often enough! Many lesser people would have caved in to the pressure of what deal with but you just get on with it, because you have to. You are a fabulous mother and the way in which Mols has changed over these past few years is testament to that. You should be so proud of yourself and all you have achieved.

Cant wait to see you and the bambinos next week. Til then, happy advent and I am sending all my love. Thank you for everything...

Love, shopping trips without the kids and hugs - lots of hugs xxx

Day Eleven: Ruairi (and Agata )

Rurs and Agata:

Firstly, I want to congratulate you both! Today being the day you commit to one another for life and say 'I do'. I am so delighted for you and I hope that today is exactly how you would have dreamt it would be, you both deserve it. I cannot wait to see you both next week and I wish I could have made it to Poland for your wedding.

Ruairi, it is so lovely to see you settled and content. And with someone as beautiful, down to earth and intelligent as Agata. I couldn't have wished for anyone better for you. It is heartwarming to see you both together as I have never seen you so in love and happy with your life. It really is a wonderful thing.

I am so proud of all that you have achieved thus far, you are an inspiration. I wish I had the courage and the bravery to do what you have done and set up a life in a country where you did not speak the language! It takes a lot of guts to do that and I see you always pushing yourself to do well and you create the life you always wanted. I admire that so much in you.

Agata, I know we haven't had a chance to spend a lot of time in one another's company but I look forward to getting to know you better now we are sisters in law!

All my absolute love to you both as you begin this chapter of your journey together, I wish you every happiness and all the health in the world to enjoy it.

Love, love, love. xxx

Day Ten: Gary Moore

Gary:

A very recent addition to the list for Advent Lovelies but reinforced by his Jagerbomb drinking skills and his deep love for them sweaty boys, LaFaro...!

So, this blog is all about the people who have made life that little bit better just by being in it, so it was only fair that you were added to the list! You are the person that I have known the least amount of time on here but yoou definately deserve your mention.

Thank you for your support over the last little while, all the thoughtfulness has not gone unnoticed! Your texts and phonecalls cheer me up no end, and make me smile.. Which is a mighty accomplishment! :) I love how passionate you are about the music scene here, especially my LaFaro boys and ASIWYFA. It makes me grin when I hear you talk about the impact they have on you, cos I know what impact they have on me!

Someday soon, I promise we will go sledding! (Now that it is in writing I have to be held to it!)

Thank you for being you, for being a friend, for listening, for taking the time, for making me laugh and for having a very thick skin around all my mates! :)

Hugs, jager, pokes, smileyfaces and inappropriate LaFaro lyrics! xx

Day Nine: Gemma Wilson

Gems:

Brought together by a certain Northern Irish band's forum and bonded over a mutual love of rugby men, music, gossiping and now- knitting!

It may seem to others quite weird that you can be so close to someone and only have met the a handful of times. Not to me. The amount of time we spent chatting on msn and on skype when you were on your placement and then subsequently when you got back would be the equivalent to a lifelong friendship in the 'real' world.

You have always been such a support to me, even if we haven't talked in months. I am so glad that have reconnected of late and your thoughtfulness is a trait that is genuine and wonderful! I will never forget my birthday present of the DVDs landing on my doormat just because I had never watched Bill Bailey before...or recently, the wool buying. Just two tiny examples of how thoughtful and kind you are.

I know that this time of the year is tough for you Gems, but please know that you have lots of people (especially online) who care about you and will be there to support you when you need them. We heart you, I heart you- for a reason!

You are always willing to go that one step further for people, to put yourself out to accomodate them. So generous, quick to help and always giving of your time to listen. There were many nights a few years ago when I couldn't have coped without your support and your encouragement and lately, those little texts and tweets make me smile, that's what life is about. I am just remembering that night in Manchester in the crappy snow and the random hostel! Those were great days, such a laugh we had!!

Thank you for being you Gems, don't ever doubt your wonderfulness.

Love, yarn, tea, rugby drool and gossips. xxx

Day Eight: Stuart Bailie

Stu:

I remember the first time I met you, sitting at a wobbly table in Auntie Annies with Mr Matchett at a John D'Arcy gig. You walked over and sat beside me and Davy introduced me. I had only ever heard of this 'Stuart Bailie' person and thought 'Oh please don't ask me about my music taste!!'. Ha. Since then, you have become someone I look up to and someone who I am always happy to see!

I am so immensely proud of what Oh Yeah has become, it is such an honour to be involved in the place, and to have seen it emerge and grow as it has done in the last year or two. I believe that you are a massive part of that development. The work that you do behind the scenes for Oh Yeah goes unnoticed by so many and I know you can get a hard time from the odd bitter nut on the 'scene', but please know that those involved in Oh Yeah, know your worth and your commitment to the place - that goes without saying given the amount of time you spend there!!!

Thank you for welcoming me into the Oh Yeah family so readily on 5th May 2007 and for having a hand in some of the most inspirational, moving and unforgettable musical experiences of my life. There have been more than a few times when I have been moved to tears because of an Oh Yeah event (and not just the bad tears when it all goes tits up!!). Thank you for being so instrumental ('scuse the pun) in that Stu.

Keep doing what your doing and keep being there with a smile on your face regardless of the amount of hours you have spent haranguing people or filling out funding applications!

Thank you for all your commitment to a place that means so much to me and for generally being a 'great bunch of lads'!! Happy Advent Stu!

Love, wine, whimsical evenings and wholly enjoyable musical epiphanies! xx

Day Seven: Laura Kelly

Lu:

Met through the love of a certain band, bonded over tea and gossip!

It seems bizarre that although I have known you for such a long time, we have only really became close in the last year. I can't really remember when we first met for coffee, but I remember it not being in any way awkward and going away thinking 'Wow, we have a lot in common!'. Then you sold some Uggs and the friendship was cemented ;)

The one thing I always think of when I think of you is how you have no idea how special you are. You are one the most unassuming and modest people I know and yet so intelligent, compassionate and pretty- with NO clue that you are all of these things.

If I could change one thing about you it would be for you to see yourself through the eyes of others for just one day. You would see the kind, clever, funny and gorgeous girl we all see when we look at you!

Thank you for all your tea, gossips, hugs, texts and general support. Those orange daisies you got me was just one of the lovliest gestures (and they lasted for ages!)

Thank you for being you, for being so open about so much with me and for trusting me with it all. You are one in a million bird.

Love, tea, tatts, terrible taste in men and above all, the music xxx

Day Six: Grainne McKenna

Grainne:

Wee Bridie! Where to even begin! You have known me longer than most people in my life, watched me grow- and more important helped me grown into the person I am today.

I feel as though I owe so much, you have been a part of some of the most formative experiences of my life, and even helped me get the job I have now! My first memory is on the beach in Ballycastle, doing a team building exercise. I was struggling, really having a hard time giving it a go and I told you I was going to walk home, just leave the group if I had to do it. I will never forget the words of encouragement you gave me, you told me to let people support me and 'let go of your stuff and fly'. You have since said that to me twice, and both times I have pushed myself further than I would have had I not had your encouragement.

You are one of a handful of people I look up to both personally and professionally. I try and use some of the ways of working that I saw you incorperate with me when I was a young person. It is very rare that you get to work alongside someone who has had as huge impact on you as you have done with me, its one of the reasons I feel blessed to be in youth work.

Aside from the youth worky style help, you have always been on hand to offer support in the context of a friend. No matter what is going on with me, I always feel like you care.

There are not enough words or superlatives in the dictionary to properly define who you are and what you mean to me (and so many others in NICE- but for now I will speak for me!). This is just a tiny blog that goes no way to fully capturing all of what you are and what you mean.

I just want to thank you for you support, your encouragement, for watching me, for seeing me, for trusting me with your babbies (!!), for being a great and inspiring youth worker but most of all, for being a friend!

Love, gingers, Belgian beers, Romanian fancy men, Serbian heatstroke and two of the most adorable children this side of Augher. xx

Day Five: Bap

Bap:

We met in a field up a mountain, drawn together by the debate over the use of the word wab versus geck and such a friendship has blossomed ever since!! :)

Bap, you are one of the most kind hearted people I have ever met! From the minute we started chatting up yon mountain in Draperstown I realised. You told me then that we'd be muckers for life, whether I liked it or not- and boy, am I seeing that!

You are my go to man for information up that side of the country, you know everything and everyone- and what you don't know, you find out! Whether it be me ringing you at 3am trying to find a petrol station in Derry for me and the Panama Kings or ringing you about a bus that left me stranded with 19 youngsters... I know you will help me out!

I am constantly overwhelmed by your compassion and willingness to help! You have no clue what it means to know I have someone like you to help me out when I most need it.

Aside from all the practical help you offer and give, you are an amazing drinking buddy!!! Admittedly, you could drink me under the table with absolute ease- but even so!! I love how your friends (namely Stan, Tina, Marty and Jay etc) all took me at face value and had the absolute craic. I have never had a more fun summer than the one I spent in Derry on the weekends! :) On top of all the drunken boozey times, I loved our random conversations about the universe and all that it contains...You have such a questioning mind and one that never seems to switch off!

Anyway, thank you for your ongoing support, and being a font of all knowledge!

Love, buckfast, fairies, whimsical ramblings and more. x

Day Four: Cathal McNaughton

Cathal:

Cathal is one of my favourite uncles (I am using the term 'one of' in case any of my other uncles read this!)

I remember being younger and terrified of Cathal when we came into his house to visit, and then in my late teens I quickly came to realise just how great a person he really is. I am constantly encouraged by his faith in me- no matter what direction my life takes I know that I can count on my Uncle Cathal to support me and believe in my ability.

There were only two people aside from my parents I wanted to watch me cross the stage when I graduated and Cathal was one of them and his presence there was something that added to the pride I felt that day.

Cathal, even though I don't see you as often I could, or would like to, I know that your support is unwavering and unconditional. For that I will always thank you. There is nothing like the feeling of knowing you have a family member such as you who has your back.

Not only that, you are one of the most skilled and creative people I know- you can turn your hand (literally) to anything and be brilliant. Your eye for a photo and your hand for creating the most amazing pieces of art with wood is awe-inspiring.

Thank you for your love and support, today, tomorrow and always.

Love, frogs and snowy walks up the mountain xxx

Day Three: Brian Moore

Brian:

Wait til you hear this for a laugh......HAHA!

Really, should have waited and put you further down the list because this will be a bigun to write! I know I mentioned it briefly on Monday to you, but I wanted to reitterate just how much I look up to you as a co-worker. Your experience and ease with which you work with groups is inspiring. You make youth work look easy - and it isn't!!

I still remember the moment I realised that the Brian everyone in Belfast had been talking about was the Brian who introduced me to new music and told me how to keep warm in that icebox of Carrick! Small worlds, indeed.

Working alongside you was an absolute pleasure and I learned so much from watching you interact and how you made activities relevant and meaningful. Your ability to draw learning from each situation for the young person is one of your strongest attrubutes as a worker.

Aside from the work stuff... you are one of the most genuine people I know, such a deep thinker and a great friend. Even when you threw things at me, teased me, made jokes I didn't get and flashed your belly to put me off my phonecalls!!

Thank you for being an inspiration and for being a friend... and for being the least funny person I know ;). Just thanks.

Love, coffee, milk duds, mumford and macs x

Day Two: Jess Neisen

Jess:

Having only met you in the last year, and moreso gotten to know you over these last few months I can unequivoically say you are a huge treat!

I love your dedication to Oh Yeah. As a place that is so special to me, I love it when people see it for what it is and recognise just how amazing the people involved are. You are one of those amazing people. I am yet to see you moan or frown about giving up your time to be there.

The one memory that stands out for me is the Palook that Joe, Chris and Charlotte were away and you were out for the night. Knowing I was holding the fort you came down after being out and got stuck in to helping out. I won't ever forget that.

More recently, your wingwoman status and general white wine drinking buddy ability has been noted, and appreciated more than you realise.

I don't think you realise just how genuine you come across. Or how lovely, pretty and smart you are too!! That's just for starters, I bet at least 5 people who know could come up with at least 10 more adjectives!

Thank you for all your support.

Love, white wine, giggles, inappropriate flirting and wingwomen solidarity. xx

Day One: Brideen Baxter

Brideen:

Brideen is the cutest person I know, in looks and personality.

I am yet to meet anyone as creative as you are and as effortlessly talented in their creativity. You somehow manage to turn mundane little things into beautifully quirky subjects for your pictures.

There have been many conversations where we have realised our similarities and little foibles we share and each of those times I have come away with a smile. Especially, any conversation we have had of late. You have been so supportive, patient, loyal and caring. For that I will always thank you.

You are an absolute treat and deserve the world my lovely. Thank you for being there.

Love, cupcakes and fairy lights xxx

The Advent Calendar

So... Some people have advent calendars with little chocolates behind them, right? Everyone loves a bit of chocolate! Well, this is a little different. I did something like this a few years ago and I only remembered about it recently so thought I would resurrect an old idea from myspace years gone by.

Basically, I have made a list of 25 people who have made my life that little bit better, just by being in it. Each day of advent I will be writing a little message blog to them and about them, basically detailing just how wonderful they actually are!

I just don't think we tell those in our lives how important they are enough. It is only when a life changing event or something dramatic happens that we realise firstly, who are true friends are and secondly, that we simply could not do without them!

If you are on this list, then yay for you! If you aren't, it isn't that you aren't special to me or that you haven't been wonderful- it's just I only have so many days in advent!

xx

Thank you to my puncture repairs...