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
Monday, January 29, 2007
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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