As I approach midway during my trip to Ireland, I am grateful for all the great people and experiences. Last week, we heard Irish folklore stories and visited the Blarney stone in Cork. I look forward to the rest of my time here in Ireland, as it has flown by rapidly.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Irish folklore stories told by a native in Stags Head Pub. He taught us about different myths and legends in Irish folklore. The Banshee caught my attention because I had previously learned about it in high school. If you hear the Banshee scream, it means one of your family members is going to pass away shortly. This event made me realize how important storytelling is in Irish culture.
Cat and Jack at Stags head pub
On Saturday, we took a day trip to the south of Ireland to visit the prominent Blarney Castle. I was thrilled to kiss the Blarney stone to gain eloquence. I didn’t feel the eloquence right after I kissed it, so maybe it comes later. On the way back to Dublin, we visited another castle in the small town of Cahir. The castle was really cool, and there were some local pubs that had great atmospheres.
Cool pictures at the pub in Cahir
Once we returned to Dublin, we went to The Academy, a club. I had a great time dancing with everyone on the trip. Everyone enjoyed it, and I envision us going back at some point. Bella, Jackson, and I explored the city after the club and saw River Liffey. What a great experience to see the city during the night time.
Jackson and I in the city
We had a free day on Sunday; Sam, Bella, and I decided to explore Dublin for a day trip. I went shopping to get some new clothes at Grafton Street. We stumbled upon a pub in the city center called The Voyager. It was a beautiful pub with great food; check it out if you’re in the city.
Street of the Voyager
This Monday, we went to the Kilmainham Gaol prison to see where prisoners of war during the War of Independence were held. I had never been in a jail before, so I was excited to see what one looked like from the inside. There were loads of cells, and the rooms were very tight. We were allowed to go into the cells, and I imagined what it would be like to live in a cell for an extended period.
Braden in the cell
Since bringing up my cooking in my week two blog, I feel I have drastically improved my craft. I have been making meals with Cat, and we have made some great food together. Some of the things we have been making include chicken fajitas, meatball subs, and burgers. Hopefully, we’ll make even better food by the trip’s end. I am excited about the rest of the meals that Cat and I make.
Cat and I eating our meatball sub
I can’t believe you are half way through! I love your weekly updates as it keeps me so connected to all you are doing! Go Irish ! See you in a few days and can’t wait!