Untitled by Patti McNicholas

Mary was born in Co. Mayo. Martin was born in Co. Galway. They met at a dance in Sea Point Ballroom in Galway. Martin lived with his parents on a sheep farm. Mary went to cooking school in Claremorris. Her dream job was to have her own catering business some day. Martin just loved his sheep. They went out together for five years, during which time they had their ups and downs.

Martin was very thrifty, didn’t want to spend any money. Mary loved going out and having fun. She loved clothes and shoes and spent her money on things she liked. Martin would date Mary and not show up. He would make up all kinds of excuses why he didn’t meet her. Mary felt she couldn’t trust Martin. They went their separate ways.

One day, a tall dark and handsome young man came in to the cafe where Mary worked. ‘Hello, my name is Mary, how may I help you’ she asked. ‘Hello Mary, my name is Sean. I would like to talk to you. I am a chef. We both love cooking. How about cooking something up with me?

 

Twins by Patti McNicholas

On December 6th 1938 my Mom gave birth to twin girls. It was a big shock to her as she didn’t know she was going to have twins. My twin sister arrived first and I came along later.

My Mom and Dad took us home to a very cold house and my Mom had a terrible time trying to take care of us. All she had was an open fire ... no running water and no electricity. But in the end she did a great job. My twin sister and I grew up strong and healthy.

When we were young, we looked so alike no one could tell us apart. As we grew older we lost some of that likeness. Today, if people see us together they know which is which ... but if they meet us separately they are often unsure.

My twin sister’s name is Winifred and we call her Freddie. My name is Patricia but everyone calls me Patti.