Cobh, Kinsale, and Killarney

Tuesday we bussed to Cork stopping at Kilkenny Castle and Cobh for a quick lunch which was a beautiful drive with an informative driver to answer our many questions. We stayed in Kinsale overlooking the water. Caleb was so excited to look out the hotel window out to see so many boats. Wednesday morning was spent exploring Kinsale having Desmond Castle all to ourselves as well as a small church courtyard we happened upon along the way. We then drove to Killarney with a brief stop at Blarney. Although no kissing of the stone was done, we were thankful Caleb took advantage of this time for napping. We were completely impressed with our hotel in Killarney and glad we were there two nights. The concert Wednesday night was at 8:00 so we only stayed for Caleb’s Concert, AKA Sound check and rehearsal. Caleb and I took a detoured stroll back to the hotel enjoying the streets along the way. It was a shame he was much too tired for pictures because there were so many wonderful places and opportunities.

Dublin

Monday the concerts began. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral was definitely an impressive venue to start. Singing continued at Christ’s Church Cathedral where we had been the previous day. We took a break between cathedrals for running in the beautiful Saint Patrick’s Cathedral Park. The blooming tulips were gorgeous.
We went to Trinity College touring the Trinity Old Library where the famous Book of Kells is displayed and continued with a bus tour around the city. Caleb has been pointing out every single bus so he was excited to get on one.

Headed to Ireland

Caleb won the hearts of the group immediately in the airport. He was all smiles and continued to do so well during our long day of travels. Of course he was one of the only that could sleep comfortably on the plane. He was so excited to ride on a “pairpane” and physically turned every head so they could see them out the windows.

After a quick nap, Matt and I hit the streets of Dublin heading to Christ’s Church Cathedral for a rare trip up into the bell tower. The trip up was extremely steep and narrow apparent from my squatting to enter a doorway. Matthew’s shoulders barely fit. Not only did we get an understanding and demonstration of the bells, but they allowed the group to try their hands at bell ringing as well. Appreciation was shown with a quick song which may have been the first singing in the bell tower. After our trip, we picked up Caleb and Grandmama at the hotel for what started as a walk to dinner but ended up through Merrion Square Park.

Shower Time

Today we celebrated two little girls. Abigail made her entrance early and Emma Kate isn't expected for another 10 weeks. Caleb was right in the middle of all the attention especially when it came to present opening. Caleb quickly found a corner of the cake to sink his fingers into, had fun spreading tissue paper everywhere and figured out Emma's new toy. I'm sure this is so he can be a wonderful sharing big brother and show her how to use it. Yes that is Caleb underneath the blanket Aunt Bec made and traveled far to make this a special day. He hasn't gotten to meet his cousin Abigail yet but hopefully will very soon as she is thankfully doing very well and hopefully coming home soon.

He is Risen

Easter was a beautiful day. We started as normal...seeing who could be the first to utter "He is Risen." It was me even though it involved sneaking up behind Matt. I look forward to when Caleb participates with us. After church, we joined neighbors for brunch and enjoyed the sunshine. What a glorious day for celebrating the Lord's sacrifice for us! He is risen indeed!