Re: Irish naming patterns: The general rule at least in the 19th century, perhaps before and/or after, was this: The first boy is named after the father's father. The second boy is named after the mother's father. The first girl is named after the father's mother. The second girl is named after the mother's mother. After that, the next child could be named after a grandparent or a sibling of the parents, or an uncle or aunt or whatever, as appropriate. So names are repeated and repeated over the generations. Not everyone followed this pattern, but it was very widespread. I speak from the standpoint of five Thomases in a row in my direct line. Re. Currency exchange: That's right, the bank will charge you an arm and a leg to get a check in Irish punts. However, there is an alternative: in the USA, look in the telephone book's yellow pages under "foreign currency brokers." One listed is Thomas Cook Currency Services, a well-known travel name, with a toll-free number in my book: 1-800-287-7362, to obtain the nearest outlet to you. There are others that are national in scope, or are known in other local areas. Call around and find out who will do it for the least amount (usually a flat fee). These outfits are usually much, much cheaper than the bank. But be sure that the one you chose has a good reputation, and is not just some check-cashing outfit next to the local tavern. Sally M.