Ireland 2026; Day Thirteen

 

Bill grabbed a napkin and pen and then drew a map of the United States.  The illustration gave the onlookers a clearer idea of where our state of Idaho is located. 

One member of the small group of tavern regulars had a clear idea of our state’s location because he works in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Others were not so sure because the common confusion between Iowa and Idaho often comes up in conversation whenever we’re asked where we live.

So, the napkin image helped immensely yesterday afternoon when we stopped by the tavern for a few minutes where we’re staying here in Malin Head.

We wanted to make sure we saw Maura, who runs the bar, before she left for the day.

As one can imagine, the small group at the bar were in jolly good moods. We first met Liam, JP and a chef named Patrick.  Later, a mom and dad and their son who works in Vancouver arrived.

Lots of one liners, some not quite printable, some quite complimentary, flew from lips to ears as the group happily became acquainted with Bill and me.   

Twas our first real experience of getting to know the locals on this trip, and it was great fun.

We’ll have some good memories of these fun Irish folks to take with us when we leave Malin Head today and drive to Dublin.

We’ll stay at an airport hotel tonight, turn in the car tomorrow and then go through all the tedious airport necessities before we hurry up and wait and eventually board our flight for Seattle. 

Tomorrow will be another LONG day, especially as we keep flying toward daylight before arriving in Seattle late in the afternoon Pacific time.

And so, the long-awaited trip to our happy place slowly winds down.  It’s been beyond expectation---just as every trip to Ireland has been for us.

Our minds are filled with a treasured collection of new memories, and our hearts are embedded in this place more than ever.

It’s an indescribable experience where photos and stories are great but it’s the living of every moment that gives one a truly comprehensive view of the wonders and the wonderful aspects of this country.

All good and all will be tucked away in our hearts and minds forever.

I hope we can make it back here again, but for now, we'll go home totally refreshed, excited to see our beloveds and more grateful than ever that we have been able to enjoy this amazing experience in this amazing “motherland” one more time.

And, as always, it's been great fun sharing our travels. 

This is Maura.  

She runs a tight ship wherever she's in charge at the Seaview Tavern. 

And, we love her sharp and perceptive wit. 

We met Angela and Nigel who were walking their cocker spaniels yesterday morning while out on a walk here in Malin Head.  

They moved here a few years ago from England and they love the peace, quiet and beauty of the area. 

They invited us to to see a beautiful Air B and B home nearby which they watch over for the owner. 

JP works as a cab driver in Derry. 

Liam