Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
St.Patrick's Day Photos
Check them out! They aren't too good, but at least you should be able to get the idea of what the crowd is like and some feel for our experience.
Check back in the future for final chapter.
Check back in the future for final chapter.
Monday, March 19, 2007
St. Patrick's Day Festival in Dublin
Much thought went into the planning for the trip into Dublin for the parade on the 17th. We figured to take a train originating in Maynooth, which would assure that we would get a seat. That part of the planning worked well as the train got so full that it passed on the last 4 stops. Next we thought to go beyond the most popular stop to try and minimize the mixing with crowds and had hoped that picking a spot further down the parade route would allow us to get closer to the parade. The spot picked was in front of Trinity College.
Minimized the crowds at the train station, but ended up 5-6 deep at the parade route and waited 1.5 hours until the parade actually got to our location. Was able to extend my arm to its full length and got a few pictures even with Alex on my shoulders. Eventually, we decided that it was fruitless to stay on with most of us seeing nothing. We did enjoy the crowds and have several pictures throughout the day of different folks. Paper estimated the turnout for the parade at 650,000. Also paper reported that several US high school and college bands performed including one band whose instruments and uniforms were left in Copenhagen in an airport mixup. In addition, the openly gay NYC council leader who could not participate in the NYC parade as an openly gay person, was invited by Dublin council to participate in their parade, and did.
Off the parade route a couple of blocks we managed to find a place with seats to have lunch. Many of the pubs were packed as Ireland was playing a key game in the 6 Nations Rugby tournament against Italy and all pubs had it on the screen. Several of the roads around the Grafton street area had been blocked off to traffic, which made walking around a lot easier and safer.
Carrie had been warned to get "out of Dodge" after the parade as in years past the streets got pretty active as the night wore on. To this end, the liquor stores were not allowed to open until 4 pm.
By the way, I still have not found any corn beef and cabbage on any menu here and definitely no green beer on the 17th. After all the best beer here is already brown. And as the saying goes, "the Leprechaun made me do it", drink Guinness that is.
The next day we planned to go into a carnival as part of the weekend festival. The weather had turned colder and gale force winds were coming in from the north. Nan and I had taken Alex while Carrie and Flor toured an old jail. When we got off the train, the wind was so hard and cold that we didn't make it one block until we ducked into a coffee shop for warmth. The carnival area had been advertised as having something for all ages. All we could find was Ferris wheels and other "adult" rides, so we ducked into the Irish Natural Museum, which is one of 3 museums in the area and they are all free. We managed to stall long enough for the Moms to return and we headed for a pub and later a great dinner at Flor's favorite Indian restaurant. The 18th was not only Mother's Day in Ireland, but also our Sean's birthday.
I am contemplating a summary for this blog when I get home next week. We leave the 24th having helped obtain someone from the community to assist at the house. I will post some pictures of St. Pat's activities when I have first chance.
The Duke cousins, Jacob, Erin and Abby are do in town on Wednesday through Sunday morning and we are looking forward to them being here. They arrived via Britain and Wales on Sunday in Ireland via a ferry and are touring the southwest.
Hope everyone is in good health. We are looking forward with mixed emotions to our return to Traverse City.
Later!
Minimized the crowds at the train station, but ended up 5-6 deep at the parade route and waited 1.5 hours until the parade actually got to our location. Was able to extend my arm to its full length and got a few pictures even with Alex on my shoulders. Eventually, we decided that it was fruitless to stay on with most of us seeing nothing. We did enjoy the crowds and have several pictures throughout the day of different folks. Paper estimated the turnout for the parade at 650,000. Also paper reported that several US high school and college bands performed including one band whose instruments and uniforms were left in Copenhagen in an airport mixup. In addition, the openly gay NYC council leader who could not participate in the NYC parade as an openly gay person, was invited by Dublin council to participate in their parade, and did.
Off the parade route a couple of blocks we managed to find a place with seats to have lunch. Many of the pubs were packed as Ireland was playing a key game in the 6 Nations Rugby tournament against Italy and all pubs had it on the screen. Several of the roads around the Grafton street area had been blocked off to traffic, which made walking around a lot easier and safer.
Carrie had been warned to get "out of Dodge" after the parade as in years past the streets got pretty active as the night wore on. To this end, the liquor stores were not allowed to open until 4 pm.
By the way, I still have not found any corn beef and cabbage on any menu here and definitely no green beer on the 17th. After all the best beer here is already brown. And as the saying goes, "the Leprechaun made me do it", drink Guinness that is.
The next day we planned to go into a carnival as part of the weekend festival. The weather had turned colder and gale force winds were coming in from the north. Nan and I had taken Alex while Carrie and Flor toured an old jail. When we got off the train, the wind was so hard and cold that we didn't make it one block until we ducked into a coffee shop for warmth. The carnival area had been advertised as having something for all ages. All we could find was Ferris wheels and other "adult" rides, so we ducked into the Irish Natural Museum, which is one of 3 museums in the area and they are all free. We managed to stall long enough for the Moms to return and we headed for a pub and later a great dinner at Flor's favorite Indian restaurant. The 18th was not only Mother's Day in Ireland, but also our Sean's birthday.
I am contemplating a summary for this blog when I get home next week. We leave the 24th having helped obtain someone from the community to assist at the house. I will post some pictures of St. Pat's activities when I have first chance.
The Duke cousins, Jacob, Erin and Abby are do in town on Wednesday through Sunday morning and we are looking forward to them being here. They arrived via Britain and Wales on Sunday in Ireland via a ferry and are touring the southwest.
Hope everyone is in good health. We are looking forward with mixed emotions to our return to Traverse City.
Later!
Friday, March 9, 2007
Monday, March 5, 2007
Ring of Kerry & Dingle Peninsula
While Carrie, Flor and Alex were off to Barcelona for combination business and pleasure, we were able to do 5 days in the Southwest. The drive down held little excitement-seems we have seen much of the interior here. South of Killarney, our first stop was at the Muckross House and Gardens. Unfortunately it was closed for reworking, so we had lunch in their cafe, which was open along with their gift shop.
On to Kenmare, where the Ring of Kerry tour is to start. While traveling the road between Killarney and Kenmare we passed through Moll's Gap and Ladies View. We enjoyed Kenmare-small and quaint and obviously benefiting from tourism. We walked the town, visiting several shops and then drove some of the back roads. We are amazed at the places where they put the new homes-on small, narrow roads on hillsides with great views. "Holiday" homes are everywhere, especially near any water. Not too unlike TC and the Michigan coast. One big difference is that many developments are for investment by one person or business and homes are rented out 6-8 weeks a year. Some of these small communities are starting to object to being overrun by these developments which of course take up some of the better parcels of land and views. Dingle specifically had some sort of referendum to ban such within the town.
Our night was spent in a B&B at the end of a lane with a view of the Kenmare River. Owned by a young couple who had recently returned from a skiing venture in Switzerland.
We were off the next day along the north side of the Kenmare River. As is our norm, took several side trips to see water front spots. One in particular was Oysterbed Pier, which had a mansion at its edge with its own concrete dock. Another stop was at a ring fort, one of many around Ireland. Like the many rock walls, the fort was constructed of rock without any mortar. This one had a moat around it to protect it from attack.
One warning we did not have to adhere to was buses. During the summer, tour buses are abundant on the ring road, which much of the time is 1.5 car widths. The buses have the right of way, so cars have to find the best way out. We were advised to do the ring clockwise as the buses do the other and we wouldn't be held up behind them. Also we would be on the water side of the road for better viewing. Being off season, we did not see one bus.
One adventure we did not get to do was a trip to the Skellig islands, one of which had been inhabited by monks from 600 to 1100 AD. At 700 feet tall and 600 steps from water to plateau, it represents an amazing place. Boats do go in good weather and let one meander up the 600 steps, but oh gosh, they weren't running.
We did venture over one pass which locals claim to be the highest point in Ireland that you can drive a car. We spent the night in Portmaggie, another small touristy town. This night our view was of a shipping channel and Valentia Island, who's claim to fame is the point from where the first transatlantic communication cable was first started in the 1800's.
Next day we were off to Dingle, which is supposed to be the better of the drives and proved to be true. We stopped in Tralee for a town walk and tour of the Kerry Museum. Lent some background on how the area was developed and how people lived during its development.
Drove on to the town of Dingle, near the end of the peninsula, and on Dingle Bay. The B&B this night was right in town within walking distance of all the pubs and late night music. A larger fishing business here to accompany tourism. Friday night wasn't too busy, but Saturday was a blast. Turned out that a well known Gaelic footballer lives in the area and sponsors an annual tournament. We were driving the peninsula when it was going on, but night life was a bit more interesting with all the players on the streets and in the pubs.
Decided we didn't belong with the young crowd, so sought out with the help of a local, a pub with traditional music around the corner from our B&B. Not much of a crowd when we got there at 10, but by 11 it was packed. One group of dozen or so Irish men were from Cork-said to be getting reacquainted with their Irishness. A bit of Bush bashing went on when we were discovered. They love Clinton, "Dollar Bill", that is.(called that here because of all he now makes speaking).
The trip around the Dingle was definitely the most interesting drive we have been on. We had a lovely, sunny day, which not only rare, but a welcome sight. Made viewing some of the remote places a lot nicer not to mention driving on the narrow, winding roads a lot safer. Hard to describe all we saw, but when I get the pictures up, you will be able to see what I mean. Of course two of the must see places were the homes that Robert Mitchum stayed in while filming Ryan's Daughter and Nicole and Tom stayed in while filming Far and Away. Much "to do" around town, especially for Ryan's Daughter, which is credited for putting the town on the map.
Sunday, we decided we had done as much damage as we could and started back to Dublin via many more back roads. They even have "scenic coastal" roads identified, which though a bit tougher on the driver, much more interesting then the interior "highways".
We had been warned that the Irish language was primary in Dingle, but other then many signs in only Gaelic, speaking English was definitely not a problem. Learned fast on the roads what "slow down" was in Gaelic-"go mall". We actually ran into more Irish in a small town on the way home when we stopped for dinner.
We have extended our stay until March 24th to further help out with Alex. Business here is taking a lot of time for both Carrie and Flor. Future excursions will likely be close in. We now will be able to take in St. Patrick's Day festivities as well as a Marxist Festival conducted by the Socialist Workers in Dublin.
I've left out a lot of what we experienced these 5 days, but maybe the pictures will help fill in blanks.
Later!
On to Kenmare, where the Ring of Kerry tour is to start. While traveling the road between Killarney and Kenmare we passed through Moll's Gap and Ladies View. We enjoyed Kenmare-small and quaint and obviously benefiting from tourism. We walked the town, visiting several shops and then drove some of the back roads. We are amazed at the places where they put the new homes-on small, narrow roads on hillsides with great views. "Holiday" homes are everywhere, especially near any water. Not too unlike TC and the Michigan coast. One big difference is that many developments are for investment by one person or business and homes are rented out 6-8 weeks a year. Some of these small communities are starting to object to being overrun by these developments which of course take up some of the better parcels of land and views. Dingle specifically had some sort of referendum to ban such within the town.
Our night was spent in a B&B at the end of a lane with a view of the Kenmare River. Owned by a young couple who had recently returned from a skiing venture in Switzerland.
We were off the next day along the north side of the Kenmare River. As is our norm, took several side trips to see water front spots. One in particular was Oysterbed Pier, which had a mansion at its edge with its own concrete dock. Another stop was at a ring fort, one of many around Ireland. Like the many rock walls, the fort was constructed of rock without any mortar. This one had a moat around it to protect it from attack.
One warning we did not have to adhere to was buses. During the summer, tour buses are abundant on the ring road, which much of the time is 1.5 car widths. The buses have the right of way, so cars have to find the best way out. We were advised to do the ring clockwise as the buses do the other and we wouldn't be held up behind them. Also we would be on the water side of the road for better viewing. Being off season, we did not see one bus.
One adventure we did not get to do was a trip to the Skellig islands, one of which had been inhabited by monks from 600 to 1100 AD. At 700 feet tall and 600 steps from water to plateau, it represents an amazing place. Boats do go in good weather and let one meander up the 600 steps, but oh gosh, they weren't running.
We did venture over one pass which locals claim to be the highest point in Ireland that you can drive a car. We spent the night in Portmaggie, another small touristy town. This night our view was of a shipping channel and Valentia Island, who's claim to fame is the point from where the first transatlantic communication cable was first started in the 1800's.
Next day we were off to Dingle, which is supposed to be the better of the drives and proved to be true. We stopped in Tralee for a town walk and tour of the Kerry Museum. Lent some background on how the area was developed and how people lived during its development.
Drove on to the town of Dingle, near the end of the peninsula, and on Dingle Bay. The B&B this night was right in town within walking distance of all the pubs and late night music. A larger fishing business here to accompany tourism. Friday night wasn't too busy, but Saturday was a blast. Turned out that a well known Gaelic footballer lives in the area and sponsors an annual tournament. We were driving the peninsula when it was going on, but night life was a bit more interesting with all the players on the streets and in the pubs.
Decided we didn't belong with the young crowd, so sought out with the help of a local, a pub with traditional music around the corner from our B&B. Not much of a crowd when we got there at 10, but by 11 it was packed. One group of dozen or so Irish men were from Cork-said to be getting reacquainted with their Irishness. A bit of Bush bashing went on when we were discovered. They love Clinton, "Dollar Bill", that is.(called that here because of all he now makes speaking).
The trip around the Dingle was definitely the most interesting drive we have been on. We had a lovely, sunny day, which not only rare, but a welcome sight. Made viewing some of the remote places a lot nicer not to mention driving on the narrow, winding roads a lot safer. Hard to describe all we saw, but when I get the pictures up, you will be able to see what I mean. Of course two of the must see places were the homes that Robert Mitchum stayed in while filming Ryan's Daughter and Nicole and Tom stayed in while filming Far and Away. Much "to do" around town, especially for Ryan's Daughter, which is credited for putting the town on the map.
Sunday, we decided we had done as much damage as we could and started back to Dublin via many more back roads. They even have "scenic coastal" roads identified, which though a bit tougher on the driver, much more interesting then the interior "highways".
We had been warned that the Irish language was primary in Dingle, but other then many signs in only Gaelic, speaking English was definitely not a problem. Learned fast on the roads what "slow down" was in Gaelic-"go mall". We actually ran into more Irish in a small town on the way home when we stopped for dinner.
We have extended our stay until March 24th to further help out with Alex. Business here is taking a lot of time for both Carrie and Flor. Future excursions will likely be close in. We now will be able to take in St. Patrick's Day festivities as well as a Marxist Festival conducted by the Socialist Workers in Dublin.
I've left out a lot of what we experienced these 5 days, but maybe the pictures will help fill in blanks.
Later!
Monday, February 26, 2007
Update
Since we are off Wednesday for a 6 day run to the Southwest of Ireland, I thought I would give a brief update on what we have done past several days of note.
Jennifer and Sarah were here from Seattle and they kept quite busy travelling with the Carrie, et.al. on the weekend and doing there on thing in Dublin during the week. On Friday, the four of us went to the National Irish Stud Farm, which held no candle to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. Nan and I did manage to find the mares and foals. Many had been born on Valentines Day, which was interesting. They were cute.
Sunday, Nan and I headed out to the coast beginning at Balbriggan and working our way towards Dublin. Was mostly a sunny day with only occasional clouds. We were able to wonder the coast most of the way. The towns furthest from Dublin were still quite quaint, but as we got nearer to Dublin, they became much more upper crust. One of the last places we stopped was Howth, which appears to be a pretty big fishing port. One of the restaurants had an article written about it when it opened and they referred to the town being a big Sunday lunch spot.
In every coastal town was a public beach/park area and many people were out in 50 degree weather walking the shore. We stopped at a castle on a hill overlooking the Irish Sea at Skerries. They had installed a huge playground area for kids and had miles of walking trails. Skerries also has an old mill that had water and windmill sources of power when it was operating. Corn, etc. was grown in the area and ground at this mill, which has now been restored. Many sights we visit like this all have tea rooms and craft shops. Was interesting to observe how many locals come to attend the tea rooms.
The "highlight" of the drive was to miss the turnoff north of Dublin to head home and end up driving right through the heart of Dublin. Once again, many frustrations at poor signage. Today I drove Flor to the airport and since it was early, the traffic heading into Dublin was fierce to say the least. I checked the Avis map I had and decided I could go back roads back to Maynooth. WRONG! Lack of good signage derailed me again. I ended up pointing the car West and finally got where I intended to go, but found Ireland's offices of EBay and Bristol Meyers along the way.
Hope all is well with everyone. Will update this with text and pictures when we return.
Later!
Jennifer and Sarah were here from Seattle and they kept quite busy travelling with the Carrie, et.al. on the weekend and doing there on thing in Dublin during the week. On Friday, the four of us went to the National Irish Stud Farm, which held no candle to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. Nan and I did manage to find the mares and foals. Many had been born on Valentines Day, which was interesting. They were cute.
Sunday, Nan and I headed out to the coast beginning at Balbriggan and working our way towards Dublin. Was mostly a sunny day with only occasional clouds. We were able to wonder the coast most of the way. The towns furthest from Dublin were still quite quaint, but as we got nearer to Dublin, they became much more upper crust. One of the last places we stopped was Howth, which appears to be a pretty big fishing port. One of the restaurants had an article written about it when it opened and they referred to the town being a big Sunday lunch spot.
In every coastal town was a public beach/park area and many people were out in 50 degree weather walking the shore. We stopped at a castle on a hill overlooking the Irish Sea at Skerries. They had installed a huge playground area for kids and had miles of walking trails. Skerries also has an old mill that had water and windmill sources of power when it was operating. Corn, etc. was grown in the area and ground at this mill, which has now been restored. Many sights we visit like this all have tea rooms and craft shops. Was interesting to observe how many locals come to attend the tea rooms.
The "highlight" of the drive was to miss the turnoff north of Dublin to head home and end up driving right through the heart of Dublin. Once again, many frustrations at poor signage. Today I drove Flor to the airport and since it was early, the traffic heading into Dublin was fierce to say the least. I checked the Avis map I had and decided I could go back roads back to Maynooth. WRONG! Lack of good signage derailed me again. I ended up pointing the car West and finally got where I intended to go, but found Ireland's offices of EBay and Bristol Meyers along the way.
Hope all is well with everyone. Will update this with text and pictures when we return.
Later!
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Plain White T's
Matt just told us that Tom, the leader of the band, is going to be on The Tonight Show on Monday night. Big deal for Matt, so he hopes everyone will tune in to watch. Will be backed up by a string quartet.
Later!
Later!
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Monday, February 19, 2007
Derry and County Donegal
As I may have mentioned, two of Carrie's friends from the west arrived on Thursday and they planned a road trip. We planned to stay home and sit with Alex. Friday morning, Carrie woke us up to say she was missing him and wanted him to go with. We were free for the weekend. So I was off on my excursion to Dublin to pick up a car and we were off around 1pm for Derry ( Londonderry on some maps) and County Donegal.
This time I had a choice of a Nissan Note or Ford Fiesta. I chose the Nissan, which is a small, kind of square, car. After they wrote it up, they told me it was brand new, with no marks. I thought, thanks a lot. I'm going to be driving some very small roads in the north with an unmarked car. Do spare you the worry, I got it back without any marks and was glad I hadn't noticed until Sunday that they hadn't tied on the hubcaps.
Took bit over 3 hours to get the 140 miles to Derry. That's how good the road system here is and we were driving the next best thing to their "Interstate". We were able to visit the tourist office before it closed, which is good, because it isn't opened on weekends. We later were told by a guide that though tourism is up in Derry, weekend tourism basically doesn't exist, yet.
We had called for a reservation at a recommended B&B that was the only one located close to the town center. Was an old Georgian place that they were trying to maintain. We were able to park in front and leave the car until we left the next afternoon.
Derry's town center is walled. They were constructed several centuries ago and at places are over 20 feet across. Originally there were 4 gates and they have since added a couple. The longest siege in English history occurred at this spot, which is located on the River Foyle, which opens up into the Northern Atlantic through Foyle Lake. Was where many emigrated from to Australia and America and also where the English fleet was based that protected the cargo ships coming across the Atlantic during WWII. They were so successful at foiling the German U-Boats from this position that the top German official in charge of U-boats had them surrender at this port at the end of the war.
Friday evening we were able to do some scouting of the area to be familiar for our tours on Saturday. We ate one of the lowest priced meals on our trip within the walls that night. I had a first in Lamb's liver. Probably first and last as it didn't measure up to calves, but of course Mother, I cleaned my plate.
We tried to find live music at a local pub, but we either didn't wait late enough or it wasn't happening. Unfortunately, Northern Ireland's ban on smoking doesn't go into operation until end of April. We left early because of the smoke.
We met our first tour guide for a Bogside/troubles related tour at 10. He was a red headed Irishman, who had grown up in the Bogside. The Bogside is where Bloody Sunday occurred in 1972. Briefly, the British opened fire on a "Civil Rights" type march claiming they were fired upon first. The shooting lasted 20 minutes and they are still holding inquiries-the last started in 1998 and costing many millions. No findings yet. Our guide was very good. He had lived in many places including Florida, Pa., Spain and London. He was probably in his mid thirties. One interesting mention was that he didn't think his generation had the toughness to do what the previous had done.
We stopped after the tour at Austins for a snack. Austins dates back to the mid 1800's and takes credit for being the first department store in the world. They had a 3rd floor window restaurant that over looked the center of the square.
The next tour covered the history of the town. We were the only ones on the tour, which basically walked the wall with commentary. We learned a lot here and from a tour of the Tower Museum.
Off to County Donegal on a circle tour of what our tour "bible" calls the real Ireland. It was a circle drive from Letterkenny that covers much of the coastal area as well as some inland areas. We managed to arrive at our goal stop for the night to find both the recommended B&B's closed. One did recommend a guest house nearby, which welcomed us. After settling in, we drove few miles to Leo's Tavern recommended for its food and live music (by Leo, no less).
When we arrived (it was off the "main" road few miles in the country), I noticed couple of people at a neighboring table had mussells. I ordered them as starters and 24 were delivered. Great choice. We had dessert and few drinks along with main course and ended up with maybe our second lowest bill.
We hung around until 10 (from 7:30) for the live music, which turned out to be 80+ year old Leo on the accordion. Not exactly the live Irish music we had expected, but was good.
Sunday we got up early as we were led to believe that the drive was slow and would take many hours. Though it was as great as advertised, we were back in Letterkenny by noon. Part of this was probably due to nothing being open, including several craft places which are car is not allowed to normally pass up. Check out the pictures (may take few days to get to the blog) for evidence. Though the driving was a bit challenging at times, well worth the effort.
We took a side jaunt on our way back around Lake Erne, partly because someone with me hoped the Beelek pottery factory would be opened. We had purchased a piece at one of their stores on our last Ireland visit and had hoped for chance at something else. Not opened. :(
We got back in time for the local pub's live music night and magically arrived the same time the south contingent did.
Great weekend.
Later!
This time I had a choice of a Nissan Note or Ford Fiesta. I chose the Nissan, which is a small, kind of square, car. After they wrote it up, they told me it was brand new, with no marks. I thought, thanks a lot. I'm going to be driving some very small roads in the north with an unmarked car. Do spare you the worry, I got it back without any marks and was glad I hadn't noticed until Sunday that they hadn't tied on the hubcaps.
Took bit over 3 hours to get the 140 miles to Derry. That's how good the road system here is and we were driving the next best thing to their "Interstate". We were able to visit the tourist office before it closed, which is good, because it isn't opened on weekends. We later were told by a guide that though tourism is up in Derry, weekend tourism basically doesn't exist, yet.
We had called for a reservation at a recommended B&B that was the only one located close to the town center. Was an old Georgian place that they were trying to maintain. We were able to park in front and leave the car until we left the next afternoon.
Derry's town center is walled. They were constructed several centuries ago and at places are over 20 feet across. Originally there were 4 gates and they have since added a couple. The longest siege in English history occurred at this spot, which is located on the River Foyle, which opens up into the Northern Atlantic through Foyle Lake. Was where many emigrated from to Australia and America and also where the English fleet was based that protected the cargo ships coming across the Atlantic during WWII. They were so successful at foiling the German U-Boats from this position that the top German official in charge of U-boats had them surrender at this port at the end of the war.
Friday evening we were able to do some scouting of the area to be familiar for our tours on Saturday. We ate one of the lowest priced meals on our trip within the walls that night. I had a first in Lamb's liver. Probably first and last as it didn't measure up to calves, but of course Mother, I cleaned my plate.
We tried to find live music at a local pub, but we either didn't wait late enough or it wasn't happening. Unfortunately, Northern Ireland's ban on smoking doesn't go into operation until end of April. We left early because of the smoke.
We met our first tour guide for a Bogside/troubles related tour at 10. He was a red headed Irishman, who had grown up in the Bogside. The Bogside is where Bloody Sunday occurred in 1972. Briefly, the British opened fire on a "Civil Rights" type march claiming they were fired upon first. The shooting lasted 20 minutes and they are still holding inquiries-the last started in 1998 and costing many millions. No findings yet. Our guide was very good. He had lived in many places including Florida, Pa., Spain and London. He was probably in his mid thirties. One interesting mention was that he didn't think his generation had the toughness to do what the previous had done.
We stopped after the tour at Austins for a snack. Austins dates back to the mid 1800's and takes credit for being the first department store in the world. They had a 3rd floor window restaurant that over looked the center of the square.
The next tour covered the history of the town. We were the only ones on the tour, which basically walked the wall with commentary. We learned a lot here and from a tour of the Tower Museum.
Off to County Donegal on a circle tour of what our tour "bible" calls the real Ireland. It was a circle drive from Letterkenny that covers much of the coastal area as well as some inland areas. We managed to arrive at our goal stop for the night to find both the recommended B&B's closed. One did recommend a guest house nearby, which welcomed us. After settling in, we drove few miles to Leo's Tavern recommended for its food and live music (by Leo, no less).
When we arrived (it was off the "main" road few miles in the country), I noticed couple of people at a neighboring table had mussells. I ordered them as starters and 24 were delivered. Great choice. We had dessert and few drinks along with main course and ended up with maybe our second lowest bill.
We hung around until 10 (from 7:30) for the live music, which turned out to be 80+ year old Leo on the accordion. Not exactly the live Irish music we had expected, but was good.
Sunday we got up early as we were led to believe that the drive was slow and would take many hours. Though it was as great as advertised, we were back in Letterkenny by noon. Part of this was probably due to nothing being open, including several craft places which are car is not allowed to normally pass up. Check out the pictures (may take few days to get to the blog) for evidence. Though the driving was a bit challenging at times, well worth the effort.
We took a side jaunt on our way back around Lake Erne, partly because someone with me hoped the Beelek pottery factory would be opened. We had purchased a piece at one of their stores on our last Ireland visit and had hoped for chance at something else. Not opened. :(
We got back in time for the local pub's live music night and magically arrived the same time the south contingent did.
Great weekend.
Later!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Monday, February 12, 2007
Galway, etc.
The trip to Galway on the West coast was a bit more challenging then we had expected, since we had made a B&B reservation before leaving. About an hour out, we were nearing a small town and the cars became backed up for miles. After about an hour, we discovered that a big Rugby game between two countries was scheduled to be held that night at 7:30.
When we arrived in Galway, later then planned, we had to find a place to eat. The town, like many, is laid out with no plan in mind. Streets in 3 blocks will have 3 different names and will never go straight. Once again we drove around a bit not knowing where we were. We kept circling the town center. Finally when we stopped to get our bearings, we found we were where we wanted to be and found a parking spot nearby.
However, once again, the nicer restaurants were booked. Believe it or not we ended up at Cactus Jacks-yep serving Tex Mex. Good food, but not a decent beer in the house.
I hope to have some new pictures updated in couple of days. This area, including the town of Galway, was pretty much the highlight of our excursions so far. The town is 60,000 and is the "capital" of the region. Saturday morning and early afternoon, we spent walking the medieval streets, where shopping, pubs and restaurants were all intermixed on walking only streets. Saturday includes a year round market of crafts and local vendors on some of the side streets. Was very interesting to see what they were selling. In addition to reminding us of TC's farmers market, they had many local made crafts on sale.
In the evening many of the pubs offer live music, some two sessions at 5 and 9:30 and some just at 9:30. We were able to get back from our Cliffs of Moher trip in time for about an hour of music before we had to go to dinner. I had made a booking at a classy restaurant in the morning and could only get a 6:30 time.
After seeing the town, we headed South through the Burren to the Cliffs of Moher. The Burren is a large area of limestone "land". Many different species of plants from tropic to arctic collect and grow here. Needless to say it was a very rocky area and there were plenty of rock walls here as there seem to be in all of Ireland. If they don't use rock to wall off their small plats, they used hedge, bush and small trees.
We travelled many small roads to get to the cliffs. Quite the scene when we arrived as we were high above the water. The only down side was that it was cloudy and rainy off and on, which uncharacteristically, we have not generally experienced while here. We have had many more sunny days then cloudy/rainy.
The sight of these cliffs is not easy to describe and I encourage anyone interested to explore the pictures. Must be quite the tourist attraction as they had just completed a big new tourist center with restaurant, gift shop and exhibition.
They do have a fishing industry on the coast. One area is noted for its oysters and I was lucky enough to have them for dinner. Nan and I shared a seafood tower, which amounted to a 3 tiered dish of local fish, crab, oysters, etc. Excellent and of course expensive.
Our B&B was in a small town just outside of Galway North called Salthill. Instead of music in pubs, it had a few casinos.
For those of you not having had the pleasure of a Europe B&B, they turn off the heat at night, so those who haven't ever travelled in the off seasons have a treat in store if you ever do.
Sunday we headed North to the area know as Connemara, which is name given to the region probably due to the location of a large national park by that name. Our tour book author, Rick Steves' believes this the most typical Irish countryside in Ireland. We found a site that he failed to identify outside Clifden called Sky Road, which took us high above the coast on a circle route. Very narrow roads, but lots of sheep farming.
We stopped at Letterfrack for a break. Alex had lunch while some had dessert. Guinness for me. Was a quaint place. Next we stopped at Kylemore Abbey, which was a large Castle (see pics) that had been used at one time as a girls school. You must have been a big problem to someone to be sent to this isolated area. We spent some time here as they had a large gift shop with a 25% off the contents.
Good Evening
Joe
When we arrived in Galway, later then planned, we had to find a place to eat. The town, like many, is laid out with no plan in mind. Streets in 3 blocks will have 3 different names and will never go straight. Once again we drove around a bit not knowing where we were. We kept circling the town center. Finally when we stopped to get our bearings, we found we were where we wanted to be and found a parking spot nearby.
However, once again, the nicer restaurants were booked. Believe it or not we ended up at Cactus Jacks-yep serving Tex Mex. Good food, but not a decent beer in the house.
I hope to have some new pictures updated in couple of days. This area, including the town of Galway, was pretty much the highlight of our excursions so far. The town is 60,000 and is the "capital" of the region. Saturday morning and early afternoon, we spent walking the medieval streets, where shopping, pubs and restaurants were all intermixed on walking only streets. Saturday includes a year round market of crafts and local vendors on some of the side streets. Was very interesting to see what they were selling. In addition to reminding us of TC's farmers market, they had many local made crafts on sale.
In the evening many of the pubs offer live music, some two sessions at 5 and 9:30 and some just at 9:30. We were able to get back from our Cliffs of Moher trip in time for about an hour of music before we had to go to dinner. I had made a booking at a classy restaurant in the morning and could only get a 6:30 time.
After seeing the town, we headed South through the Burren to the Cliffs of Moher. The Burren is a large area of limestone "land". Many different species of plants from tropic to arctic collect and grow here. Needless to say it was a very rocky area and there were plenty of rock walls here as there seem to be in all of Ireland. If they don't use rock to wall off their small plats, they used hedge, bush and small trees.
We travelled many small roads to get to the cliffs. Quite the scene when we arrived as we were high above the water. The only down side was that it was cloudy and rainy off and on, which uncharacteristically, we have not generally experienced while here. We have had many more sunny days then cloudy/rainy.
The sight of these cliffs is not easy to describe and I encourage anyone interested to explore the pictures. Must be quite the tourist attraction as they had just completed a big new tourist center with restaurant, gift shop and exhibition.
They do have a fishing industry on the coast. One area is noted for its oysters and I was lucky enough to have them for dinner. Nan and I shared a seafood tower, which amounted to a 3 tiered dish of local fish, crab, oysters, etc. Excellent and of course expensive.
Our B&B was in a small town just outside of Galway North called Salthill. Instead of music in pubs, it had a few casinos.
For those of you not having had the pleasure of a Europe B&B, they turn off the heat at night, so those who haven't ever travelled in the off seasons have a treat in store if you ever do.
Sunday we headed North to the area know as Connemara, which is name given to the region probably due to the location of a large national park by that name. Our tour book author, Rick Steves' believes this the most typical Irish countryside in Ireland. We found a site that he failed to identify outside Clifden called Sky Road, which took us high above the coast on a circle route. Very narrow roads, but lots of sheep farming.
We stopped at Letterfrack for a break. Alex had lunch while some had dessert. Guinness for me. Was a quaint place. Next we stopped at Kylemore Abbey, which was a large Castle (see pics) that had been used at one time as a girls school. You must have been a big problem to someone to be sent to this isolated area. We spent some time here as they had a large gift shop with a 25% off the contents.
Good Evening
Joe
Thursday, February 8, 2007
February 8th
Would you believe it snowed here today? Not much in quantity, but enough to mess up the airways and slosh up the walking. We have had such great weather with several days of sun, but cold. Today woke up to rain, which soon turned to snow.
Tomorrow, I believe we are headed for the West coast and the Galway area with the girls and Alex, so I'll have that to report on when we get back. Bet you can hardly wait.
For those interested in my beer drinking experiences, we went to a pub tonight that had Bearmish on tap, which is an Irish Stout. Not bad.
Later!
Joe
Tomorrow, I believe we are headed for the West coast and the Galway area with the girls and Alex, so I'll have that to report on when we get back. Bet you can hardly wait.
For those interested in my beer drinking experiences, we went to a pub tonight that had Bearmish on tap, which is an Irish Stout. Not bad.
Later!
Joe
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Monday, February 5, 2007
Weekend Update thru February 4
First, short message about watching the Bears, not Da Bears. We returned from solo weekend in time to attend the Irish Band night at the local pub before going to Carrie's associates house 4 doors down for the Super Bowl party. They are from Corvallis, too, and had invited other Oregon people in addition to some of the Irish associates. None of the latter attended probably because of the hour (game didn't start until 11pm), but also fog rolled into the area during the day and travel was edgy at best.
Was tough to sit through the game especially after such a promising beginning. One of the unfortunate issues was that we had to watch a British broadcast who used Don Johnson, of Miami Vice fame, as a color commentator and two ex-NFL guys. To say the least they were bad, which didn't make suffering through the game any easier. Wonder what Lovey really thinks of Rex now.
In the end, they did have an interesting run.
As for our weekend, we were able to take the train into Dublin and a tram to Avis in South Dublin, while only having to walk 4 blocks (Carrie took us to train on her way to work).
Rental insurance is a big issue here as credit card issuers don't cover CDW as everywhere else and if you have driven in Ireland or even just ridden here, you know why. I was able to get a somewhat reasonable rate on base level stick shift with a special all inclusive rate.
Having ridden with Carrie for almost a month, I felt I was ready for the left side driving issue. Right out of the box, I pulled a right, left look exiting Avis and almost got plastered by a SUV. We headed directly for the water, which meant I made no turns for a long way. After couple of scrapes with the curb in some early towns, the rest of the weekend driving was mostly uneventful including some one lane roads. Had a few wrong turns, but otherwise it went well.
We headed to Dun Laoghaire, which is a major ferry port on the south edge of Dublin. Passed through some pretty major upscale residential areas and few of the embassies in the process. Some really beautiful "mansions". Drove the coast road, not a highway, down to Bray, where we headed inland to Enniskerry and the Powerscourt Gardens. They are part of a large estate that burned in the mid 70's, leaving mostly just the stone structure standing. It is being restored with patience, but the gardens have been maintained. Of course they are not in our climate zone, so none of the seeds would work in our area. They had incorporated some specialty shops within some of the reclaimed space and seemed to be getting a lot of activity on a beautiful sunny Friday.
Sorry I can't remember all the details, but suffice to say it was a beautiful sight. We moved on back roads in the Wicklow mountain range. I mentioned previously about planning to visit Wickford, Wexford and Waterford, but it was Wicklow and I ended up driving a Nissan, though had a choice of a Ford Fiesta. The next stop on a military road through the mountains was Glencree, which had a surprise enclave not in the tour books. A Peace and Reconciliation enclave exists in this village in an old stone structure that they have been slowly restoring. The P&R part refers to bringing together youth from both sides of the conflict in Northern Ireland to attempt peace and reconciliation. They live very modestly in the area. Was quite an interesting find to include two of the Peace Poles that are manufactured in Maple City outside of Traverse City. As many know, we spend a lot of our time in the car exploring, sometimes blindly, and this time we had an interesting find.
Our "tour guide", Rick Steve's Ireland, had proved to been a good use, with few surprises or let downs. We had a bit of a fright, when we thought it had fallen out of the car at one of our stops. Found it under a pile on the back floor, when we were able to stop and get out to look.
We continued on the military road through Sallys Gap, a barren, peat boggy area that is Ireland's mountain region. After short run, decided to head back to the coast and on to Wexford, where we spent the night. This is when we were without Rick for awhile and I covered every street in this little town trying to find something decent to stay in. Finally found a B&B of some size right at the entrance to the town where I turned left instead of right where it was.
One thing we have found travelling on weekends in high traffic towns, is that for good eating, you need a "booking". Only took two stops this time before we got to eat, but ended up a bit too upscale. Again, everything is too expensive. Ended up with a Linguine dinner, cheapest on the menu, a beer and wine for $65 and the room was another $100. Sure glad the market is up.
Though we thought we had planned out our trip, we are constantly changing plans. We asked the young woman at the B&B where she would go and she hyped Kilkenny. So we decided not to go further South. Moved on towards Kilkenny, stopping at New Ross, where the Kennedy Trust had financed the building of a "famine" ship and had it moored on the river. Was quite interesting to see how 2-400 starved Irish lived for their voyage to the US and how the boat is constructed. The original ship that this was modeled from had a Captain who had a medical background and he had unmatched success at getting his charges to their destination alive.
The woman running this exhibit, recommended strongly that we go back South to Waterford as though the crystal factory was not open, its store was. So off we went in the opposite direction of Kilkenny.
The drive anywhere here is of course a new adventure and surprisingly continually changing surround. The Waterford store was interesting, but they don't keep seconds. All imperfections are destroyed. They did highlight items that are not available in the US and they sell everything they make in the store in addition to some other lines of crystal. One interesting exhibit for my golfing friends is the Ryder Cup exhibit. Not only replicas of trophies, but lots of paraphernalia, like jackets, golf bags and pictures. Nan did purchase a small vase, but not what she might have wanted if money was no object.
Since we were now somewhat South, County Cork was only 2 hours further South, so off we went. Our destination was Kinsale south of Cork. There is a fort there that the British occupied until the 30's. It originally was built at the mouth of the harbor to protect the harbor. Eventually they used it for housing of troops stationed in the area.
Kinsale was a "Saugatuck" type community. On February 3, they were sailing in the harbor and bay area. Temp with sun was probably in the upper 30's. This we believe was the area where the fishing trawler had gone down in the past month. We walked the streets and shops.
Before we had left Wexford that morning, we had made a reservation at a guest house in Kilkenny, which was another 2 hours North. We still wanted to visit Cobh on the East side of Cork harbor and a bit of a drive from Kinsale. We hoped to find a quaint place for dinner as it is the port where many of the ships left with immigrants to other countries. When we arrived, only many pubs (booze only), couple of really upscale restaurants and one Hong Kong restaurant. So, China buddies, we chose Hong Kong. Though it wasn't what we had been wanting, the service was fast and the food excellent. One aside for those wine connoisseurs, Chile wine is their low priced constant on the menus.
On to Kilkenny for the night, where we came in on a different road from our directions and proceeded to drive right by the guest house twice. Part of the confusion was a building of a similar name next door to the guest house that kept throwing me off. These were the best accommodations outside of Maynooth, that we have had on our ventures. Coincidentally they supplied a continental breakfast in the room. I was quite thirsty after the long drives, so I ventured out to find couple of beers and something for Nan. Turned out the reason the young woman thought so much of Kilkenny was the night life. The young people were everywhere on the street dressed unbelievably again because of the cold. We had frost in Wexford and the next already that night. Girls were in short skirts and bare shoulders. Guess maybe they had the alcohol to keep them warm.
Needless to say, the walk through the downtown streets was quite interesting, especially since the off license store had closed between the time I had drove by and walked to it. Did find something in the Irish chain store called Dunnes, which had a separate department for booze and long lines of young people stocking up for a long night. It was already 9:30.
The next day we toured the Kilkenny Castle, which again had been left by the owners to fall to ruin. Again the Irish government was attempting to restore and maintain. Was quite a structure on the banks of a river. We walked the streets for a bit visiting a couple of shops that were opened, most weren't. One store of interest was a book store off the main drag where I found several copies of Michael Moore's new book on Bush.
As an aside, many Irish have made positive remarks to us about Americans and negative remarks to us about our President. Surprise!
Back in the car for more back road exploring. On to Bennettsbridge and Thomastown. At Bennettsbridge, the attraction was the Nicolas Mosse pottery operation. They did have seconds, but discounted them all of 10% and many were obvioulsy seconds. Actually ended up buying a linen table cloth for the patio. In addition to very interesting scenery and landscape, the small towns are each different and interesting in and of themselves. Perhaps one of the highlights here was the scene of a huge flat bed truck carrying a large Cat bull dozer laying into the side of a house on a sharp curve of a narrow road in Thomastown. Not sure how they were going to extricate it, but they were working hard at it. The streets in this town were so narrow, they had turned them into one way.
On to Castlecomer, North of Kilkenny (you guys need a map?), by way of back roads again. We continually run in to long stretches of stone walls in the middle of what appears to be nowhere and crumbling stone structures that obviously date back many hundreds of years. The objective for Castlecomer was a craft house, which of course turned out to be closed, even though the sign on the door said "OPEN". The drive was fun, though I miss my driving gloves.
We mapped out our return to Maynooth and hoped to find a pub along the way that was serving all day. Unfortunately, every town seemed to only have a pub without food. Eventually we ended up South of Newbridge. When we entered the pub, where it was obvious that food was being served along with the broadcasting of soccer games, the management ushered us through a door into a restaurant adjacent for families. Though we were quite disappointed in the loss of atmosphere, the food was good. Sorry if I mention food a lot, but its me.
As for pictures of this adventure, I am going to have to work on that and try to create my own sight that I can link similar to Carrie's. Since it is now a bit late here, I'll save this for tomorrow night.
Hope all our friends and family in Michigan are surviving the cold. Take a spill in the snow for us.
Good Night
Joe
Was tough to sit through the game especially after such a promising beginning. One of the unfortunate issues was that we had to watch a British broadcast who used Don Johnson, of Miami Vice fame, as a color commentator and two ex-NFL guys. To say the least they were bad, which didn't make suffering through the game any easier. Wonder what Lovey really thinks of Rex now.
In the end, they did have an interesting run.
As for our weekend, we were able to take the train into Dublin and a tram to Avis in South Dublin, while only having to walk 4 blocks (Carrie took us to train on her way to work).
Rental insurance is a big issue here as credit card issuers don't cover CDW as everywhere else and if you have driven in Ireland or even just ridden here, you know why. I was able to get a somewhat reasonable rate on base level stick shift with a special all inclusive rate.
Having ridden with Carrie for almost a month, I felt I was ready for the left side driving issue. Right out of the box, I pulled a right, left look exiting Avis and almost got plastered by a SUV. We headed directly for the water, which meant I made no turns for a long way. After couple of scrapes with the curb in some early towns, the rest of the weekend driving was mostly uneventful including some one lane roads. Had a few wrong turns, but otherwise it went well.
We headed to Dun Laoghaire, which is a major ferry port on the south edge of Dublin. Passed through some pretty major upscale residential areas and few of the embassies in the process. Some really beautiful "mansions". Drove the coast road, not a highway, down to Bray, where we headed inland to Enniskerry and the Powerscourt Gardens. They are part of a large estate that burned in the mid 70's, leaving mostly just the stone structure standing. It is being restored with patience, but the gardens have been maintained. Of course they are not in our climate zone, so none of the seeds would work in our area. They had incorporated some specialty shops within some of the reclaimed space and seemed to be getting a lot of activity on a beautiful sunny Friday.
Sorry I can't remember all the details, but suffice to say it was a beautiful sight. We moved on back roads in the Wicklow mountain range. I mentioned previously about planning to visit Wickford, Wexford and Waterford, but it was Wicklow and I ended up driving a Nissan, though had a choice of a Ford Fiesta. The next stop on a military road through the mountains was Glencree, which had a surprise enclave not in the tour books. A Peace and Reconciliation enclave exists in this village in an old stone structure that they have been slowly restoring. The P&R part refers to bringing together youth from both sides of the conflict in Northern Ireland to attempt peace and reconciliation. They live very modestly in the area. Was quite an interesting find to include two of the Peace Poles that are manufactured in Maple City outside of Traverse City. As many know, we spend a lot of our time in the car exploring, sometimes blindly, and this time we had an interesting find.
Our "tour guide", Rick Steve's Ireland, had proved to been a good use, with few surprises or let downs. We had a bit of a fright, when we thought it had fallen out of the car at one of our stops. Found it under a pile on the back floor, when we were able to stop and get out to look.
We continued on the military road through Sallys Gap, a barren, peat boggy area that is Ireland's mountain region. After short run, decided to head back to the coast and on to Wexford, where we spent the night. This is when we were without Rick for awhile and I covered every street in this little town trying to find something decent to stay in. Finally found a B&B of some size right at the entrance to the town where I turned left instead of right where it was.
One thing we have found travelling on weekends in high traffic towns, is that for good eating, you need a "booking". Only took two stops this time before we got to eat, but ended up a bit too upscale. Again, everything is too expensive. Ended up with a Linguine dinner, cheapest on the menu, a beer and wine for $65 and the room was another $100. Sure glad the market is up.
Though we thought we had planned out our trip, we are constantly changing plans. We asked the young woman at the B&B where she would go and she hyped Kilkenny. So we decided not to go further South. Moved on towards Kilkenny, stopping at New Ross, where the Kennedy Trust had financed the building of a "famine" ship and had it moored on the river. Was quite interesting to see how 2-400 starved Irish lived for their voyage to the US and how the boat is constructed. The original ship that this was modeled from had a Captain who had a medical background and he had unmatched success at getting his charges to their destination alive.
The woman running this exhibit, recommended strongly that we go back South to Waterford as though the crystal factory was not open, its store was. So off we went in the opposite direction of Kilkenny.
The drive anywhere here is of course a new adventure and surprisingly continually changing surround. The Waterford store was interesting, but they don't keep seconds. All imperfections are destroyed. They did highlight items that are not available in the US and they sell everything they make in the store in addition to some other lines of crystal. One interesting exhibit for my golfing friends is the Ryder Cup exhibit. Not only replicas of trophies, but lots of paraphernalia, like jackets, golf bags and pictures. Nan did purchase a small vase, but not what she might have wanted if money was no object.
Since we were now somewhat South, County Cork was only 2 hours further South, so off we went. Our destination was Kinsale south of Cork. There is a fort there that the British occupied until the 30's. It originally was built at the mouth of the harbor to protect the harbor. Eventually they used it for housing of troops stationed in the area.
Kinsale was a "Saugatuck" type community. On February 3, they were sailing in the harbor and bay area. Temp with sun was probably in the upper 30's. This we believe was the area where the fishing trawler had gone down in the past month. We walked the streets and shops.
Before we had left Wexford that morning, we had made a reservation at a guest house in Kilkenny, which was another 2 hours North. We still wanted to visit Cobh on the East side of Cork harbor and a bit of a drive from Kinsale. We hoped to find a quaint place for dinner as it is the port where many of the ships left with immigrants to other countries. When we arrived, only many pubs (booze only), couple of really upscale restaurants and one Hong Kong restaurant. So, China buddies, we chose Hong Kong. Though it wasn't what we had been wanting, the service was fast and the food excellent. One aside for those wine connoisseurs, Chile wine is their low priced constant on the menus.
On to Kilkenny for the night, where we came in on a different road from our directions and proceeded to drive right by the guest house twice. Part of the confusion was a building of a similar name next door to the guest house that kept throwing me off. These were the best accommodations outside of Maynooth, that we have had on our ventures. Coincidentally they supplied a continental breakfast in the room. I was quite thirsty after the long drives, so I ventured out to find couple of beers and something for Nan. Turned out the reason the young woman thought so much of Kilkenny was the night life. The young people were everywhere on the street dressed unbelievably again because of the cold. We had frost in Wexford and the next already that night. Girls were in short skirts and bare shoulders. Guess maybe they had the alcohol to keep them warm.
Needless to say, the walk through the downtown streets was quite interesting, especially since the off license store had closed between the time I had drove by and walked to it. Did find something in the Irish chain store called Dunnes, which had a separate department for booze and long lines of young people stocking up for a long night. It was already 9:30.
The next day we toured the Kilkenny Castle, which again had been left by the owners to fall to ruin. Again the Irish government was attempting to restore and maintain. Was quite a structure on the banks of a river. We walked the streets for a bit visiting a couple of shops that were opened, most weren't. One store of interest was a book store off the main drag where I found several copies of Michael Moore's new book on Bush.
As an aside, many Irish have made positive remarks to us about Americans and negative remarks to us about our President. Surprise!
Back in the car for more back road exploring. On to Bennettsbridge and Thomastown. At Bennettsbridge, the attraction was the Nicolas Mosse pottery operation. They did have seconds, but discounted them all of 10% and many were obvioulsy seconds. Actually ended up buying a linen table cloth for the patio. In addition to very interesting scenery and landscape, the small towns are each different and interesting in and of themselves. Perhaps one of the highlights here was the scene of a huge flat bed truck carrying a large Cat bull dozer laying into the side of a house on a sharp curve of a narrow road in Thomastown. Not sure how they were going to extricate it, but they were working hard at it. The streets in this town were so narrow, they had turned them into one way.
On to Castlecomer, North of Kilkenny (you guys need a map?), by way of back roads again. We continually run in to long stretches of stone walls in the middle of what appears to be nowhere and crumbling stone structures that obviously date back many hundreds of years. The objective for Castlecomer was a craft house, which of course turned out to be closed, even though the sign on the door said "OPEN". The drive was fun, though I miss my driving gloves.
We mapped out our return to Maynooth and hoped to find a pub along the way that was serving all day. Unfortunately, every town seemed to only have a pub without food. Eventually we ended up South of Newbridge. When we entered the pub, where it was obvious that food was being served along with the broadcasting of soccer games, the management ushered us through a door into a restaurant adjacent for families. Though we were quite disappointed in the loss of atmosphere, the food was good. Sorry if I mention food a lot, but its me.
As for pictures of this adventure, I am going to have to work on that and try to create my own sight that I can link similar to Carrie's. Since it is now a bit late here, I'll save this for tomorrow night.
Hope all our friends and family in Michigan are surviving the cold. Take a spill in the snow for us.
Good Night
Joe
Thursday, February 1, 2007
February 1st-on the town in Maynooth
The girls took Alex into Dublin for a showing of Mother Goose-a play, I think. Nan and I walked into town to take a walking tour of the old college, St. Patricks, which dates way back and got its start as a school for Irish priests. Saw a statute given by the city of LA for all the Irish priests who helped them out.
We have observed that a lot of old buildings are under refurbishing-another indication of how much money is here in Ireland. Parts of an old castle are adjacent to the grounds and was once owned by the Earl of Kildare who also lived in the castle on the grounds of where we are staying. The town has put together a walking tour book, which we used to try and identify buildings on the grounds of the college, which is now part of the University of Ireland and has a new campus that includes typical programs in addition to theology.
We took a rest in the mall in the middle of town and did a bit of people watching which is always fun. Then we walked to a pub. We have found you can never be in a hurry in a pub or restaurant in Ireland. And you can never leave unless you ask for your check. I believe we spent close to 2 hours. I had another "heart attack" special they call Mixed Grill.
I forgot to mention that while in Portrush, I had Haggis, Neers and Tasties for dinner. Haggis you can look up, but it tasted and looked like a big meat loaf (it wasn't), the Neers was squash and Tasties, mashed potatoes.
Also, we constantly hear 80's music playing in all the public places, whether malls or stores.
We're off on our first solo venture tomorrow heading south of Dublin along the east coast to places like Wickford, Wexford and Waterford. Will probably be driving a Ford. :)
Sure hope the TC house makes it through the cold weather planned for this weekend.
We're hoping to attend a Super Bowl party to be held by one of Carrie's associates who is here from Oregon and lives few doors away. They are starting at 8pm, but the game doesn't start until 11pm here. Hope they know they can get it, because I tried to find it here and couldn't. They may be planning on using simulcast through a TV.
Anyway, here's hoping the Bears do it like before.
For all you Mah Jongg Mavens, Nan finally one a game after going through quite a desperate dry period.
Later!
Joe
We have observed that a lot of old buildings are under refurbishing-another indication of how much money is here in Ireland. Parts of an old castle are adjacent to the grounds and was once owned by the Earl of Kildare who also lived in the castle on the grounds of where we are staying. The town has put together a walking tour book, which we used to try and identify buildings on the grounds of the college, which is now part of the University of Ireland and has a new campus that includes typical programs in addition to theology.
We took a rest in the mall in the middle of town and did a bit of people watching which is always fun. Then we walked to a pub. We have found you can never be in a hurry in a pub or restaurant in Ireland. And you can never leave unless you ask for your check. I believe we spent close to 2 hours. I had another "heart attack" special they call Mixed Grill.
I forgot to mention that while in Portrush, I had Haggis, Neers and Tasties for dinner. Haggis you can look up, but it tasted and looked like a big meat loaf (it wasn't), the Neers was squash and Tasties, mashed potatoes.
Also, we constantly hear 80's music playing in all the public places, whether malls or stores.
We're off on our first solo venture tomorrow heading south of Dublin along the east coast to places like Wickford, Wexford and Waterford. Will probably be driving a Ford. :)
Sure hope the TC house makes it through the cold weather planned for this weekend.
We're hoping to attend a Super Bowl party to be held by one of Carrie's associates who is here from Oregon and lives few doors away. They are starting at 8pm, but the game doesn't start until 11pm here. Hope they know they can get it, because I tried to find it here and couldn't. They may be planning on using simulcast through a TV.
Anyway, here's hoping the Bears do it like before.
For all you Mah Jongg Mavens, Nan finally one a game after going through quite a desperate dry period.
Later!
Joe
Monday, January 29, 2007
Up to January 29-Northern Ireland
Friday we all hit the road for Northern Ireland. We had reserved a Belfast cultural tour with a service recommended by the Ireland book we have been using. We drove the cost from Newry to Bangor, where we had reserved a room overlooking the bay, which leads into the Belfast harbor. The girls and Alex got a front room, bay view of the waterfront, as they needed an extra bed for Alex. We had a room off the back. Pretty hard for us old folks to sleep in double beds that are a bit too hard.
The ride up the coast was very pretty and interesting, except for the small roads. Driving here, I have not attempted it yet this trip, is quite taxing during the day, let alone at night. All the roundabouts where junctions are not well identified in advance and usually you need to know the next town rather then a route number.
Saturday morning we headed towards Belfast and stopped at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, which reproduces a small village and rural farm areas covering several acres. They literally moved buildings to the site and reconstructed them as they had been. Volunteers were placed in various buildings running printing presses, baking, weaving, running the tea room and overseeing the farms, which had sheep, burros, chickens, etc.
Belfast is quite trying to drive in as names of streets change continually and even with a map that identified parking areas and major highlights. We were to meet the tour guy at the main gate of the city hall, but we needed to find the city hall so we could then find parking somewhat close by. We ended up in a parking garage for a large downtown mall. We managed to find a pub right near the hall for lunch. In front of the city hall, teenagers were congregating dressed in US 80's style.
The tour took us directly into both the Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods. The tour guide, who was a taxi driver working for the tour guy, drove a black, English, taxi, which historically are the only ones allowed freely in both neighborhoods. These are the Shankhill and Falls Road areas. They are separated by a 3 mile wall of concrete, metal and chainlink fencing, one type on top another in that order. On one side housing is across a street from the fence, but on the other, houses have a small alley between their backsides and the wall. There were burned spots on the close side where fire bombs had been thrown. An old firewall had been recently torn down, but was being rebuilt to protect the backs of the houses.
Buildings on the Protestant side, which were government owned, had murals painted on their ends which faced a large open, grassy area. Hopefully, Carrie will update her pictures soon with examples.Some may remember the Good Friday accord which Clinton helped negotiate, which freed 900 prisoners that were associated with the political struggle and may have been jailed for all kinds of crimes including murder.
On the Catholic side, a memorial was erected with the names of martyrs and others who had been killed in the strife's, including a 4 and 5 year old.
Interestingly, the driver never gave away in any outright fashion his side, but we all had our opinions.
Needless to say, we all were quite taken back by the sights and the story told. Having heard lots of pieces in the past about what transpired ( I even read Trinity before coming), hearing specifics first hand had a tendency to place the whole strife in a different light. The guide had no hope for any real resolution even if home rule or one Ireland was ever to come about.
Though Ireland, both North and South, appear to be quite prosperous, the economies of living are pretty severe. The North is somewhat inhibited by the need to have products come from England, while the South produces a lot and can import from others. Gas was one commodity were we saw a significant variance. North prices were close to 40% or so more then the South. I don't know how many litres Carrie put into her car, but it was close to empty and cost out at $80 US.
I could go on for some time if I had my wife's notes, but I think I'll leave Belfast behind.
Saturday, we drove on to Portrush on the Northern coast, which is the jumping off point for the Causeway Coastal drive. Turns out that Portrush is a big Disco haven. We tried by phone before leaving Belfast to reserve rooms. After 3 tries at hotels, we were informed that the young go there on weekends to party. We finally found a guest house with 14 rooms that faced the water. Turns out Portrush is sort of a peninsula sticking out in the water-a small one at that.
Nan and I froze all night as they turned off the heat and the comforter just fit the double bed without us in it, so half the night we spent pulling the thing back on us. They did turn the heat back on in the morning for a bit. Of course the family had a large room with a space heater they controlled. They were toasty all night. At least the guest house came with free breakfast-plenty of ham and toast. The building was for sale. Nan had a discussion with one of the owners. He said that property in the area was selling for big bucks as the Irish were acquiring it for weekends and summers. They brag about their Blue Flag beaches, which we have yet to find out about. In any case, the prices were up many fold from what people had paid just a few years ago. We had quite a time finding a place to eat as well with all the disco guys in town. Ended up having to go away from the water.
Sunday, we headed for the Giants Causeway. Lore has it that a Giant built the steps to cross to Scotland to see a woman. Basically there are "steps" of rock in cylinder form on the shoreline as well as columns of them on the side of the cliffs. On a clear day, you are supposed to be able to see Scotland. Was a bit too hazy on Sunday. Carrie had hoped to traverse a rope bridge further East, but it was closed because of high winds. The rest of the coastal ride was very beautiful and quite enjoyable.
The first weekend we haven't had to deal with some rain and it was a bit warmer as well. Just high winds on Sunday.
Understand TC has lots of snow. We are envious.
For all you Mah Jongg mavens out there, it is becoming a hot item in the house. As of last night, Carrie has come on board and managed to Mah Jongg after 2 games. We even took it with us to Northern and played on our bed. Alex occasionally is a challenge as he collects all the discards and considers himself one of the players.
Hope all is well wherever you are reading this from. Jody, we are doing our best to fill up your camera, but it is a challenge to remember, but we do have quite a bit of time left.
Good Day or maybe it is Good Evening!!
Joe
The ride up the coast was very pretty and interesting, except for the small roads. Driving here, I have not attempted it yet this trip, is quite taxing during the day, let alone at night. All the roundabouts where junctions are not well identified in advance and usually you need to know the next town rather then a route number.
Saturday morning we headed towards Belfast and stopped at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, which reproduces a small village and rural farm areas covering several acres. They literally moved buildings to the site and reconstructed them as they had been. Volunteers were placed in various buildings running printing presses, baking, weaving, running the tea room and overseeing the farms, which had sheep, burros, chickens, etc.
Belfast is quite trying to drive in as names of streets change continually and even with a map that identified parking areas and major highlights. We were to meet the tour guy at the main gate of the city hall, but we needed to find the city hall so we could then find parking somewhat close by. We ended up in a parking garage for a large downtown mall. We managed to find a pub right near the hall for lunch. In front of the city hall, teenagers were congregating dressed in US 80's style.
The tour took us directly into both the Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods. The tour guide, who was a taxi driver working for the tour guy, drove a black, English, taxi, which historically are the only ones allowed freely in both neighborhoods. These are the Shankhill and Falls Road areas. They are separated by a 3 mile wall of concrete, metal and chainlink fencing, one type on top another in that order. On one side housing is across a street from the fence, but on the other, houses have a small alley between their backsides and the wall. There were burned spots on the close side where fire bombs had been thrown. An old firewall had been recently torn down, but was being rebuilt to protect the backs of the houses.
Buildings on the Protestant side, which were government owned, had murals painted on their ends which faced a large open, grassy area. Hopefully, Carrie will update her pictures soon with examples.Some may remember the Good Friday accord which Clinton helped negotiate, which freed 900 prisoners that were associated with the political struggle and may have been jailed for all kinds of crimes including murder.
On the Catholic side, a memorial was erected with the names of martyrs and others who had been killed in the strife's, including a 4 and 5 year old.
Interestingly, the driver never gave away in any outright fashion his side, but we all had our opinions.
Needless to say, we all were quite taken back by the sights and the story told. Having heard lots of pieces in the past about what transpired ( I even read Trinity before coming), hearing specifics first hand had a tendency to place the whole strife in a different light. The guide had no hope for any real resolution even if home rule or one Ireland was ever to come about.
Though Ireland, both North and South, appear to be quite prosperous, the economies of living are pretty severe. The North is somewhat inhibited by the need to have products come from England, while the South produces a lot and can import from others. Gas was one commodity were we saw a significant variance. North prices were close to 40% or so more then the South. I don't know how many litres Carrie put into her car, but it was close to empty and cost out at $80 US.
I could go on for some time if I had my wife's notes, but I think I'll leave Belfast behind.
Saturday, we drove on to Portrush on the Northern coast, which is the jumping off point for the Causeway Coastal drive. Turns out that Portrush is a big Disco haven. We tried by phone before leaving Belfast to reserve rooms. After 3 tries at hotels, we were informed that the young go there on weekends to party. We finally found a guest house with 14 rooms that faced the water. Turns out Portrush is sort of a peninsula sticking out in the water-a small one at that.
Nan and I froze all night as they turned off the heat and the comforter just fit the double bed without us in it, so half the night we spent pulling the thing back on us. They did turn the heat back on in the morning for a bit. Of course the family had a large room with a space heater they controlled. They were toasty all night. At least the guest house came with free breakfast-plenty of ham and toast. The building was for sale. Nan had a discussion with one of the owners. He said that property in the area was selling for big bucks as the Irish were acquiring it for weekends and summers. They brag about their Blue Flag beaches, which we have yet to find out about. In any case, the prices were up many fold from what people had paid just a few years ago. We had quite a time finding a place to eat as well with all the disco guys in town. Ended up having to go away from the water.
Sunday, we headed for the Giants Causeway. Lore has it that a Giant built the steps to cross to Scotland to see a woman. Basically there are "steps" of rock in cylinder form on the shoreline as well as columns of them on the side of the cliffs. On a clear day, you are supposed to be able to see Scotland. Was a bit too hazy on Sunday. Carrie had hoped to traverse a rope bridge further East, but it was closed because of high winds. The rest of the coastal ride was very beautiful and quite enjoyable.
The first weekend we haven't had to deal with some rain and it was a bit warmer as well. Just high winds on Sunday.
Understand TC has lots of snow. We are envious.
For all you Mah Jongg mavens out there, it is becoming a hot item in the house. As of last night, Carrie has come on board and managed to Mah Jongg after 2 games. We even took it with us to Northern and played on our bed. Alex occasionally is a challenge as he collects all the discards and considers himself one of the players.
Hope all is well wherever you are reading this from. Jody, we are doing our best to fill up your camera, but it is a challenge to remember, but we do have quite a bit of time left.
Good Day or maybe it is Good Evening!!
Joe
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Up to January 25
Haven't heard back from Charter, duh, but Carrie sent some stuff from HP other day and when she brought her computer home that night, we were back on with sending. Go figure.
As I last said, I believe, back to routine. We've been close to the house, except for couple excursions on trails that are around the golf course. I did make one trip into town for groceries and of course over estimated the weight. When I could hardly lift the bag off the checkout, I realized I wouldn't be walking them home. I called the local cabby, who gave me a lesson in being an obvious gringo. After a 10 minute ride, I was charged 10 euro. No meter running. Add my yellow coat and we have now noticed that no one has a beard. Gotcha, he said as he drove away.
We are all off to Belfast Saturday. Have arranged for a private tour of the cultural and political sides of Belfast. Then I expect on Sunday, we will go to the Giants Causeway further north.
Noticed the weather a bit chilly in TC today. Guess winter and snow have come. Guess we just had to leave.
Should have a good update on Monday.
Good Day!
Joe
As I last said, I believe, back to routine. We've been close to the house, except for couple excursions on trails that are around the golf course. I did make one trip into town for groceries and of course over estimated the weight. When I could hardly lift the bag off the checkout, I realized I wouldn't be walking them home. I called the local cabby, who gave me a lesson in being an obvious gringo. After a 10 minute ride, I was charged 10 euro. No meter running. Add my yellow coat and we have now noticed that no one has a beard. Gotcha, he said as he drove away.
We are all off to Belfast Saturday. Have arranged for a private tour of the cultural and political sides of Belfast. Then I expect on Sunday, we will go to the Giants Causeway further north.
Noticed the weather a bit chilly in TC today. Guess winter and snow have come. Guess we just had to leave.
Should have a good update on Monday.
Good Day!
Joe
Sunday, January 21, 2007
January 21
Of course my wife said to me today, "you aren't entering anything every day are you?", and of course I said no. That is true as Carrie hasn't brought home her computer every day.
We got a slow start today. All got up late, plus Grandpa's pancakes started out as a disaster and took a long time to work themselves out. Always happens to me with different skillets, etc. We did finally have some.
We travelled to Trim today to visit the Trim Castle, most well know currently in the world as the place they filmed Braveheart. It was quite interesting to see how they lived way back when the Normans invaded both Britain and Ireland. Of course it was quite cold still and the wind blew especially hard 3 stories up in a tower without windows. We next took a bit of a road tour, while Alex napped in the car.
For dinner we went to a pub in Maynooth, where we found it full of people watching a soccer game. Must have been an Irish supported team playing on British TV. As soon as it was over, the place emptied. Had great pub food and of course couple of pints of the black stuff. Nan had fish and chips (how creative) and I had mixed grill. For those not acquainted, it included steak, ham, egg, sausage, blood pudding and potatoes. Cholesterol aside, it was delicious.
Next we went to a pub next door, where they have live Irish music going every Sunday night from 6:30 to 8:30. Was a blast. These guys were great and even played couple of stateside tunes, which Nan of course thought were for our benefit. Alex stood on the back of a booth, playing piano and speaking into a "microphone" much of the time. Towards the end, a couple of people even did some Irish dancing. Needless to say couple of pints of the black stuff was had by yours truly. Nan had hot Irish whiskey in lemonade, with lemon and cloves. Watch out TC.
Still fighting with Charter, so don't expect any fast responses to e-mails, but please keep them coming. We love hearing about all that is going on at home. Happy new Grandchild to the Birkholds.
Back to the routine tomorrow.
Good Day!
Joe
We got a slow start today. All got up late, plus Grandpa's pancakes started out as a disaster and took a long time to work themselves out. Always happens to me with different skillets, etc. We did finally have some.
We travelled to Trim today to visit the Trim Castle, most well know currently in the world as the place they filmed Braveheart. It was quite interesting to see how they lived way back when the Normans invaded both Britain and Ireland. Of course it was quite cold still and the wind blew especially hard 3 stories up in a tower without windows. We next took a bit of a road tour, while Alex napped in the car.
For dinner we went to a pub in Maynooth, where we found it full of people watching a soccer game. Must have been an Irish supported team playing on British TV. As soon as it was over, the place emptied. Had great pub food and of course couple of pints of the black stuff. Nan had fish and chips (how creative) and I had mixed grill. For those not acquainted, it included steak, ham, egg, sausage, blood pudding and potatoes. Cholesterol aside, it was delicious.
Next we went to a pub next door, where they have live Irish music going every Sunday night from 6:30 to 8:30. Was a blast. These guys were great and even played couple of stateside tunes, which Nan of course thought were for our benefit. Alex stood on the back of a booth, playing piano and speaking into a "microphone" much of the time. Towards the end, a couple of people even did some Irish dancing. Needless to say couple of pints of the black stuff was had by yours truly. Nan had hot Irish whiskey in lemonade, with lemon and cloves. Watch out TC.
Still fighting with Charter, so don't expect any fast responses to e-mails, but please keep them coming. We love hearing about all that is going on at home. Happy new Grandchild to the Birkholds.
Back to the routine tomorrow.
Good Day!
Joe
Saturday, January 20, 2007
January 20
Well, first I must vent on our Great Charter Internet service. After almost 2 weeks of using it without issue, yesterday it refused to send any e-mails. Only providing a one liner that it didn't send any I try to send. After two chats with two different jerks, I have gotten absolutely no where. The last person suggested I use another service. I repeatedly asked to by provided another contact and they continually said they could provide me not answer. So, those who have written e-mails lately, Nan has drafted replies which are sitting in our draft folder until Charter decides they can allow me to send them.
Today we went to the tombs of 1200 BC. Amazing scene as they were constructed over a 60 year period when people only lived 20-25 years. They have withstood time and are in perfect condition except for some unauthorized access years ago. We also spent several hours looking for a hill that overlooked a large expanse of area and was reportedly the spot where St. Patrick lit the first Easter fire in the 1300's. Now is the resident of an Abby and falling down church. Quite the view and interesting scene.
As the day was getting on and it was raining, we started back towards Maynooth. Originally we were prepared to stay out all night (all of us), but the tombs turned out to be closer then we thought. On the way home we stopped in a small village and had a pint or two at a local lounge which had rugby games playing on the tube. Had a back room for snooker.
We then moved on to a small village north of Maynooth for dinner. At the time we entered the village the temp had dropped to 34F and it was sleeting heavily. We found two places across from each other. One appeared from the window to be a bit high class, so we went across the street. Turned out to be another Italian place. When we didn't have a "booking", we were escorted to the second floor, front corner. They were not yet busy, but were expecting crowds later. We always seem to eat earlier then locals. Good thing usually.
The food was outstanding, including Tiramasu for dessert. I told the owner that we would be back. Seems we have problem finding typical Irish places. The girls found a great Indian place in Maynooth, but Nan and I haven't been there yet. There were two in the village where we stopped for pints (Guinness of course).
Pete, hope you appreciate that you put me in touch with Bushmills and it is as good here as in the states. Hope to tour the distillery if we get that far north.
Will be interesting to see what happens with the temp tomorrow after it being so cold today. At least the wind died down a bit.
Jody, as for grass roofs, we did see one today. As for Leprechauns, I think they all went inside as it is too cold and they heard that the Griz was in the area.
Hope all in TC are enjoying the snow. Get out once for us.
Good Day!
Joe
Today we went to the tombs of 1200 BC. Amazing scene as they were constructed over a 60 year period when people only lived 20-25 years. They have withstood time and are in perfect condition except for some unauthorized access years ago. We also spent several hours looking for a hill that overlooked a large expanse of area and was reportedly the spot where St. Patrick lit the first Easter fire in the 1300's. Now is the resident of an Abby and falling down church. Quite the view and interesting scene.
As the day was getting on and it was raining, we started back towards Maynooth. Originally we were prepared to stay out all night (all of us), but the tombs turned out to be closer then we thought. On the way home we stopped in a small village and had a pint or two at a local lounge which had rugby games playing on the tube. Had a back room for snooker.
We then moved on to a small village north of Maynooth for dinner. At the time we entered the village the temp had dropped to 34F and it was sleeting heavily. We found two places across from each other. One appeared from the window to be a bit high class, so we went across the street. Turned out to be another Italian place. When we didn't have a "booking", we were escorted to the second floor, front corner. They were not yet busy, but were expecting crowds later. We always seem to eat earlier then locals. Good thing usually.
The food was outstanding, including Tiramasu for dessert. I told the owner that we would be back. Seems we have problem finding typical Irish places. The girls found a great Indian place in Maynooth, but Nan and I haven't been there yet. There were two in the village where we stopped for pints (Guinness of course).
Pete, hope you appreciate that you put me in touch with Bushmills and it is as good here as in the states. Hope to tour the distillery if we get that far north.
Will be interesting to see what happens with the temp tomorrow after it being so cold today. At least the wind died down a bit.
Jody, as for grass roofs, we did see one today. As for Leprechauns, I think they all went inside as it is too cold and they heard that the Griz was in the area.
Hope all in TC are enjoying the snow. Get out once for us.
Good Day!
Joe
January 19-addendum
Since I am having trouble uploading pictures on this site, I am linking readers to Carrie's picture sitehttp://picasaweb.google.com/harris34/IrelandJanuary, which includes a few of mine. Should give you an idea of what is going on.
Friday, January 19, 2007
January 19
Today's our Matt's birthday and Alex sent him two special videos last night.
Don't remember if I've said much about the actual house beyond rooms. The residential area is part of the grounds of a castle built in the 1700's and eventually occupied by the Earl of Kildare. It has just been refurbished and turned into a 4 star hotel. The residential area will house 80 residences of single and double occupancy. They are all constructed on half slab and half basement. Walls are prefabbed sections that are installed using cranes and scaffolding. The can put them up pretty fast. Then they block the outside and put on some sort of stucco. Kind of weird for Ireland. The finish work at this house at least leaves something to be desired. We are the first occupants and I don't think it got much of a shakedown, but it is nice. Hot water heat that works so good we don't use it in the bedroom. In the bathroom they use hot water heated towel dryers instead of registers. Works great. Bedrooms are carpeted while the halls, baths and kitchen are tile. What's amazing is that they run $1 to 1.3 million (yep dollars). May be worth $500 in the states.
Though I'm sure it's getting old, we walked about half way to town today to feed the ducks and swan in the canal. They aren't very friendly and aren't interested in the bread crusts that Alex doesn't eat from his PB&J sandwiches, but at least we are getting out. If anyone has been watching the European weather, you'll know that the wind storm that went through here past few days has done lots of damage, but mostly on the mainland. They are losing a lot of trees in this residential area, but it is probably because of the short root systems, wet and loose ground. So far haven't seen any hit any of the houses or any other property, but the tree guys are making it big time.
We escorted Alex to a Play Zone with the girls tonight. He really had a ball, but it's only open to 6 as is most other retail except for a 24 hour market and restaurants and pubs.
Nan has begun reading a book about Ireland today and it has some amazing facts. They have practically 0 unemployment and tradesmen, especially in the construction area, are making more then professionals including Drs. The demand is so great.
We are off to some tombs north of Dublin tomorrow that date to 1200 BC. Hope to journey a bit of countryside too. Don't know if we're out for one or two days.
We gave the girls a night out tonight.
Glad to see the snow gang getting it in TC. That we miss big time, though we are getting plenty of cold.
Hope to have some pictures out soon. May still try tonight.
Good Day!
Joe
Don't remember if I've said much about the actual house beyond rooms. The residential area is part of the grounds of a castle built in the 1700's and eventually occupied by the Earl of Kildare. It has just been refurbished and turned into a 4 star hotel. The residential area will house 80 residences of single and double occupancy. They are all constructed on half slab and half basement. Walls are prefabbed sections that are installed using cranes and scaffolding. The can put them up pretty fast. Then they block the outside and put on some sort of stucco. Kind of weird for Ireland. The finish work at this house at least leaves something to be desired. We are the first occupants and I don't think it got much of a shakedown, but it is nice. Hot water heat that works so good we don't use it in the bedroom. In the bathroom they use hot water heated towel dryers instead of registers. Works great. Bedrooms are carpeted while the halls, baths and kitchen are tile. What's amazing is that they run $1 to 1.3 million (yep dollars). May be worth $500 in the states.
Though I'm sure it's getting old, we walked about half way to town today to feed the ducks and swan in the canal. They aren't very friendly and aren't interested in the bread crusts that Alex doesn't eat from his PB&J sandwiches, but at least we are getting out. If anyone has been watching the European weather, you'll know that the wind storm that went through here past few days has done lots of damage, but mostly on the mainland. They are losing a lot of trees in this residential area, but it is probably because of the short root systems, wet and loose ground. So far haven't seen any hit any of the houses or any other property, but the tree guys are making it big time.
We escorted Alex to a Play Zone with the girls tonight. He really had a ball, but it's only open to 6 as is most other retail except for a 24 hour market and restaurants and pubs.
Nan has begun reading a book about Ireland today and it has some amazing facts. They have practically 0 unemployment and tradesmen, especially in the construction area, are making more then professionals including Drs. The demand is so great.
We are off to some tombs north of Dublin tomorrow that date to 1200 BC. Hope to journey a bit of countryside too. Don't know if we're out for one or two days.
We gave the girls a night out tonight.
Glad to see the snow gang getting it in TC. That we miss big time, though we are getting plenty of cold.
Hope to have some pictures out soon. May still try tonight.
Good Day!
Joe
Thursday, January 18, 2007
January 17/18
The weather has kept us close to the house. Yesterday, the crate came with all the goods the girls had shipped, so we spent a lot of time unpacking and assembling kid table, shelving, computers, printers, trikes, Birley, etc. Besides, someone at work had loaned Carrie a slide, so I put it together. Unfortunately, Alex wanted nothing of it.
All you Mah Jong mavens will be glad to hear that I'm back on. Won 3 out of 5 last night. Alex has taken an interest. He organizes all the discards. He called us today while we were in town, asking that we hurry home as he was ready to play.
We woke up to a gale force wind that when it occurs takes trees out in the area. One guy lucked out as his high end Mercedes was a whiskers from getting hit by one of the falling trees. The slide I put together yesterday ended up in the middle of the next lot, which is all plowed up-meaning it just didn't slide over there. It must of rolled.
The old limbs were a bit sore today for the first time. Not sure what that means. We went into town though the wind was really blowing and the temp was about 45F. This home has a central vacuum, which works pretty good, except for having to drag the long length of hose around.
Not sure where we are going this weekend. Have been trying to reach this taxi driver in Belfast to give us a tour. He was recommended in our book, but he doesn't answer his e-mails or his phone.
Appears I have to download some pictures onto the computer before I can load them up. Not getting access very much, so it is a bit difficult.
Granny and Carrie just took pictures of Flor and I working side by side on computers. So funny.
In addition to the previous mention, Alex has many more toys to play with and the girls finally have more then one pair of shoes to wear.
Judy A., thanks for the compliment. Feel I should do a special Irish version just for you, but I need more time.
Good Day!!
Joe
All you Mah Jong mavens will be glad to hear that I'm back on. Won 3 out of 5 last night. Alex has taken an interest. He organizes all the discards. He called us today while we were in town, asking that we hurry home as he was ready to play.
We woke up to a gale force wind that when it occurs takes trees out in the area. One guy lucked out as his high end Mercedes was a whiskers from getting hit by one of the falling trees. The slide I put together yesterday ended up in the middle of the next lot, which is all plowed up-meaning it just didn't slide over there. It must of rolled.
The old limbs were a bit sore today for the first time. Not sure what that means. We went into town though the wind was really blowing and the temp was about 45F. This home has a central vacuum, which works pretty good, except for having to drag the long length of hose around.
Not sure where we are going this weekend. Have been trying to reach this taxi driver in Belfast to give us a tour. He was recommended in our book, but he doesn't answer his e-mails or his phone.
Appears I have to download some pictures onto the computer before I can load them up. Not getting access very much, so it is a bit difficult.
Granny and Carrie just took pictures of Flor and I working side by side on computers. So funny.
In addition to the previous mention, Alex has many more toys to play with and the girls finally have more then one pair of shoes to wear.
Judy A., thanks for the compliment. Feel I should do a special Irish version just for you, but I need more time.
Good Day!!
Joe
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
January 15/16
On Monday, a holiday in the US, found us hiking to Maynooth for an excursion, while Flor stayed with Alex. We ended up on our feet for 2 hours in town in addition to the 40 minute each way hike in to town. Needless to say we were quite bushed when we got back to the house. We did tour the town a bit and did some grocery shopping. Seems we can't plan too far ahead and need to go to store almost daily.
Unfortunately for me, we purchased couple of bottles of wine, 5 pounds of flour, half gallon of milk and few other goodies that ended up weighing in at quite a sum. They encourage bringing your own bags by not providing you any, so we had brought a small version, not expecting to get so carried away. Needless to say it made the 40 minute walk back to the house a long one with the added weight. The Fit For You Gym was much easier.
The highlight of every evening for Alex is the street sweeper that comes through cleaning up the mud that the construction vehicles leave behind. This area will be a very nice residential place when the houses are finished. In the meantime, mud is the word.
I did find out today that the golf course charges 75 Euro to 115 Euro during the week and 135 Euro on weekends and because of the heavy rains, no wheeled golf carts are allowed on the course, so they pull carts.
Today we heard that the crate from Oregon is to arrive with all the other goodies. Alex is really in need of some more toys.
We took Alex and some bread crumbs down to the water to feed ducks and swans today. I went on into town to pick up couple of things for dinner that we didn't buy yesterday.
Guess that's all for now.
Joe
Unfortunately for me, we purchased couple of bottles of wine, 5 pounds of flour, half gallon of milk and few other goodies that ended up weighing in at quite a sum. They encourage bringing your own bags by not providing you any, so we had brought a small version, not expecting to get so carried away. Needless to say it made the 40 minute walk back to the house a long one with the added weight. The Fit For You Gym was much easier.
The highlight of every evening for Alex is the street sweeper that comes through cleaning up the mud that the construction vehicles leave behind. This area will be a very nice residential place when the houses are finished. In the meantime, mud is the word.
I did find out today that the golf course charges 75 Euro to 115 Euro during the week and 135 Euro on weekends and because of the heavy rains, no wheeled golf carts are allowed on the course, so they pull carts.
Today we heard that the crate from Oregon is to arrive with all the other goodies. Alex is really in need of some more toys.
We took Alex and some bread crumbs down to the water to feed ducks and swans today. I went on into town to pick up couple of things for dinner that we didn't buy yesterday.
Guess that's all for now.
Joe
Sunday, January 14, 2007
January 14-Dublin again
First I must say "GO BEARS" as I just heard from Matt that they won. Will check out the details when I'm done here.
Nan and I went back to Dublin today to try and finish what we wanted to do. Got an hour later start then expected because we didn't know there were two platforms at Maynooth train station. Sat and watched our train leave. Most of the trains from Dublin stop at Maynooth and return to Dublin. Visited the old jail where those involved in the uprising in 1916 were executed. Dates back to the 1700's. British rule sent many to prison for stealing bread. If they were children, they were sentenced to time, flogging and reform school for years. During the famines, citizens would do something to get in as they got food.
Visited O'Connell street as well and had dinner by accident at an Italian restaurant which didn't serve any Irish beer, only Heinkens, Peroni and Budweiser. Can't believe how many Budweiser, not Bud, signs there are around the country. Also saw Coors Light in the grocery tonight.
Grocery has been quite the experience for all of us. Finally found some non-flavored, no fat yogurt and maple syrup today. Wanted to do pancakes this morning, but hadn't been able to find any syrup and no one wanted to do them dry. Even went online to find a homemade receipe, but even that required maple extract.
Carrie and family went to an India restaurant tonight in Maynooth and were quite pleased. So far the food out has been much better then in Scotland and England. Far from bland for sure.
Have discovered that the houses in this complex have concrete floors on all levels and outside walls are sections prefabbed and hung in place in some manner. In any case, even with lots of windows, they are very quiet. Definitely can't hear things from one floor to the other.
Lots of golfers today on the course. Day was sunny all day, but cold. Was supposed to have been up to 50 in Dublin, but the wind was so strong, felt much colder. Was around 36 when we got back from Dublin around 7pm.
Tried to video conference with Sean and family today. Sean's first effort. Once he got signed on, we did connect, but the connection was like a news show from the far east and then he crashed. We hope to give it another shot. Was good to see them in any case. Carrie also discovered that her DSL connection here doesn't appear up to snuff and needs to be checked out.
Nan has yet to view any of the e-mails or even my postings yet, but she intends to soon. I've told her no critiques of these for sure.
Expect we are to start our "Nannying" for sure tomorrow. Since Flor didn't have Internet service most of last week and we were adjusting to time, not much was done to routine. We also hope to get on to our 3 day travelling next weekend, so we'll be planning for that.
Guess that's all for now. Glad to hear from some of you. Still can't seem to get out to everyone about the blog address as I can't send e-mails to some. I'll keep working on it though.
Hope all is well.
Joe
Nan and I went back to Dublin today to try and finish what we wanted to do. Got an hour later start then expected because we didn't know there were two platforms at Maynooth train station. Sat and watched our train leave. Most of the trains from Dublin stop at Maynooth and return to Dublin. Visited the old jail where those involved in the uprising in 1916 were executed. Dates back to the 1700's. British rule sent many to prison for stealing bread. If they were children, they were sentenced to time, flogging and reform school for years. During the famines, citizens would do something to get in as they got food.
Visited O'Connell street as well and had dinner by accident at an Italian restaurant which didn't serve any Irish beer, only Heinkens, Peroni and Budweiser. Can't believe how many Budweiser, not Bud, signs there are around the country. Also saw Coors Light in the grocery tonight.
Grocery has been quite the experience for all of us. Finally found some non-flavored, no fat yogurt and maple syrup today. Wanted to do pancakes this morning, but hadn't been able to find any syrup and no one wanted to do them dry. Even went online to find a homemade receipe, but even that required maple extract.
Carrie and family went to an India restaurant tonight in Maynooth and were quite pleased. So far the food out has been much better then in Scotland and England. Far from bland for sure.
Have discovered that the houses in this complex have concrete floors on all levels and outside walls are sections prefabbed and hung in place in some manner. In any case, even with lots of windows, they are very quiet. Definitely can't hear things from one floor to the other.
Lots of golfers today on the course. Day was sunny all day, but cold. Was supposed to have been up to 50 in Dublin, but the wind was so strong, felt much colder. Was around 36 when we got back from Dublin around 7pm.
Tried to video conference with Sean and family today. Sean's first effort. Once he got signed on, we did connect, but the connection was like a news show from the far east and then he crashed. We hope to give it another shot. Was good to see them in any case. Carrie also discovered that her DSL connection here doesn't appear up to snuff and needs to be checked out.
Nan has yet to view any of the e-mails or even my postings yet, but she intends to soon. I've told her no critiques of these for sure.
Expect we are to start our "Nannying" for sure tomorrow. Since Flor didn't have Internet service most of last week and we were adjusting to time, not much was done to routine. We also hope to get on to our 3 day travelling next weekend, so we'll be planning for that.
Guess that's all for now. Glad to hear from some of you. Still can't seem to get out to everyone about the blog address as I can't send e-mails to some. I'll keep working on it though.
Hope all is well.
Joe
Saturday, January 13, 2007
January 13-Dublin
Spent the day in Dublin with Carrie, Flor and Alex. I realized that I hadn't explained what we are doing in Ireland for those who may not know. Carrie is on a 3 month assignment with HP here setting up a new production line and Nan and I were invited to be Nannies. We are not certain exactly how long we will be here, but have booked return flight for March 6.
Took the train into Dublin-only 40 minutes to downtown. Was able to walk to all the major sights. After lunch at a neat pub and my first Guinness, we trekked over to Grafton Street, their pedestrian mall with lots of shopping. We then went to tourism center to obtain lots of literature. Then we went to the Book of Kiels in Trinity University. Quite interesting.
Next we visited Dublin Castle. Alex wouldn't sit on the King's throne for a unique picture. We finished the day off at Gallaghers Boxty restaurant, where they specialize in Murphy's Irish Stout and Boxty dinners. Boxty refers to a rolled pancake filled with your choice of filling. Carrie had lamb, I had Cornbeef and Cabbage and Flor had chicken. Nan had a seafood stew. All were wonderful, but they say I never met a meal I didn't like.
We only got caught in a bad rain once and all our wet gear seemed to hold up pretty well as we hadn't brought umbrellas.
I hope to add some pictures soon. Hope this finds all well. The golf courses on the grounds where we are have a membership fee of $55,000. Needless to say that sort of explains why they play year round, in the rain and wind. Have seem some on the course every day we have been here, but today, Saturday, there were many more then usual.
Hope everyone got the notice of the blog sight. Had much trouble with Charter. They were very selective in sending to certain e-mail addresses. I thank Matt, Jody, Cindi and Louise for helping to get the word out.
Guess that's all for now.
Joe
Took the train into Dublin-only 40 minutes to downtown. Was able to walk to all the major sights. After lunch at a neat pub and my first Guinness, we trekked over to Grafton Street, their pedestrian mall with lots of shopping. We then went to tourism center to obtain lots of literature. Then we went to the Book of Kiels in Trinity University. Quite interesting.
Next we visited Dublin Castle. Alex wouldn't sit on the King's throne for a unique picture. We finished the day off at Gallaghers Boxty restaurant, where they specialize in Murphy's Irish Stout and Boxty dinners. Boxty refers to a rolled pancake filled with your choice of filling. Carrie had lamb, I had Cornbeef and Cabbage and Flor had chicken. Nan had a seafood stew. All were wonderful, but they say I never met a meal I didn't like.
We only got caught in a bad rain once and all our wet gear seemed to hold up pretty well as we hadn't brought umbrellas.
I hope to add some pictures soon. Hope this finds all well. The golf courses on the grounds where we are have a membership fee of $55,000. Needless to say that sort of explains why they play year round, in the rain and wind. Have seem some on the course every day we have been here, but today, Saturday, there were many more then usual.
Hope everyone got the notice of the blog sight. Had much trouble with Charter. They were very selective in sending to certain e-mail addresses. I thank Matt, Jody, Cindi and Louise for helping to get the word out.
Guess that's all for now.
Joe
Friday, January 12, 2007
Up to January 12
Here is our first experience at writing in the blog. As some of you know, we arrived early on the 9th right on schedule at Dublin airport and Carrie was there to meet us. When we arrived in Maynooth, Alex and Flor were at the door to greet us. As many would know, that first day was quite long. We both managed to stay up (oops, Granny had a nap) most of the day. I woke up at 3 a.m. and had to get up. That day was long, too.
On the 10th, we walked into town pushing Alex in stroller in place of the gym. Since it was 40 minutes one way, feel as though we had our exercise.
The golf courses (2) that we are near are being used, though sparingly. They appear to be fairly challenging even without the 40mph winds that have been blowing last two days. Today we walked around the grounds of the castle/hotel and some of the golf course.
For all you Mah Jong mavens, I beat Nan at the first game she taught me. Paid heavily as she hasn't allowed me to win since.
The house is more then adequate, with 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. We are occupying the downstairs master with our own bathroom. Even has doors to the outside.
Haven't had opportunity to test the Guinness, but have has some cider and Gaelic beer.
Plan to go into Dublin tomorrow for some fun.
The weather has been constant change. Rain, wind, cold warm and all combinations of those.
Will try to improve this site as time goes on. Just got Internet service in the house last night plus availability of computers limits time on. One little quirk, I bought calling card, which doesn't allow me to access home voice mail because of the use of sequential pound keys. Was the major reason I bought the card. Have also acquired Irish cell, since we are out with Alex from time to time and for use while we are travelling.
Quite a bit of construction around us in the subdivision, so Alex sees lots of construction machinery. They sweep the drives every day with a street sweeper(one of his favorites). Seems funny as they are sweeping mud.
Hope this finds readers well.
Later!
Joe
On the 10th, we walked into town pushing Alex in stroller in place of the gym. Since it was 40 minutes one way, feel as though we had our exercise.
The golf courses (2) that we are near are being used, though sparingly. They appear to be fairly challenging even without the 40mph winds that have been blowing last two days. Today we walked around the grounds of the castle/hotel and some of the golf course.
For all you Mah Jong mavens, I beat Nan at the first game she taught me. Paid heavily as she hasn't allowed me to win since.
The house is more then adequate, with 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. We are occupying the downstairs master with our own bathroom. Even has doors to the outside.
Haven't had opportunity to test the Guinness, but have has some cider and Gaelic beer.
Plan to go into Dublin tomorrow for some fun.
The weather has been constant change. Rain, wind, cold warm and all combinations of those.
Will try to improve this site as time goes on. Just got Internet service in the house last night plus availability of computers limits time on. One little quirk, I bought calling card, which doesn't allow me to access home voice mail because of the use of sequential pound keys. Was the major reason I bought the card. Have also acquired Irish cell, since we are out with Alex from time to time and for use while we are travelling.
Quite a bit of construction around us in the subdivision, so Alex sees lots of construction machinery. They sweep the drives every day with a street sweeper(one of his favorites). Seems funny as they are sweeping mud.
Hope this finds readers well.
Later!
Joe
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