Bryan let me blog today, so I a taking full advantage.
After coffee yesterday, we went and explored Malahide Castle & Malahide village - both of which were pretty amazing. But perhaps the highlight of adventure was a pub we discovered (and which Eithne recommended)called Duffys. After patronizing so many Irish-influenced-American-made pubs in the US, Bryan and I both commented about how our first reaction was the slightly 'cheesy' Irish decorations & crests that littered the bar...until we realized that, of course, they were authentic. (Oh yeah, we're in Ireland.)It was all real, and thankfully, so was the Guinness. Oh the Guinness...we received 2 of the most beautifully poured, incredibly delicious pints we have ever had. (Paired with a couple of 5 Euro burgers & chips made a fabulously cheap night out in Malahide.)
We wondered around the village for a bit, but then made our way back to the B&B through an amazing park around the castle. We stopped so many times to gawk at the thick trunks and stumps and strange mossiness of the forest. The paths were winding, and it reminded me (Bryan) of the portion of The Lord of the Rings where Merry and Pippin meet the Ents in Fangorn forest. I couldn't wrap my mind around the descriptions of Tolkien's forest until I saw such an old woods. Any way, the forest was wonderful, the pub was lovely, and the Guinness was well enjoyed with the pub full of old Irishmen (almost as gnarled as the trees). Now it's time for Africa, and our minds are swimming with thoughts of Community Hope.
One last thing for today: HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMILY!!!
Sounds like a great day in Ireland, thanks for describing it for us. Can't wait to hear about the next part. God Speed.
ReplyDeleteNamibia must be getting close!! Prayers to you both as you complete your travels to Africa.
ReplyDeleteI am absolutely waiting with bated breath to see each post. It's part jealousy, but a bigger part to watch you experience this. I think this will be the most amazing thing in your lives up to this point. I came home from Egypt even knowing the name of the clinic I would start - long story. Soak it up. Travel safely. Hug a child for me "from Wanda".
ReplyDeleteDear Bryan and Jen,
ReplyDeleteWe know you may have a hard time getting internet access to post your blogs, but we'll keep checking on ya! Love and blessings, Mom Laurie
Sending you tons and tons of virtual hugs and prayers for blessings galore! Looking forward to updates when you're able.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the birthday wishes! You guys are the best!
ReplyDeleteI'm loving checking your blog and it's so exciting to think that you are there now and hopefully just loving every minute and soaking it all in!
Can't wait to hear more!
~emily~
Well, Bryan and Jenna got see lots of diferent animals and started teaching school yesterday. They found out that it is costly to use the internet, so we hope they can find a way to update their blog to keep all posted!
ReplyDelete(Happy Birthday Emily!)
Thanks for the update Laurie!
ReplyDelete