The Irish Countryside
Today was a very relaxed day. We began with breakfast at the B&B with the Durkin’s. While the guys went golfing, we ladies (Kendra, me, Chrissy, Aunt Maryann, and Maryann Durkin) took a bus tour of County Meath. We tried to get into Newgrange, but there were too many tourists. Instead, we watched a short video of the ancient burial ground (which was built well before the great pyramids), and did a little sightseeing of the countryside, including Slane Castle and a whole lot of cows. We had a delightful lunch at the café next to the Hill of Tara, another important historical site in Ireland. Though we didn’t get to see much of the hill, I enjoyed my vegetable soup and chocolate cake very much!
While Chrissy and Auntie Maryann went off to do wedding stuff, the rest of us returned to the B&B. After Mike Durkin returned, the four of us set out for dinner in Athboy. We had a great time in a small pub not far from where we are staying. The Durkin’s were fabulous dinner companions, and they patiently sat through our endless stories of Krakow. After filling up on dinner, we were picked up by Frank, a local cab driver, who dropped us off in the neighboring town of Trim.
We were the first to arrive at the “Steps”, the pub where everyone was meeting. After a few minutes, in walked Auntie Debbie and Uncle Jerry. I was so excited to see them. It’s been a long trip, and it’s nice to be around family again. Kendra and I were both grateful to be surrounded by familiar faces. Soon after, people began pouring in – everyone from Lathan’s childhood friends to family members from the US and Ireland. The best man, Smilie, hired a fabulous singer who performed until the bar closed. Mike Durkin held court, and had us all singing along with him to the Irish favorites. The tap was flowing, and we all had a fabulous time. Tomorrow Kendra and I are going to join Auntie Debbie and Uncle Jerry on a tour of Trim and its castle. At night, we have the wedding rehearsal. The next few days should be very exciting!
