"Oh, so that's how it works? I didn't know Milesians had a custom like that. I'm glad you told me, because now I won't be so confused." She carefully takes the bowl of milk from Fenian with a big smile.

"See, you should pay attention more, Caoimhe," Ciaran minds her and earns himself a repressive glower. "Now is that any way to look at the lad who carried you around on his back all night?" He attempts to pacify her with a smile. He's been watching the older boys smile at the girls, and has noted the positive reaction it sometimes gets.

"Yes it is, if you keep nagging me like that!" Caoimhe retorts, sticking her nose up in the air, before going on to add, "But even if you nag me, I'm glad that you came with me, Ciaran. That way I can visit people, but not bring them bad luck. I really do think this thing about women being bad luck as first footers is really unfair...but if Auntie Fedelm says so, then it must be true."

"And how did you not wanting to bring bad luck turn into me carrying you around all night? You could have just walked in behind me once I was finished!"

His reply is an impish grin. "But it's more fun if you carry me!" she giggles. "Don't you have anyone at home to play piggyback with?"