I like to think that I’m not all that shockable but today’s contributor to The Festival of Bridges caught me off guard not just once but twice.
The contributor in question is Catherine Drea, who lives just a few miles from me here in Co. Waterford. She has just won the Photography Section in The Irish Blog Awards for the second year in a row with her delightfully creative and colourful blog, Foxglove Lane. Be sure to check it out as you are in for a huge treat.
I had been expecting a photograph from Ireland and more than likely somewhere in Co. Waterford but Catherine brings us to the other end of the earth, Australia, while highlighting its deep connections to Ireland. I was also stunned with the way in which the photograph she chose from her vast collection connected so completely with my interest in ageing and elderly parents. Here’s what she wrote:
My youngest lives in Sydney and I often wondered what the attraction was for our young people to head down under. Last year I finally made the trek and was bowled over by Sydney in particular. It is a stunning harbour dominated by the bridge on one side and the Opera House on the other. The situation is mesmerising.
I picked this photo for you Jean as it is called Someone’s Dad……This man caught my eye as like you I have a great affinity with older people and their stillness. The bridge constructed by the Irish and other immigrants who came here is a beautiful testament to their labour and now I know, Australia is awesome!!
Photo: Catherine Drea
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The Festival of Bridges runs until October 31st. If you would like to take part, please email your submission to me at jeantubridy@aol.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
SOCIAL BRIDGE ~ Jean Tubridy connecting with you from Ireland 
Just stunningly clever as you say Jean!
Hi Willow, Catherine is talent personified as well as being all heart!
I love the picture that Catherine submitted. It’s perfect for Social Bridges.
Hi Sheryl, it’s a great photograph and so well chosen.
As I get older myself I’m much more aware that old folk – who I think we are often guilty of overlooking or ignoring (at least I am) – were young once with their own hopes and dreams. They laughed, loved and played as if youth was eternal. This old chap might have played cricket nearby as that bridge was constructed. He might even have worked on it himself. Nice shot Catherine.
Hi Roy, very interesting thoughts here. One of the things about ‘older’ people that intrigues me is the extent to which so many remain young at heart and I can’t but think here of my Aunt Anna who got married for the first time when she was 72 and was ‘up’ for anything right ’til the day she died aged 89! I hope it’s in the genes.
Thanks Jean and everyone for your kind words. I love this series you do Jean and how people find meaning in their individual choices, and twas a pleasure to take part with ye all:~))
Thanks to YOU, Catherine. A great choice of photograph!
It certainly seems to me that every single person has a bridge of some description that has deep, deep meaning for them.
Reblogged this on Loss, Grief, Transitions and Relationship Support.
Thanks very much for the Reblog, Sue. I hope that your readers enjoy Catherine’s wonderful photograph and words.
Well, this one of course reminds me of our own Tyne Bridge, which was devised by the same designers 🙂