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