Exploring Ireland

My sweet sissy!

I'm a bit ashamed to say I didn't celebrate 4th of July in good ol' 'Merica this year...but if it counts for anything, I did spend the holiday in a country that has also fought for and secured its independence from the British Monarchy...Ireland!

Highlight of the week/month/whole trip...my mom and sister Kelsey came to visit!!!!  Our sweet little Avery was off at camp that week, and Daddy has been on a hunting trip in South Africa, so that left Mama and the two older girlies to explore the west coast of Ireland together!

I would highly recommend every aspect of this trip.  A lot of people think to go to Dublin when they are planning a trip to Ireland, but the west coast makes a much nicer vacation if you're interested in the authentic Irish countryside experience.

We stayed in Dromoland Castle, which was owned by the O'Brien family for centuries.  The O'Brien's were an ancient royal clan that controlled practically all of the west coast of Ireland, and Dromoland was their most prominent estate.  It's well-modernized, yet still has the medieval charm of grand galleries, elaborate dining rooms, and massive portraits of the O'Brien family.  The castle was on a huge estate full of ponds and gardens, and even a full golf course!  Here's some of the stuff we did...the highlights were taking a row boat out on the swan's pond and eating a delicious five-course meal!

Dromoland Castle

Me and my pretty Mama!

Bar at Dromoland Castle.  The lady with the guitar sang old Irish tunes every night and had a lovely voice!

Our gorgeous corner room!

Beware, living in England results in an obsession with roses

Our row boat adventure on the pond!

A stroll through the Walled Garden

High tea in the Main Gallery

We had a sweet little driver named Liam that drove us all over the west coast on July 4th.  Our stops included Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, the Cliffs of Moher, and Quin Abbey.  We actually saw American flags flying right next to the Irish flag at just about every tourist attraction we stopped at!  I won't describe each one to you...pictures would be much more interesting :)

First stop...Bunratty Castle and Folk Park!

Bunratty Castle

The murder hole...boiling water was poured from above to keep out enemies!

On our way down to the prison

Next...and my favorite stop...The Cliffs of Moher.  Breathtaking views, strong winds, and ominous caves.

Cliffs of Moher

This is the only one of fifty shots in which my hair was not being destroyed by the wind...

Lastly, Quin Abbey.  Unfortunately it was closed by the time we got there, but there were plenty of windows for us to peak inside.  I love old churches...one of the best subjects for letting out my (virtually nonexistent) artsy side :)

Quin Abbey

An inside look

The biggest blessing of the trip was being with my family.  I LOVE THEM SO MUCH.  And I miss them!  We experience an overwhelming, abounding joy when we're with each other that melts my heart to think about right now.  I never worry about fighting or arguing about anything; we give each other constant support and affirmation.  I love the super touchy-feely way we interact - there are an infinite number of hugs, kisses, and "I love you's."  I'm totally not ashamed to say I held my Mama's hand everywhere we went, and Kelsey and I were almost always arm-in-arm.  I wish Daddy and Avery could have been there, but I know I'll see them soon!

Be safe in Africa, Daddy.  Avery, I hope you had some sweet and refreshing time with Jesus T Bar M! Mama and Kelsey, thank you for spending an incredible week with me.

Much much much love,
Hayley