We're back in Sarasota USA

Just a quick post to let all our loyal readers know that we made it back from Ireland. It's about 11:30 Florida time, but for us it is 4:30am. It's been a Looooooonnnng day. We'll update in detail tomorrow.

Last Day Eve

Nolan’s B&B, Kilkee, County Clare
Friday, December 29, 2006

Greetings from the country of magical lands, friendly folks and winds up to 140km/hour. Actually that was the wind a bit north of us. I doubt if it gusted past 80km/hr here. So, it was a keep my good hat in the pocket and forget about chip and putt golfing day.

Renee and I went for another fabulous drive, mostly along the coast. It remains spectacular. We went from Kilkee through Kilrush and Killimer then on to Killbill and Killbill part 2. Just kidding about those last two (wanted to see if you’re paying attention).

Kilrush is where we downloaded the blog accounts today. It’s a fair sized little city, bigger than Louisburgh but not as large as Athlone. If that description doesn’t help, and I don’t know how it couldn’t, let me say that Kilrush is smaller than New York City but larger than the back seat of a Porche 911.

In any case, they had an internet café (five Euros an hour) and some real interesting places to eat and a good sized tourist information building. All of which were closed. Why was everything closed? Well, it is Christmas week still, also a lot of these places are seasonal and we got there before 1pm. This is really odd, to us anyway, if you go to a good sized city or village before 1pm, it is seemingly deserted. After 1pm, it suddenly becomes thriving. This even happened in Galway City.

Tomorrow is our last full day in Ireland. If that’s not sad enough, then listen to this. We will get on a plane Sunday that will take us from wondrous Ireland to an airport in New Jersey. Talk about culture shock, Arrrrgggh!

Today was a slow day picture-wise, we took a little under 300 pictures. Oh well, it was raining dark and windy. Of course it was also sunny, clear and warm. The weather does change frequently around here. Quondo, Quondo, Quondo, Quondo…

We’re leaving? Noooo!!!! Tomorrow is our last day? Oh, Noooooo!!!! Renee here, experiencing separation anxiety just thinking about departing Ireland.

I know one of the things I will miss is the friendliness of the people driving on the roads. I’m not kidding. I have grumbled to Kevin about driving through our own neighborhood in Sarasota and NOT getting a return wave of “hello” from 99% of the people. Growing up in rural New Hampshire everyone waved to everyone. Now I don’t mean a big hand-waving greeting, just an acknowledgement as you pass. Well, driving here I have found that 99% of the drivers DO at least give you a finger, and no, I don’t mean THAT finger. Just a raised index finger uncurled from the grip on the steering wheel to acknowledge you in passing. Of course you will get the full raised hand if you do something worthy, such as wait your turn and let oncoming traffic pass before you on a narrow road, etc. It makes me giggle every time.

Tomorrow we will return to the B&B and try to pack everything into the suitcases. Wish us luck, they were full when we arrived. Ha! Happy New Year to all.

Oh, this may very well be our last posting from Ireland. We may find an internet connection at the airport(s) but if not, it's been grand.

This blog is not finished. "Project-Ireland" is the process of moving to Ireland and living in Ireland. So please check us from time to time. Slan.

personal note: Joyce, I tried to e-mail you at your "roses Comcast" address and it bounced back to me. Please e-mail me so that I can get your current address. Don't post it here, just e-mail me.

Nolan’s B&B, Kilkee, County Clare
Thursday, December 28, 2006

Kevin and I played with the donkeys then checked out of the Falls Hotel with just a little hiccup (personal, private joke, notated here for posterity’s record – sorry no details for ya’ll).

Getting lucky again, the winter drive to Kilkee was graced with beautiful sunny weather. Unsure of what to expect once we arrived at our destination, we would be following the coastline of Western Ireland and that was going to be enough. This was, after all, our final three days in this fine country and we have truly been lucky with every place we’ve stayed so far. Nothing could dampen our spirits now.

Well, the drive to Kilkee was up hill and down dale, through rolling pastures, then along the coast. As we topped a hill and negotiated another dangerous curve, we could see Kilkee straight ahead. Nestled around the hillside along the horseshoe-shaped Kilkee Bay, with a huge public beach, was this amazing village! We could not have been more surprised, nor more pleased.

We found Nolan’s B&B with the help of a local woman walking down the street. Another great surprise, a fine home and our room is all one could ask for and more. After checking in we took right off for some exploring as the skies were threatening rain.

Wait until you see the pictures! Just incredible views awaited us as we followed the Scenic Loop. And with the darkening skies came the wind . . . . Kevin removed his hat and left it in the car but it wasn’t until our return to town and a stop for lunch that we realized that his hat was no longer in the car. How the****? We were devastated. It’s such a fine hat, and was an even greater buy than we expected, and Kevin looks so darn good in it. I couldn’t see how we were going to replace it.

Kevin’s lunch was typical fare; he ordered the special turkey and ham combination. I soon experienced my first disappointment in this fair land; I ordered the mussels only to have the server return with the bad news: no mussels today. They had gone bad, we later overheard. I settled for a chicken salad sandwich which turned out to be delicious.

During lunch we tried not to suffer too much angst about the lost hat and I decided to retrace our drive along the Scenic Loop when we left. It was only five or six miles of extremely windy terrain and we had only stopped a dozen or so times for photos . . . . I was as hopeful as Kevin was not.

Two or three miles into the drive we were racking our brain when I remembered a spot where we pulled off to photo a stone marker remembering two men who died on April 4, (my birthday) 1982. We had speculated that they may have been lost at sea. Optimistically, I told Kevin that was where we were going to find the hat.

The rain was beginning to sprinkle and there was no sign yet of Kevin’s precious Donegal tweed hat by Gerry Moran (the Hatman of Ireland).

I hadn’t remembered the stone marker being on such a sharp, dangerous curve and I was concentrating on the road for that split second it took to negotiate when Kevin hollered “Stop, I see something!” As I pulled over and Kevin jumped out, sure enough, there it was. Twelve inches in any direction and we would never have seen it. It wasn’t even wet or muddy, not that we would have cared. We were giddy with our good fortune. Huzzah!

We returned to town, toured around the town some more, then stopped at Nolan’s Market (any relation to Ann of our B&B???) and purchased take away for dinner, later, along with other incidentals. The employees could not have been friendlier or more helpful supplying local information. (Kevin here) When we asked if there was live music tonight. The deli counter woman turned to the two younger girls and asked that they find out. One of them walked me toward the door and showed me a schedule of music at a local club. Then, in the rain, she walked me outside (wearing socks and sandals) and pointed to the club. These people are SO kind here. One of the biggest adjustments I’ll have to make, back in the usa, is the people. However, I am sure that our stopover at the NJ Airport will be sure to set me straight.

Tomorrow’s “plans” depend on the weather. If we get a decent period of non-rain, I’d like to go to a Chip and Putt course and do some golfing. What exactly is Chip and Putts relationship to actual golf? If we go tomorrow, I’ll let you know. So stay tuned.

Oh, and we know we’ve fallen behind in our postings. It is just not so easy to find a way to connect to the internet. The more beautiful the countryside, the less likely you are to be able to get on that interweb thing.

Now is the time for us to eat our delicious sandwiches, salads and such. Then it’s coffee for me and a cup of tea for Renee as we watch the telly.

Good Night from Ireland

Kevin and Renee

The "Lah Tee Dah" Hotel

Cliffs of Moher, then Ennistmyon
Dylan Thomas’ Summer House, the “Falls Hotel”
Wednesday, December 28, 2006

Departed Galway City bound for the Cliffs of Moher and a day and night at the famous Falls Hotel. The sun shone brightly, no wind, as cold as an autumn day in New England. Just grand!

Words will not describe the spectacular beauty of the Cliffs. We were graced with a magnificent day, accompanied by the lilt of a man playing his penny whistle as we walked. Worth the trip for this day alone!

We splurged on our one day stay at the 144 room Falls Hotel in Ennistmyon, learning that it was originally the summer house of Dylan Thomas and his wife. It was appropriately named, as the falls raged down the hill from town and the river flowed past the hotel’s meadow. Donkeys grazed in the meadow view from our room.

We took advantage of the indoor swimming pool and their hot tub, but went into town for Chinese take away for our dinner.

The only internet access was one coin-operated portal in the whole place (this really surprised us), and was always occupied when we wished to use it.

A wedding and reception was taking place during our visit, (seems this is thee place for such events), and the hotel, which is HUGE, was beautifully decorated for Christmas in addition to all of the antiques and gorgeous ceilings. What a spot! And I haven’t even mentioned their River Spa and all the luxurious things offered there.

Kevin and I took a record 512 photos between us today! Ireland Now!

Happy St. Stephen's Day !

Hello out there! Kevin here, still in Galway City.

St. Stephen's day is the day that follows Christmas. It is a holiday in its' own right as we are finding out. This means that, just as on Christmas, everything is closed. Hmmmm.

All is still well here. We went for a short ride down to the Salthill section of Galway City this morning. There were breathtaking sea views and hills with horses dotting them. Also, right on the bay in one of the best locations, was a mobile home park, with palm trees. Yes, I am serious.

Tonight's our last night in this wonderful city. Next it's on to "The Falls" in Ennistimon, in County Clare. It appears to be QUITE a nice hotel, with a pool and most importantly, Steam Baths. Oh Boy Oh Boy!

Renee here, hoping everyone had a blessed Christmas celebration. We're thinking of each of you and wishing you the best.

Kevin and Renee

Christmas Eve in Galway City, Ireland

Just a quick note from the Internet Cafe while we're shopping in Galway City, wishing you and yours the very Merriest Christmas holiday.

Aloha to everyone. Slan, Kevin & Renee

Another day inside a beautiful painting.

Wednesday 20, December 2006

Another day inside a beautiful painting. The scenery we saw today rivaled that of paintings hanging on the wall of the finest museums.
We took over 500 pictures today. Out of that number, probably 100 are absolutely amazing. The best part is that we stayed “local” today. By local I mean within Louisburgh, where we have been staying since Saturday.

We were at amazing beaches with sweeping vistas of rock, sea and sky with either Clare Island or Crough Padrick (Ireland’s Holiest mountain) hanging in the background and endless fields dotted with sheep, cows, horses and or donkeys off to the side.

We also spent time in “downtown” Louisburgh. It is a small to medium sized village that is growing. We chatted with Brigid, the Auctioneer’s (Real Estate Agent) assistant, the grocer, the girls at the Louisburgh 74 café and their children and Renee popped into the surf shop to say hello to Sarah, who works there. I’m sure there were others too.

So far, this looks like it would be a wonderful place to live. Today we spent a fair amount of time going through the Auctioneer’s list and driving up to the houses for sale. We’ll follow up on one or two tomorrow.

The weather was nicer today. No fog, no rain, just wind, sun and darkness. The sun sets around 4pm here. The skies were quite beautiful today, dotted with clouds large and small.

Today’s list of animals we saw include donkeys, pheasants, cows, horses, sheep (of course) goats, cats and dogs. This includes the two sneaky dogs in Louisburgh that slid their noses under a solid wood fence so they could growl at us and confuse us at to where the hell that noise came from. It was funny, you had to be there.

We continue to enjoy everything about Ireland. It is also very nice to be taking a break from the terrors and frustrations of watching CNN, the network news and reading the paper. News from America is scant. The biggest story that has come through recently was the death of the man (Hannah or Barbera) who was the animator for the Flintsones and other fine cartoons. That actually got a LOT of coverage here.

It is a different world here and that’s a good thing. Christmas is five days away, but, in my opinion, it is a lot more low key than it is in the US. The Irish newspapers, radio and television stations do have ads for Christmas merchandise and sales, but nowhere near as much as ours. The holiday decorations in the towns are there, but simpler, some have an open Christian theme and others not.

I hope that all of your holiday planning and parties are going well and we look forward to being with you next year.

Kevin and Renee

Monday AND Tuesday

Monday, December 18, 2006

Cottage #9

Bunowen, Louisburgh, County Mayo

Ice on windshield this A.M., (0 degrees overnight).

We were warm and toasty all night with the heaters, and the fire embers were still hot at breakfast.

And what a grand breakfast it was . . . . Cheerios with sliced bananas, orange juice, tea and coffee, and toasted “brown fruit bread” with Irish Connacht Gold butter and bitter orange marmalade from France.

Sanoe (low, pervasive fog) rolled into the village as we ate, obscuring all vision, hung around for one hour, and lifted as we headed off in the rental car for more adventures.

First stop, the Granuile Information Centre, which we can see from our cottage window across the hilly pastures and curve in the winding road. Kitty O’Malley in attendance, and just as Irish as her name. She answered all my questions: Where’s Roonagh Pier for the Clare Island Ferry? She produced a map worthy of purchase and we sprang for the 1.5 euro. It was the best! Where’s the nearest horse/equestrian center? (Drommindoo) How many schools in town? (elementary through college) Internet access in the library (limited hours and days). The center offers a video of the area, for free.

Second stop, the only surf shop I’ve seen out this way. Store clerk, Sarah, (father’s Irish, she’s Australian, been here 4 yrs.) very friendly and informative. Shop owner has just ordered the first paddle in the area and a very long, long board. They’re excited with anticipation. Can go all the way to Clare Island in good weather with a paddle. Need 5 mil. wetsuit year round. Carrowinisky Beach where locals surf.

Magnificent views of coast, Clare Island, mountains, and everything in between on drive to Roonagh. Saw two beautiful, fat pheasants in the pasture as driving by.

Missed ferry so decided to climb Croagh Padraig, Clough Patrick. All shops closed, restrooms open.

“Famine Ship” sculpture across road from entrance to car park for climb.

Returned to Louisburgh for lunch. 1:30 P.M., looking forward to the 74. Closed. To the grocery store. Tried Durkan’s Gala. Sandwiches (made to spec), potato salad, Coke, Pringles, sparkling apple juice (YUK!), and a bag of mini-mincemeat pies. PICNIC!!!! On the beach. Drove towards Silver Strand (Tallahbawn Beach) but when reached Cross Strand, didn’t need to go any farther. Beautiful Atlantic Beach views and Croagh Patrick. Postman, single man, Surfers (man and woman), young couple, woman with cane walking her dog.

Home back over the Bunowen River as sun dropped, 4:30 P.M. Opened the Dutch door for sunset.

“Saw Doctors” on laptop.

Turned on heat 5 P.M. Washed my hair in giant tub. Too early for a fire.

Shepherd’s Pie with buttered fruit bread for dinner, at home.

481 photos taken today.

Going watch movie now, “Six Degrees of Separation,” bought last week.

Another glorious day!

==================================================================

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Cottage #9

Bunowen, Louisburgh, County Mayo

Frog and Mice, I heard Kevin say from the kitchen. Fog and Ice, was what he actually said. The Sanoe rolled in to stay all day, today. 5 P.M. now and we’ve been home since half 4. It’s STILL mighty foggy, plus now dark. At least it did not rain today. It’s not too cold now, and the house will be toasty soon, as Kevin’s making the turf fire now.

When we left the cottage at 10 A.M. it was too foggy to enjoy the ferry, plus did not want to spend seven hours on Clare Island. So instead, we drove to Silver Strand, called Thallabawn (really!). A huge stretch of beach greeted us over the rise in the road. What a spot!!!! Now I can say I’ve been in the Atlantic Ocean off Ireland. Actually took a boot full of it with me!

I was crossing a series of deep tidal pools and stepped on what I thought was another rock in the water. It was really an old black bait bucket that crumbled under my step, filling my right muck boot to the ankle. Was BRRRRRR cold, too. No permanent damage done and once back in the car my pants leg and boot dried out quickly. I drove with a bare right foot for the rest of the day, putting on my boot without a sock when we stopped.

Then we took a fabulous drive to Leenuan (Leeane). On the N59, turned onto the 344, around Killary Harbour, past Lough Inagh, along DooLough Pass, around the Twelve Pins. Could not see 100 yards in any direction, too bad, too, the Sheefry Hills on one side, Mweelrea Mountains on the other. (Was clearer on the return drive.)

On the Connemara circle we saw lots of sheep by the roadside, bogs of peat all around, some great waterside properties: Delphi Cottages, salmon fisheries, adventure centers, Ballynahinch Castle, and beautiful homes.

Back on the N59, we drove on to Recess, where we stopped for lunch (fish and chips for both us). The Craft shop and show room for the special Connemara marble were closed for the winter. Our young server girl told me Cousin Kevin Joyce’s BMW was parked in front his house and he may be home. We decided not to bother him. We took photos and then traveled on toward Clifden, turning around at the end of the Derryclare Lough, in time to drive “home” to Louisburgh before nightfall. We’ll go directly to Clifden another day.

Another fabulous day, and mince meat pie for dessert later.

We're In Galway City !

Hello out there. Renee and I arrived in Galway City late this afternoon. We had to drive through some of the, if not THE, most spectacular scenery in Ireland to get here, but what the heck, you gotta do what you gotta do.

Right now I am in the Hotel Ibis lobby, on the outskirts of Galway City. I'm sending this on a coin operated computer. This is the first one of these gadgets I've encountered. But it's better than nothing. It costs aboout 9 cents a minute.

We had intended to go to Galway City proper tonight, but decided to stay in, eat food, take hot showers and watch European TV instead. This is a vacation after all.

Tomorrow when we do go to the City, we'll download the last few days adventures. We have been writing them every day, we just can't seem to find a place to download them.

So, I hope this finds all well and in good Christmas cheer.

We'll be "talking" to you tomorrow.

Kevin and Renee

Quick Update From Louisburgh, Mayo, Ireland

Hello out there in the blogosphere. Renee and I are doing great here in Louisburgh. We have been faithfully writing entries to the blog every evening. However, we lack internet access to download them. Right now we are in the Louisburgh Public Library, where they were nice enough to let us get online. We only have a short time though, we must give it up when the kiddies get out of school, soon.

We have decided that THIS is the place we'd like to live. We've spent the past couple of days looking at property (commerical and residential). Today, we viewed a perfect residential property with Austin O'Toole, of O'Toole Auctioneers. It's a wonderful house with views of the mountains, the seas and all the green rolling hills with sheep, donkeys etc...

Just want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and the very best of everything in the New Year! Mele Kalikimaka to all the Ohana.

Sorry, we've been unable to post our writing more often, but Kevin explained our limited access.
Rest assured, we're still here, having a glorious adventure, leaving Louisburgh on Saturday morning to spend Christmas in Galway, at the Ibis Hotel.

Aloha hui hou, malama pono. Renee and Kevin

Driving Towards The Rainbows

Saturday, December 16, 2006
Bunowen, Louisburgh, County Mayo, Republic Of Ireland

We arrived at yet another residence, Louisburgh Country Cottages. We were given a warm greeting by the Managers, Peter Sweeney and Mrs. Teresa O’Leary. They were a bit chagrined that we had arrived early (we got there at noon). If we would have arrived at 3pm, which is the normal check-in time, they would have had the cottage heated up. Also, Teresa hadn’t had a chance to hang the Christmas decorations for us. We let them know that we sincerely appreciated their intentions, but we would muddle through without all the garlands, hollies, etc. I was only allowed to leave them in good spirits when I took a holiday wreath which I promised to hang.

Renee and I have a four bed cottage for one week. So, since we have two spare beds, please feel free to drop by!

We’ve got a nice turf fire going and plenty of fuel in reserve. The cottage comes with one bale of peat (the words peat and turf are interchangeable) and we purchased two more bales of O Bord na Mona peat briquettes, at the local O’Grady’s supermarket (which is quite a bit smaller than the Stop and Shops and Publix to which you are accustomed). We were also advised that we could supplement our turf fire by adding coal, as it burns much slower than the peat. However, the one store that sells coal in town closed at noon and will not reopen until Monday. We’ll have to rough it and make do with the turf. Oh, that and the electric heat that runs through every room.

We left Claremorris this morning. The Dalton Hotel was a wonderful old hotel on Main Street, of a great town.

Now we are on the coast, the rugged, wild, beautiful Atlantic coast of Ireland. The cottage is down the road from Clew Bay, and Clare Island, one of tomorrow’s probable destinations.

As we traveled from Claremorris, through Castlebar and then Westport, we could see the change in the surrounding countryside and feel the warming climate. Sunshine and rainbows (even double anuenues) ahead as Croagh Patrick appeared in the distance.

Topping the hill, we could see the village of Louisburgh, and perhaps the Holiday Cottages on a distant knoll. Lucky us . . . , signs directed us towards the group of cottages we had hoped were ours.

I would just like to add my thoughts to my wonderful husband’s remarks regarding this grand place. The cottage is simply Irish, the views unforgettable, and the few townspeople we have encountered on our first day, most memorable for good reasons. What a joy to be here!

I don’t know what we like more, the slate floors, the green plank interior doors, the combination washer-dryer, or the "Dutch Door" back door with an interior half-glass door, the views across the little babbling brook and pasture of sheep, or the view towards town and the two churches.

All this, and it is so peaceful.

About 4 PM, we dined at a café/bistro just recently opened in town centre. Today was their first Saturday to be open we learned. "Louisburgh 74" is owned by a delightful Irish couple who moved from Dublin with their children, after having lived in Spain.

The "L74" was a combination café, bistro, jewelry artists’ boutique, (amber, turquoise, silver, etc.), potters’ gift shoppe, and so much more.

The food was exceptional. I tried the Seafood Roulade and Kevin ordered the Tex-Mex Potato. My dish was served on a bed of the most interesting greens, with scoops of carrot & raisin salad, and a coleslaw-like salad. The salmon, spinach and other ingredients of the roulade were a culinary delight, truly continental cuisine. Some Yum!

It is now 9 PM. We’ve reviewed our photos for the day, and since today marks the halfway point, we looked back at our entire trip (in photos) to date. We sure have had a great time so far, seeing and experiencing Ireland, and the peculiar thing is I feel "the best" time is now. This week at the Louisburgh Cottages will be our vacation on our vacation.

The night sky is full of stars (no more rain clouds) and the Big Dipper is not where it belongs, Ha! The air is crispy cold, and the cottage warm and toasty.

We must be on a roll . . . we turned on the TV to find a sharp, clear picture PLUS an old Kirk Douglas movie. The fire’s roaring, we have food in the fridge, it feels like home.

Tomorrow we’ll explore the land of Grace O’Malley and Clew Bay, and hopefully ferry over to Clare Island. That is, after we walk out the gate and over the hill to play on a stunning stretch of coastline, Carramore Beach, (a blue flag beach), into which the Bunowen River flows out to the Atlantic Sea.

"Life may be short, but it can be wide."

Published at Gavin's Internet Cafe, Westport, County Mayo

Last Day in The Big City of Claremorris

Friday, December 15, 2006
Dalton Inn and Hotel, Claremorris, County Mayo

Ten days ‘til Christmas! . . . . Also, Kevin’s Mom, Rita, born on this day.
Happy Birthday, Ma. I’m in Ireland with my loving wife. Life is good!

9:30 A.M., Breakfast in the dining room (included with room). Kevin tried the porridge, but couldn’t get an explanation of any kind regarding the black and white pudding, just "try it, you might like it," so he did not. I should mention that with an Irish breakfast, cold cereal or hot porridge always precedes the eggs and meat . . . . a nice touch, with the orange juice, and coffee or tea with the main hot breakfast.

We were off to knock about Knock, and perhaps find Mist Haven (the property we have an appointment to see next Monday). The skies were clear of rain, though threatening, and the road well marked. We were headed only nine miles away.

Naturally, we could not find the Lecarrow part of small-town Knock, but were able to get directions from the Postman we saw delivering mail. "Take the first left, then your first right, who you looking for?" The people who sell miniature horses, we told him. "Ah, yes, Victoria Smith should be home."

We found ourselves traversing this narrow, one-lane, muddy, rutty road about 100 yards, with nothing but fenced pastures on both sides, and no place to turn around for as far as we could see once we topped the incline. I put that little Toyota through her paces, in all gears, before we were able to turn around. Never did find the place, but decided we didn’t need to look any further. This area was not for us.

I’m still amazed by the building boom going on here. Pastures around every bend are full of development, of ten or more houses (nice, big houses, too).

As the sun shone for the first time since our arrival in the West, we headed back to Claremorris for another lunch at the Old Arch Bistro. Kevin and I arrived at the end of the lunch rush (1:30 pm) and waited by the fire for a table. We each ordered the same thing as yesterday and both of us left with a very happy opu.

Having spotted a Second Chance retail store from our window this morning, we walked up and found a beautiful sweater for Kevin (6 Euros) and two CDs and a Gameboy game. (20 Euros spent total.)

Walking back, we saw Santa Claus being delivered by horse-drawn carriage through town. Good craic!

Took a quick drive two miles out of town to check out the Claremorris Equestrian Center, (advertised in the lobby of our hotel), big disappointment, (it looked like someone’s home with a two-stall stable) but nice drive.

Returning to the Dalton, we parked the car across the street for the night and went up to relax. Didn’t get to sleep until after 1 am last night and may be up late tonight – Friday night, night life, tonight! Kevin’s fallen asleep already while I’ve been writing this update. I’m soon off to join him in Dreamland. More later.

The Budweiser commercial with the Clydesdale colts and fillies launching snowballs at their elders, and then getting covered in snow from the shaken tree . . . gotta love it. I’m hoping it’s international and you’ve all seen it.

published from Gavin's Internet, in Westport, County Mayo

It's beginning to look a LOT like Christmas.

Friday, December 15, 2006
Dalton Inn and Hotel, Claremorris, County Mayo

Ten days ‘til Christmas! . . . . Also, Kevin’s Mom, Rita, born on this day.

Happy Birthday, Ma, I'm in Ireland with my loving wife, life is good.

9:30 A.M., Breakfast in the dining room (included with room). Kevin tried the porridge, but couldn’t get an explanation of any kind regarding the black and white pudding, just “try it, you might like it,” so he did not. I should mention that with an Irish breakfast, cold cereal or hot porridge always precedes the eggs and meat . . . . a nice touch, with the orange juice, and coffee or tea with the main hot breakfast.

We were off to knock about Knock, and perhaps find Mist Haven (the property we have an appointment to see next Monday). The skies were clear of rain, though threatening, and the road well marked. We were headed only nine miles away.

Naturally, we could not find the Lecarrow part of small-town Knock, but were able to get directions from the Postman we saw delivering mail. “Take the first left, then your first right, who you looking for?” The people who sell miniature horses, we told him. “Ah, yes, Victoria Smith should be home.”

We found ourselves traversing this narrow, one-lane, muddy, rutty road about 100 yards, with nothing but fenced pastures on both sides, and no place to turn around for as far as we could see once we topped the incline. I put that little Toyota through her paces, in all gears, before we were able to turn around. Never did find the place, but decided we didn’t need to look any further. This area was not for us.

I’m still amazed by the building boom going on here. Pastures around every bend are full of development, of ten or more houses (nice, big houses, too).

As the sun shone for the first time since our arrival in the West, we headed back to Claremorris for another lunch at the Old Arch Bistro. Kevin and I arrived at the end of the lunch rush (1:30 pm) and waited by the fire for a table. We each ordered the same thing as yesterday and both of us left with a very happy opu.

Having spotted a Second Chance retail store from our window this morning, we walked up and found a beautiful sweater for Kevin (6 Euros) and two CDs and a Gameboy game. (20 Euros spent total.)

Walking back, we saw Santa Claus being delivered by horse-drawn carriage through town. Good craic!

Took a quick drive two miles out of town to check out the Claremorris Equestrian Center, (advertised in the lobby of our hotel), big disappointment, (it looked like someone’s home with a two-stall stable) but nice drive.

Returning to the Dalton, we parked the car across the street for the night and went up to relax. Didn’t get to sleep until after 1 am last night and may be up late tonight – Friday night, night life, tonight! Kevin’s fallen asleep already while I’ve been writing this update. I’m soon off to join him in Dreamland.

Before I forget, again, to mention it . . . . The Budweiser commercial with the colts and fillies launching snowballs at their elders, and then getting covered in snow from the shaken tree . . . gotta love it. I’m hoping it’s international and you’ve all seen it.

More later.

Oh, as we're off to Louisburgh, County Galway tomorrow, we may not be able to get an internet connection right off. But, stay tuned, we'll be back as soon as we can. Slan.

December 15, 2006, CONTINUED

After a short catnap, Kevin and I took the laptop to the Dalton lobby to post more of our blog. We hope you’ve been enjoying our adventures.

Kevin and I wish you all a very

Merry Christmas,

Mele Kalikimaka,

Happy Chanukah,

Peace, Joy, and Aloha throughout

The Seasons and New Year.

There are posters in the lobby advertising music on Fridays, but the desk manager had to go check - Sure enough, starts at half ten. Turned out there was none, so we retired to #4.

One of our favorite things to do at the end of the day is to download the camera to the laptop and review our day in photos with Firemonkey, Boo, Galway, and Huckleberry (the monkeys). Today there were 147 photos. We’re “allowed” to post only three photos a day (not per post) on our blog, so there are many photos we will be sending your way once we return to Sarasota.

I must rave to ya’ll some more about the bathtub in our room. Yesterday, I would have given 100 euros (the rate for the room) for the “maintenance” bath I took in this tub, and today, another 100 euros for the “luxury” bath I enjoyed. This tub is exceptional, especially for a tall person. I was able to totally recline (at a very nicely inclined angle), submerge to the nape of my neck, and all without bending my knees!

We’ll be leaving for a one-week stay in Louisburg tomorrow, after our Irish breakfast downstairs. I’ll be missing that tub.

Of the nine channels received in our room, we can’t find anything to watch tonight. We’ve been lucky elsewhere. Usually, when we’ve been inclined to watch TV it’s for the news. Plus, as I’ve mentioned before, I enjoy the commercials, especially the holiday ones now. There are many American television programs in Ireland (CSI Miami, CSI NY, Friends, Frasier, Murder She Wrote, Law & Order, and more, plus movies). No such luck, now that I’m in the mood for TV. I’ll double check the sports channel on the hour for horse show jumping.

If not, Dreamland, here we come. Sweet dreams, ya’ll.

SPECIAL FEATURES

The Art of Shaving Your Face In Ireland

Shaving in Ireland is NOT like it is in America. Back in the USA, I adjust the warm and cold water to come out of the faucet, splash it on my face add the shaving cream and shave. Occasionally, I run the water through the razor to rinse it clean.

Here, in Ireland, there are two faucets, not one. Now, this is no third world country. Cell phones, yes. Plasma TV’s sure. One common faucet for hot and cold. NOPE, not a one in the nation.

So, you have to put the stopper in the sink (I don’t even know if I have a sink stopper in my house, in Florida), there’s always one on the sink. Oh, and another thing about the bathroom sinks here. They have this series of shelves above them. They start at the edge of the sink top and extend up about four feet. There are about shelves for soap, shelves for soap, shelves for toothbrushes and shelves for things that haven’t been invented yet (these are located above the shelves for things that nobody uses anymore). There’s also a small mirror that opens up to a medicine chest, a very small medicine chest. This would come in handy for aspirin, alka-seltzer or Rolaids (only one of each though). All in all, if you look at this sink / shelf/ mirror thingy. It gives the appearance of a shrine. Very odd.

Fill it up with insanely hot and freezing cold water mix it up with your partially scalded hands until it is bearable. Then you can splash it on your face and put the shaving cream on. Except the many shelves from the shrine to the shaving God are in your way. They hang out over half the surface of the sink. One must manipulate the head with the skill of snake (except snakes have MUCH longer necks). The end result of this is that you end up with a crick in your neck and water on your, no longer dry, socks.

Now, you can shave. Everything is the same as in the U.S. until you have to rinse out the razor. This is done, over here, by swishing the razor into the pool of water. Sounds good? It’s not. What you have done is turn that basin of clean water into a stagnant pool dotted with shaving cream icebergs which are, in turn, dotted with tiny little hairs. Yuk!

But you are shaving, pretty much like you’re used to. And then, you’re finished, of course you’re probably bleeding a bit, since the water in the stagnant pool doesn’t stay hot in the cold bathroom, and shaving with cold water is a set up for a cut. But that’s okay; one should shed some blood when at the shrine of the sink God.

Now, just rinse the face and you’re done. Rinse it with what, the perfectly warm and clean water running out of your one American faucet? Nope. Cup your hands and dip them into the stagnant pool of shaving cream, little hairs and blood. Now, splash that on your face!

That’s all there is to it. The only good part is that it is such a freakin pain that I have found it is perfectly acceptable to shave only once or twice a week.

Ooooo, Look At That !

Thursday, December 14, 2006
Claremorris, County Mayo, Ireland

Seeing as we have two more days before we check into Louisburg, we decided to head South to Claremorris on the N17. OOOOOO, look at that, was the phrase we uttered around every bend! The last thing this place needs is more rain, but more we got. Two short hours later we arrived in Claremorris, popped in to meet Laura of Sherry Fitzgerald, (with whom we have an appointment next Monday to see the “Mist Haven” property nearby. She’s so busy she couldn’t assist us before then. This area is booming!

Checked into the Dalton Inn, parked directly in front, and took our bags to room #4 (a trend, room #4). Up the stairs, and then more stairs (no lift!). We overlook the corner of Main St. and another road, through beautifully leaded windows. We like the place so much we told the front desk we’ll be here tomorrow as well.

We have wireless access from the main floor. We’re sitting in plush leather chairs at a window table. I’m actually facing a shop called “Danai Boutique” housed in a beautiful stone building on the corner, across the street. The smells are divine from the kitchen and the posted menu looks superb. Their chef is reportedly world-renowned. The pastries on the menu sound exceptional (and homemade butterscotch sauce!!!!).

Dressed in appropriate gear, we took a walk to explore the town. The Old Arch Inn and Bistro beckoned us and in we went. Being noon, we were the first customers of the day. We were “forced” to sit by the fire ‘til our table was ready. Wonderful trompe loile covered the walls and the server, Anne, may have been the proprietor. She has lived in the Cayman Islands and California, and returned to Ireland last year.

Kevin enjoyed the Old Arch Inn Special, grilled chicken, mozzarella, Irish bacon, red onion on a bap, with half salad, half chips. I ordered the starter Cajun chicken Ceasar salad. We were both thoroughly delighted with our lunch.

Kevin Here. First of all I’d like to thank every single on of our loyal readers, who have sent us comments (simply by clicking on the word comments in the blog). So thank You Joyce and thank you Meagan.

Clairemorris is really a wonderful town. It’s a city, but not as congested as others we’ve been to such as Athlone. The main street, where we are staying, is just chock-a-block with shoppes. Right now, I am writing this from the lobby of the Dalton Inn, comfortably ensconced in a large red leather wingback chair. Through the diamond patterned leaded glass window in front of me I see Danai Boutique, The Europa Bar, Merricks Shoe Shop, Galmorize handbags and such and McEllin Travel. There are dozens and dozens more in each direction. This is truly the diametric opposite of the shopping mall, and I love it.

Yes, it is raining and cool. But it is almost always a light rain, none of that waterfall like rain we get in Florida. Renee and I don’t mind the weather at all and though the locals complain about it, they don’t sound very convincing, it’s more to make conversation.

Oh, I just came out of O’Briens Chemist, I’ve had my first little headache and the Chemist fixed me right up. It is amazing, they asked your symptoms, your allergies and give you there recommendation. Oh, and the headache is gone.

That’s all for now.

Kevin and Renee

Going As We Please.

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

Departed Dublin at 9:30 AM after our last breakfast at Loyola House, headed West. I was a little nervous, thinking about the three roundabouts to reach the toll booth and the N4, but we were able to negotiate the first two with no problem and realized we missed the third without traveling more than one mile. Ahead, a big, wide, dual carriage road (the nicest so far) with no rain, strong winds, and the beginning of a slight climb upwards. Open fields ahead. Yahoo, we’re “going as we please” with two days to reach Louisburg, and no reservations anywhere!

We made the transition to the N5 successfully, towards Westport, and began looking for a place to stay around half noon (12:30).

The roads narrowed and we passed through many small towns. The rain began and the winds picked up. Around 1 PM we stopped at Spellman’s B&B, in Ballaghaderreen. Although, it’s more like what we would call a motel than a B&B. Kevin’s right about that, but the rooms are large and well appointed. I can actually sock-skate in here, the room’s so long.

The room is more than adequate for the night, with TV and a close walk into town centre. We settled into our room, bundled up for the walk, and found a nice restaurant for lunch. Morelli’s Take Away/The Gallery Restaurant [same front door, same place, two businesses, depending on whether you wish to sit, or not]. We sat, and Kev tried the special of the day, lasagna, and I ordered a tuna melt. The staff was friendly and the food plentiful and delicious. Kev’s plate had three, count them 1, 2, 3, scoops of mashed potatoes and mountains of both fresh peas and carrots. Places give you enough food in one meal to last me all day. Kevin’s taking pictures, you’ll see.

We then walked up the hill to the public library, to use their internet computer. The kind lady apologized, explaining that their entire system was victim of a virus and not working.

Entered the local grocery store, LONDIS, and bought lemon and orange Fanta drink, one freshly baked fruit scone, and one (buy one/get one free) Londis fruit cake. Kevin and I are enjoying them now with our cup of tea and coffee and watching EuroSport. We’ve seen curling and are now watching the Weltcup Horse Jumping competition.

The grocery store will be well attended for the duration of our visit, making our wallets happier.

Good thing we stopped when we did. When we went out to our clubhouse, there were many cars parked. The wind is expected to blow 100 kph tonight. That’s 65mph, like hurricane force winds. No worries, we’re warm and toasty, enjoying feeling like we’re incognito and incommunicado.

Ireland Now!

Dublin, Done and Dusted.

Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Loyola House, Phibsboro, Dublin

What a glorious day! The National Museum of Ireland – Archaelogy and History and a night of Panto!

We have just returned from our evening at the Gaiety Theatre and are still feeling thrilled. Their production of Mother Goose was absolutely fabulous! An extravaganza extraordinaire! Billed as traditional Panto, we did not really know what to expect, but we were blown away by the performances of all. The cast featured the best in Irish talent from stage, screen, and the music industry.

Panto is a tradition at Christmas for Irish families, has been for countless generations, and the theatre was filled with young and the young at heart. There was much audience participation throughout, and of course, the story of Mother Goose is timeless. Interspersed with modern tunes and pop songs, video, and some terrific “acts” (like the fire painter), the show was exceptional. The message that love, friendship, and happiness are more important than beauty and fortune was wonderfully portrayed.

Kevin and I were seated in the Grand Circle, the first of two balconies, and when, in the second act, the lad and lassie finally kissed and sang their love song, the upper balcony above us broke into song with them. It was the most moving experience for me. There is hope for this world, I thought! It chokes me up now, just thinking about it.

The Museum was fascinating. We now consider ourselves experts on the bogs of Ireland. We saw many discoveries from the bog, as well as learning the history of Ireland and her people.

The jewelry, both gold and amber, was simply beautiful.

Unusually large were the shoes, hats, and cloaks from early Ireland. As a matter of fact, when Kevin and I were looking at our photos yesterday, I noticed how tall we BOTH seem, in pictures taken of us in crowds on the streets of Dublin. There are many nationalities here, from Asian to European, all small of stature compared with us.

Another great day in Ireland, we’ll be leaving Dublin and heading West tomorrow, going as we please.

Last Day In Dublin

Monday, December 11, 2006

Loyola House, Phibsboro, Dublin

Arose to a day of sunshine. Hurray! We were hoping to go to the National Aquatic Center today but discovered with a phone call that their winter hours are from 4PM to 8PM. We’d have to see how the day progressed.

Yesterday, while we were sitting in the “Clubhouse” (our Toyota rental car), getting warm and having a smoke after our long day in downtown Dublin, Kevin noticed people with shopping bags walking past the front of Loyola House from the right (in the opposite direction we walk to catch the bus to City Centre), and just knew there must be something we were missing. So, after we ate our Irish breakfast, Kevin walked to the end of Charville Road (going right, out the gate) and returned with interesting news, THERE, was the little community of Phibsboro.

So off we went to investigate. We enjoyed the walk in the sunshine and did recon for later in the day, then headed up the hill towards the Internet Café. [No Internet access from Loyola House.] For some reason, once again we were UNable to use our laptop, but clever Kevin was prepared with the loaded “gadget” and we were able to catch up on our blog.

Deciding to forgo the swim, we took the ten minute bus ride into Dublin’s city centre to go to the movies. It wasn’t too difficult a choice after yesterday. Sit in a nice warm theater for a couple of hours and be entertained, or travel to the Aquatic Centre, take off all our clothes, put on swimsuits, and jump into water that may or may not be cold!

Tickets at the Savoy for the matinee were 7euros. It was a lovely theatre, showing eight movies. We saw Happy Feet. It was FABULOUS! I don’t want to give anything away, so let me just encourage you to see it. I loved it, as did Kev.

The Christmas decorations around town are delightful, but the most impressive displays we’ve seen so far are at the Main Post Office in City Centre. We entered this huge building just to admire the architecture and were surprised to see the whole length of the street-side wall filled with animated scenes - and a separate mail box JUST for letters to Santa. Grand!

Back in Phibsboro, I chose Chinese take away and Kev got fish and chips. Mmmm, Mmmmm, Good. A light rain accompanied us back on our walk to L.H. but we were wearing our gear. No worries.

I still cannot get over people’s willingness to be so helpful to strangers. We have many examples.

And before I forget again to mention it, there are white birch trees here, as well as palm trees. Amazing. And magpies (big black and white birds) building very large twig nests in the bare trees.

I got quite a description of the “Ray” on the menu (under fish), from a woman waiting to order her meal. I might not be afraid to order it next time I see it offered, it sounds delicious.

E-Published from an internet Cafe on Grafton Street (upstairs) in Downtown Dublin

Kevin and I seem to be just stringing together one great day after another.

Live From Phibsboro, Dublin II

Sunday, December 10, 2006

Loyola House, Phibsboro, Dublin

Hello out there in the Blogosphere . . .

Last night, Charles, the elderly husband of Margaret who actually runs the Loyola House, told us that breakfast was between 8 and 8:30am, which sounded okay at the time. But after our lonnnnngg day and night in Dublin it was with great regret that I set the travel alarm to 7:50am.

By 8:00am we were out the door and in the car to have an ice coffee and ice tea (Renee is now a confirmed tea drinker) and a smoke. We didn’t actually GO anywhere in the car. Let me explain. There is no smoking at anyplace that we’ve stayed, except the main room at the castle, where there was a gloriously stinky peat fire burning most of the time and tobacco smoke actually made the room smell BETTER. So, the car is a great place to have a smoke, drink last night’s coffee/tea and listen to the radio. In short we use the car as a clubhouse. Oh, and it’s heated and dry in the car.

At breakfast, we finally met Margaret O’Connell, the landlady. She fed us eggs, sausage, bacon, tomato, toast and cereal. She also told us of her visits to America. If you ever stay here, DON’T ask her about Minnesota.

Then, we were off, again to Dublin. Today’s trip was much better than our marathon time killer yesterday. Our main goal was to go the National Gallery of Ireland. We found it around 11am and it was locked up and closed without so much as a sign saying what time it was opened. We had been told, by a reliable source that it was, indeed, open on Sundays. Renee approached a young lady on the sidewalk and asked here if she knew when it was open. She didn’t know and was quite apologetic about it. We continued down the sidewalk, in the wind and rain; only to be approached by the young lady that didn’t know when the Gallery was open. She had used her Blackberry to look it up online and chased us down to let us know. The people here can be extraordinary.

So, it was off to kill some more time in Dublin. We found our way down to Grafton Street, where a street musician and a puppeteer were setting up. There was a guitar player, who was Asian and an Irishman who manipulated the marionette. What a show! He brought the little guy to life.

Then it was down and around to St. Stephen’s Green and the St. Stephen’s Shopping mall. Oh, and we found a Shoppe near Grafton where we bought an Ireland Sweatshirt and T Shirt for me and a warm Ireland vest for Renee. Oh, and I picked up an Irish cap made of Donegal Tweed for a mere 20 Euro! I love it and our current landlady does not, so I shall wear it whenever I am in the house. Hee Heee!

The National Gallery was exquisite. There was Irish art, there were Monet’s and Picasso’s and SO much more. All of this was housed in buildings that were serious artworks in and of themselves. We spent hours in there and then went to the Natural history museum (both of which were free of charge).

After that we were quite tired (in the course of a day, besides all the walking, there are tons of steps to climb) and decided to call it an early day. We grabbed some delicious chicken ceaser salad wraps to go, for supper and got our bus (there all double-deckers) back to here. Ren is napping right now. This tourism stuff can be hard work.

That’s all for today. Kevin and Renee

Also downloaded, at great expense, in the Chartbusters, Phibsboro, Dublin

Live From Phibsboro, Dublin !

Saturday, December 9, 2006

Loyola House, Phibsboro, Dublin

Kevin Here. I am actually writing this on Sunday (catching up for now, as we don’t have internet access here at the Loyola House).

We spent a LOT of time walking around Dublin Sunday. Our big goal of the day was to see “School For Scandal” by Richard Sheriden, which we did but I’ll get back to that.

We moved from the Ariel House in the Ballsbridge section of Dublin to the Loyola House in another. According to the mapquest directions we downloaded it should have taken about 10 minutes, it didn’t. If Ireland is the land of missing and inaccurate signs, then Dublin is the capital, with lots of one ways and bus and taxi only streets thrown in for good measure. It took us over an hour during which we ended up back where we started and asked “Jimmy” our doorman from the Ariel House for directions. Oh, at another point we had asked two Gardai (policemen) for directions and they actually stopped the traffic in both directions so that we could make an otherwise illegal u-turn.

Well, the Ariel House was a four star residence located near the major Embassies. This place . . . not so much. Maybe two and a half stars. It is certainly a clean place. Obsessively so, in my opinion. It’s like the house of that crazy Aunt that is filled with knick knacked rooms and doilied chairs where no one actually is allowed to go. A bit strange . . . But, we’re making the best of it for the few days we’ll be here. The excellent part of this place is that it’s a five minute walk to the bus station which takes us to Dublin City Centre for 1.35 Euro apiece. That means we don’t have to drive through the crazy city.

Anyways . . . after we finally got here and got our luggage stowed we decided to go off to Dublin right away, as we had to be there for the 8 o’clock show at the Abbey Theatre.

We should have checked our watches before leaving. We were in Dublin, with the usual somewhat cold, somewhat rainy weather by three. Five hours to kill in a city we knew very little of. Oh, and another thing about Dublin, it is QUITE expensive. So, stopping off somewhere for a coffee and a pastry will run about 10 Euro for the two of you. I won’t bore you with what we did to kill the time, but it was a LONG time.

The show we saw at the Abbey was worth the wait. It (The School for Scandal) was written in 1777 by a Dublin man, Richard Sheriden, and it holds up quite nicely. The cast was superb, the theater was intimate, without being small and our seats were excellent, fifth row, center. In short, an excellent night at the National Theatre of Ireland.

A bus ride back (they run until just past midnight) and back to bed.

Hope you’re enjoying the Blog and we apologize for the lack of pictures, there’s something not set up right and I’m still trying to figure it out. But, we already have about four hundred or so to show you later.

Slan’ , for now

Kevin and Renee

This is being downloaded from Chartbusters, in Phibsboro, Dublin at great cost, I am sure.

Sunshine In Our Hearts

Friday, December 08, 2006
Ireland’s First Official Day of Christmas Shopping
Ariel House, 9 PM

Delicious breakfast in the sunroom, where we actually experienced our first sunny morning. I enjoyed French toast with a slab of bacon, smothered with syrup and Kevin ate scrambled eggs with slab bacon and brown bread toast. I stopped drinking coffee days ago, tea for me from now on.

We walked about seven minutes to the RDS, a 42 acre exhibition hall, to the “National Craft and Design Fair” where we spoke with many artists and vendors from all over Ireland. It seemed warmer than it’s been, without the rain. It was a nice brisk day for a walk.

One couple from Inishmore, Aran Islands, (where Kevin’s Grandmother was born), made salmon pate, turrines, and smoked salmon “slabs.”

Another woman sold old postcards, mounted and framed so that you can see the message on the backside when turned over, a very clever idea. A new business for her and selling very well. Happens she loves Florida and suggested house swapping in the future.

We purchased a “Monkey Ball” as a souvenir. It’s actually a seed pod from the Monkey Apple tree, burned and glossed in a Celtic pattern.

Also bought a wee Christmas pudding. I was told it would last one month, thanks to the brandy. Mmmmm, the sample was yummy!

Then we “found” an Israeli wood carver, who married a Galway woman he met on a Kibbutz, who does wonderful Irish artwork. Our Christmas present to ourselves was one of his pieces.

There were so many different mediums, from woven and felted textiles to jewelry and wooden furniture. And then there was the food. Kevin was offered a cup of his favorite Kenya coffee (grade AAA) and we nibbled samples of pudding, pates, breads and cookies. Oh, and cheese made from sheep’s milk.

This Fair offered us a chance to experience so much without traveling out of Dublin. It was nothing short of fantastic!

After a brisk walk back to Ariel House and a hot cup of tea, we were off to Temple Bar (the cultural center of Dublin) by DART (the local rail system, only a two minute walk away).

What fun! The train station was bustling with commuters going home AND shoppers and partiers coming into the city. We walked all over, stopped at the National Photographic Archive, and poked our heads into a few pubs, looking for local music. Trinity College, the Bank of Ireland building and other structures displayed beautiful architecture.

Kevin looks so Irish, tourists on the street were asking him for directions!

After grabbing a sandwich to take away, we managed to successfully find our way back to the Tara Street DART to return “home.” The River Liffey and its bridge was a great landmark.

I’m looking forward to a hot bath, some cookies, and Irish TV before sleep. We especially enjoy the International commercials.

We move to Loyola House tomorrow.

OUR DUBLIN

We walked the streets of Dublin City, my fair Renee and I.

The cold wind at our back, magic town at our feet, so happy we could cry.

But we’d used all our tears on sadder days, the troubled ones now past.

We’ll use these days for the making of some memories sure to last.

The people so kind, the buildings so aged, the weather so raw and cold.

It’s more than seeing and more than feeling and more than what we were told.

Should you get the chance to come, I’ll give you this advice, if you want it realer than real.

You must walk the streets of this old town with the one you love to feel just what we feel.

We Are The Dubliners

Thursday, December 07, 2006
4:44 PM

The foul weather finally drove us out of the countryside and into the city. After our final breakfast at Ross Castle we decided to cancel our two days at Ross House Equestrian Center and head to Dublin. It is just too wet to ride.

It was difficult to bid adieu to Ross Castle but we forced ourselves once we realized that even if we barricaded ourselves in the upper tower room, there would be nothing to eat and we would soon have to climb down anyway.

Oh, the weather's rough,

but not too tough

for me and my fair pretty.

We'll get in the car,

and we'll drive far...

We're off to Dublin City!

From Dublin Port (where all ferries were cancelled due to the choppy water being so unsafe), we called Ariel House and luckily booked two days. This is the old Victorian mansion in which we were going to stay on arrival from the U.S. last week.

The drive along the water was very telling with waves breaking over the seawalls into traffic. Umbrellas were being turned inside out and hats were being blown off heads.

Our room is more than adequate and the shared lobby and sitting room are quite beautiful. A nice hot shower and a cup of tea, wireless access from our room, and free parking, lucky us. We’ve already decided that we’re NOT moving the car for two days, we’ll walk or taxi. Everything we need is close by.

Kevin, here. The Ariel House is excellent. This is from their online pamphlet at ariel-house.net


One of Dublin's premier, boutique style hotels – Ariel House is an 19th century Victorian Residence, old world in style, with all the comforts associated with modern accommodation. Each bedroom is individually decorated, ensuite with bathroom.
Centrally located on Lansdowne Road, Ballsbridge, within minutes of Dublin's top cultural attractions and shopping areas including Trinity College, National Gallery, Georgian Dublin, St. Stephen's Green and Grafton Street. Ariel House is an ideal lodging base for travel within Ireland.
We look forward to welcoming you to our elegant surroundings and affordable accommodation.
Pretty good, huh? We’ve gone out just once since arriving, as we were hungry and tired from our journey. The deskman, Jimmy, said that we were a five minute walk from plenty of restaurants. It’s still windy, rainy and cold, but, again we were dressed for it so, no worries (“no worries” is my current favorite Irish expression). Our walk included a stroll over the Ballsbridge bridge. That’s not a typo, we are in the Ballsbridge section of Dublin. It crosses the River Liffey.

We did, indeed, find lots of restaurants, the vast majority of which fit nicely into the Gourmet category. We dined in one for my birthday and the food was excellent and pricey. It was a special occasion and worth it. But, every day is not $25.oo per entrée special, no. In addition to the high priced there was the LOW priced, pizza and burgers. Nothing in between. Though we did go into one pub that looked just right. Apparently, everyone in Dublin felt the same way, as we could just barely wedge our way through the crowd. Alas finding a seat, let alone a table, was impossible. So, it was the burger joint for us.

The Embassy Grill was our restaurant of choice. It is directly across from the American Embassy in Dublin. We both had burgers. Renee had a regular one with “chips” and there were at least two potatoes worth of chips. I had a quarter pound bacon cheese burger with chips. The burgers were delicious Irish beef. Irish bacon is looks like our ham, but tastes like bacon, yummy! So, basically, I had a hamburger with ham and cheese, excellent.

Tomorrow’s plans (which may or may not happen, NONE of our plans are what you’d call firm, as we are determined to go as we please) include a possible trip to the National Crafts Fair, which is running through December 10th and a trip to the Temple Bar section of Dublin for some live music and who knows what else.

And so begins our Dublin adventure . . .

Please click on “comments” and leave some.

Happy Birthday KEVIN

Tuesday, December 5, 2006
Kevin’s Big Birthday Today
Written from the Upper Tower Room
11:01 PM

Enjoyed another yummy breakfast this morning, plus had the company of the other guests, a young couple from Belfast, Gary and Coran (pronounced Karen), who was celebrating her 40th birthday.

As we left the castle for the day, the plan for Kevin's birthday celebration was to visit someplace so ancient we would not feel so old ourselves, New Grange (dated 3200 B.C. – 500 years older than the Pyramids).

The leisurely drive through Kells was filled with sunshine. First time we wore our sunglasses.

Stopped at the Saint Columba church, got locked inside the gate and had to walf 100 yards to get out.

Once at New Grange we were in time for the final tour of the day before darkness set in. Inside the “passage” of New Grange was beyond description. The cantilevered stone-work was amazing. We actually climbed slowly uphill as we ducked our heads through the very narrow pass way so that once inside, the front door roof box was then below us. We each took turns kneeling in one spot, looking back down from whence we came and if you looked just right, could see through the roof box out beyond to the horizon. This is the spot through which the sun shone a beam of light during the winter solstice. So many questions were answered by the guide with “We just don’t know.”

On the way back to "our" castle we stopped in Kells for a FancySchmancy dinner at the Vanilla Pod (part of a beautiful hotel). What a menu! Kev had a steak with garlic gratin potatoes and carmelized sweet onions. I enjoyed a tiger prawn Caeser salad. Broke da mouth onolicious!

Back to "our" castle for a private celebration. No details to publish . . . . just a huge full moon framed by the stone windows.

Kevin here . . .

I hope you're enjoying our blog. Don't forget to leave comments. Also, I just figured out that we can only publish 3 pictures a day. Since we wont get to an internet cafe everyday, there wont be pictures with every post. Sorry. No worries, we'll have hundreds of photos to bore you with when we get back!

My birthday was the best ever! I can't add much to that.

We haven't seen any ghosts in "our" castle yet, but others have (really). Oh well, we brought our monkeys to protect us.

That's all for now, be good and maybe your wishes will come true too.

Kevin and Renee

We hope Your Monday was as good as ours.

Monday, December 4, 2006 Upper Tower Room, Ross Castle, County Cavan.

Last night’s almost-full moon was a beautiful sight from our narrow, arrow-slit windows in the upper tower room. Kevin and I were sooooooo relieved to have finally arrived at Ross Castle after our ordeal. We were mentally and physically spent. We went to dreamland early.

Arose to an Irish breakfast of cereal and hot tea/coffee followed by eggs with bacon (looked like what we call ham), sausage, grilled tomato and potato bread. Every bite delicious!

With directions in hand from our hosts we headed off for a day of adventure towards Athlone (a college town). We weren’t about to wait around for our luggage, but it was a relief knowing that it was being delivered from Dublin.

Driving on the opposite side of the road bears mentioning because the devil is in the details. The room-for-one-car country lanes had very little traffic and were reminiscent of New England. I had no problem on the “dual carriage” (two lane) roads through the countryside, but driving in the city was another story. The roundabouts were just odd to me. Kevin and I were team driving all the time. Kev kept giving me gentle reminders to stay to the left. Don’t know how one could forget, the rental car was plastered all over (on the dash, etc.) with arrows pointing left, as reminders. Only had one driver beep at us and I only bumped one curb. Thanks to all who had given me friendly advice and hints on how to adjust to the “other side” of driving. Will be Kevin’s turn soon, haha.

The weather continues to be overcast and rainy with many large puddles on the road. Apparently, for the last month before our arrival, Ireland has been experiencing some of the worst weather in recent history. Major flooding has been a problem. My horseback riding may even be in jeopardy if the fields do not dry out. This seems minor though compared to some of the horror stories we’ve heard. Anyway, we were not bothered by the rain since we were dressed for it and had no other worries since WE’RE ON HOLIDAY.

Athlone was an even larger city than expected. Located at the mouth of the River Shannon, too. We parked near Dunnes department store/grocery and we bought some needed goodies because we were STILL without our stuff. A 4Euro scarf was all I needed to keep my ears warm in the wet windy weather.

We found an Internet café from where I jotted a quick email to my Mom to let her know we had arrived. There was no working phone at the castle because of the weather. While Kevin downloaded photos I tried to get a quick trim of my bangs at the shop I could see across the street. It had a big OPEN sign on the door and the lights were on, but no one was home. So back across the street, in the rain, I went.

Next we bought an Irish cell phone at Kilroy’s electronic shop.
Also got an adapter for our laptop and a battery charger for the camera. Oh, and an excellent recommendation for some good pub grub. It was almost 2pm and time to refuel.

Rayner’s served a “carvery” menu. We approached the serving station and observed the racks of roast beef and lamb and other entrees and all the fixings. Kevin and I chose the cod, then the potatoes (both roasted AND mashed), stuffing, pureed carrots, steamed cabbage, and water to drink. Our plates were heavily laden with piles of food. And was it delicious? You betcha!

As we walked past Kilroy’s again, we popped in to ask where we could get a coffee and tea to go. The lady actually walked outside in the rain with no coat (saying she was used to it) and escorted us personally to a little street vendor, around the corner and down an alleyway, all the while showing us how and where to walk down to the River Shannon and along the park and then back to our car. She wouldn’t even let us buy her a hot tea. This was NOT UNUSUAL. You must believe me, the people here are extraordinary!

It was a great day for ducks, but as we approached the walkway along the Shannon river park we could see nothing but crashing waves and feel the cold, blustery wind. We were admiring the boats and such when out of nowhere we saw a beautiful white bird swimming towards us. Could it be? No way! Yes, it was. A swan. And it was coming right out of the water, up the boat ramp to say hello. It stretched and flapped then turned around and returned to the river. Meeting this swan was our “reward” for braving the elements, I thought.

Back in the car, we drove around and through Athlone two or three times trying to catch the road to Clonmacnoise. Whew, the signage leaves a lot to be desired. When we finally found our way we learned that the rainy weather was not the reason it was so dark. This time of the year, the days get dark around 4pm. Who knew. Didn’t stop us, though. We returned to the castle at 10pm after picking up Chinese “take away” in Longford.

A cozy night by the fire and up to bed. It is approaching 1am and we have a full day tomorrow. Happy Birthday, my wonderful husband. You are magnificent!

WE MADE IT, Finally !

Dear Blog-Audience,

It's been an adventure (and not a fun one) but we made it to Ireland, and it was well worth the angst and effort.

We are staying in "our" Castle and it is all we dreamed of and more. I'll post some pictures, including some of the view from out our upper tower room. The water you see is Lough Sheelin which is quite near. We have three windows (narrow ones, as is the case with castle towers) and each has a mind blowing view.

Our luggage is STILL traveling. Benita, who with her husband Sam, are the Castle's landlords, informed us that the airline called and they will be bringing our luggage to the Castle today. Huzzah! We had to buy clothes and such, but we were clever enough to have trip insurance so we'll be reimbursed. WE'RE SO SMART!

Ireland, and it's people, are better than we'd hoped. The weather is what it is, rainy, windy, sunny, cloudy . . .

That's all for now,
Hope you're all enjoying working !

Kevin and Renee

Uh, Ohhh . . . We're in New Jersey, Not Ireland

The trip is not going well, yet. It's a long and harrowing story (which I'll get to later) but due to the weather in New Jersey we ended up here instead of Ireland. It is now Saturday at 3:20pm. We are at the Airport Marriot in Newark, New Jersey (A BIG thank you to this Hotel, they really came through). Anyways, We leave for Ireland on a flight at 8pm tonight (hopefully).


Kevin and Renee

Two, One GO! We Leave Today !

Our bags are packed and we're waiting for the Limo to take us to the airport. It's about 10:30am and the car will be here to pick us up at 2:30. We are as excited as puppies, I might have to spread newspapers on the floor.



We know that so many of you have wished us the best on our journey and we thank you for your support. Oh, and hello out there to Walter and Honore (Renee's Sister and her husband). We just now got your phone message thanks and good luck on your own journey.
(They are in there sailboat in or near Venezuala at this time)

Today's plans are simple. Get to the Tampa airport, wait in lines and wait some more, get to the New Jersey airport, wait in lines and wait some more. Get to the Dublin airport wait in lines and ON WITH THE ADVENTURE!

Slan' (Goodbye in Irish) for now,

Kevin and Renee