Our Irish Adventure Begins

Yes, finally, after a year of planning, we boarded a plane, late yesterday, and landed in Dublin this morning.

But let me back up and tell the whole story.

We really did start planning for this a year ago.  It was a combination trip; a trip to Ireland for Ethan, who spent much of his education on Irish history, and a chance for John to see some of the places where his family came from.  So yesterday was highly anticipated.  (You won't see Ethan in any photos.  In the end, he decided not to come.)

We had been in the Chicago area for a week, spending the last two nights with friends.  Mrs. Friend drove us to O'Hare, we cleared security, and waited at the gate for boarding.

We never anticipated the text I would receive.  Fraud on our bank account. You don't want to start any trip that way!  We called the bank, cancelled our cards, and new ones will be sent to us.  --whew--

The flight was lovely, and we landed at Dublin only about 5 minutes late. We checked into our B&B, and immediately took a nap.  After an hour or so, we headed out for--what else?--a tour of the Jameson Distillery.

Our friendly guide walked us through 4 whiskies.  We were in an old office of the distiller, or the cooper.  Our guide was unclear.  In the end, we really liked the plain Jane Jameson's, but your mileage may vary.

After a bus ride back, dinner in a pub, and, of course, this blogging, I am more than ready for a good night's sleep.  Stay tuned for tomorrow's installment...