A Missed Kiss

Sue and Craig, sr, met us for our remaining adventures -- Cork and Kerry Counties.  We visited Blarney Castle and climbed the many stairs to see the famous stone.  Even after climbing all the stairs, I passed up my chance to actually kiss the Blarney Stone.  The castle isn't much to see or the stone, but the grounds and the views are gorgeous.  It was a great place for the kiddos to run and explore.

Inside the castle

The Blarney Stone.  I'm definitely not a germ-freak, but I did have to pass up the chance to hang upside down from the top floor of a castle and share germs with all those who haven't pased up the chance to kiss the stone.

The Emerald Isle

On our way home from Germany we stopped by Ireland for a vacation... well, as close as you can get to a vacation with littles along. Here are photos from our first couple of days. We visited Powerscourt Waterfall, the tallest on the island, and the Rock of Cashel. The existing buildings at the Rock of Cashel date back to 1100 AD.   It is also supposed to be the location where the King of Munster was converted by St. Patrick. Ah, all the lovely greenness.

What to do with children who won't look at the camera?

A very fun playground near the waterfall

Rock of Cashel

In the city of Cashel

Don't these boys look like they are loving our family vacation?

A Last German Adventure

We saw the paragliders every sunny day enjoying the views.  I told Craig shortly after we arrived that I wanted to do it too, though I'm not sure I 100% meant it.  Two days before we left Germany, Craig insisted that I go and enjoy the views myself.  My dear friend Meg joined me, and it was a beautiful adventure.

And, I guess it is pretty safe.  I didn't sign any release papers, and the guy I was with answered his cell phone while we were flying around.