Ireland 2012

The glorious Bunratty castle, in Bunratty Ireland!

Trip to Ireland - Spring Break, 2012.  Landed in Cork and traveled by car to various locations throughout the Republic.  IMPORTANT NOTE: If visiting Ireland in the future, beware of incredibly beautiful landscapes, extremely friendly locals, better food than anticipated, and drivers who insist on traveling on the left side of the road.  For your viewing pleasure, our excursion to Ireland...

Ira at entry gate to Bunratty Castle.

At the top!

Brendan entering the gates to Bunratty Theme Park where Ireland in the 1800's was recreated.

Family at entry to early 19th century Irish dwelling.

Inside the dwelling....

What we found in the 19th century doctor's house...YIKES!

Da skulehowz

Da teechr.


Da stoodentz

Where she belongs... 

Durty Nelly's - oldest pub in Ireland.

 Blarney Castle...the surrounding grounds were beautiful!

Bailey going down for the kiss...

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Brenna, coming up from the kiss.

This picture was taken in the poison garden behind the castle battlements at Blarney.  "Enter at your own risk"
Below is the distillery in Midleton.

 Jameson whiskey is distilled 3 times and stored in the oak casks.

 Ira and I enjoyed sampling the Irish whiskey, American whiskey and Scottish whiskey.

 Brenna and Brendan enjoyed orange juice!

This is the post where the Titanic last sailed 100 years ago in Cobh Ireland.
Yes, I just had to visit!

Timeless Waterford collectable!
A Replica of the bowl President Obama received for St. Patrick's Day. We actually saw it before he did...beautiful.

Breaking an imperfect Waterford reject.

 Bright eyes at the Waterford factory!

Off to Dublin at this point and right to another factory...

Yummy for the tummy!

Guinness tour in progress...

Another day in paradise at the Hard Rock Cafe in Dublin.

Newgrange burial site near River Boyne - over five thousand years old - must see!
Closer view with family.


Entrance to Trim Castle - site where Braveheart was filmed!

View from castle top with the town of Trim beyond.