April 30

Was so nice to meet the Hunters in Glasgow. Rosemary is a very distant cousin of George and her husband Derek is a really nice guy. We walked around Glasgow for a while, stopped for Coffee, then went to lunch at Jamie Oliver's Italian restaurant. Their daughter Rowan, who lived in Melbourne 9-10 ears ago came to lunch and then we all had a couple of drinks in a converted old church in the West End. they had a prior commitment at night so G & I had dinner at the Argyll Tavern nearby.
Got off to a slow start yesterday. After checking out of the hotel we had a few issues, the garage where we had parked the car was trying to overcharge us, & so we got that sorted. Then we packed the bags in the boot & G went to get his shaver - not to be found! and so begsn a process of elimination - the shaver wasn't in the car, in his bag or anywhere to be seen. Back to the room to check & no luck, but by then had also lost his glasses. So I went back to check in the room and found his glasses, obviously dropped on the floor when the earlier check had taken place, but still no shaver. After another check of the suitcase G decided on yet a further re-check in the bedroom (by now we were certainly viewed as odd by the reception staff) and by chance the shaver was behind the curtain - obviously missed the case when thrown and almost never to be seen again!!!
Drove to Edinburgh, took just over an hour!! and went straight to the Brittania, now berthed permanently in Edinburgh harbour. Was really nice, we saw where all the Royals had enjoyed many years of sailing in what is now a fairly tired, yet comfortable, old ship.
Checked in with the Pritchards for our last night in Scotland - raining & cold still! Gretta made a beautiful meal of roast turkey & vegs & raspberries, strawberries & ice-cream. They were the first English strawberries of the season - delicious but very pale compared to ours at home.
Woke this morning to yet another rainy day - said goodbye to Gretta & Kenneth & left for the airport. Still pretty dark as only 6.50 am and pouring with rain we forgot to top up with petrol so backtracked to try & find a petrol station. Funny how everyone else knows where they are going but not us! Ended up on swveral different freeway/motorways,(still pouring eith rin) & eventually got petrol and found our way back to the airport.
Flight to Gatwick was without issue, next flight to Nice was quite late. Took the bus from Nice to Monte Carlo, rained all the way, roads awash but in spite of that still a lovely and picturesque drive. Found our hotel, called the Port Palace, right on the harbour. Our ship is in port tonight but we will not board until tomorrow. Went our for dinner, found a nice little restaurant but couldn't leave for ages as the rain was pelting down! Could be a most interesting cruise. Rain is expected again tomorrow in Monaco.

April 28

The sun was actually shining when we left Stirling yesterday. But unfortunately it didn't warm the air!! We had been to Stirling Castle on a day stopover in Scotland a few years ago so didn't feel the need to go again, but we did drive up the very steep cobblestone road to the castle car park just for old time's sake. Stirling is a particularly nice town/city, the castle is on a huge rock and sits proudly there watching for invaders!!!! We booked some accommodation for two nights in Glasgow then made the journey to Glasgow which took all of 45 minutes!!! on the motorway. The hotel is right in the middle of the city - great for cinemas, theatres, shopping but not so good when it comes to parking. I spent a few hours wandering through the malls & streets yesterday, was nice to imagine doing some retail therapy but sadly I couldn't take the risk of being even more overweight with my bags. Glasgow has some great shops, and there were thousands of people everywhere. I even saw a wedding, the 'older' couple had been married at the Registry Office (I think) and were sitting in a beautiful old white convertible, she in a very smart outfit with big picture hat & he looking quite chuffed and pleased with himself! I guess they would have been late 60/early 70ish. Very well dressed guests were waving them off. Then on the next block there was a guy lying there who looked like he might be dead - everyone stopped for a look, including me, & apparently he was out of his mind on drugs!
We are being picked up this morning by some relatives of George, Rosemary & Derek Hunter. We are going to lunch and will hopefully meet up with their daughter, Rowan, who visited us in Melbourne a few years ago.

April 26

I may have mentioned earlier that George has a huge haematoma on his other leg (thank God he only has 2 legs) caused by sitting on the bed to put on his shoes while we were in Edinburgh 10 days ago. What he didn't count on was sitting on the small bedpost at the end of the bed! He has had a huge bruise which still seems to be getting worse, not better. He should have had it looked at earlier but expected it would get better each day. Anyway, because we are flying to London/Nice on Monday it seemed sensible to have it looked at in case he shouldn't fly so we back-tracked to Perth hospital this morning. Was only 17 miles so no real drama. Saw a doctor almost immediately, was given the all clear and no expenses involved - all on the National Health. By lunchtime we had driven back through Crief to Comrie, where G's ancestors originated. Enid's mother was a Comrie. Had a very tasty pie from the local bakery and proceeded on to Braco, a smaller town where G's great grandfather is buried.
Drove through lots of small towns and stopped to look at the beautiful Cathedral in Dunblane. Dunblane is where Andy Murray (tennis) lived as a child and was involved in the terrible massacre of primary school children in 1996. On then to Gleneagles, took a quick drive up to the hotel and past the famous clubhouse. The wind was blowing at gale force but there were still golfers out there!!!
Arrived in Stirling at around 5pm and stopped at a McDonalds to check our internet & find a hotel for the night. Now staying at the King Robert Hotel and will move on to Glasgow tomorrow. We have done Scotland - two weeks in this weather is really enough. Scotland is a small place and we are never far from the last place we visited!

April 25

Was raining still this morning and we reckoned there would be snow about! The forecast was certainly not promising sunshine! Braemar Lodge turned out to be terrific, nice accommodation, dinner & breakfast & we also hit the jackpot and were able to do our laundry before leaving this morning. Took a photo of the park where the Braemar Games are held and of the pavilion where the Queen sits.
Set off in the direction of Perth, via a few other places. Progress was very slow as the road was covered in sheets of water and driving conditions not ideal. We could see fresh snow on the mountains nearby and as we climbed towards the summit it started to snow. Was really beautiful and as we passed through the tiny ski area of Glenshee it reminded me of Mt Hotham.
Continued on to Dundee and did a quick drive around the city but weather conitions didn't allow for a look on foot. Over the Tey Bridge we saw a sign to St Andrews, 11 miles, so decided to drive there and buy some lovely placemats we had seen in the pro shop of the Old Course Hotel when lunching with Gretta. Will be a nice gift for the Pritchards as each mat has a plan of a famous Scottish golf course. The weather today was a far cry from our earlier visit - how anyone could possibly play golf in such conditions is beyond me. But they were!
Drove on then to Perth which was a really lovely city, not that we did much other than have a much needed coffee. Lovely gardens and houses along the river. Decided to make Crief our overnight spot. George has been talking about Crief since 1971/2 as he spent NY's Eve here. Thought we might be able to stay in the same 5 star hotel that he & Jack Woodside stayed in, at £5 a night. I reminded him that that would now equate to about $200 a night if it were
still operating! So, I parked the car, he went in to enquire about a room, wifi, etc etc but came back to the car fairly shortly afterwards to tell me it is now boarded up!!!!! So we drove around the town & came upon a comfortable hotel, very old, but that adds to the charm. Going off to dinner now after a very chilly walk down the main street.
Was good to skype with Caroline and Jane this morning. Also good to watch (on the ipad) the Pies have a 1 point win over the Bombers.

April 24

Well, we might as well be on a skiing holiday as an autumn trip to Scotland!!! Today has been SO cold, it rained non-stop all night and the roads today were very wet. All the fields are so wet that there is nowhere else for the water to go but to remain on the road in huge pools.
We drove in to Aberdeen, checked out the harbour, the beach, (all with the wipers going), then tried forthe Tourist Info office but unable firstly to find it then unable to get a park within cooee so continued on in the direction of Braemar. Lovely houses on the outskirts of Aberdeen, obviously a very wealthy community.
First stop was at Tesco to buy our daily melon & grape pack, then on to a pretty little town called Banchory. Many castles and stately homes along the way. From there we drove to Torphins, a small town where Toni & Roger lived way back then! Looked for somewhere to buy a Four'n'twenty but I think the baker has closed shop!!!
From there we drove to Balmoral - what a magnificent property it is. Can see why HM likes to spend 10 weeks there every year. George was able to test drive another gopher - I got to walk quicker than usual so win win all around! But it was difficult dodging the showers. At the end my shoes and pants were saturated, it was very cold and we couldn't wait to check in to a nice warm hotel.
So we drove on to Braemar, about 30 minutes, up & down 2 of the 3 or four streets in Braemar,
and decided on a small hotel tucked away in a back street. Yes, they had wifi in rooms, yes, we could have dinner there, yes, lovely people but having checked in & tried to connect wifi lo & behold, no go! Despite all ttempts to find a password, mine host was a good player out of luck and so we moved to Braemar Lodge where all our needs were met.
It's still raining and it's still cold!

Departed Oban and drove for an hour or so before stopping for breakfast just short of Glencoe (Glencoe in SA is my hometown). Being Sunday not much open early for breakfast. The town of Glencoe was really lovely, surrounded by mountains, some snow covered. One of the prettiest towns we have seen. Went to the monument built in memory of all those killed in the battle of Glencoe - hard to believe such a peaceful place was once a battlefield! On then toward Inverness, a stunning drive along various loughs and finally the famous Lough Ness. Was rather difficult trying to spot the monster whilst driving but we did get some good pictures. After buying some much needed fruit at Tesco's we found our dusty hotel (old & creaky but OK) and then found a lovely restaurant (The Mustard Seed) for dinner. Stopped in at the Hootenanny Hotel for some Scottish music but was rather dull & no bagpipes or singing. This morning we drove around Inverness, a very beautiful city with lovely gardens & houses, then set off for Fort George, about 20 mins away. Rugged up against the bitter cold and by now, rain, we hurried in to the fort and George was pleased to see that there were free scooters available for the elderly and infirm! After a 30 second lesson on how to drive the scooter he was off & away, headphones & route map and all!!! Left me for,dead but gave me an opportunity for a quicker walk but it was SO cold I fairly quickly opted for the coffee shop then a visit to the gift shop to purchase a pair of lambswool gloves!!!!! By then it was pouring & even George had to admit defeat! But he is well trained now for his next new vehicle! During the day we visited a couple of ruined castles/cathedrals, a ruined abbey, the Duff Mansion (fabulous) and a whisky distillery. That was forgettable except for the wee dram they gave us at the end and that was excellent as it warmed us up! We actually intended staying in Aberdeen tonight but when checking on the internet last night we found there was no accommodation to be had as there is a big music gathering there so we decided to wing it! Took the coastal road across to Fraserburg but the town was colourless - like a German town might have looked just after the war - and so unlike anything we have seen so we drove on to Peterhead. Not a lot better, initially, and looked at one point as if we might have to find a stable!!! but fortunately we came upon this lovely hotel and they had 1 room left! It's such a nice place, very well appointed and we had an excellent steak for dinner. And there is wi fi.

April 22 & 23

Departed Oban and drove for an hour or so before stopping for breakfast just short of Glencoe (Glencoe in SA is my hometown). Being Sunday not much open early for breakfast. The town of Glencoe was really lovely, surrounded by mountains, some snow covered. One of the prettiest towns we have seen. Went to the monument built in memory of all those killed in the battle of Glencoe - hard to believe such a peaceful place was once a battlefield! On then toward Inverness, a stunning drive along various loughs and finally the famous Lough Ness. Was rather difficult trying to spot the monster whilst driving but we did get some good pictures. After buying some much needed fruit at Tesco's we found our dusty hotel (old & creaky but OK) and then found a lovely restaurant (The Mustard Seed) for dinner. Stopped in at the Hootenanny Hotel for some Scottish music but was rather dull & no bagpipes or singing. This morning we drove around Inverness, a very beautiful city with lovely gardens & houses, then set off for Fort George, about 20 mins away. Rugged up against the bitter cold and by now, rain, we hurried in to the fort and George was pleased to see that there were free scooters available for the elderly and infirm! After a 30 second lesson on how to drive the scooter he was off & away, headphones & route map and all!!! Left me for,dead but gave me an opportunity for a quicker walk but it was SO cold I fairly quickly opted for the coffee shop then a visit to the gift shop to purchase a pair of lambswool gloves!!!!! By then it was pouring & even George had to admit defeat! But he is well trained now for his next new vehicle! During the day we visited a couple of ruined castles/cathedrals, a ruined abbey, the Duff Mansion (fabulous) and a whisky distillery. That was forgettable except for the wee dram they gave us at the end and that was excellent as it warmed us up! We actually intended staying in Aberdeen tonight but when checking on the internet last night we found there was no accommodation to be had as there is a big music gathering there so we decided to wing it! Took the coastal road across to Fraserburg but the town was colourless - like a German town might have looked just after the war - and so unlike anything we have seen so we drove on to Peterhead. Not a lot better, initially, and looked at one point as if we might have to find a stable!!! but fortunately we came upon this lovely hotel and they had 1 room left! It's such a nice place, very well appointed and we had an excellent steak for dinner. And there is wi fi.

April 21

Up early again this morning as had to be at the ferry terminal by 9am - no breakfast on the premises here but the same lady runs a cafe on the main street so we ate there. But we didn't leave the room until the final siren at the Pies/Port game which I am pleased to say the Pies won! The ferry from Oban to Craignure, Mull, took 45 minutes then we boarded a bus for the hour long drive to Fionnport. The road was very narrow, like some of the roads yesterday it was just wide enough for 1 car and every few hundred metres there is a waiting bay. But it all works well, no one seems to worry about the inconvenience! And the bus driver gave a marvellous commentary the whole way. Mull is an interesting island, parts are under pine plantation, there is farming and also some parts are very bleak and windswept. But the coastal road is so beautiful. We saw a couple of white tail eagles in the distance, also red deer, lots of highland cattle and sheep. At Fionnport another smaller ferry took us the half hour crossing to the island of Iona.
After lunch we did a tour of the Abbey which has been beautifully restored also saw the ruins of the nunnery. So much religious history in Iona and hordes of people were arriving for retreats, etc, as we were departing. I guess if you like being in a remote place with not too much distraction then Iona is the place!
Arrived back at 5.45pm and the little shop on the wharf selling all things seafood was still open so George had some oysters and mussels. Said they were DELICIOUS! I had a prawn cocktail which was also good. Then went to a nearby restaurant for dinner and a glass of wine but no dancing & heel kicking tonight - we are both beat!!!

April 20

Got away to an early start after breakfast as the Pritchards were meeting friends for a golfing weekend. Caught the 9.30am ferry from Lochranza to the Mull of Kintyre, a 30 minute journey. Checked out Skipness Castle then took the narrow but very picturesque road to Campbeltown, about 35 miles along the Mull. Had to share the road with many sheep and their lambs, all very cute! Paul McCartney has his house somewhere on the Mull of Kintyre but not sure where. Saw many huge properties that could fit the bill, however!
Campbeltown is a very nice town, obviously a centre for airforce and navy training. After lunch we drove on to Oban, about 90 miles, passing through towns such as Kennacraig, Tarbert and Kilmartin. Roads OK but certainly not made for getting somewhere in a hurry. We had already made an internet booking at the Lorn View B & B so no pressure to hurry. Went to the Ferry terminal to enquire about a day trip tomorrow to Mull and Iona. George is very keen to trace his Presbyterian roots and it should be a nice relaxing day on the ferry and a bus.
The B & B is great,it is built high on the cliff and we have a front room which overlooks the whole town and harbour. And as a bonus there are two black cats here - Pixie welcomed us by dashing into our room & checking out the chairs, suitcases, etc then settling comfortably on the bed! Took a long walk down to the Lorn hotel for dinner which turned out to be extremely delicious - the sea bass here and in Ireland has been lovely. Nice to have internet again tonight - how did we ever manage to communicate in the old days?????

April 19

Yesterday we were driven around the island by Kenneth & Gretta, some of the most beautiful views you could imagine. Stopped for lunch, ice cream, photo shots, a beer, etc etc and then Gretta & I made stir fry. She was most impressed at my use of fresh ginger, garlic and red hot chillies and I think her stir fry will never be the same again! All the food we have eaten since leaving home has been really lovely but with our Asian palate we have been craving something spicy.
Today we took it easy - had a big long walk before lunch then another after lunch. We found that the little pub has wi fi so I dashed home to get my trusty ipad and G & I are now having a wee drink and using the internet.
We leave here tomorrow on the ferry to the Mull of Kintyre. The ferry leaves from this village, Lochranza, and we will aim for the 10.30am departure then head north.

April 18

Yesterday we went off by ourselves to discover Edinburgh.  Gretta drove us to the Castle and we expected to stay a short time in order to cover as much ground as possible but we were surprised at how much there was to see.  Most of you will have been to Edinburgh Castle but not me!! I was impressed with the view from the Castle. St Margaret's Chapel, the Crown Jewels, etc and in particular to the way the Castle has been maintained.  After a couple of hours we walked along the Royal Mile, all downhill, and stopped for lunch at Deacon Brodie's Tavern.  Afterwards we visited St Giles Cathedral (Presbyterian) which is just beautiful.  Talked to one of the volunteers and he suggested we take a look at the  Thistle Chapel to see the Sir Robert Menzies Crest.  
On to the new Scottish Parliament - a fabulous new modern building, with an estimated building cost of £70 million but which in fact cost £700 million pounds.  
Then we went to Holyrood Palace, just across the road from the Parliament. 
That was most interesting, the palace is still used by members of the Royal family on a regular basis. Had a well earned cup of tea in the Palace cafe before returning to the Pritchards by taxi. 
Home in time to change for dinner.  Gretta & Kenneth had invited Sir John and Lady MacClusky for dinner - we have know the Lord for  a number of years through the IBA.  He didn't didappoint - we were entertained all night by his stories and wit! His wife, Ruth, is a lovely, long suffering lady! 
On Tuesday morning we picked up our rental car from the airport.  There was a slight glitch, apparently  we had inadvertently ordered a manual instead of an automatic car.  After a quick lesson in how to use a clutch etc !!!!!  we drove back to the Pritchards.  But earlier George had sat on the bedpost, (causing great discomfort which has resulted  in 2 packet of frozen peas for relief) and so guess who had the pleasure of driving in Edinburgh in a manual car!  As we were all leaving for the island of Arran at midday we opted for me to drive Getta and for George to drive with Kenneth.  End result - got here in one piece, mp problems. Gretta cooked lamb chops, grown on the island, for dinner and we had a roaring fire & a nice bottle of red.

15 April

Checked out of the hotel in Dublin and found a nice little pub out of town for breakfast.  Have never seen such a big breakfast  - have eaten so many eggs I will be clucking before long!
Dropped the car and checked in for our flight and who should we run into but Margaret & Simon from Sydney so we went to a bar & had a final guinness!  was nice to see them again.  They were flying to Blackpool.
Gretta picked us up at the airport in Edinburgh and we then had a leisurely afternoon with her.  She has no wifi so not as easy to access internet  but am checking every now & then.  Kenneth has been visiting their son in Portsmouth & is returning home tonight. 
Gretta suggested lunch at St Andrews  today so we drove there with her.  No golf is played there on Sundays so we didn't see anyone famous but did have lunch in a fabulous hotel with views right up to the clubhouse.  Was very special and we had a lovely drive around the town and golf course. On the way home we vusuted the Secret Bunker, set up during the Cold War. 
Have just returned from dinner at Gretta & Kenneth's daughter's house so it was great meeting Cathy and her husband Jonothan and their daughter Olivia.

April 14

Left Ballygally early and decided to have breakfast along the way. Everywhere we have been there are signs out for Irish Breakfasts but not so today, or at least we didn't see any. Less than an hour's drive to Belfast but the skies were very threatening & the rain came down in torrents! Then we saw cars heading the other way covered in ice - just on the outskirts of Belfast the roads were covered in hail - and the skies were black as!! Quite dangerous driving conditions actually. Breakfast? In the distance we could see the Golden Arches - There was a trusy McDonalds just waiting for us so we were able to catch up on free wifi & sit out the rain for a while.
Arrived Dublin around 2.30 and found a laundrette nearby our hotel. Boring chores like laundry never go away!!!!
Tried to contact Mary Kennedy to arrange dinner but no reply so we drove into Dublin. Drove round & round looking for a park then found one right outside Powerscourt! Enjoyed dinner at a restaurant called Pyg. The surf & turf was delicious. Ireland's economy is stuffed but you would never suspect that last night - people everywhere, restaurants full, everyone seemingly happy.
Our flight to Edinburgh is around midday so need to return the car this morning. We have thoroughly enjoyed Ireland, drove to every corner & up the middle - didn't go to Galway & The Connemara but had done that before. Am sure Scotland won't disappoint!

April 13

As I said, yesterday's drive was fabulous. We did several scenic drives off the main road and saw some beautiful beaches, comparable to those in AUS but of course much colder.
Went to Derry, or Londonderry depending on how you look at it!! and found it to be a very nice city. George was particularly keen to trace his footsteps of 1972 when he visited at the height of the unrest and was arrested for taking pictures of military installations! He had seen a service station after it was just blown up and took a picture, not realising the military building was right behind & they thought he was some kind of activist!!! George, an activist? Hardly. Could and should have planned to stay longer in Derry.
We took a trolley ride around parts of the city which were right in the firing line at that time. Most interesting and hopefully all behind us now.
Continued on to Giant's Gap which is a famous tourist spot in Northern Ireland. Stopped for a guinness at a small pub on the way to our resting place for the night. On Elspeth's recommendation we booked into the Ballygally Castle hotel at Ballygally. Caught glimpses of the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland from the road en route. With just the road between us and the Atlantic we were lulled to sleep by the crashing of waves - or maybe it was the delicious steak and bottle of red wine we had for dinner!

April 12

Have had a lovely day driving, again, through beautiful countryside. Now at the Ballygally Castle hotel but no internet connection except through the hotel so no description of anything tonight. Will add extra tomorrow.

April 11

Pat from the B & B cooked us a lovely breakfast and told us a lot of local history and highlights from the area. This is the place where Yeats wrote most of his poetry but we weren't too inclined to follow up on that. Instead, we set out on a long drive around the Atlantic coastline and saw some of the most wonderful scenery, comparable in parts to the Ring of Kerry. The castle where Lord Louis Mountbatten lived before he died some years ago stood out like a beacon on a clifftop was sold for over 70 million dollars after his death and used as a resort for the rich and famous but not sure if that is still the case. Drove into some beautiful beach towns where people, in spite of the cold, were kayaking and surfing. Must have had extra thick wet suits! Must say the Atlantic looked pretty wild.
Today's drive reminded us of New Zealand as we saw hundreds of sheep, most with newborn lambs. Towns visited today included Ballyshannon, Donegal and Dunglow and we drove through the Glenveagh National Park to Letterkenny where we are staying at Gallaghers Hotel. Have been to a Chinese restaurant for dinner then came back to the room to skype Jane for her 28th birthday on 12 April.

April 11

Our plan yesterday was to drive to Sligo, or in fact Grange which is just 15 kms north of Sligo. George had made a reservation there for the night. Left Kilkenny in brilliant sunshine but the sun went undercover after about an hour! We drove through towns such as Portlaoise, Tullamore, Athlone ans Roscommon. Stopped for lunch in Sligo then drove on to Grange. Thinking we were checked into a hotel with views of the Atlantic we found it was actually a B & B with a mountain view, but only from the breakfast room! Wasn't really a big deal but makes sure we read the fine print in the future.
Met a nice couple from Belfast there and we all had dinner together. The B & B was large with about 10 guest rooms., the hostess was called Pat, her mother and sister are called Maureen!

April 10

Easter Monday - went to breakfast (we seem to eat all the time) and found Jacinta already there and a whole table of Kennedys adjacent. One of them was a big Hawthorn supporter so I had to quickly inform him that they had just lost to the Cats by 2 points & that he'd better prepare for a ribbing by 'himself'!! To be sure, to be sure, it happened!
Goodbye & hugs for Jacinta as she was driving back to Dublin with Mary, flying back to OZ today.
On our drive to the Aiden O'Brien training stables near Cashel we detoured via Dolla in order to leave some wine with John & Joan and enjoyed a quick chat with them and John & Bronwyn (Balwyn) who were staying with them. Also left a koala and a bottle of Aus wine with Harry who still lives in the original cottage. Harry's brother Brian, from Scotland, was staying with Harry and he answered the door - said Harry hadn't been able to lift his head off the pillow yet after a big night! Harry is a trick, reminds me of a leprachaun. Has never married & I doubt ever travelled far. He is a draughtsman by profession but the economy doesn't require such people at the moment so he has become a bit of a hermit. But we enjoyed his company very much and I don't think he will ever forget meeting all his new relatives!
It took just over an hour to reach the stables near Cashel. We were very impressed by the whole complex. Keith Dalton (remember, I met him at Abu Dhabi airport) met us at the security gate, jumped in our car & directed our drive all around the HUGE property. They have every kind of racing surface possible, re-productions of the Ascot straight and others, and it was all amazing. The horses are all stabled for most of the day except for track work which is around an hour each day. Because of security we couldn't actually go too close to the horses but we did see 'So You Think' poke his head out to nod hello! They each have their own stable and yard. Facilities include a slightly heated swimming pool, a drying area and a treadmill. A large fan is attached to the door of the enclosed treadmill in case the horses become overheated! As Jacinta said - oh to be a horse, but a good one!!!
After that we went into Cashel for a pizza then took a tour of the Rock of Cashel. I was there many years ago and now find they are restoring parts of it as extreme weather was causing internal damage due to the leaking roof. Drove around some scenic country lanes and then back to Clonmel where we went to McDonalds, not to eat but to use the internet. By then it was not just drizzly but really pouring. Made a booking for a hotel in Kilkenny while there.
The hotel turned out to be very good, was not in the town but that didn't matter as we spent time there in 2006.

April 9

Yesterday was a fantastic day, even in spite of the cold!!!!! Was drizzly for a good part of the day but spirits were high and we got on with the job of tracing our roots and enjoying the company of all our newest best friends!!!
Mass at Silvermines was really amazing - the choir was brilliant and the Kennedys were given a great welcome by the priest. Was a lovely service and the final hymn was the Battle Hymn of the Republic which was brilliant.
A convoy of cars (mostly rental ones!) then went up to Steppe, a lookout point above Silvermines where you can see for miles. Back then for a drive into Balina to look at a cemetery which is home to some dead rellies, Across the river in Killaloe we visited an ancient church and the Protestant church which is renowned for it's accoustics and style. Lunch had been arranged at a pub so we all enjoyed sandwiches, tea & coffee.
A walking tour of Nenagh was arranged with a guide in the afternoon. We learned a lot of the local history and what a fighting force the Kennedys were, way back centuries ago! Stopped in front of the house in Mitchell St where my grandmother, Johanna, grew up after the family returned from Boston. Jacinta, George and I then had a drink in the little pub, The Quill, which now occupies one of the frontages formerly owned by the Kennedys and Starrs all those years ago.
Dinner at night was at The Thatched Cottage, a couple of miles from Nenagh. Lovely meal, great company & lots of reminiscing. Afterwards we all drove back to the Eagle's Nest pub at Dolla for a singalong and final farewells. Dolla John sang a couple of Irish ballads and the Australian contingent sang 'We are Australian', Waltzing Matilda and the National anthem. Then the Irish sang their National anthem!
A late night for us, an even later night for Jacinta!!!

April 8

It's now Easter Sunday in Ireland and we are shortly to leave for the family assembly at Mass in Silvermines, a small town near Nenagh.
Yesterday was terrific - we all met at the Eagles Nest Pub at Dolla, 9 Kms from Nenagh, where we were given name tags, maps and a book on the story of the descendants of Cornelius Kennedy. Was great to met up with everyone, family members came from Australia, the US, England and Scotland. Some we had met before & others we didn't know existed!!! We checked out a couple of cemeteries and a church with family connections and visited the original house where my ancestors lived. Hard to imagine how a family with 6 children all crammed into such a small cottage. It is opposite the pub, conveniently!!!! I had been there before as Molly & I came to Ireland in 1970 and had lunch with Noni who was living there at the time with her family. Too involved to explain all the history but lets just say there were Kennedys everywhere!
John & Joan hosted dinner last night at the pub, I guess they catered for at least 70 of us - a fabulous buffet and a huge cake with the letter K.
Lots of stories, some will get even better with time, and my dear niece, Jacinta, spoke on behalf of our side of the family. Was a great night.
More happening today so stay tuned for the next instalment. Sorry I can't publish photos on this blog.

April 6

Well, we are now in Nenagh where we will all gather tomorrow for the Kennedy re-union. We left Killarney after breakfast. Assumed, being Good Friday, it would be very quiet everywhere but we were amazed to find all the shops open as usual and people doing what they do every other day of the year. Drove to Limerick where we stopped for a sandwich and it was almost impossible to get a car park. The only restriction for trade on Good Friday is in hotels and bars. Nenagh, on the other hand, was somewhat different and only a few shops open - it seems to vary from county to county.
We are staying at Abbey Court Hotel and Spa, a huge place that also has cottages for rent. Went to the dining room for dinner and found a table of Kennedys from Australia. Was really nice to catch up with Brian & Erica & Robert & Kaye from Adelaide & Lawrence & Phillip from Mt Gambier. Also met Will from Seattle & Jenny from Adelaide. Jacinta is driving down from Dublin with Mary Kennedy and will arrive late tonight.

April 5

Woke up to sunshine this morning & got all excited as thought I might be able to air a few of those cruise clothes but alas! it was still freezing! We had breakfast at a deli across the road from our hotel then decided to go to the Dingle Peninsular. There were other options e.g. Muckross House and the Gap of Dunloe which was a trip my grandmother, Josephine, did with her sister in 1929. My niece, Jacinta, suggested these two trips but we opted for Dingle as George isn't into much walking at this stage and it was too cold to go to the Gap by horse and cart! Pleased we made that decision as it was, again, a most beautiful drive. We think we have the best scenery in the world around the Great Ocean Rd but it does not beat some of the scenery we have seen in the last couple of days. Came home via Conor's Pass and Tralee.
Back in Killarney around 6pm, just in time to check emails etc before dinner. Then back to the same bar as the last two nights to listen to yet another singer. He was fantastic - pity we don't encourage real Irish singers in our pubs at home.
We're off to Tipperary in the morning (it's a long way!!!) Can't wait to meet up with Jacinta and other rellies from here and from Australia.
Happy Easter to you all. Judy & Brian, you will be busy with Easter services, Beverley will be praying for the Pies to win, as will Mary & the Crows!!!!! Then, of course, Jane will be crossing her fingers that Geelong lift to a higher spot on the ladder than 11th & Andre no doubt pressing for a Bombers win. Caro, you HAVE to have a team so I can mention you, too!!! To Patricia & all the Bennetts, love. And special get well wishes and love goes to Molly, still struggling after her recent fall.

April 4

County Kerry would have to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. Checked out of Mary O'Connell's B & B (called St Anthony's Lodge) after another very hearty breakfast and got some information from the Tourist office for our drive around the Ring of Kerry. Once again it was a very cold morning, in fact Mary's car had ice on it and there were reports of snow in Dublin.
We drove to Cahersiveen & stopped at a pub for the dual purpose of having a coffee and using the internet but no wifi for us there! Drove on to Portmagee and across to the island of Valentia where the roads are super narrow and the scenery spectacular! Walked out to a couple of viewing points and was pleased I am a bit overweight as would surely have been blown away!!! Brrrrrrrr!!!!!
Had lunch at a cute little pub in Knight's Town then continued around the ring to Waterville. From there we drove to Smeen, Kenmare, Moll's Gap and back to Killarney. A fantastic day with a bit of everything - cold, wind, sun, drizzle...... Not unlike Melbourne, really!!!!
We decided to return to Dan Mann's restaurant/hotel where we ate last night and checked in for two nights. We really enjoyed listening to Michael Kennedy last night and tonight there was a different guy singing. No Irish Jigging from me, yet.
Our plans for tomorrow don't exist yet. There are lots of options but a rest day could be the go. On the other hand we may go to Dingle.

April 3

Tonight we are in Killarney! Actually sitting in a pub having just had dinner and now listening to a young guy singing traditional Irish songs. Funny thing is, his name is Michael Kennedy so with my record I'll no doubt ask a few questions before the night is out!
We are staying at a very nice B & B - checked in around 4pm and Mary made us afternoon tea with fruit scones & strawberry jam.
We left Waterford this morning after a tour of the Waterford crystal factory. Most interesting and well worth seeing. Stopped for lunch at Mary's Kaffe Cafe at Dungarvan then on through beautiful countryside to Killarney. I've not been to Killarney before and so far am most impressed - the shops look inviting and restaurants everywhere. Pity I have absolutely NO room in my suitcase to even buy a scarf!!! Maybe I'll trade a pair of shoes for something Irish before the holiday is over! Tomorrow we will do the Ring of Kerry. Weather is still cold & we even had hail this afternoon. I think snow is predicted tomorrow.
Have had emails re Molly's progress and pleased to hear she will be having rehab shortly.

April 2

It's amazing what a good night's sleep can do for the old bodies!! And nice having internet so that we can read the Herald Sun or Age & George listens to 3AW & the AUS news. After a very hearty breakfast in a stunning breakfast room we walked around the garden. At the bottom of the garden is a chapel, used for weddings. Such a beautiful setting. It would have been nice staying there for a few days but we needed to push on and see other places. Drove into Avoca where they filmed BallyKissAngel and visited the Avoca weaving mill. On previous visits to Ireland I have been impressed with the Avoca stores dotted around the country and to see the rugs, blankets, fabrics in production was great.
We lunched at a quaint little pub in Wexford called The Wren's Nest. Nothing remarkable but pleasant. Wexford itself fairly forgettable compared to the other picturesque towns we've seen.
We are now in Waterford but made a diversion to see the JFK House where JFK's ancestors originated. Unfortunately it was closed but was nice to look from the outside. I recall seeing it in 1970 with Molly but of course that was 43 years ago!! Also swung by the Arboretum created in memory of JFK b the Irish people. Didn't have time to do a walk but drove to a high scenic point and viewed from above..
Think it will be an early night - George seems to have bad jet lag today.

April 1

After long flights we finally touched down in Dublin at around 3pm. Melbourne-Abu Dhabi was suitable for a long sleep in a flat bed with real sheets!!!!! And a nice black (with fake diamond trim) pair of PJ's! Abu Dhabi is another story - a huge airport where you walk miles to get anywhere and when you get there it is time to re-board. While lining up to go through security in Abu Dhabi I befriended a nice young man, turns out he works for Aiden O'Brien the famous Irish horsetrainer and had been in Dubai for the Dubai Cup last night. He has invited us to tour the stables while we are here, about half an hour from Nenagh, Tipperary. George was most impressed! I don't normally pick up young men in airport lounges, by the way!
We picked up our car at Dublin Airport and I was the nominated driver for our journey to BrookLodge, County Wicklow, where we had booked for the night. George found it on the internet. Instead of a 75 minute drive it turned out to be about 3 hours in spite of the use of Elspeth's TomTom and the help of a few locals!!! The drive was really beautiful once we left Dublin outskirts. We took country roads instead of the motorway and will probably regret not stopping to have a look at the small villages. But by then tiredness was setting in.
BrookLodge is part of a little village -it is a golf resort + everything! We had dinner at an adjacent restaurant (also pre-booked) and met some lovely people sitting beside us.
We thought of Judy as we walked to the restaurant - cats everywhere!!!! Meow!