Here are pictures from my archives from our trip to Ireland. Alone… without the kids.
For 8 glorious days, my husband and I spent time in Ireland. By ourselves. My smallest one, now 3, was 1 at the time. It was my first time away from my kids in 9 years. What I saw in Ireland surprised me. Yes, it was green, yes it was beautiful. Yes, everyone treats you as if you are a long, lost cousin or friend. Here are some other things I found interesting:
An Irish breakfast is bacon (Canadian) eggs and a fresh tomato, cut in half and grilled.
It was kind of tropical there (we were in Kinsale)– so close to the coast, which supported lots of colorful, lush plants.
No bugs. I mean — flies or mosquitos. They had no screens on the windows — no need.
It was difficult to find Irish Food. I really wanted an Irish stew, and all they really had was Lasagna? What Lasagana? So, I ordered it — and it was Irish Lasagna. Potatoes were layered in between the Pasta. It was amazing.
Everyone wanted to know who I was voting for. (Presidential election of Bush and Kerry was coming up.) Our presidential choice affects them very much. They love Clinton, by the way, and were really pulling for Kerry.
They have implemented a nationwide smoking ban.
Somehwere, everyday, there is a bank holiday in Ireland. If it’s not in the town you’re in, just keep driving and you’ll find one that’s having one. What this means is that every street corner and bar has a band playing, and lots of Guinness flowing.
I have never met anyone who has driven in Ireland without having their car scratched or dinged.
Even though the road is only wide enough for a car, pedestrians are not afraid to walk on these roads, pushing a baby carriage, even though the road is winding and you can’t see what’s in front of you.
It was very difficult to find real Irish Music. Most pubs liked to play American stuff.
Ireland was much more beautiful than I expected. Houses and stores and pubs are painted in bright tropical colors, the sun shines quite a bit, and it’s beautiful.
Recipe for Irish Soda bread here and here.
Guinness Beef and Strew Recipe here.
Emerald Soup recipe here.
The shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade is in Cork, Ireland. What’s the connection between green and St. Patrick’s Day? Learn here.
Ways to celebrate
Some healthy ways to celebrate with green food.
And, How St. Patrick’s Day Works.
Here are pictures from my archives from our trip to Ireland. Alone… without the kids.
I’m so envious – I’d love to go there.
*sigh*
Enjoy your tasty cake and have a great day.
So, so jealous. Both that it’s Ireland, and 8 days just the two of you!
Fabulous post, SusieJ! Sigh…
When we returned our car in England, the left front tire was all dinged up cause we weren’t used the curbs being there! And they didn’t blink an eye when we turned it in so I guess they’re used to it. Your pictures are beautiful!
I reckon Ireland is one of my favourite places to go – I noticed almost all of the same things as you, but many are true of England as well, especially the roads being so narrow yet people walk on them without a second thought – amases me to no end!!