Our day began at the library where band members got their faces painted. Although the day was very wet we were all really excited and couldn't wait for the parade to start. We got into position and the parade headed off towards the square.
Even with the bad weather there were lots of people along the way to cheer us on. We got a huge round of applause at the square. The parade was shortened due to the bad weather so we went around the square before stopping at the viewing stand where the dancing trolls and singing band entertained everybody. The trolls danced really well and the singing was great too.
We then headed back up to the library where we all got treats as a reward for all our hard work preparing for the parade.
A big thank you to all the pupils, staff and parents who worked so hard preparing for the parade and braved the bad weather to take part. Let's hope the sun is out next year.

The Junior Entrepreneur project has certainly enlivened and invigorated the 5th & 6th classes. For some weeks now projects have been in preparation;  data   and trade  secrets has been carefully minded, prototypes have been tried out,  recipes have been perfected and fantastic company names have been copyrighted.
The visit of local entrepreneur  Mary Murphy, speaking about her business Gymboree, provided many insights, ideas and much food for thought. The finale of the visit was Mary's musical presentation  which had everyone up on their toes!
  Finally the presentation  day arrived. On Friday 10th March 2017 the three teams presented their projects to the 'Dragons', Seamus Bermingham, Chleo de Vito and Manry Murphy.
First up was the Crazy Dough team. Their product, which had been modified many times over the last few weeks, was a version of playdough but cheaper and more child friendly.
The second product was called Wooltastics. This group made  hats and pom poms, in a variety of colours, with key rings attached. The final group presented a cd called 'The Music of Cloonlyon', a 12 track cd of waltzs, jigs, horpipes and marches, with all tracks played by the pupils.
There was then a very tense period as the 'Dragons' considered their verdict.
When they returned to the classroom and spoke to the children they complimented them on the innovation, imagination and creativity of the products and presentations. In the end it was the 'Wooltastics' group that carried the day. There were a few suggestions as to how the product might be marketed but it was also suggested that the other two ideas might continue in some form.
A  huge thank you to all who helped make the day such a success.

This trip was one of the most humbling things I have done. It was a real eye opening experience, which showed how much we take for granted. The children of Vesnova have left a lasting impression on me and as hard as I thought going over would be, coming home proved the hardest. The work the CCI is doing is so important in the lives of these children, I feel privileged to have been able to volunteer alongside my fellow Rose Escorts and Roses. 

I want to thank all the parents and children who so graciously raised money. You have all helped so much and have made a difference in the lives of these children. In the words of Adi Roche "There is hope, it's you"