In the afternoon after our tour of the waterfront, we were taken on our home hosted lunch. Maureen was an absolute delight! She was so funny, easy to talk to and seemed like we had known her forever! She served a beautiful salad and scones, baked ham, cooked cabbage and boiled potatoes. For dessert was a Bailey’s torte. We were so engrossed in conversation that Padraic our bus driver had to ring the doorbell twice!
The next day we went to probably the most popular tourist trap in Ireland, Blarney Castle. We were there first so the 90 and 60 minute wait signs meant nothing. The steps to the Stone did not hinder me but the thought of trying to get down to lay on my back then bend over the side backwards to kiss a germ laden stone wasn’t appealing. So I passed. The younger ones in our group went and we waited for them but it was a quick trip for them.
Where you lay down on that grate, bend backwards and kiss the stone behind you! Had I tried, I may still be there trying to get back up,
We toured some of the grounds before continuing on to our next stop, Killarney. We stopped at a sheep farm to talk with a herder, Hugh, who had about 1000 sheep. They are marked with what looks like spray paint for various reasons. Have been sheared, have been bred, etc. He had two herding dogs Rosie and Nell. They herded the sheep around but were mostly excited to have visitors to pet them.
At dinner Peg and Dave were presented with a 50th anniversary cake I had arranged. They are the fifth of Ted’s family to reach 50 years!
That evening, after our included dinner, we had a local resident talk about Irish farm life in the 50’s. It was very interesting and time got away and ran over.
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