Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Tuesday May 1st 2012


May showers have been pouring down for most of the day – it is even more incredibly green while everything is so wet.  This morning when we headed off, after our ungodly early 0600 get up to attend the 0700 breakfast for 0730 departure (I feel like a letter in despatch!) I searched the small enclosures; structures of 200 year old and older rock wall fences, which hold in the sheep, cows and horses, for sheep, and I saw none.  I am growing very fond of sheep.  They dot the green fields providing perspective and dimension to the country side, as well as to gardens in some small towns.   For those of you who I annoyed with the FB castle lunch photo the other day, please note that my dinner/lunch was not that great.  Don’t get me wrong.  The dishes were finest solid china.  The silverware – was, and it was very heavy.  Each of the three courses came with drama and flourish as one would expect of a castle.  “Unplated” by a white gloved server which means each main course plate was covered in a silver hood that was grandly removed in front of each guest at the table of four at which we were seated.  (I have a nice photo of myself reflected in that fine lid)  We made our choices from an artistically created menu with items such as tartar, de jour and crème de la crème.  Where I went wrong was at that menu.  It was with great relish and excitement that all at the table determined the “spring lamb” would be a wonderful choice a traditional Irish feast!  I pondered much like I do at a cliff’s edge and took the plunge.  The meat was exposed as that fine sliver tombstone was taken away!  I hesitated but cut a wee bit off and tasted.  I had put my mind in the place I go when I enjoy fowl.  I love birds all ways – alive and cooked.  Lamb however.  My poor tummy churned and turned.  This was someone’s baby.  I focused on the rest of the meal which on this visit has most often included two types of potatoes!  Yes. I also had plenty of room for the fine carrots, green beans and to finish a lovely dessert trio decorated with a spectacular melted sugar creation.  As wise old gentleman told me once “It’s not like you can’t stand to miss a meal or two!”

Sheep and their babies.  I am enjoying Ireland.

Photos have now reached 16GB.  Moving about and keeping on track has become a 16 hour a day occupation – and we are now off again so there is no time to organize or upload.

One final story:  I was bent down beside a rack of postcards (in the mail) making choices.  Suddenly I felt a tap on my shoulder and I swiftly twisted and poised to reprimand my kind husband who likes to “herd” me along.   Over top of my glasses my eyes met those of the tour guide, an older man who, at times, reminds me of a former school principal.