Binge Blogging two

there is BB one below this

On our final day which was a return to the Dublin area for the trip back home the next day, we first visited another famous Irish landmark, located in the town of

Famous for its “rock” where, as legend has it, St. Patrick converted the Kind of Munster in the 5^th Century.    It is also called the “Rock of….” Because of its location high on a rock outcropping overlooking the town of Cashel.  Once again, location, location, location, when it comes to obtaining a defensive postion.  And the very same reason that it makes it hard for the bad guys to attack the place, it makes it hard for the intrepid tourists to visit.  That is, you have to walk up and up and up to get there.   Shuttle?  Ptoooie, start walking.  So, once again the Feeder fearing the trek down more than up, rested his knees and remained down below in the town. 

But, but doing that, I got to witness the dexterity of the coach drivers.  After discharging the passengers for the trek up the rock, we attempted to get the coach into the coach park.  Oh, did I mention that it was an extremely foggy day, and you couldn’t even see the “Rock” fortification from down below.   Well, the coach got into the car park okay

But then negotiating a turn proved nearly impossible, requiring a two man operation with much gesturing and shouting...

But, eventually with enough “too-ing and froo-ing” the bus freed itself from the prison of cars and all was well.

I strolled down into the town and did some shopping, and enjoyed the little square

And listened to a street musician

About this time, the fog began to lift and “the Rock” began to emerge from the mist

As did the climbers, and since it was lunch time we gathered at a little pub

And enjoyed (a neighbor's glass)

And I think my only ham and cheese “toastie” of the trip.  A bit upgraded as it appeared to have been done on a Pannini press.  Still great, however, they are "just right"

On the way to our evening’s lodging in Malahide (nearer the airport than Dublin)

We had a surprise visit to the town of Thurles, and the Cathedral of the Assumption which contained our long awaited “surprise”

In the form of a Tabernacle that Dr. Miller thought bore a strong resemblance to the one that stood at Historic St. Mary’s City in the Brick Chapel

And with the help of some of the taller members of the party took some measurements

It did indeed bear a strong resemblance to “ours”

We finally made it to Malahide, where we were in the “Grand Hotel”

And we all had a lovely farewell dinner overlooking the river

and shared our favorite experiences..

After the dinner I was treated to a wee dram of Irish Whisky by Ed Cole as a wrap up to a wonderful trip.

I think maybe one more quick edition to go..and I don’t think I was

DFD