Enjoying Ennis, County Clare

We enjoyed our first full day in Ennis. This is a great town and if you ever find yourself in County Clare, make sure you spend some time here. The weather was terrible -- worse than yesterday but we took a walk anyway and wound up at the public library for a few hours. It looked just like a library you'd find at home -- school groups, Halloween decorations and all. We had a delicious pub lunch and then back to the hotel for a rest. We spent the evening at our new favorite pub, Brograns, had dinner there, watched what I guess was an important Rugby match and then listened to some traditional Irish music.

It was a low key, damp day but I truly enjoyed it. There is a farmers market tomorrow that we are looking forward to. The plan is to load up on fresh vegies and other local gastronomical delights and then head to Mountshannon, where we will experience our first house rental. I've been hearing and reading great things about that area and if the weather clears up somewhat, I think it is going to be a fantastic week. OK, even if it continues to rain, I know we'll have a wonderful time anyway. It is only about 30 minutes from Ennis (if we don't get lost) so I am pretty sure we'll be back here.

By the way, if you don't have Skype, you should get it, especially if you travel or have friends in other countries. I've been able to stay in touch with my kids and it is so much fun to be able to see them while I'm talking to them. I hope they feel the same.

Happy birthday to my friends Debby and Cindy. I love you both.