Childhood memories, good or bad, make us who we are.

They echo how strong we have had to become, as we all grow up trying to adapt to life, and to what life may throw at us.

We are shaped by the events we have experienced and by the choices we have made, or those that have been made for us.

Everyone’s memories are defined in a unique kind of way.

We all have a different story to tell.

This story recalls the childhood experiences of a young woman growing up in an Irish Catholic family in New Zealand during the seventies and eighties, and how those experiences and challenges mapped out her life.

Ellen, the oldest daughter, tells of the happy memories as well as the tragic events that would come to deeply affect those around her she loved.

Set in a small country seaside town, in the days where words went unspoken and where abuse, prejudice and discrimination were swept under the carpet and misadventures became lifelong tales.

Having to cope with tragedy and broken hearts, Ellen is torn between supporting family members and making her own life changing decisions.

It is all about forgiveness and a fluffy yellow dog.

We can all relate to people in this story.

You may even recognise a little bit of yourself?