At least that is what Daniel proclaimed yesterday, as we set off on bicycles down a tree-lined trail in the Killarney National Park. We all agreed it was a pretty awesome day. Daniel was on a tagalong bike behind Bill, so the only thing slowing us down was the occasional horse-drawn trap that we needed to maneuver around on the path. We picnicked by a castle, and ate popsicles and ice cream to keep up our strength. The weather has been quite unusual for Ireland…sunny and hot, with temps in the 80’s the last couple of days. What a change from our first week, which was the more typical cool, occasionally cloudy and rainy weather one expects here.
Our days have been filled with fun activities. I think the highlight for Caroline was the petting farm that featured puppies, baby rabbits, kittens, and other assorted animals that you could pick up or feed. Bill and I enjoyed the beautiful drive along a section of the Ring of Kerry that passed through the mountains to the quaint town of Kenmare. However, the close encounters with large tour buses on the narrow winding roadways and the carsickness experienced in the back seat convinced us that we don’t need to drive the entire ring. Or take any other long drives, for that matter.
A poorly tossed frisbee that landed in the neighbor’s hedge provided an opportunity to meet the friendly family next door. Daniel and the 3 year old daughter hit it off immediately, and Caroline and the 6 year old daughter enjoyed chasing the young ones in circles around the house. The family lives in Cork during the week, but escape to the country each weekend and holiday, where the girls have more room to roam and play. I appreciated the opportunity to chat with the parents and get suggestions on things to do in the area.
Our time in Ireland is coming to an end; Saturday we head to Edinburgh, Scotland. We’ve enjoyed our time in the country, but are looking forward to public transportation and all the other advantages of living in the city!
ABCD World Travels 
What a great post! So happy for you all and so fun to enjoy your adventures vicariously. Have to tell you that I only glanced at the photos at first, saw the one of Caroline and thought “That is a great picture of Anita! Howndoes she stay so young?” Then I took a closer look and thought “What a resemblance!” Of course, since we have been friends since FOREVER, I do have a recall of you close to that age. Take care! Thanks for bringing me along!
I expect to see photos of Bill in a kilt on the next leg!
It sounds like a lovely time so far! We’re dropping Talula off for Girl Scout sleep away camp this morning and I thought of you and Caroline. This time the girls are going for the week long camp, and we opted for Deer Lake instead of Sugar Pine. Caroline will be missed but what wonderful adventures she’s having! Journey on, Jennifer
I hope the girls have a wonderful time at camp! Thanks for the note.