Aran Islands, Doolin, The Burren

Daly B&B in Doolin is uber friendly. Susan meets us as many chances as she can with a Baileys and coffee. You just can't say no! Now I know where Mamie gets her, "Greet them with a drink at the door" philosophy.

Now, due to having family from Killaloe, I've been considered 1. wealthy and 2. an Irish traveler. Uhmm, completely different sides of the spectrum, and neither true.

We went to O'Connor's pub, which Susan's father, Gus, used to own. She worked there for 30 years. Doolin is known for hosting traditional Irish music known as a Seisiun (they have it in Woodlawn on Sundays at the Rambling House for those of you interested, but not interested in paying for a flight to Ireland). So people were singing and playing all kinds of instruments whenever they felt like it. I have a few videos of the sound. Pretty fun. Plus, I had my best meal... it looked like the Irish flag: salmon over mashed potatoes, orange turnips, and green broccoli. Plus, it was incredibly delicious.

Smithwicks is still better here. I tried the new variety, the Smithwicks Pale Ale (which I don't think they have Stateside.) Not bad... a very light IPA.

Today, we went to the Aran Island of Inishneer/Inis Oirr (Gaelic). The Aran Islands are the only place in the world where the inhabitants still speak Gaelic. Pretty nifty. We walked around, had a lovely beer battered cod lunch at the pub, and saw ruins that are older than old. Beautiful island. Stunning views. The ride home was incredibly rough. The waves were huge! And there were 100 dolphins! Incredible.

The boat ride took us to the Cliffs of Moher, which we saw from above yesterday with gorgeous blue skies and now experienced from the bottom in crazy rocking and rolling waves. Impressive for sure. Beautiful day today as well, totally grateful for that.

Then, we did some P90X Kenpo. Yep. We got it in.

Tonight, we're going to go to McGann's to hear Geraldine, Susan's friend, sing. But before that, we're going to have a wine and cheese party overlooking the sun SETTING over the Atlantic Ocean. Yes, that's right. Not rising, setting! If you happen to be standing on the Jersey Shore, I'll wave to you!

Tomorrow Galway. I'm just going to throw the name "Dawson" around and see what happens. I figure, it could go either way.