Well needless to say I may have woken up a bit late today, but since I went to bed earlier today,I think it's okay:) I slipped getting into the shower and am the proud owner of a beautiful blueishgreen map of Ireland bruise on my left shin. But the water is hot so I am a happy girl! I'm off to shop, but I should warn you, I have no intention of buying anything. You're definitely being thought of-in my thoughts I've spent tens of thousands-something for everyone, in reality I'm telling myself you'd rather I enjoy the trip for a little longer! It's blowing rain sideways so after window shopping, I head to the bus station to see about going to Ennis-just hearing County Clare makes me think it will be 70 and sunny! Ha! Or there will be a pub with heat:)
Here's where I thought I'd share my random thoughts from my time away so far! Ready?
Random thoughts:
Body Byrne was on my flight to Dublin. Who's he? I didn't know either. His wife had on trainers that said Mrs. Body Byrne. I finally googled it to see that he is a fitness guru. "Bowdeee" not "body". He was very fit!
There's a difference in my back pack...I know it can't be age! It does seem heavier, though. But wow do my thighs feel good! Carrying 60 extra pounds is great when you can drop it on the floor every so often! Tom Sprott-I miss borrowing your backpack! It is clearly superior.
Walk left...everyone walks left, not right. I think I've got it down
Buying nothing experiencing everything-this is my shopping motto:/
Everything is better in Ireland
All butter seems to be Irish butter, how nice!
I miss my girls;)
Even if I can't understand em I love em-the accents are so varied here, but everything is delivered with a smile
F@;( and s/:( sound better here; I know it seems contrary to the above thought, but when you're in a pub, or listening to a life story, these words come up!
I miss my heels:(
The newspapers show that houses are at 50-65% of their peak value-sounds familiar
Do Irish girls have any idea how beautiful they are? I'm amazed makes me think they could do without the super short skirts-whether 14 or 40-something, I've seen a lot of them
On a bus I see a girl who is so slender and narrow she makes me wonder if this is what my Ryry will look like as a teenager. She's gorgeous and might have had the copper hair that Ryry has now, but has chosen to lighten it with steaks of blond. I wonder if the mom is named Kristin or Bridget because every time this pretty girl or her boyfriend inch nearer to each other, the mom inches them further apart!
I'm amazed at how we all look the same and so different. Standing next to me now is a woman I could swear is my aunt Sally and I've seen lots of other lookalikes too!
Now on the train I'm reading the sports page (shocker) and there is a picture of Kevin Donnelly who looks just like a friend with the same name-he might be a tad younger than the Kevin I know as he seems to hiding a pint behind his feet on the ground
Chocolate I've tried thus far: Butler's milk chocolate with almond, Marks and Spencer milk chocolate "with nuts" yum! I'd say Butler's has the upper hand!
The Blessed Virgin Mary is everywhere. Big small and medium grottos and other displays for her are evetywhere you look. This to me is further evidence that Ireland is loved. Also a great reminder of passion commitment and faith. I'm glad to have the reminder. It makes me me smile every time I see her:) also an excellent reminder to send up a prayer, and I do.
As we pull into Ennis the rain has somehow gotten worse. I immediately decide to spring for a cab. Thankfully, there is one waiting for all of us wet passengers-imagine my surprise;) marge is great and we talk about options for accommodations. I know, I know...but coverage has been spotty at best. I end up at The Olde Ground. Yep! It's the five star place in town. But places are booked up-that much I can confirm from earlier research. Emily at the front desk takes pity on me and drops the rate by 20€. Hooray! I bet there is hot water here for sure! I'm thrilled, if only to get the cold water off of me! And change clothes. Since this is a nice place I feel a dress is in order and I just happen to have one rolled up in the bottom of the bag! Hooray! If only I had heels! I miss my heels:) I decide to stay inside-the reviews say there's a pub on sight with traditional Irish music-I've heard Irish bands singing American music, I'm ready for the real thing. Poet's Corner has a great hot meal for me instead of the snacking I've been doing. The game is on and I decide two things:
Soccer players are cute
This pub is too quiet
Emily recommends a pub crawl of sorts: Cruise's, Knox's, Brogan's...I'll hear Irish music the second I step out the door! Map in hand and my personalized pub crawl outlined, I'm ready to hear some tin whistle! Alas, no live music tonight but lots of fun people, they just all want to get to bed by 9:30; Christmas is over they say. Bring back Christmas I say;)
So look at me! I've had a fairly quiet night after all! It means I'll be rested for Galway tomorrow. Maybe I'll be a Galway girl! Goodnight
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Cork, Killarney and Blarney!
I'm happy to report that as the bus pulled out of Cork to Blarney it drove past Pat Buckley's just as Keith was letting himself in! Looks like he's survived the night. I hope the same for Frank:) as the bus meandered down these narrow roads i was wondering how they fit? It seems like we are going to bump into a building or car at any moment. Just then, an SUV jumped the curb so as to not be hit head on by our bus;)
The update on the weather is a little dismal. Winds are 160 km/hr roads are closed up north and over 6000 without power:( its expected to settle down a bit in a couple of days.
I know you'll be shocked to hear it, but I've never been to Blarney! Never kissed the stone!
So all this chattyness? Completely me! Now I'm on my way! Quick trip from Cork and I'm sitting a stair or two above most of the seats so I can see the gorgeous countryside as we roll through. It is cold and rainy today. Entrance to Blarney Castle is not very expensive and you get to move at your own pace, which is good because some crazy person did not think to check her backpack before climbing the stairs-ok, it was me. What was I thinking? If you've been, you know that the staircase is very narrow and spirals all the way up (and down!) . My backpack is 24 inches tall and quite round maybe 36 inches when it's full. I nearly got stuck! But it's a gorgeous view and well worth the climb. The kiss is easy! So much has been said about it in travel books, I thought it would be harder. Maybe it's just the experts at the top-two older gentlemen, one snapping pictures and the other telling you exactly what to do. I'm not sure the pictures do me justice, but I'm excited to now officially have the gift of eloquence:) I'm sure it came in handy at the stable yard cafe. Now it's truly very cold and I'm very wet from the rain walking through the gardens. I stepped into the cafe for a hot drink and met a lovely woman named Carmel. She's a divorced mom of three (Michael, a police officer, Eileen, also police officer and a speaker of truths-men only think with their mickeys! and her youngest, Dennis). We were talking about safety, and I showed her my rosary from Mom and St. Christopher medal from Sean ad Megan. Then we got to talking about sisters-she is blessed with four. I'm blessed with two on my way to having a third:) Your children are blessed to have you, Carmel.
In leaving the castle on the way to browse Blarney Woolen Mills, I saw a woman snapping pictures and offered to take one with her in it. Loved meeting Debbie! Today is her 50th birthday and she's visiting from Houston. Turns out we were on the same flight over.
We talked about being single women traveling. I mentioned that not everyone was enthused when I said I was coming over by myself and we talked about how life brings you here. I mentioned selling the house donating/selling pretty much all of the "stuff" in it. She had a similar but more unfortunate version as her home was hit by hurricane Ike. She was able to put a couple of things in the trunk of her Mustang, grab her daughter and her two dogs and head to Dallas. We agreed on the feeling of this-freedom! Saoirse! Debbie you're headed to Cork and I'm headed to Killarney but I will raise a pint to wish you a happy birthday and Saoirse! And I'm also going to do my best to track down the skinny Santa called Kat when I'm in Belfast! SO glad to have the information and really glad to have met you!
So here's the scoop on the pint my mom asked me to have with her friend, Carole. I've arrived in Killarney and after checking in at Failte House I walked until I found The Laurels. I ordered a pint and inquired after Conn O'Leary. The bartender goes to find him. There is a boy in the pub with his mum-he is exactly like a young Danny Koppers:) Prayers are up and my pint is lifted sending good health to you and love to you and your mom.
Soon enough Conn came down both to see me and retrieve two bottles of wine for "the countess of chaos and confusion who's entertaining upstairs tonight". It's clear that I'm going to love meeting this man. Here's how he knows Carole...he was training a bar man who did not have the personality for it on a cold rainy winter night (just like tonight except there were no customers in the pub). Two American women walk in. The bar man stoically pours them a drink "and folds his arms like a wooden Indian." So Conn writes on a cardboard coaster a little something to help the man have a personality. It says "if it happens to rain tomorrow, marry me. Wear a white dress or t-shirt, whatever you've got in your suitcase." he tells him to give the folded up message to one of the American women. The note goes to Carole. She reads it and hands it to her friend, fairly confident it hasn't come from this man. Out peeks Conn from around the pedestal. From then on, Carole visited Conn at The Laurels in Killarney whenever she visited Ireland. After she passed some of her ashes were brought here. So, at least half dozen times a year, says Conn, someone comes in to have a pint with Carole. She's tucked in a beautiful Irish ceramic that Conn sealed himself with a lovely picture of Carole and a granddaughter placed on the bottom. I love this country! And what a legacy Carole has! I've had my pint to toast her, but I'll be coming back after a little live music down the road to have another pint and find out more about Conn O'Leary. There's a story or two there I'm sure! Even if you don't know Carole, it's a great pub! Come make your own story:)
My team won...I have to pick a team to watch the game, so I headed to Dan Linegan's pub to watch the game since it was too early for live music. I picked Manchester City over Liverpool and instantly regretted it. I'd rather Liverpool win , but if I'd put money down and there are lots of places to do that, I'd have won;) while at the pub I met John and Gary: Ireland should be the wealthiest nation in the world; there are no jobs in the world except in Australia; English football sucks compared to Gaelic; I should marry an Irishman.
Back to The Laurels. Straight away Kate says "oh you're looking for my father?" and down comes Conn ready to have a drink to honor Carole and ready to hear my story. I feel it necessary to tell him how my mom knows Carole and show him picture of my mom. "that's your mum?!" yep, she's gorgeous-mom he's expecting a visit. Let me tell you his nun joke before you do. A young postulate heads to the reverend mother's office. "I'm in trouble." she says. The mother asks about the issue. "I'm not regular. It's been four days without movement." "no problem. Take one of these pills every three hours and you should be okay." we'll the young nun gets confused and takes all three at the same time. Things start moving. It's not good. She goes back to the reverend mother and tells her how horrible things have gone in the toilet and in fact she has passed an iron stake. "impossible." says the Mother. "Come and see!" says the postulate. Rushing into the bathroom, the Mother is overwhelmed by the smell. "Why wouldn't you think to open a window? Ugh!" But there in the toilet bowl is indeed an iron stake! Looking up the mother sees a crucifix. On it, Jesus has one hand over his nose.
Conn's family history is a great one. In 1916 his grandfather bought a pub-its one-third of the size of the current pub. In the 30s his father bought another pub-now we are up to two-thirds of the current pub. The last bit came in the 70s. Conn feels blessed to have it especially when pubs are closing down all over Ireland. People used to gather at the creamery to get fresh milk, etc at the post to receive their checks and the pub to spend them. The creamery is now automated and with the economy in its current state, fewer people have cars and they certainly don't drive them to the pubs because of the strict driving under the influence laws. I think I'll start a taxi service straight to The Laurels doors. Clearly I need to live in Killarney.
Kate gets off the phone and I didn't realize anyone could roll their eyes like that;) her older son is hungry and there's absolutely nothing to eat in the house. He'd like a Betty Crocker chocolate cake. Kate mentions to us that she has scallops and filets in the refrigerator...did I mention her son is thirteen? Some things are the same everywhere! Kate is one of the O'Leary's three daughters, they also have a son.
Did you know the Irish cannot sit "Indian style"? Evidently it is genetically impossible says Conn. it's making me question my heritage as I'm sitting that way:( typing this! Not actually at the bar!
Conn has several thoughts for me in terms of employment and places to go. He suggests being an au pair! I love the idea! Also, teaching English or being the introductory person for Americans traveling abroad. I think I have an agent! And Kate has a website for me;) I love Ireland!
As we finish another drink, Conn says he must go upstairs. Turns out the people his wife of 47 years are entertaining are his in-laws! Kate and I wish him well ;) I thank Kate and head out the door, too. I remember that the pub below my hotel has live music and it should be starting soon! Perfect! I'll have an early night;) wow it's quiet in this pub. Why is the singer saying "one last song" it's probably only 8pm! Ooops! It's almost midnight! How did that happen? I'll blame Conn, it's obvious to me that he's kissed the Barney Stone too! A little Bailey's before heading up the stairs to bed-early! Uhoh...American? By yourself? Where are you headed? Now we are all singing "going to Kansas City" My new best friends and I have convinced the singer to do one more song:) I meet Michael Laine and Angela from Essex. They'd like me to come and stay in their caravan, but first another drink? I couldn't! And the pub is closed! The bartender gives me a free voucher to get into the grand hotel-they have different bands playing in each of the three areas of their niteclub. Alright, but no drinks, just dancing and maybe a little singing;) LOVE the band! It's all American music, but they are great and everyone from the age of 17-70 is dancing. Further proof that the 80s are the best era for music;) Thank goodness the bar closes at 2 and I go promptly home to bed!
Tomorrow? Probably Ennis and I'm sure it will be an early night;)
The update on the weather is a little dismal. Winds are 160 km/hr roads are closed up north and over 6000 without power:( its expected to settle down a bit in a couple of days.
I know you'll be shocked to hear it, but I've never been to Blarney! Never kissed the stone!
So all this chattyness? Completely me! Now I'm on my way! Quick trip from Cork and I'm sitting a stair or two above most of the seats so I can see the gorgeous countryside as we roll through. It is cold and rainy today. Entrance to Blarney Castle is not very expensive and you get to move at your own pace, which is good because some crazy person did not think to check her backpack before climbing the stairs-ok, it was me. What was I thinking? If you've been, you know that the staircase is very narrow and spirals all the way up (and down!) . My backpack is 24 inches tall and quite round maybe 36 inches when it's full. I nearly got stuck! But it's a gorgeous view and well worth the climb. The kiss is easy! So much has been said about it in travel books, I thought it would be harder. Maybe it's just the experts at the top-two older gentlemen, one snapping pictures and the other telling you exactly what to do. I'm not sure the pictures do me justice, but I'm excited to now officially have the gift of eloquence:) I'm sure it came in handy at the stable yard cafe. Now it's truly very cold and I'm very wet from the rain walking through the gardens. I stepped into the cafe for a hot drink and met a lovely woman named Carmel. She's a divorced mom of three (Michael, a police officer, Eileen, also police officer and a speaker of truths-men only think with their mickeys! and her youngest, Dennis). We were talking about safety, and I showed her my rosary from Mom and St. Christopher medal from Sean ad Megan. Then we got to talking about sisters-she is blessed with four. I'm blessed with two on my way to having a third:) Your children are blessed to have you, Carmel.
In leaving the castle on the way to browse Blarney Woolen Mills, I saw a woman snapping pictures and offered to take one with her in it. Loved meeting Debbie! Today is her 50th birthday and she's visiting from Houston. Turns out we were on the same flight over.
We talked about being single women traveling. I mentioned that not everyone was enthused when I said I was coming over by myself and we talked about how life brings you here. I mentioned selling the house donating/selling pretty much all of the "stuff" in it. She had a similar but more unfortunate version as her home was hit by hurricane Ike. She was able to put a couple of things in the trunk of her Mustang, grab her daughter and her two dogs and head to Dallas. We agreed on the feeling of this-freedom! Saoirse! Debbie you're headed to Cork and I'm headed to Killarney but I will raise a pint to wish you a happy birthday and Saoirse! And I'm also going to do my best to track down the skinny Santa called Kat when I'm in Belfast! SO glad to have the information and really glad to have met you!
So here's the scoop on the pint my mom asked me to have with her friend, Carole. I've arrived in Killarney and after checking in at Failte House I walked until I found The Laurels. I ordered a pint and inquired after Conn O'Leary. The bartender goes to find him. There is a boy in the pub with his mum-he is exactly like a young Danny Koppers:) Prayers are up and my pint is lifted sending good health to you and love to you and your mom.
Soon enough Conn came down both to see me and retrieve two bottles of wine for "the countess of chaos and confusion who's entertaining upstairs tonight". It's clear that I'm going to love meeting this man. Here's how he knows Carole...he was training a bar man who did not have the personality for it on a cold rainy winter night (just like tonight except there were no customers in the pub). Two American women walk in. The bar man stoically pours them a drink "and folds his arms like a wooden Indian." So Conn writes on a cardboard coaster a little something to help the man have a personality. It says "if it happens to rain tomorrow, marry me. Wear a white dress or t-shirt, whatever you've got in your suitcase." he tells him to give the folded up message to one of the American women. The note goes to Carole. She reads it and hands it to her friend, fairly confident it hasn't come from this man. Out peeks Conn from around the pedestal. From then on, Carole visited Conn at The Laurels in Killarney whenever she visited Ireland. After she passed some of her ashes were brought here. So, at least half dozen times a year, says Conn, someone comes in to have a pint with Carole. She's tucked in a beautiful Irish ceramic that Conn sealed himself with a lovely picture of Carole and a granddaughter placed on the bottom. I love this country! And what a legacy Carole has! I've had my pint to toast her, but I'll be coming back after a little live music down the road to have another pint and find out more about Conn O'Leary. There's a story or two there I'm sure! Even if you don't know Carole, it's a great pub! Come make your own story:)
My team won...I have to pick a team to watch the game, so I headed to Dan Linegan's pub to watch the game since it was too early for live music. I picked Manchester City over Liverpool and instantly regretted it. I'd rather Liverpool win , but if I'd put money down and there are lots of places to do that, I'd have won;) while at the pub I met John and Gary: Ireland should be the wealthiest nation in the world; there are no jobs in the world except in Australia; English football sucks compared to Gaelic; I should marry an Irishman.
Back to The Laurels. Straight away Kate says "oh you're looking for my father?" and down comes Conn ready to have a drink to honor Carole and ready to hear my story. I feel it necessary to tell him how my mom knows Carole and show him picture of my mom. "that's your mum?!" yep, she's gorgeous-mom he's expecting a visit. Let me tell you his nun joke before you do. A young postulate heads to the reverend mother's office. "I'm in trouble." she says. The mother asks about the issue. "I'm not regular. It's been four days without movement." "no problem. Take one of these pills every three hours and you should be okay." we'll the young nun gets confused and takes all three at the same time. Things start moving. It's not good. She goes back to the reverend mother and tells her how horrible things have gone in the toilet and in fact she has passed an iron stake. "impossible." says the Mother. "Come and see!" says the postulate. Rushing into the bathroom, the Mother is overwhelmed by the smell. "Why wouldn't you think to open a window? Ugh!" But there in the toilet bowl is indeed an iron stake! Looking up the mother sees a crucifix. On it, Jesus has one hand over his nose.
Conn's family history is a great one. In 1916 his grandfather bought a pub-its one-third of the size of the current pub. In the 30s his father bought another pub-now we are up to two-thirds of the current pub. The last bit came in the 70s. Conn feels blessed to have it especially when pubs are closing down all over Ireland. People used to gather at the creamery to get fresh milk, etc at the post to receive their checks and the pub to spend them. The creamery is now automated and with the economy in its current state, fewer people have cars and they certainly don't drive them to the pubs because of the strict driving under the influence laws. I think I'll start a taxi service straight to The Laurels doors. Clearly I need to live in Killarney.
Kate gets off the phone and I didn't realize anyone could roll their eyes like that;) her older son is hungry and there's absolutely nothing to eat in the house. He'd like a Betty Crocker chocolate cake. Kate mentions to us that she has scallops and filets in the refrigerator...did I mention her son is thirteen? Some things are the same everywhere! Kate is one of the O'Leary's three daughters, they also have a son.
Did you know the Irish cannot sit "Indian style"? Evidently it is genetically impossible says Conn. it's making me question my heritage as I'm sitting that way:( typing this! Not actually at the bar!
Conn has several thoughts for me in terms of employment and places to go. He suggests being an au pair! I love the idea! Also, teaching English or being the introductory person for Americans traveling abroad. I think I have an agent! And Kate has a website for me;) I love Ireland!
As we finish another drink, Conn says he must go upstairs. Turns out the people his wife of 47 years are entertaining are his in-laws! Kate and I wish him well ;) I thank Kate and head out the door, too. I remember that the pub below my hotel has live music and it should be starting soon! Perfect! I'll have an early night;) wow it's quiet in this pub. Why is the singer saying "one last song" it's probably only 8pm! Ooops! It's almost midnight! How did that happen? I'll blame Conn, it's obvious to me that he's kissed the Barney Stone too! A little Bailey's before heading up the stairs to bed-early! Uhoh...American? By yourself? Where are you headed? Now we are all singing "going to Kansas City" My new best friends and I have convinced the singer to do one more song:) I meet Michael Laine and Angela from Essex. They'd like me to come and stay in their caravan, but first another drink? I couldn't! And the pub is closed! The bartender gives me a free voucher to get into the grand hotel-they have different bands playing in each of the three areas of their niteclub. Alright, but no drinks, just dancing and maybe a little singing;) LOVE the band! It's all American music, but they are great and everyone from the age of 17-70 is dancing. Further proof that the 80s are the best era for music;) Thank goodness the bar closes at 2 and I go promptly home to bed!
Tomorrow? Probably Ennis and I'm sure it will be an early night;)
Day two already/still?
This day seems to have come so fast and yet I feel like I've been in Ireland forever. It is like coming home! And last night I SLEPT! I had been so excited to come that I hadn't had a good night sleep in forever. Thank you Ireland ;) Today I walked throughout Dublin inevitably ending up at St. Patrick's again. How can you go wrong in a place where people have been praying since the 1200s? I'm so amazed walking around Dublin to see the age of things. I love knowing how many people were here before me. It reminds me and that someday Hank, Ryan, Caitlin, Nora and nieces, nephews and godchildren-to-come will be here. I am completely in love with the children of Ireland. I know I love being around children period,but these faces are so beautiful! And so happy;) and the outfits are darling;)
As I was walking along the water way, I was loving the smaller houses with tiny gardens in the front thinking I'd live here in a minute! Just then I see a huge goose! Just by himself showing off his wing span (it may be greater than yours, Kristin!) then I see another larger nicer home and a dog inside calls to me, I believe in signs-Dublin may be the place for me! I'll work at marks and spencer run in St. Stephen's Green and live in this darling house with a dog! I'm pretty excited until I see dozens of geese straight ahead. Maybe that wasn't such a unique experience? Oh well. The geese are gorgeous and I'd love to pet one but I should keep both my hands at this point.
I run to marks and spencer to grab a little something for the journey to Cork. I've got a little hostel booked there for the night. Waiting in line for the bus, I of course meet a wonderful man from Cork headed home after spending the holiday in Dublin. Holiday? Oh yes I guess we did have one! What's today? We talk about Americans love for Ireland and he claims it's quite mutual. He warns me that I will experience all four seasons every day that I'm in Ireland. (I'm looking forward to summer!) Anyway, charming guy who had done construction work, but when things quieted in Ireland he went to work in Germany. He now has a 12 year old daughter who lives in Germany. They talk everyday and he visits often but I can't imagine how difficult that must be. (of course it makes me miss hank and the girls) he recommends a movie to me that was filmed in Ireland "Ryan's Daughter" an old movie but one he loves in spite of Robert Mitchum being in it. He claims that Americans came to Ireland simply because the scenes in the movie were so gorgeous. It's officially on my list! In fact , if I can get better more consistent wifi I will download the film for one of my train trips!
This is a longer bus trip, but it left earlier than the train, gets there about the same time and costs 47 euro less! Works for me!the bus trip is easy and relaxing. Valerie, I see a definite need for your invention here! I'm also wondering if you'd like to add some sort of contraption that allows you to sleep without your head going everywhere. I'm awake but I'm convinced that I'm going to have such a crick in my neck watching the guy two rows ahead who is completely asleep with his head hanging out and back into the aisle-ow!
We make one stop for a little bio break. Our driver says we have fifteen minutes, it's cold and rainy so even the smokers are back in faster. The driver comes back to a girl behind me-didn't you have someone with you? Grab him and let's go. I've a game tonight!
Now I know why he was driving so quickly through these winding roads;) he's found and we are off! Every bus has been early! Complete change from last time I was in Ireland.
When we arrive in Cork it's dark and misty. I had been sent a confirmation email from my hostel (Kinlay House) so I opened it and was able to find it easily by referring to it on my iPad as I walked along-gotta live technology when it works! It's a fun climb to the hostel and I've got my own room- with bunk beds! How fun! I unstrap the backpack and plop on the lower bunk. One of the nice things about being petite is that even in this little space I can stretch my legs and back easily! Enough of that! The wifi isn't working so I need to go somewhere it is working and perhaps have a cocktail, but definitely organize thoughts for the blog and ideas for the next steps of the trip. Market Lane is still serving. Their menu looks so amazing, but I'm not that hungry. I get a glass of prosecco (I just recommended it to my grandmother, so in my mind I'm toasting you for a happy new year, Grandma. I hope your progressive party was fun!) and I order a little tart made with goat cheese and sweet potato with lambs ear-so yummy! I leave before I allow myself to be tempted by their amazing dessert menu, although most tables have delved in and it looks good! Now I dig into getting organized....need to go to Blarney tomorrow and possibly on to Killarney. Ring of Kerry? County Clare? Irish music? I'd say now!
Uhoh....there aren't a lot of options for music tonight. Enough with this holiday business already. But now it's pouring rain! I think there's a pub with music near my hostel-then i'll e halfway home! Good decision! The pub is Pat Buckley's. By the time I get there I'm a drowned rat and could care less about music. Maybe just a warm place to dry off before heading the rest of the way back. Guess what? I found more! Walking in I'm greeted by a beautiful woman named Helen who thinks I might look a little damp. I squeeze out the tip of my wool hat to confirm it. The group in the corner is giggling about my luggage tag on my iPad bag/day pack. Yes, I tell them, it is to remind me of my own name and my phone number in case I need to call myself. I think I might need to have a pint with these folks before moving on. The beautiful blond woman in the bar is Kyra. She's married to Helen's son, Keith. As with most people she's interested as to why I'm traveling by myself and long I'll be on holiday. I'm wondering too.
We've both sold software, so theres one similarity. AND we've discovered we both love Mel Gibson! We don't necessarily agree with his extracurricular activities but he's yummy and we like the bad boy twinkle in his eye. We are thrilled to have someone to agree. But then, on her mobile and the bar phone are calls both for her. One is from her husband, the other from her father-in-law. They each need help getting the other home from a bar (they've been to a funeral all afternoon). We vote that she go and help, despite the pouring rain because these two are apparently unaware that they're seated next to each other in the same bar each calling Kyra for help with the other. I immediately grant Kyra and Helen sainthood :) while Kyra is picking up the boys, Helen explains to me that her husband is not much of a drinker anymore-3 pints-that's Frank! But Frank and Keith haven't had a night out in awhile and there was the funeral on top of it all. Helen wants to know how long I'll stay in Cork. I explain that I want/need to find a job in order to continue to travel. She thinks I can find a job in Cork and has a place for me to let! Kyra was just telling me to move to Cork too! Maybe Dublin is not my town, it's Cork! A representative from the group in the corner approaches to keep me company. Despite being sopping wet and wearing a luggage tag, he tells me I'm lovely. "would you marry an Irishman?" Of course! What other kind of man could I consider? I think I'm in good with the corner group:)
In come Frank and Keith. Wow! Instantly, Frank notices the American girl. Where's yer husband? Don't know haven't met him! Helen! This girl needs a pint! Helen! She's lovely! Bring her a pint! It's on me! Helen wisely brings me a half pint (Frank is wondering what's taking so long so he and I review the process for pouring a proper Guinness. Kyra wisely decides to get the boys fish and chips as neither one of them is having much luck sitting on a bar stool and the bathroom door has attacked Keith's face. Saying no thank you to the fish is confusing for Keith-he doesn't understand how someone cannot eat anything from a body of water. What if a chicken fell, no jumped in the water....would I eat it? Eventually I become the "winning chicken" ?? And it's time for all to go to bed. Not before I am introduced to a new drink, as Frank could not finish his. It's half brandy, half port. I'm not sure I can recommend it, but it did warm me up for the hike up the hill to the hostel. So I hugged Kyra and Helen goodbye and promised I'd consider Cork for a place to work and play for awhile! What fun! Outside, it's horrible! Yes it rains consistently and constantly in Ireland, but this is unique. After a night filled with howling winds and car alarms (the winds were so severe they'd set them off!) my alarm goes off and I'm excited to jump in a hot shower! Unfortunately there's not one to be had. I suffer through and head down for breakfast. I'm shocked to see two things-a Kansas state flag proudly displayed in the commons and a darling German couple who confirm that I am definitely not the oldest person in the hostel! It's time to head to Blarney, and I'm going to need my sunglasses;) happy girl! Love this country!
As I was walking along the water way, I was loving the smaller houses with tiny gardens in the front thinking I'd live here in a minute! Just then I see a huge goose! Just by himself showing off his wing span (it may be greater than yours, Kristin!) then I see another larger nicer home and a dog inside calls to me, I believe in signs-Dublin may be the place for me! I'll work at marks and spencer run in St. Stephen's Green and live in this darling house with a dog! I'm pretty excited until I see dozens of geese straight ahead. Maybe that wasn't such a unique experience? Oh well. The geese are gorgeous and I'd love to pet one but I should keep both my hands at this point.
I run to marks and spencer to grab a little something for the journey to Cork. I've got a little hostel booked there for the night. Waiting in line for the bus, I of course meet a wonderful man from Cork headed home after spending the holiday in Dublin. Holiday? Oh yes I guess we did have one! What's today? We talk about Americans love for Ireland and he claims it's quite mutual. He warns me that I will experience all four seasons every day that I'm in Ireland. (I'm looking forward to summer!) Anyway, charming guy who had done construction work, but when things quieted in Ireland he went to work in Germany. He now has a 12 year old daughter who lives in Germany. They talk everyday and he visits often but I can't imagine how difficult that must be. (of course it makes me miss hank and the girls) he recommends a movie to me that was filmed in Ireland "Ryan's Daughter" an old movie but one he loves in spite of Robert Mitchum being in it. He claims that Americans came to Ireland simply because the scenes in the movie were so gorgeous. It's officially on my list! In fact , if I can get better more consistent wifi I will download the film for one of my train trips!
This is a longer bus trip, but it left earlier than the train, gets there about the same time and costs 47 euro less! Works for me!the bus trip is easy and relaxing. Valerie, I see a definite need for your invention here! I'm also wondering if you'd like to add some sort of contraption that allows you to sleep without your head going everywhere. I'm awake but I'm convinced that I'm going to have such a crick in my neck watching the guy two rows ahead who is completely asleep with his head hanging out and back into the aisle-ow!
We make one stop for a little bio break. Our driver says we have fifteen minutes, it's cold and rainy so even the smokers are back in faster. The driver comes back to a girl behind me-didn't you have someone with you? Grab him and let's go. I've a game tonight!
Now I know why he was driving so quickly through these winding roads;) he's found and we are off! Every bus has been early! Complete change from last time I was in Ireland.
When we arrive in Cork it's dark and misty. I had been sent a confirmation email from my hostel (Kinlay House) so I opened it and was able to find it easily by referring to it on my iPad as I walked along-gotta live technology when it works! It's a fun climb to the hostel and I've got my own room- with bunk beds! How fun! I unstrap the backpack and plop on the lower bunk. One of the nice things about being petite is that even in this little space I can stretch my legs and back easily! Enough of that! The wifi isn't working so I need to go somewhere it is working and perhaps have a cocktail, but definitely organize thoughts for the blog and ideas for the next steps of the trip. Market Lane is still serving. Their menu looks so amazing, but I'm not that hungry. I get a glass of prosecco (I just recommended it to my grandmother, so in my mind I'm toasting you for a happy new year, Grandma. I hope your progressive party was fun!) and I order a little tart made with goat cheese and sweet potato with lambs ear-so yummy! I leave before I allow myself to be tempted by their amazing dessert menu, although most tables have delved in and it looks good! Now I dig into getting organized....need to go to Blarney tomorrow and possibly on to Killarney. Ring of Kerry? County Clare? Irish music? I'd say now!
Uhoh....there aren't a lot of options for music tonight. Enough with this holiday business already. But now it's pouring rain! I think there's a pub with music near my hostel-then i'll e halfway home! Good decision! The pub is Pat Buckley's. By the time I get there I'm a drowned rat and could care less about music. Maybe just a warm place to dry off before heading the rest of the way back. Guess what? I found more! Walking in I'm greeted by a beautiful woman named Helen who thinks I might look a little damp. I squeeze out the tip of my wool hat to confirm it. The group in the corner is giggling about my luggage tag on my iPad bag/day pack. Yes, I tell them, it is to remind me of my own name and my phone number in case I need to call myself. I think I might need to have a pint with these folks before moving on. The beautiful blond woman in the bar is Kyra. She's married to Helen's son, Keith. As with most people she's interested as to why I'm traveling by myself and long I'll be on holiday. I'm wondering too.
We've both sold software, so theres one similarity. AND we've discovered we both love Mel Gibson! We don't necessarily agree with his extracurricular activities but he's yummy and we like the bad boy twinkle in his eye. We are thrilled to have someone to agree. But then, on her mobile and the bar phone are calls both for her. One is from her husband, the other from her father-in-law. They each need help getting the other home from a bar (they've been to a funeral all afternoon). We vote that she go and help, despite the pouring rain because these two are apparently unaware that they're seated next to each other in the same bar each calling Kyra for help with the other. I immediately grant Kyra and Helen sainthood :) while Kyra is picking up the boys, Helen explains to me that her husband is not much of a drinker anymore-3 pints-that's Frank! But Frank and Keith haven't had a night out in awhile and there was the funeral on top of it all. Helen wants to know how long I'll stay in Cork. I explain that I want/need to find a job in order to continue to travel. She thinks I can find a job in Cork and has a place for me to let! Kyra was just telling me to move to Cork too! Maybe Dublin is not my town, it's Cork! A representative from the group in the corner approaches to keep me company. Despite being sopping wet and wearing a luggage tag, he tells me I'm lovely. "would you marry an Irishman?" Of course! What other kind of man could I consider? I think I'm in good with the corner group:)
In come Frank and Keith. Wow! Instantly, Frank notices the American girl. Where's yer husband? Don't know haven't met him! Helen! This girl needs a pint! Helen! She's lovely! Bring her a pint! It's on me! Helen wisely brings me a half pint (Frank is wondering what's taking so long so he and I review the process for pouring a proper Guinness. Kyra wisely decides to get the boys fish and chips as neither one of them is having much luck sitting on a bar stool and the bathroom door has attacked Keith's face. Saying no thank you to the fish is confusing for Keith-he doesn't understand how someone cannot eat anything from a body of water. What if a chicken fell, no jumped in the water....would I eat it? Eventually I become the "winning chicken" ?? And it's time for all to go to bed. Not before I am introduced to a new drink, as Frank could not finish his. It's half brandy, half port. I'm not sure I can recommend it, but it did warm me up for the hike up the hill to the hostel. So I hugged Kyra and Helen goodbye and promised I'd consider Cork for a place to work and play for awhile! What fun! Outside, it's horrible! Yes it rains consistently and constantly in Ireland, but this is unique. After a night filled with howling winds and car alarms (the winds were so severe they'd set them off!) my alarm goes off and I'm excited to jump in a hot shower! Unfortunately there's not one to be had. I suffer through and head down for breakfast. I'm shocked to see two things-a Kansas state flag proudly displayed in the commons and a darling German couple who confirm that I am definitely not the oldest person in the hostel! It's time to head to Blarney, and I'm going to need my sunglasses;) happy girl! Love this country!
Sunday, January 1, 2012
The rest of day one!
Well, as you ought to imagine it took awhile to recharge my iPad and iPhone;( so I was a little bit late in getting out, but I think I made up for it;) another fun thing about Dublin is how the neighborhoods seem to consult with each other on decor-obviously up my alley! Either they are completely in sync with all red doors and similar wreaths or they've taken the initiative to paint their front doors different colors so you can say....I'm in the long row the third in the right-pink door! Thank you for picking pink! It's as if I already live here;)
Love how they've decorated Grafton street for the holidays! Big swags of lights with fabulous chandeliers hanging down as you wander the street of shops (do I get a special place in heaven for not buying the 32 things I "needed" at Zara?)
On to temple bar. Walking (the 45 minutes in the rain) there felt like a pilgrimage! I wasn't exactly sure where I was going-shocker-but everyone else was going there too! Hoards of us! It reminded me of what I felt like walking out of the cathedral in downtown kcmo after ash Wednesday mass-all of us with our ashen crosses on our foreheads with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. My purpose tonight was more about the perfect pint and some great music. I am happy to report I was successful on both fronts! I was thinking on my sojourn to Guinness-land that other countries will be hard pressed to match the cute/handsomeness and kindness of themen of Ireland. However...I met the nicest and cutest guy from France. He gets it! I wish I could've said the same at his age. He will no doubt be an impressive and published writer who makes the reader think and sometimes even say "what the f...!" He will never simply be "another brick in the wall" I am looking forward to meeting up with him in Galway. Alas I went on to the next pub with a fun Irishman to sing and dance and have another pint. Part of this journey that I was so looking forward to is meeting new people and hearing their stories. I can only say that I wish him and his loved one well in the battle with addiction. Also, Noel (completely different Irishman thankfully skilled at pulling a pint and taking a photo) you and your dad, P.T. Are tooooo cute!
Where will tomorrow take me? South. Probably to Kilkenny and then Cork! Thoughts......;)
Love how they've decorated Grafton street for the holidays! Big swags of lights with fabulous chandeliers hanging down as you wander the street of shops (do I get a special place in heaven for not buying the 32 things I "needed" at Zara?)
On to temple bar. Walking (the 45 minutes in the rain) there felt like a pilgrimage! I wasn't exactly sure where I was going-shocker-but everyone else was going there too! Hoards of us! It reminded me of what I felt like walking out of the cathedral in downtown kcmo after ash Wednesday mass-all of us with our ashen crosses on our foreheads with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. My purpose tonight was more about the perfect pint and some great music. I am happy to report I was successful on both fronts! I was thinking on my sojourn to Guinness-land that other countries will be hard pressed to match the cute/handsomeness and kindness of themen of Ireland. However...I met the nicest and cutest guy from France. He gets it! I wish I could've said the same at his age. He will no doubt be an impressive and published writer who makes the reader think and sometimes even say "what the f...!" He will never simply be "another brick in the wall" I am looking forward to meeting up with him in Galway. Alas I went on to the next pub with a fun Irishman to sing and dance and have another pint. Part of this journey that I was so looking forward to is meeting new people and hearing their stories. I can only say that I wish him and his loved one well in the battle with addiction. Also, Noel (completely different Irishman thankfully skilled at pulling a pint and taking a photo) you and your dad, P.T. Are tooooo cute!
Where will tomorrow take me? South. Probably to Kilkenny and then Cork! Thoughts......;)
One other fun name
Forgot to say that in all these hours of walking I also happened to see Noel Purnell Walk! Made me think of my friend Marshan Purnell and what do you know? It led me straight to the shops! Further proof Marshan should be with me;)
Hangovers are over!
Finally the hangovers are over, the pubs are full, even the shops are open! So far in my walking around the city I've done the typical emotional American thing falling in love with Ireland and it's people all over again....but I think we should be emotional-the kind where we raise a pint and toast our forefathers regardless of how accurate our stories are. I loved that my bartender this morning was giving me BIG stories. When I laughed he admitted that he's actually from New Zealand, but has adopted Ireland and its heritage as his own(he's 26). I thought his accent was a little off!
So many of my friends and family are all around in the names on street corners Flannery, Fitzpatrick, Ryan, Curley, Hartigan, O'Reilly, O'Brien, Quinn, Agnew, BAKER, Lynch, Cusack! Just to name a few! Had a cup of soup at O'Donoghue's. I took Bride Street thinking of Sean's fiancé Megan and wandered down Kevin Street leading me to Bishop (?) which luckily ran into Aungier where I found Jim Fitzpatrick's hideaway "Wawa's" ;) my point being you're all around me and with me on this leg! I loved St. Stephens Green! Perfect size and perfectly packed-my nieces and I would have a blast on the huge playground! I threw some American coins in the fountain for all my lived ones. Then off to St. Patrick's to light candles for my Uncle Johnny in his brave fight and for my grandma who helped make this journey happen. I'm so grateful to have each of them in my life.
Now what should I do with the rest of my day/night? One thing is it charge my iPhone and iPad! Then I can share some fun pics! I haven't even mentioned my cute b and b yet! Happy New Year!
So many of my friends and family are all around in the names on street corners Flannery, Fitzpatrick, Ryan, Curley, Hartigan, O'Reilly, O'Brien, Quinn, Agnew, BAKER, Lynch, Cusack! Just to name a few! Had a cup of soup at O'Donoghue's. I took Bride Street thinking of Sean's fiancé Megan and wandered down Kevin Street leading me to Bishop (?) which luckily ran into Aungier where I found Jim Fitzpatrick's hideaway "Wawa's" ;) my point being you're all around me and with me on this leg! I loved St. Stephens Green! Perfect size and perfectly packed-my nieces and I would have a blast on the huge playground! I threw some American coins in the fountain for all my lived ones. Then off to St. Patrick's to light candles for my Uncle Johnny in his brave fight and for my grandma who helped make this journey happen. I'm so grateful to have each of them in my life.
Now what should I do with the rest of my day/night? One thing is it charge my iPhone and iPad! Then I can share some fun pics! I haven't even mentioned my cute b and b yet! Happy New Year!
Everyone is hungover!
Dublin is quiet today (well at least until I got here!) shops are closed and some of the. Ars and restaurants too. So how did my bartender at the Arlington explain it? Everyone is too hungover to work. In face he's right you can still see remnants from last night's celebration where they blocked off all of o'connell street with bands and vendors! Sounds likes blast! I'm going to enjoy my warm drink, dump my backpack at my b and b and see if I can't russle up a few countrymen who'd rather be hungover tomorrow! Happy new year!
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