A bit o' the Irish

We all have challenging times in life when we think it can't get any worse. I've been there more than once. But right now I am lucky enough to be at a point in my life when I think it can't get any better! Cooler maybe, but not better! What a trip!

All of my wishes are coming true this trip, it is just a lovely experience! I realized today that everything I want to do is working out. When I was here 3 years ago I didn't get to see the famous Powerscourt Gardens. Today I was on the tour and it was beautiful! Especially the roses, so gorgeous! My feet aren't working the best so I can't walk a lot but that isn't interferring with the thrill of my experiences! I made it to Powerscourt and was able to enjoy the bit cooler weather too. After time to have tea and an extraordinary dessert, we returned to Dublin where I got off the bus for a bit more sightseeing on my own. FINALLY I was able to see the Book of Kells! It is in every guidebook as a must and the line was not too long and although I had no idea what the latin text said, it was goregous to see. Each capital letter is a different design and the pictures are amazing. It is from about 400AD, I don't remember exactly. It is the first book ever written, I believe, and although it cost 9 euros to enter, I think it was well worth it! Upstairs there was a library and I've never seen anything like it, absolutely amazing, gorgeous and filled 2 stories high with old books. This was all at Trinity College and the atmosphere was enchanting.

After that and a bit of shopping I had a nice lunch at Killarny, a beautiful department type store. I'd been there on each of my other 2 visits and although I didn't buy anything, it was fun to look. I'd hoped for Irish stew at a pub but the pubs in the area were packed and they were so hot inside and the wait was long. So I went to the cafe at the nice store and had quite the lunch. A young man helped me with suggestions, but actually gave me most of what was offered. The cod with mustard and cheese was delicious and it came iwth a rice salad, mashed carrots and turnips (not my favorite part), roasted potatoes, roasted beets and the man was quite upset I wouldn't take the mashed potatoes and gravy too!!! Delicious lunch and then it was back to the shuttle to return to the ship. I'll be resting my feet for the afternoon, probably taking a nice nap too.

I did tell our tour guide that I would like to see a leprechaun and she asked if I was pure of heart and free of sin and I replied, "pretty much" so she said then I would see one. I didn't, but the visit was still thrilling! I'm in Ireland!!

Yes, Dublin was charming and seeing the Book of Kells exciting and yes, right now I am not sure life could be any better! Tomorrow, Scotland is our destination!