Kiri Pritchard-McLean Instagram – What a life changing few days I’ve had. I went to my first ever Eisteddfod and thankfully @s4c made sure I was nestled under the ample bosom of the sweetest, funniest and kindest teacher there is, @magginoggi . Growing up in Wales and being denied the language when you’re young you sense there’s stuff you’re missing out on but I couldn’t have imagined just how much until I visited the Eisteddfod this year. It’s indescribable. Part music festival, part food festival, part gallery space, part folk festival,part talent show all Welsh. I was amazed how many people and organisations I knew, how many small businesses I love were there and even though I’d never been before it felt like it had always been waiting for me in a way. It’s a really magical space. Honestly, I spent the first day fluctuating between laughter and joy and sadness. I was sad I didn’t have this in my upbringing – I would have loved it. But, as @tudur reminded me, I have it now. The Eisteddfod can be mine too and just like so many things I’ve encountered on my Welsh language journey, I’ve realised when I’m ready for it, it’ll welcome me with open arms. Oh yeah, and I did stand up in Welsh and as much as I loved it, I think the stress of doing it has knocked about 4 years off my life.