From lush green nourished by a summer of rainfall to the heights of the Cliffs at Moher to the depths of a cave carved by ancient waters to barren land strewn with glacial rock deposits, the senses were caressed with calming gratification. One week in Ireland was not enough.
Either we were very lucky, or we brought with us the gift of sunshine to folks longing for an end to the rain. Whatever the reason, we enjoyed perfect temperatures in the 60s and 70s. And relaxation. I’ve come to realize that there are three factors that make traveling so restorative.
1) We leave behind the stress of daily negative news. (I learned in a course in journalism that good news doesn’t sell.)
2) The people tourists meet are all employed, resonating contentment.
3) While the news of joblessness in Ireland, as elsewhere, is tragic, we can take in the information without the pressure to feel responsible for casting and/or encouraging the corrective vote.
Our excursion guide was about the best we’ve every experienced, informative, fun, filled with enlightening stories about the country – the kind one might get sitting at the kitchen table over a cup of coffee.
We were directed to restaurants and pubs where we enjoyed delicious food – always accompanied by potatoes in at least one form. Yes, Gordon, I did have a glass of Guinness or two. And music, classical Irish and traditional.
The economic news was not good, reminding me, as always, of my gratitude that I can travel and enjoy such happy experiences. My joy would be complete if I knew such pleasurable calm were the world’s norm.
Mostly, it’s true what they say. Ireland is a wonderful place to visit.
I haven’t had time to download my photos. Eventually I’ll have something to post here.
monagustafsonaffinito 
Here’s raising a Deschutes Black Porter to you and the Irish! Glad to get the update. Save journey home.
Looking forward to photos! I have only visited Cork once – it was unbelievably green
Sounds like a great trip – glad you enjoyed it.
anxious to see the photos. i have never been to Ireland, so this will be the next best thing. so glad you had a wonderful, relaxing time!
Maybe the day after tomorrow I’ll be able to upload a photo or two. Thanks to all of you for responding.
Hi Mona,
So happy to know you enjoyed your trip to Ireland. I have been there and love it and Scotland. Two countries that I enjoy visiting becasue of its history. I also love Guinness, there is another beer called Murphy’s that is just as good, so I can say I drink both. Scotland is also very nice. You must visit Scotland. Believe me when I say that the scotch tastes much different in Scotland. It is absolutely superb!
Ciao,
Patricia
Thanks for commenting, Pat. And I do agree with you. I’ve also had the pleasure of visiting Scotland and I’d happily go back there as well as Ireland. p.s., I also love Norway.