Went to See Arlo

Posted on July 17, 2015 by admin

Arlo Gutherie was performing at Bayfield, WI so Kathy and Jim Young plus myself decided to see the performance. We left my place early afternoon of July 7th. Had lunch at an A&W restaurant in La Crosse, WI; proceeded on to our destination of Eau Claire, WI where we had reservations at the Best Western Trail Lodge. That evening we had dinner at the Green Mill restaurant; food was good. Next day, we checked out of our lodging and continued our way to Bayfield. We made a liquor and lunch stop in Ashland, WI.; lunch was at the Deep Water Grill. The food at the grill was excellent with a great atmosphere. Continued on to Bayfield where we checked into our lodging, the Seagull Motel. My room had a view of Lake Superior. After settling in, Jim and I drove into town for some exploring of Bayfield and their shops. Returned to the motel and had a drink on the deck which offered a fantastic view of the lake. That evening we had dinner at Maggie’s, a restaurant with lots of flamingos displayed because it was located right across from the Flamingo Park. For the first time in my life, I had whitefish livers for my meal; before any of you gag, they were quite tasty. Returned to the motel and had another drink on the deck before turning in for the night.

Part of Flamingo Garden

Three of us inside Maggie’s

On Thursday, we had breakfast at The Egg Toss Bakery Cafe where they served platters FULL of delicious food. It was then time for our Apostle Islands Cruise; the cruise lasted 4.5 hours and covered 57 miles of our weaving between and around the various islands. We saw lighthouses, fishing camps, sea caves, picturesque standing rock which is a resting place for seagulls and swallows, sail boats, kayaks, canoes, fishing boats, and lots of blue sky. It was a beautiful day and the boat captain was very informative of the history and stories regarding the islands or its past occupants.

Standing rock with seagulls

Sea caves, lighthouse, keeper’s quarters

Lighthouse and quarters on Raspberry Island

Enjoying the ride

Fishing boat with seagulls hovering

After the cruise, we had lunch at Greunke’s First Street Inn. This inn is a bed and breakfast that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is the former LaBonte House built in 1863. After lunch, we “stumbled” across a small park which featured old boats, pond with metal sculptures of children, and beautiful beds of flowers.

One view of the park

Pond view

Fire fly

Before leaving for the concert, we spent time on the deck talking and watching the view. We decided to have dinner at the venue so we drove to Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization. This is the nation’s only all-canvas tent theater and it seats 900 people. As we were eating at one of the picnic tables, we talked to a couple from Minneapolis who recommended we have breakfast the next day at the Delta Diner which was featured on television series “Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives”. After eating and shopping for souvenirs, we entered the tent and waited in anticipation for Arlo Guthrie. He is an American folk singer who, like his father Woody, is known for singing songs of protest against social injustice. Guthrie’s best-known work is “Alice’s Restaurant”, a satirical talking blues song about 18 minutes in length and celebrating its 50^th anniversary.

The canvas tent

Inside the tent

Arlo and his band

Arlo did not disappoint us with stories of his musical career which started when he was 18 years of age. Tom would of thoroughly enjoyed the performance; there were times when Arlo was singing, I could hear Tom singing right along while bouncing to the music. It was a great night ending with a drink on the deck back at our lodging.

Friday morning I walked the trail along Lake Superior into Bayfield for a cup of coffee.

Scene from the walking trail

Backside view of our lodging

The three of us gathered around 9:30, packed the vehicle, checked out, and headed to Duluth with hopes of a stop at the Delta Diner for breakfast. We did find it…along with many other folks. We were added to the waiting list and was told it could be up to 45 minutes; however, it was much shorter than that and we were seated to an unique breakfast experience. A couple things of interest about the diner; it is a restoration of a 1940 Silk City Diner and it has a “no tip” policy with increasing the prices on the menu by 20% so personnel are making at least $15.60/hour. One other thing is they do not hand out menus; the listing is posted on a board and your waitress or waiter goes through each item with the customers without looking at written notes.

Outside view of the diner

Kathy and Jim happy with the place

Inside the diner

We arrived in the Duluth area and drove north up the shoreline to Two Harbors where we viewed the iron ore docks, an historic tugboat Edna G. built in 1896, and the light station museum. The iron ore docks process 10,000,000 tons annually with trains, full of taconite or ore, down load in hoppers and chutes drop down the product to the hull of boats. In 1885, because of the volume of ore being processed through Agate Bay, the Vessel Owners Association and the US Lighthouse Service recognized the need for a navigational aid at the bay. Thus authorization was granted by the US Congress to a build the light station. The station was fully automated in 1981 which eliminated the need for a keeper in residence. Congress passed an act in 1999 which gave the station to the Lake County Historical Society; the society opened a B&B as means to generate funds to maintain the facility. It is the oldest operating lighthouse in Minnesota. More information can be found at Two Harbors Lighthouse.

Two Harbors Lighthouse and B&B

Edna G. and one of three ore docks in background

Fishing boat built in 1939

Twin aerobeacons

Upon returning to Duluth, we checked into our lodging and then headed down to the water front for viewing the Aerial Lift Bridge. Originally built in 1905, the bridge was upgraded in 1929–30 to a vertical lift bridge, which is rather uncommon, and continues to operate today. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 22, 1973. The bridge can be raised to its full height of 135 feet in about a minute, and is raised approximately five thousand times per year allowing freighters, cruise ships, sail boats, etc. to pass through. We had dinner by the bridge at a place called “Grandma’s Grill; it had good food and service but, due to the number of people, it was a little loud. After dinner, we drove through downtown Duluth where we saw many old, beautiful buildings plus some great views of the waterfront. Got back to our lodging about 8:30.

Aerial Bridge lowered

Bridge rising for ship

Old school which is now a senior center

Hazy Duluth view from the hilltop

Saturday morning we packed the vehicle, checked out, and headed for breakfast. Jim had asked at the front desk a good place to eat and they recommended “The Sunshine Cafe” which turned out to have awesome food and service. We then proceeded to head south and home. Had lunch at Culver’s in Clear Lake and arrived home about 5:00 PM; the outside temperature was hot so it felt great to enter an air conditioned house with happy cats greeting me.

Ireland: Part VI – Back to Dublin and Home

Posted on May 25, 2015 by admin

May 5: Had breakfast at lodging; our hosts, Eddie and Helen, were quite gracious and Eddie entertained us with stories about Ireland.

Our host, Eddie

Four Seasons B&B

Loaded up our car and was on our way to Dublin. But we stopped at the monastery of Clonmacnoise located on the River Shannon south of Arhlone. Clonmacnoise was founded in 544 by St. Ciaran and over the years, it was a great centre of learning. Many manuscripts, including the 11th Century Annals of Tighernach and the 12th Century Book of the Dun Cow, were written here.

Clonmacnoise

One of the high crosses

A tomb

One of the towers

A ruined church

We were able to see three high crosses, a cathedral, seven churches and two round towers. On our way again, we found a place for lunch. Then onto to Dublin; it took us three different passes but we finally found our hotel, registered, unloaded, and took the car back to the airport after stopping to fill off the tank. Returned car, took Hertz shuttle to the hotel shuttle, got back to hotel where we found the bar for a couple drinks and dinner…Sarah and I split a veggie pizza. Went to the room to sort everything and pack back up. Read for awhile and lights out around 10:00.

May 6: We had been told, because we would go through US Customs in Dublin’s airport, to be there three hours early so we were heading down to the hotel shuttle at 7:30 for our 11:00 flight. Check in with our airline and through airport security went quite smoothly and quickly. Sarah and I had our bags prepared for some last minute shopping but we did not stop at the shops because we were told to go directly to US Customs where it can take up to two hours to process through. Well, it took less than 15 minutes and we found ourselves in a terminal that had NO shopping with made Tom smile while Sarah and I frowned. And we had close to two hours to wait until boarding of the plane. But time did pass, we boarded, and arrived back in Atlanta with no problems. Fosters had a 5:30 flight out while mine was 8:30 so we found a Delta lounge, had a drink, and talked about the trip. I walked with Fosters to their boarding gate and then found mine. In order to kill time, I did walk through some shops but tiredness was starting to set in. Another Delta lounge was located and I “hung out” there until it was time to board. Arrived in Cedar Rapids about 20 minutes early; retrieved my luggage and the airport shuttle was ready to take me home. Got home around 10:30; Beauty and Cutie greeted me which was wonderful. It was a long day and I welcomed my bed at 11:30.

Summary: The trip was fantastic with the Irish being so friendly and helpful. Ireland is a beautiful country and we hope to go back next year to explore the upper western and northern part of the country. It was great to spend some quality time with Jeannette and Allan; with they being in Ireland, the opportunity to see them is quite narrow so really enjoyed the time we had together. And, like every trip, there are good or things to change which I am going to list.

Great Things: Jeannette and Allan supplying us with phone, card, and road atlas. Fosters being fantastic traveling companions. Automatic transmission in the car. Flying business class. Not making advanced reservations. Having flexibility in the schedule.

Things to Change: Need to pack more long sleeve shirts, waterproof gloves, stocking cap, and sweatshirt if going around the same time of year. Two people should pump gas. Shop after airport security and before US Customs. Do something about the 5+ hour wait in Atlanta.

Ireland: Part V – Aran Islands and Galway

Posted on May 25, 2015 by admin

May 3: Had a great breakfast, packed into the car, and headed to the pier where we were boarding a ferry which took us to the Aran Islands. The ride took 1.5 hours with stops at the two smaller islands Inis Oírr (Inisheer) and Inis Meáin (Inishmaan). We were headed for the larger of the three islands called Inis Mór (Inishmore). On the way, we saw a dolphin but it was quite difficult to get a picture of it; however, Tom did.

The dolphin

When we unloaded, we were greeted by our tour guide Oliver Faherty. He drove a van which held 13 people and he grew up on the island (of 7th generation) so was very knowledgeable. As we drove toward the well preserved stone fort called Dun Aonghasa, he pointed out various stone forts, towers, and churches along with a stop at a seal colony. The walk to the fort took about 20 minutes and it was a walk well taken! It is semicircular, on the edge of a perpendicular cliff rising 100 meters out of the ocean. At the bottom of the walk, we had lunch in a small cafe. Once we all loaded into the van, we headed to the Worm Hole which is a rectangular shaped pool into which the sea ebbs flow at the bottom of the cliffs south of Dun Aonghasa. We walked over lots of rocks in order to get to the hole. The Seven Churches was our next stop; it is the remains of two small churches with ruins of late 15th Century monastic houses lying to the north of the church. The day was going quite quickly and we had about 15 minutes at the town center before our ferry appeared.

View of Inisheer with O’Brien Castle

Road at Inishmore

Seal colony

Finally saw a potato field

Dun Aonghasa fort

Sitting on edge of steep cliff

The Seven Churches

Worm Hole

Loaded and headed back to Doolin. Drove to the nearest pub, O’Connnor’s, where we had libations and dinner; Sarah and I shared fish and chips. Took the car back to the B&B and then walked to Fitzpatrick, a pub that we had not been to before and found a wonderful surprise…Irish music by Tara Howley; the three person band played and sang beautifully. A couple from Florida was willing to share their table so we did not have to stand.

Tara and friends

Tom, Sarah, and I walked back about 9:30 while the kids stayed behind to finish their drinks. Another wonderful day in this country!

May 4: After breakfast, we said our good byes to Jeannette and Allan; final destination today is Galway. On the way, we stopped Poulnabrone Dolmen which is a portal tomb even though it looks like a stone table. Four thousand years ago, it was a grave chamber in a cairn of stacked stones. After seeing the tomb, as we were driving along, we came upon the ruins of a church which was sitting on a corner all by itself. There was no one around so there was not much information available about it but Tom at least wrote down the name of it which is more than what I did!

Ruins of Killinaboy Church

Poulnabrone Dolmen

Another view of Poulnabrone Dolmen

As we continued our journey, we made a rest stop at Ballyvaughan which conveniently had a couple stores we had to look in. Then on to Galway; arrived at the Four Seasons B&B about noon and was greeted by our cheerful host. Once we settled in our rooms, we walked toward the town square. In 1234, Galway was a medieval fishing village captured by the Normans from the O’Flaherty family. Today it has approximately 76,000 people with one out of every four residents being born outside of Ireland. We came upon An Púcán Pub for lunch; I had goat cheese, red peppers, pesto sandwich which was excellent. After lunch, we walked to Eyre Square which is named for the mayor who gave land to the city in 1710. We really did not explore the square but found the pedestrian shopping streets lined with shops, pubs, and market carts. I made one small purchase while the Fosters found a couple things for their grandchildren.

River Corrib runs through Galway

One of Galway’s streets

See any food?

Then it was time to explore the pubs; we went to the Salt House and Monroe’s Tavern which were two recommended by Allan. It was time to eat so, after going into a couple pubs which only served drinks, we found Tig Cóilí…a cozy place…which had something on the menu we all liked. After dinner, we found out that music was being played at Taaffe’s Bar so we found a place to stand and listen; the folks playing were not part of a certain group but individual musicians coming together to “jam”. It was cheerful, lively music and I enjoyed listening but was time to walk back to our B&B and call an end to our day. But not before I ordered an orchid plant to be delivered to Jeannette the next day which is her birthday.

Inside of Salt House

Outside Monroe’s

Hmm..any new brew?

Our dinner spot

Royal seating

Let’s jam!

Ireland: Part IV – Dingle Peninsula and Cliffs of Moher

Posted on May 25, 2015 by admin

May 1: Happy May Day! Got up, showered, typed up my notes, and went for breakfast. Checked out and, with my driving, headed to the Dingle Peninsula which is named after the town of Dingle. The peninsula exists because of the band of sandstone rock that forms the Slieve Mish mountain range at the neck of the peninsula, in the east, and the unnamed central mountain range further to the west. Ireland’s highest mountain outside Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, Mount Brandon at 951 m, forms part of a beautiful high ridge with stunning views over the peninsula and North Kerry. We found the correct road out of Dingle and started the loop. Took a picture of Currach Boat, a traditional fishing boat of the west coast Ireland, which was covered because of the weather. Stopped around Ventry Bay at a pottery/coffee shop; since it was a drizzly, cool day, a coffee to go hit the spot. Found a turn off for great photo opportunity of Dingle Bay and Dunbeg Fort. Next stop was Beehive Huts which look like stone igloos. We had lunch at Murphy’s Bar at Ballyferriter; I had tuna sandwich and, once again, huge amount of food. Continued on our drive and ended up back in Dingle. The drive around the tip was beautiful, even with rain. The loop was about 30 miles long on narrow road but, because of little traffic, easy to drive even with all the curves and mountainous terrain.

The countryside

Currach Boat

Beehive Huts

Time to eat

Along the coast

Lunch time

On our way out of Dingle, we stopped at Dingle Brewing Company for a sample; very tasty beer. Onward to the Tarvert-Killimer car ferry that we caught at Listowel with no wait time. The ferry takes you across the river Shannon so you avoid an 80 mile drive around Limerick to get to our final destination today of Ennis. The ferry ride was approximately 20 minutes.

Driving onto ferry

Seeing land from ferry

We arrived in Ennis about 5:00; registered at Grey Gables B&B, got in luggage, and found a pub/restaurant up the street in the Grand Hotel. Tom and I split a hamburger which was quite adequate for dinner. We walked to Dunnes Store (Ireland’s WalMart) where I purchased a long sleeve undershirt and bottle of wine. Back in my room at 7:30. Tired tonight; a full day of driving with stops, etc. while rain fell off and on made me glad to get to our destination even though it was not late. Tomorrow we drive to Doolin for Cliffs of Moher; Allan and Jeannette will join us.

May 2: Left the B&B after a late breakfast at 9:15. Our plan was to explore the Cliffs of Moher from the top in the morning and take a boat to view them from the water in the afternoon. The drive was uneventful as we passed thru the beautiful, green countryside and then along the coastline as we got closer to the cliffs. Paid our entrance fee, parked the car, and started to walk. We walked to the far end of the cliffs taking in the magnificent sight. Returned to the center and walked to the tower; did not go up the tower but got some great pictures and view. Purchased a couple gift items in one of the shops.

Part of Cliffs

Enjoying the view

Another view

The tower

Left and drove to Doolin where we had lunch at O’Connor Pub; I had cauliflower coconut soup with basil…very tasty. Went into a couple shops but did not find anything. We located the pier, talked to the boat company personnel and found out the boat journey was delayed by at least 30 or so minutes. Allan and Jeannette arrived and we poked around on the rocks until it was time to board. On board and away we went! It was great to see the cliffs from the water; gave us a totally different perspective than above.

Poking around

View of the cliffs

Enjoying the ride

Pictures don’t do the beauty justice

Birds everywhere

Half Door B&B

Returned to the shore and went to Half Door B&B in Doolin to register. Settled in the room; took off to the nearest pub, which was McDermott’s. Had a drink, and headed to McGann’s for our evening meal; Sarah and I split a chicken dish. Found out local music was playing at Riverside Bistro so went there and listened to Irish songs for a few hours.

Listening to music

Back to our lodging and headed to bed.

Ireland: Part III – Killarney and Ring of Kerry

Posted on May 21, 2015 by admin

April 29: Showered and typed up my notes from previous day. Got my things gathered and packed for check out later in the morning. Breakfast downstairs with the Fosters. After calling and making reservations for the next two nights at the Abbey House B&B in Killarney, we checked out, went into a couple stores, and we’re on our way. Drive to Killarney went well with minimal rain and traffic. Stopped at pottery place out in the country; the owner was raised in Virginia, met her Irish husband of 37 years at a craft show, and moved to Ireland.

Shop in the country

After making some purchases, we were on our way. Found our B&B, checked in, unloaded luggage, and headed toward Killarney National Park which is the second oldest and largest in Ireland. Our hostess at the B&B recommended we make reservations for lodging to cover the upcoming week end since the next Monday is considered a banking holiday so, during lunch, calls were made and reservations firmed up. We wanted to tour Muckross House and Gardens but, at the entrance, decided to take carriage ride to the Torc Waterfall, Killarney Lake plus others, and the Muckross Friary which is in ruin.

Ready for carriage ride

Torc Waterfall

One of many lakes

Muckross Friary

Upon returning, we toured the Muckross House which is a stately Victorian home built in 1843 and set at the edge of the park. Walked the walled in gardens with beautiful flowers, plants, and shrubs. Spent some money in the gift shop purchasing gift items.

Muckross House

Fosters in one garden

Gardens by the house

Drove back to our lodging, parked our car, and walked into town where we found a pub for liquid refreshments, place for fish/chips, and more shops to look at stuff. At the lodging, lights out around 11:00.

April 30: Had breakfast at our lodging; best scrambled eggs I have had in awhile. Walked down to town center and checked in with Deros Coach Tours whose bus will take us around the Ring of Kerry. We shopped in a few stores and then it was time to get going. The ring is approximately 112 mile long circular tourist route which runs, clockwise from Killarney it follows the N71 to Kenmare, then the N70 around the Iveragh Peninsula to Killorglin – passing through Sneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen, and Glenbeigh – before returning to Killarney via the N72. As we started around the ring, our driver pointed out the St. Mary Cathedral in town. Outside of town we circled around the MacGillycuddy Rocks mountain range. There were many picturesque villages; we stopped at Red Fox Inn around Killoglin for coffee, tea, and restroom stop. Entered the bog areas and saw the “soil” used in fireplaces for heat. There was a great stop where a sheep herder had different types of sheep and two dogs who demonstrated how to herd the flock.

St. Mary Cathedral

Leaving Killarney on the bus

View from the mountain range

One type of sheep

Dogs herding sheep

At Catherdaniel, we stopped for lunch; while everyone ate in a pre-chosen restaurant, we sat at a picnic table and ate the food we brought with us. On the road again, we traveled over Coomakesta Pass and stopped for pictures. Waterville was another stop where we saw a sculpture of Charlie Chaplin in the town’s park with great views of a lake and surrounding countryside (there was also a man with his goat sitting by the hotel so Sarah and I petted it and felt its horns). On to Ladies View which was another stop; man there with baby reindeer and another playing the accordion. Back to Killarney through the oak woods of the National Park.

Good picnic with Jeannette’s home brew

View of countryside with ruins

Charlie Chaplin

Can we pet the goat?

Ring Fort of Kerry

Another pretty scene

Want to play?

Got off the bus close to our hotel and, while walking, came across Killarney Brewing Company where we went inside only to find it was still under construction and not open. The gentleman we were talking to was one of the owners so he offered each of us a sample glass of their beer which was very tasty. At the lodging, I got rid of unnecessary items and then a walk to downtown to find Murphy’s Bar. It was located and we had liquid refreshments plus dinner; I had Irish stew which was quite tasty. Tom went back to B&B while Sarah and I shopped at Aran Woolen Mill store; I purchased a couple Christmas presents. Had delicious Rum and Raisin ice cream cone and returned to our lodging. Tomorrow we leave for Dingle Peninsula with overnight stop at Ennis.

Ireland: Part II – Waterford and Kinsale

Posted on May 19, 2015 by admin

April 25: Breakfast at hotel; checked out of the hotel which was a clean, unique place to stay. Taxi to Heuston train station where we purchased tickets to Waterford. An Irish man, whose speech was difficult to understand because of his strong accent, “entertained” us with tales of the Irish while we were waiting for our train. The train arrived and we were off to Waterford.

Inside the station’s loading area

Tom and I waiting

Upon arrival, we discovered the hotel we were staying at was right across the bridge from the station so we were able walk over. Checked into the Treacy’s Hotel; Allan and Jeannette arrived and we settled in our respective rooms before meeting in the lobby. Lunch at Donnelly’s Hotel; while there, it really started to rain so Allan went back to the Treacy’s for my rain jacket. We walked to the Waterford Crystal Center and had a tour. In January 2009 its Waterford base was closed down due to the bankruptcy of the Wedgwood Group. After several difficulties and takeovers, it re-emerged later that year. In June 2010, Waterford Crystal relocated almost back to its original roots, on The Mall in Waterford. This new location is now home to a manufacturing facility that melts over 750 tons of crystal a year. The facility offers visitors the opportunity to take guided tours of the factory and also offers a retail store, showcasing the world’s largest collection of Waterford Crystal.

Wooden molds used for each piece

Heating, cooling, shaping process

The five of us

Marked for etching

Fine art of etching

Finished product

The tour lasted until 4:30 which was past the time for us to pick up the airport at the airport but Jeannette drove Tom and I to the airport in hopes the representative would still be there; however, the Hertz representative had left so I called him on way back to city center a couple times but no answer. He did call back before getting to hotel and we agreed to pick the car up tomorrow at 1:00. Had a green curry dish at Thai Restaurant in hotel; said my good nights to all, went to bar for a glass of wine to take to my room, went up, looked at pictures, read and fell asleep.

April 26: Out early but no place open for breakfast until 9:00; we wandered around until then and found coffee shop for coffee and scone.

A ‘wonderful’ round-a-bout

One of many churches and statues in Waterford

Coffee and scone time

We went to Reginald’s Tower; a historic tower built in Waterford in 1003. The tower has been in usage for different purposes for many centuries and is an important landmark in Waterford and an important remnant of its medieval urban defense system. It is the oldest civic building in Ireland and it is the only urban monument in Ireland to retain its Norse or Viking name.

Reginald Tower and wood boat

Silly Allan

Depicts walls of old city triangle with tower at front

Three of us in the tower

Sarah finally saw an Irish chicken

After exploring the tower, we wandered around Waterford; Jeannette, Tom, and I went to airport at noon but had to wait for the Hertz representative to appear and, once he did, he remembered he left his keys at home. So we waited until shortly after 1:00 to get the car which we drove back to the hotel, met up with Sarah and Allan, and had lunch at our hotel with Cravery board buffet. We then drove to Jerpoint Abbey which is a ruined Cistercian abbey, founded in the second half of the 12th century, near Thomastown, Ireland. Jerpoint is notable for its stone carvings, including one at the tomb of Felix O’Dulany, Bishop of the Diocese of Ossory. The abbey flourished until the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII. It has been declared a national monument and has been in the care of the Office of Public Works since 1880.

Inside the abbey

Another view of abbey

Tomb at the abbey

Our next stop was to Donway for Kilmogue Portal Tomb; also called the Harristown Dolmen, at 18 ft. tall, it is the tallest dolmen (a single-chamber tomb usually surrounded by three standing stones) in Ireland. Most dolmens were built around 3000 BC, and despite their being widely accepted to be burial sites there is little concrete evidence to identify them as actual tombs. Whatever the site’s true purpose, the Kilmogue tomb’s massive standing stones remain as a site that inspires awe in most visitors.

Lane to the tomb

The tomb

Irish countryside

Cathedral of Most Holy Trinity

Jeannette, Allan, and I tried to skype Savanna for her 2nd birthday but no one there so left video message. We ate dinner at Gastrpo Brew Pub called The Revolutionary. Back to the hotel for night cap and in the room at 10:15.

April 27: Had breakfast with the kids and then headed out for our eventual destination of Kinsale. I drove and Tom navigated with Sarah’s help in the back seat; rain came down on our final way to Dungarvan, a coastal town situated at the mouth of the Colligan River, but stopped by the time we arrived. We found a place for coffee which helped to warm us all up and then set out to explore the town which is comprised of many shops along which was a shopping mall where we found a couple cards. Our hope was to tour St. John’s Castle, a castle commissioned around the 12th-13th centuries by King John of England; however, we discovered it is not open until May. Got back into the car and drove to Ardmore, a seaside resort and fishing village with a population of around 330, where we had lunch in an art gallery/tea room; I had the daily soup special of vegetable soup with brown bread. The vegetable soup is not the same in Ireland as in USA; it is parried but has excellent favor. Sarah and I were on the look out for pottery so went to the Ardmore Pottery and Gallery but was disappointed. Next we drove, in the rain, to Kinsale where we plan to spend the next two nights. Found a great resting place at the Old Bank Town House for €59 and breakfast; the room, bath, and bed are huge! Found a bar for libations and, upon the recommendation of our waitress, went to Jim Edwards which is known for their sea food.

Old Bank House

Place for libations

I had small shrimp scampi with salad which was very good. After dinner, Sarah and I went to local grocery market for some purchases. Read and turned out the lights at 10:30; sadly, I got sick and am not sure if it was the food but certainly not a good night.

April 28: Went downstairs with Fosters for breakfast; what a spread! Delicious food but too much; cannot believe this was included with my room for a low rate of €59/night. We moved our car from parking area in front to free parking a few blocks from Main Street. There were a few shops open so we shopped; I found a knit cap and socks for myself. Next stop was tourist center where we got some information on Killarney, our next overnight stop, plus Rings of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula. Upon the center’s recommendation, we signed up for a bus tour of Rings of Kerry instead of driving it; we decided all will enjoy it more. Outside the center, we joined a “historical stroll” of Kinsale with Barry, an excellent local guide. During the tour, it started to rain, then would quit and then would start again (we found this quite common many of the days we were in Ireland). During the last downpour, we took refuge in The Greyhound bar. We did learn much about the town and its history including the sinking of Lusitania which got the US into World War I.

Barry, our guide

Thatched roof

Tall mast

Lunch was at the White House; good tuna sandwich and great chips! A short drive of narrow, winding road brought us to Fort Charles, a classic example of 17th century star-shaped fort. Early in the trip we purchased the heritage card for €20 which has paid off; we do not have to pay entry at any of these sites using our card. It was fun, even with rain, walking around the fort and there were two rooms of displays which helped tell the history of the fort.

Model of star-shaped fort

View of fort from upper level

Another fort view

Next we parked our car across from our lodging and walked to Desmond Castle which was build as a custom house in the c. 1500. It later, during the 1600’s war, was turned into a French prison. Today it now houses the International Museum of Wine. On our way to the Greyhound for liquid refreshments, we stopped at a local book store where I made a purchase. The Greyhound, nestled in the back lanes, is a very traditional Irish pub which steps you back in time. It was quiet, warm, and cosy and we got to talk to some locals because there were no tourists in the bar.

Desmond castle

Inside the Greyhound

Dinner found us at the Blue Haven which had an expensive menu but none of us wanted to find another place, so we settled for salad or sandwich. Back to the hotel to settle in for the evening.

Ireland: Part I – Dublin

Posted on May 14, 2015 by admin

April 21: Travel day to Ireland. No problems with any of the Delta flights out of Cedar Rapids or Atlanta; hooked up with the Fosters at their incoming gate in Atlanta and we killed time until our departure of direct flight to Dublin. The flight was over 8 hours flight time.

Lunch in Atlanta airport

Harding Hotel

April 22: Arrived in Dublin at 9:30 their time. Went through Customs (much easier than USA), retrieved our luggage, grabbed a taxi which took us to the Harding Hotel; rooms were available for us to check in, and we agreed to meet in a couple hours. Settled into my room, took a shower, put on my pajamas, and took a nap. Sarah called around 1:00 and we met in the lobby. We took off walking for our first exploration of Dublin. Across the street from our hotel was Christ Church Cathedral which, like many other cathedrals in Europe, is huge. From there we walked to the Dublin Castle which was built in 1204 as a defensive fortification. It was very impressive from the outside with the Record Tower, the last intact medieval tower, not only of Dublin Castle but also of Dublin itself. It functioned as a high security prison and held native Irish hostages and priests in Tudor times. We wandered thru a lovely garden with central courtyard by the Chester Beatty Library and across from the castle. It was a beautiful, sunny day so many people were relaxing in the park atmosphere during their lunch breaks. We proceeded to the Brazen Head Inn for lunch and a Guinness. This is Ireland’s oldest inn established in 1198 and the present building was built in 1754. After a delicious lunch of Seafood Chowder, we continued on our way with the purpose of finding a place to purchase wash clothes. I remembered hotels in Europe, many times, do not have wash clothes but forgot to pack some from home. A local gal told us of a shopping area where there was a Penney’s which we found thanks to Tom’s navigation skills plus having a map. Purchased three wash clothes for €2 and continued on our way. We walked the Temple Bar district and stumbled upon the Norseman Bar so went inside for a beer; I had O’Hara Stout which was quite good. We walked back to the hotel, relaxed in our rooms, went to bar for drink while waiting for Allan and Jeannette. They came and we went to a fish/chip place which was around the corner from our hotel and is considered the oldest fish and chip establishment in Dublin. Ate our dinner on a bench outside a church. We wandered around, got another drink, and went to the hotel to crush with the three of us very tired.

Christ Church Cathedral

Fosters in front of Dublin Castle

Record Tower

Lunch at Brazen Head

April 23: Met Fosters at 8:00; we had breakfast in the restaurant associated with the hotel. It was a beautiful, clear, sunny day so we walked to the Guinness Storehouse. Once there, we started on the self guided tour of the brewing process along with how they made wood barrels, their advertising, had a sample room where they showed the proper way to drink the beer while getting the full bodied taste from it, we learned the correct way how to pour your own using the six-step method…the pour master gave each of us a free pint of beer which we took to the Gravity Bar, the high point of the storehouse which provides a 360 view of Dublin and beyond. We ate lunch at Gilroy’s Restaurant on the 5th level; I had beef and Guinness stew which was excellent. Before leaving the storehouse, we all made purchases at the gift shop.

Guinness levels enclosed in glass shaped as mug

Learning proper pouring technique

Fantastic view and free Guinness

From there, we walked to Kilmainham Gaol which opened in 1796 and served as both a jail and debtors prison. In reality, this jail was actually used by the British as a political prison. Many who fought for Irish independence were held or executed here. Kilmainham was finally shutdown on July 16, 1924. It was an interesting place and the tour guide provided an excellent overview of its history. We walked to the National Museum of Arts to look in their gift shop.

Hallway of the gaol

Outside the gaol

In front of National Museum of Art

On Saturday we will leave Dublin by train and, because the train station was near, we walked to the Heuston Station where we inquired about the departure schedule; we will leave on the 10:15. Next destination was heading toward our hotel. Ended up at the Brazen Head for liquid refreshment while waiting for a call from Allan. When I did talk to him, it was decided he would not come into the downtown area so we ordered our evening meal at the Brazen Head. After eating, we returned to our hotel and went our separate ways; time around 8:45.

April 24: Had breakfast at Beshoff Brothers on our way to Trinity College; had the mini Irish breakfast which was quite good except the sausage which had an unusual flavor. Before entering the college, we found a great gift shop where I purchased a couple items. And then we entered into Trinity, a place established by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 for the purpose of establishing the Protestant way. We were interested in seeing the Book of Kells but the line was so long that we did not want to spend our morning standing in line. So we walked about the area which is 47 acres of grounds.

Trinity College entrance

We were there but line too long

Lawn sculpture

Fosters with skeleton of giant Irish deer

Green square at the college

Once we left the college, we headed for the O’Connell Bridge and O’Connell Street on the other side of the river. We took the O ‘Connell Street stroll recommended by Rick Steves. The street is a 45-yard-wide promenade with lots of history so there are lots of statues and monuments. At the base of the street is a statue of Daniel O’Connell who was “The Liberator” for founding the Catholic Church and demanding Irish Catholics rights in the British Parliament. Others points of interest was Millennium Spire, General Post Office where the Easter Uprising began in 1916, Moore Street market, Garden of Remembrance, Charles Stewart Parnell monument…Parnell was a visionary of a modern, free Irish country made up of Catholics but not set up as a religious state, and Dublins’ Writers Museum. We ate lunch at Parnell Street Bar and Grill where they had a delicious vegetable wrap on their menu.

Lunch vehicle on O’Connell Street

Irish Republic celebration outside post office

Ready to hear speakers

Garden of Remembrance

Next we walked to St. Michener Church which has a crypt of mummies; guide made the tour quite interesting. Jameson Distrillery for another tour which detailed the whiskey making process and had a tasting at the end.

St. Michener Church

Down to the crypts

Entrance to Jameson’s

Distillery cat

Whiskey sampling

By this time, it was 6:00; Allan called and we decided to meet him at the Brazen Head. After a drink, we went to the Porter House for dinner. There was a 45 minute wait but it went quite quickly. We then walked to the Harp Bridge which was quite impressive even in the rain. Allan then lead us to the Beer Dock, a bar where we had a drink while drying off. On our way back to the hotel, I discovered I left my rain coat at the bar so we said good night to Allan and headed back for it which meant, by the time we retrieved my coat and got back to the hotel, it was 11:30 and time for bed.

Band playing Irish tunes

Allan and I

Harp Bridge

Winter Escape to Florida

Posted on February 8, 2015 by admin

On Monday, January 26, I was to leave on an Allegiant flight @ 10:45 am to fly to Punta Gorda, FL. for a week’s vacation. Mary was on her way to pick me up when I found out the flight would be delayed until 12:45 so we stopped at WalMart on our way to the airport which killed some time. After saying goodbye to Mary, I checked my bag, shopped the small gift shop, went thru security, and headed to Millstream Pub where I ordered a sandwich and Bloody Mary. By the time I finished my lunch, it was afternoon so I went to the gate where the plane would be arriving and read until we boarded around 1:00; we took off at 1:30. Arrived at Punta Gorda without any problems and called brother Bob to let him know I had arrived. Luggage was retrieved, rental car acquired, and was shortly on my way to check in at Wyvern Hotel. Settled into my room and went to the lobby for Bob and Linda to pick me up for dinner. We went to Whiskey Creek where all of us ordered steak which was delicious. Returned to the hotel around 9:00 and found the Iowa State game on TV; watched it and lights were out around 11:30.

View from my hotel window

I did not wake up until 8:30 on Tuesday, the 27th. Had coffee in the room, got dressed, and went outside for a walk. It pleased me that I could walk across a parking lot and pick up the boardwalk that goes over water and along the harbor which I enjoyed so much on my last visit two years ago. Returned to the hotel, had breakfast, and headed out to Bob and Linda’s. Bob and I drove to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and Audubon Center outside of Naples approximately 90 miles from Arcadia. In December 1954, Audubon agreed to take title to 4800 acres of land and manage Corkscrew Swamp as a sanctuary. Today, from the Center, the 2.25 mile Boardwalk meanders through pine flat woods, an open prairie, a strand of pond cypress, and into ancient bald cypress forest, where many tower more than 100 feet into the sky. It was a peaceful, quiet walk in which we saw egrets, storks,red-headed woodpeckers, turtles, snakes, blue herons, anhingas, and alligators. Fantastic time! We returned to Arcadia, picked up Linda, and had dinner at El Pirata Mexican Restaurant. By the time we finished eating and went back to Bob’s, I was ready to drive back to the hotel…got there around 8:30. Found a special on PBS about Thomas Edison which I watched so it was after 11:00 before the lights went off.

Boardwalk over water with hotel in background

Tired snake

Heron resting

Turtle

Birds in the swamp

Time for a nap

Resting on a log

Got out of bed at 7:30 so did not have time to take a walk. Showered, packed my bag with clothes for lunch, and took off to where my friends, Yvonne and Earl, are spending the winter months. Yvonne and I went to Curves and then we had lunch at First Watch which was very good. I left their place around 1:30 and headed to Bob’s. When I got there, Linda brought out deviled eggs which she made for me…I love her deviled eggs…she makes the best! Bob and I, along Charlie the dog, walked at Morgan Park which has beautiful trails through the woods and along the river. We probably walked 3.5 miles or so; it was great being outside in short sleeves! Returned back to Bob’s place where Linda had dinner ready; spaghetti, garlic bread, tossed salad, and fresh berry pie. It was delicious; Linda is an excellent cook! I was so full that I could not eat any eggs when offered (maybe my breakfast tomorrow). After cleaning up, I headed back to Punta Gorda and got to the hotel around 7:45. Plan on reading and turning out the lights early so I am rested up for the shopping excursion Linda and I are going on tomorrow.

Earl and Yvonne

View from Morgan Park trail

Bob and Charlie on the trail

Charlie fetching stick from water

Got to Arcadia around 8:40 on the 29th and picked up Linda for our shopping adventure. On the way out of town, we stopped at McDonald’s where Bob was meeting with his friend “Big” Jack who I wanted to meet. We proceeded to St. Armand Circle; it is centrally located on the lushly landscaped island of Lido Key. Superb exclusive shops, galleries, exotic boutiques, sophisticated restaurants and nightlife all located on St. Armand’s Circle which is a huge, round about with shops all the way around. What a good time we had and the weather was perfect for outside shopping. Both of us made a couple purchases but mainly looked. Had lunch outside of a place called Cha-Cha Coconuts; the Mahi sandwich and French fries were very good! Instead of taking interstate back to Punta Gorda, we took 41 South and stopped at Siesta Beach which is supposedly the #1 ranked beach in Florida; it does not say who did the ranking. The sand is very fine plus cool (no burning feet!) and there were many people relaxing on it. Once we left the beach, we drove to Port Charlotte where we went to Beall’s outlet and I purchased a couple tops. We went to a couple more stores and then met up with Bob at Red Lobster around 6:30. Another meal of good food. Bob and Linda headed for their place while I headed to my hotel in Punta Gorda. Since I will be turning in the car tomorrow to the rental agency, I filled it up with gas on the way. Got to the room and packed in anticipation of checking out tomorrow and heading for Key West.

Linda and I having lunch

Some of the shops

Statues around the circle

Siesta Beach

Linda and I on the beach

Got some coffee in the lobby and headed out for a walk before showering and getting ready for Bob/Linda to come. It was a beautiful morning for walking and many people were out/about; saw a twin of Charlie by the water and talked to its master. Returned to the hotel, showered, talked to Yvonne, and checked out. Bob and Linda pulled up, we loaded my luggage, and I followed them to the airport where I turned in my rental car. And then we headed toward Key West. Stopped at Best Buy so I could purchase a replacement battery and charger for my camera. Very slow traffic heading south so we did not get to Key West until after 5:30. Checked into the hotel and headed to the beach where Charlie could run and we get some pictures of the sunset. Went into downtown Key West where all the action was…packed with lots and lots of people. We decided to have dinner further away from all the action. Found a TGI Friday’s and ate there; it was after 7:30 and all of us tired. Got back to the room around 9:30; got ready for bed, checked emails, charged my camera battery and iPad, looked at literature about Key West and turned out the lights around 11:00.

On the road to Key West

One of many bridges over the water to Key West

Sun going down

Paddle boarders

What a glow!

Sunset with silhouette of Bob, Linda, and Charlie

Sun is down

On the 31^st, I grabbed some coffee from the lobby, and took a walk along the ocean. Had breakfast with Bob at the hotel; we packed, checked out, and headed for a day of adventure. First stop was at the southernmost point of the continental USA for pictures; at this point, you are 90 miles from Cuba.

At the southernmost point

We proceeded to Hemingway’s House which is designated as a U.S. National Historic Landmark. This was Hemingway’s home from 1931 to 1939, although he retained title to the home until he died. It is a private, for-profit landmark and tourist attraction now populated by six and seven-toed cats that are descendants of Hemingway’s cats. The furnishings are from the Hemingway era, there are many cats inside and outside the house, and the grounds are beautiful with gardens/swimming pool.

Hemingway’s House

Inside the living room

Three of 50-some cats on the property

The pool area

After the tour, we drove to Duvall Street where many shops and restaurants are located. We did some shopping and had lunch at the Irish Pub (the Iowa Hawkeye men basketball team was playing on the TV). After eating, we returned to our vehicle and took Charlie to the dog park/beach. Charlie did not like the park as much as the beach so, while Bob watched over him on the beach, Linda and I went next door to the Key West Garden Club and West Martello Tower. The tower is a Civil War fort and National Historic Site; it is home to the Key West Garden Club and Joe Allen Garden Center. We strolled the brick pathways through arched courtyards and lush, colorful foliage. The grounds have a rare collection of native and exotic trees and plants.

Lunch at Irish Pub

Garden at Joe Allen center

Walking path at garden center

Next we parked the vehicle and walked several blocks to Harry S. Truman’s Little White House; along the way we spotted several old, beautiful homes and many free roaming chickens which Key West is known for. At the start of the tour, we were told no picture taking due to security; we learned the house was originally waterfront when it was built in 1890 as the first officer’s quarters on the submarine base naval station. The wooden duplex contained Quarters A for the base commandant and Quarters B for the paymaster. In 1911 the home was converted into a single-family dwelling to house the base commandant and additional land was filled in front of the house. In November 1946, President Harry S. Truman had finished 19 months in office, but was physically exhausted. His doctor, Wallace Graham, ordered a warm vacation. Truman arrived in November, 1946. As he was leaving he promised to return whenever he felt the need for rest; as it turned out, it became the winter White House for President Truman for 175 days during 11 visits.

One of many free roaming chickens

One of many large, beautiful homes

Truman’s Winter White House

After the tour and walking the grounds, we decided it was time to depart Key West for the long drive back to Bob’s. We stopped on one of the keys for dinner at Wendy’s, got some gas, and arrived back to Arcadia around 11:30. All of us were ready to hit our beds!

Bob and I went into Arcadia on Sunday morning to meet up with his friend, Paul. After having coffee with him, we went back to Bob’s and left for Babcock Ranch which is outside of Punta Gorda. We had signed up for a tour with Babcock Wilderness Adventures which takes you on 90 minute eco-tour through the ranch. It was a nice way to spend a few hours learning a lot about the history of Florida cattle ranching, facts about a variety of ecosystems and wildlife while getting a view of a Florida panther as well as lots of alligators and birds and a walk on a boardwalk through a cypress swamp.

Baby alligators

Swamp scene

Birds and cracker cattle

Florida panther

Alligators among the stumps

What a beauty!

When we returned back to Bob’s, Linda and I went into Arcadia for more shopping. That evening we watched the Super Bowl through the third quarter but went to bed because of having to get up quite early in order to be at the airport for my departure at 8:00 the next morning.

Monday saw Bob and I leaving his house at 5:30; we went into Arcadia and got some coffee at McDonald’s. Arrived at the airport around 6:30; Bob came into the terminal to make sure there was no problem. And there wasn’t so we said our “good byes”. By the time I got my bag checked, through Security, and to the restroom Allegiant was boarding the plane. With only a 5-10 minute wait after being seated, we took off. Arrived in Cedar Rapids early but my friends, Mary and Joe, were waiting for me. We retrieved my luggage and headed out into the bitter cold…I’m not sure if it was above zero. On the way, we stopped at Target and had lunch at Koop’s in Shellsburg. The area had been hit with 12” of snow the day/night before so roads were not totally cleared and the gravel going by my place only had one lane plowed. As it turned out, the person who plows my drive made the lane in order to get to my place. If not for that, we would not of been able to drive down the road. But we made it down and I was greeted with “Meow, Meow” from Beauty and Cutie upon entering the house. It is good to be home!

Welcome back to deep snow

It does look pretty

Sister Visit

Posted on February 5, 2015 by admin

My sister, a traveling nurse, is working a 13-week contract in Fayetteville, AR. and I visited her from January 15 thru the 18th when she had a long week end off. I left by 7:00 on the 15th and the drive to Fayetteville was uneventful with my arriving shortly after 4 pm. Edith and I had dinner that evening at Dickey BBQ close to her apartment; the beef was quite tender and tasty. The next morning we drove to Eureka Springs where we shopped and ate lunch at Nibbles Eatery; the drive up and back was through some beautiful countryside. That evening we ate at the apartment. On Saturday, the 17th, we drove to downtown Fayetteville where we talked to a gentleman in the Visitor Center regarding things to do around town. After our visit, we walked down Block St. to Dickson St. where all the shops were supposedly located; the amount of shops was minimal so it was a disappointment but the beautiful day made for it. After walking around the square, we drove to the outskirts of Fayetteville where we found San Migual’s, a Mexican restaurant for a late lunch/early evening meal. We drove to Lake Wedington, a recreational area outside of town that Edith wanted to visit. A very pretty area with walking paths alongside the water. That evening, we located a Braum’s ice cream place; this was the first time for Edith to taste their delicious favors. In the early morning hours, 1:37 am to be exact, we were awaken by loud pounding, shouting, and kicking at the front door. Upon Edith opening the door, she discovered a gal with her boyfriend who stumbled (with the influence of alcohol, we think) upon the wrong apartment. Talk about increasing the beat of my heart! On Sunday, the 18th, I took a walk around the apartment complex on a walking path that took you through the woods and around a pond; it was a beautiful, quiet morning so the walking was very relaxing. Around 11:00 am, I said my good byes to Edith and her two cats…Junior and Midnight…and headed to Bella Vista where I met up with Joyce and George Sheldon for a visit at their apartment and lunch. Mid-afternoon found me heading north while listening to the Green Bay Packers/Seattle Seahawks football championship. At Cameron, MO. I decided to stop for the night at Comfort Inn where I had a good night’s sleep. Monday, the 19th, found me on the road early; because I had been recording high blood pressure thru the whole week end, I called my doctor’s office when I was south of Des Moines and drove to his office before going home. Blood pressure was still high so he put me on some medication and ordered blood tests in another few weeks. Arrived home and was greeted by my wonderful cats, Beauty and Cutie, who are siblings of Junior and Midnight.

Junior

Midnight

Frozen on the hill

Sisters in Savannah, GA.

Posted on November 23, 2014 by admin

Each year, Tom’s sisters and I try to get together; last year we went to Naperville, IL. and this year we decided to visit Savannah, GA., a place neither Lynda or I have visited. I left home on Sunday, November 16th, and returned on Friday evening, the 21st.

November 16: Iit snowed during the night so I got up before 5:00 worrying about the roads and driving to the airport. Got things shutdown, said good bye to Beauty/Cutie, and headed out. Blacktop roads had been cleared and sand put down but I still drove slowly. Once I got to the state highway, the roads were fine. No problem checking in at the airport, had breakfast, and got through security. Flight left on time and, when we landed in Detroit, I went from Terminal C to A…got to my gate and spotted Lynda and Sarah. The flight to Savannah was uneventful; got our luggage, grabbed a cab, and headed to the Embassy Suites in the historic district. Once we settled in the room, we went for a walk to get the lay of the land. Found a good shopping district on Broughton St. and we decided we will go back there for a day of shopping sometime during the week. Returned to the hotel where we participated in the manager’s reception….free drinks and appetizers from 5:30 to 7:30. This served as our evening meal and went back to our room where we looked at Savannah activities and discussed what we wanted to do; we decided to do the Hop On/Hop Off trolley tour.

Relaxing evening

November 17: We got up around 7:30 and, after dressing, went down to the Make-to-Order breakfast. An excellent omelet, fruit, bagel, and good coffee made up my meal. We then got picked up at the front of the hotel for our trolley tour which started at the Savannah visitor center and stops at: Savannah Theatre/Chippewa Square, Sorrel-Weed House, Forsyth Park, Cathedral of St. John, and we got off at Pirates House. However, it was too early for it to be open so we waited for another trolley which stopped at Washington Square, Owens Thomas House, Juliette Gordon Low House (girls scouts founder) before we got off at City Market for some shopping. After purchasing a couple gift items, we got back on the next trolley which took us to Reynolds Square. We got off at the next stop on River Street and River Street Marketplace. Had lunch at the Shrimp Factory; I had a great shrimp salad sandwich and purchased chocolate pecan pie to go. It started to rain so we decided to shop River Street tomorrow so back on the trolley we went. Returned back to the visitor center which we explored before taking another shuttle back to our hotel. After spending time in our room, we decided to take a walk around the neighborhood. Upon return to the hotel, we reserved a tour for Wednesday night of two of the most haunted buildings in Savannah; Sorrel-Weed House and Pirates House. Then we went to the Manager’s Reception. Spent the rest of evening in our room where Lynda and I had decaf coffee with our pie, watched Monday night football, and read. Tomorrow we are going to have a light breakfast because we want to have lunch at the Pirates House along with exploring other trolley stops.

Savannah’s tallest point

Spanish moss hanging from tree

Stately mansion

Another mansion

November 18: Got up and took a walk to the area we had toured yesterday; I have discovered that Savannah is comprised of beautiful squares, cobblestone streets, stately mansions, and Spanish moss on trees so walking gives an in-depth perspective of these elements. Temperature dropped significantly over night so it was in the low 30’s and breezy. At the end of my walk, I went into the mass transit station to inquire about transportation to the airport. It certainly costs less than a taxi but eliminates being able to control what time you arrive at the airport. Returned to the room where everyone showered, dressed,and went downstairs for breakfast. After we ate, we prepared for day’s outing. We got on the trolley, rode it to a stop where there were a gift shops of Irish and Christmas items so we naturally had to explore them. Got back on the trolley and rode to our next stop of Forsyth Park which is a large city park known as Savannah’s Central Park and occupies 30 acres in the historic district; it is best known for its fountain.

The three of us

Tree lined walks

The fountain

After wandering around, we got back on the trolley which we rode to our lunch stop at the Pirates House. After lunch, we rode the trolley to River Street where we did some shopping. While making our last purchases of the day, the trolley came and the driver kindly waited for us to complete our purchases. Returned to the hotel where Sarah took a nap while Lynda and I drank some wine, talked, and took a walk through the hotel. After answering some emails, we went down to the evening reception. Talked to a couple who lived in Florida but originally from Georgia. Nice time but came up to the room to watch Michigan State vs. Duke men’s basketball with Duke winning. Tomorrow we are going to the shopping district on Broughton Street and the haunted houses tour tomorrow night.

Lunch companions

Oldest part of Pirates House

River with bridge that connects Georgia and South Carolina

November 19: After taking a walk, I returned to the hotel and we prepared for the day. Had breakfast and headed out to the shops on Broughton Street; all of us found items to purchase. We then walked to St. John’s Cathedral where we briefly looked inside at the furnishings which included stain glass windows. Upon a recommendation from one of Sarah’s friend, we had a late pizza lunch at Mellow Mushroom. We then headed back to the shopping area for a couple more purchases.

Beautiful mansion

Stained glass windows

St. John’s Cathedral

Went back to the hotel to rest up for our evening adventure of the haunted houses. After the Manager’s Reception, we were picked up by the trolley and headed to our first stop of The Pirates House where we were taken to the cellar which has sealed tunnels that leads to the Savannah River. According to a tour guide, hard liquor had been prohibited by law in Savannah and the cellar of the Pirates House was originally used to smuggle barrels of rum into the city. City officials were, supposedly, aware of the presence of the contraband, but were given free access to the libation in exchange for their silence on the matter. It was also explained, by the same tour guide with Old Savannah Tours, that many tortures and murders occurred in the cellar of the Pirate’s House. The story goes that trap doors were installed in the floor of the tavern and that drunk sailors who had passed out were chained and dropped into the cellar below. Should they sustain an injury in a fall and were unable to work on a ship, then they were murdered in the cellar and their bodies later disposed of.

Chest of candy

Down to the cellar

“Sealed” tunnel

Chained and dropped to cellar

The next stop was Sorrel-Weed House The house was designed by Charles Cluskey in 1835, the home was completed in 1838. The house was built for Francis Sorrel (1793–1870), a wealthy shipping merchant and esteemed citizen. The Sorrel-Weed House has a reputation for being one of the most haunted buildings in Savannah. People claim to see figures in the windows and hear disembodied voices inside the house. The connecting carriage house behind the main house was said to have housed a female African-American slave who was murdered by a member of the family after she was found in bed with the owner by his wife who took her life by jumping off the balcony after the discovery.

The garden; see any floating figures?

Stairway to upstairs

Beautiful chandelier and molding

Pictures of owner and wife

Door of carriage house where slave lived

Drawing room

Balcony where wife jumped

I was disappointed in the evening because I thought we were going to see more of the house than two rooms on the first level and the cellar. Got back to the hotel where we relaxed and, one by one, went to bed.

November 20: Because it was late when I woke up, I did not take a morning walk. After breakfast, we went to the room and talked about what to see for the day. We decided on Owens-Thomas House and Old Fort Jackson. We walked to the Owens-Thomas House and had a delightful tour. Some history about the house: The Richardson House, as it was originally known after its first owner and builder, is North America’s preeminent example of period English Regency architecture. The mansion was purchased in 1830 by local attorney and politician George Welshman Owens for $10,000. The family maintained it for several decades, until Owens’ granddaughter, Margaret Thomas, bequeathed the house to the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences, est. 1885 as the South’s oldest art museum, in 1951. The house is notable, for its early cast iron side veranda on which the Marquis de Lafayette addressed the citizens of Savannah on his visit in 1825.

Front of Owens-Thomas House

Back of the house

Gardens and slave quarters taken from back balcony

All of us enjoyed the tour and were glad we selected it; we were able to see both levels of the house and all the rooms where some original furnishings were displayed. There was no picture taking allowed inside the house so I only got pictures from the outside. We then walked to Leopold’s for ice cream. Leopold’s Ice Cream was founded in 1919 by three immigrant brothers from Greece: George, Peter, and Basil Leopold. They learned the art of candy and dessert from an uncle who had already settled in America. The brothers perfected the secret formulas and created the world famous Leopold’s VeriBest ice cream. And it was delicious!

Counter and employee at Leopold’s

We called a taxi to take us to Old Fort Jackson. Old Fort Jackson is unrelated to Andrew Jackson; it is a restored 19th century fort located two miles east of Savannah on the Savannah River. It is a National Historic Landmark and the oldest standing brick fort in Georgia. President Thomas Jefferson authorized the construction of a national defense system of fortifications to defend his new nation. Jefferson’s system included Fort Jackson, constructed between 1808 and 1812 over an old earthen battery from the American Revolution. The displays were excellent and guides quite knowledgeable; we were really glad we came for a visit. And very happy that we were ready to leave just as 250+ 8th grade students from Atlanta descended on the place.

Inside the fort

Getting cannon ready to fire

It fired with a LOUD boom

Medical tools and instruments

Another taxi picked us up and, on the recommendation of a volunteer at Fort Jackson, we had the taxi take us to the Olde Pink House for lunch. Savannah’s Olde Pink House was so named for the beautiful shade of “pink” stucco which covers its old brick. This Georgian mansion was built in 1789 for James Habersham Jr., one of Savannah’s most important early cotton factors and founding-family members. For the first time in my life, I had Fried Green Tomatoes…delicious!

Outside of Olde Pink House

Stairway to upper level

Group picture

After the late lunch, we walked back to the hotel where we had a glass of wine, printed out our boarding passes, talked to hotel staff about late check out, and went to the Manager’s Reception. Went upstairs, changed into pajamas, and watched Iowa men’s basketball team get defeated by Texas. Tomorrow we plan on sleeping in, taking a walk, have late breakfast, pack, and checking out late.

November 21: Took a walk and came back to the hotel where we got ready and headed for breakfast. After breakfast, we got our bags packed and ready for transport to the airport. All of us liked the taxi driver who picked us up at Fort Jackson the day before so I called him and arranged for pick up at 12:30. Then a decision was made to walk to the City Market for additional shopping. It was a beautiful, warm morning so perfect walking weather. After an hour or so, we returned to the hotel where we checked out and waited for the taxi to pick us up. Upon arrival at the airport, we checked our bags and found a food court where we had a late lunch. My flight started to board passengers so I said my “good byes” to Lynda and Sarah; I was heading to Atlanta and then Cedar Rapids where Lynda and Sarah had a direct flight later in the day to Detroit. There was a delay in Atlanta because of Delta overselling 2 seats so it took sometime to get volunteers who were willing to spend the night and take a flight out the next day. Arrival into Cedar Rapids was at 9:00 and, by the time my checked bag appeared, it was 9:30 before I got underway for home. There was no freezing rain as forecast said which made me very happy! Got home to be greeted at the door by Beauty and Cutie…what a great way to end the trip.

Beauty and Cutie welcoming me to their house

Jan's Blog

My Adventures thru Space and Time

Category Archives: Uncategorized

Went to See Arlo

Ireland: Part VI – Back to Dublin and Home

Ireland: Part V – Aran Islands and Galway

Ireland: Part IV – Dingle Peninsula and Cliffs of Moher

Ireland: Part III – Killarney and Ring of Kerry

Ireland: Part II – Waterford and Kinsale

Ireland: Part I – Dublin

Winter Escape to Florida

Sister Visit

Sisters in Savannah, GA.