This is the way, walk ye in it.

I was shocked to read Hails announcement...

I’m going to see what’s out there, beyond my sheltered life here in Ballymena, and I’m not coming back unless I find myself penniless, homeless, and in need of my old bedroom at The Parents’ house.

A few weeks ago, I told you that I wanted to be a writer, and asked for ideas on how to make that happen. I was very touched by the level of response I received. In the end, it was an email from Cyberscribe, directing me to information about freelance writing in Europe, that sowed the seed in my mind. I’ve always wanted to travel. Why am I still here?

And so, my friends, I’m leaving. I’m going to make the most of the ’in between jobs’ stage and use this time to visit friends in a couple of different countries. From there, I’m going to France, where I intend to rent un appartement...

I hope that everything works out OK GREAT for her. If France isn't the place for her, maybe it could be Newtownabbey or maybe even Strabane. It's good to leave one's options open. Why Newtownabbey, why Strabane you may ask. Because...

Coffee Republic Deli has opened its first Northern Ireland outlet based in Abbeycentre, Newtownabbey and plans to open a second in Strabane this month.
Chief Executive of Coffee Republic Steven Bartlett said: "Northern Ireland represents a crucial market for Coffee Republic as it possesses a vibrant, burgeoning cafÉ culture. The company is looking forward to introducing the Coffee Republic brand and becoming part of the Northern Ireland community. I am sure that this is a precursor to an exciting period of global expansion."

Maybe they'll require a blogger to sample and write about their new ventures. Though Strabane doesn't sound as exciting as Strasbourg and I'm sure most people would prefer Nice to Newtownabbey.

Maybe Hails will start a trend. Bloggers might leave Cullybackey and end up in Caen, leave Belfast and head to Bordeaux, Derry to Dijon ...



If you are a blogger or writer or publisher in France or a French blogger in Ireland do introduce yourselves to Hails.