And I like the cold, but not THAT much.
It Was Either Here or Alaska
Less Social Media
Over the past couple of years I’ve found social media to be less enjoyable, less useful, and more aggravating. On Facebook, the one site I still used fairly regularly, my feed became filled with spam and AI posts, and the real people I interacted with seemed more likely to be itching for a fight. Other than habit, the main reason I’ve hung on there is to promote my musical projects. But social media music promotions have never seemed all that effective. We interact, we chat, but the butts in seats have largely seemed to come from real life interactions, not online ones.
I’ve spend the past month spending considerably less time online, and I am amazed at the extra time it has opened up in my life. I have more time to read and to play guitar, and I certainly feel less stress. How bizarre is that? The tool that initially brought us together, that reunited us with long lost friends, has become such a source of angst. All that said, I still feel a need to collect and post my thoughts. And I think I’m going to do that here. At least for a while. Please feel free to visit anytime.
Dromoland Castle – June 14-15, 2024
Of all the castles we visited, Dromoland made us feel most like royalty. The service, the grounds, and the walled garden were all spectacular. It may have been a good thing we were only there for a day, as I’m not sure we could have left otherwise!
CLICK HERE to see the pictures, including some from Shannon airport showing off a small part of their massive collection of model airplanes. Oh, and did I mention there’s a new member of the family? Meet Connie! We found her in Connemara of course.
Abbeyglen Castle – June 12-14, 2024
From the moment we arrived at Abbeyglen Castle, we felt at home. The owner and staff always greeted us by name, and a nightly toast included great stories about the history of the castle and the nearby town of Clifden.
CLICK HERE for photos of the castle, Clifden, and the gorgeous countryside.
Lough Eske Castle – June 11-12, 2024
It’s a shame we only had one day to spend at Lough Eske in Donegal, but we made the most of it! In fewer than 24 hours we had a horse and buggy ride and spa treatments to celebrate our 25th anniversary on the 12th.
CLICK HERE for photos, including a few gorgeous shots from the drive to our next destination.
Cabra Castle – June 9-11, 2024
After a whirlwind tour of Dublin, our first stop was at Cabra Castle in Cavan. The grounds were gorgeous and the food and service were top-notch. We also visited our first real Irish pub and took in some history at the Carrickmacross Workhouse.
Dublin – June 9, 2024
This sign was all over the place in the airport in Dublin. So not only do I have to worry about my own driving, but I guess no one else knows where to drive either.
We touched down at the airport around 4:30 AM and headed into Dublin, then promptly learned an important piece of information. Nothing is going on in Dublin at 6:30 on a Sunday morning.
We eventually found coffee and donuts, and then took off on our tour of the city. Click here for photos of the day, including Dublin Castle!
At the airport
We’re here at the gate, waiting to board a plane to Dublin. We’re celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary with a trip to Ireland. Follow along here!
