Island Times

 

While Tony Bennett may have left his heart in San Francisco, we leave a chunk of ours at every stop in Ireland, especially on Inis Mor, one of the Aran Islands off the west coast near Galway.

Both Bill and I feel as if the people we've been so privileged to meet and get to know over the years are part of our extended family.

We love them all, and each time we see them, love them all the more.

Our extended family continues to grow on each trip.

It's hard to fully express and chronicle all the interludes and the moments of laughter and enjoyment we've experienced at each stop along the way.  

Let's just say our cup runneth over with appreciation and joy.

The Irish have a way of doing that to you, each in his or her own special way.

Our stay on the island this time has to be the most fulfilling we've ever experienced, thanks to the generous hospitality and friendship we experienced from almost the moment we stepped on the island until we boarded the ferry to leave Inis Mor behind one more time.

This time the Young Love's got to experience that with us, and, though, I haven't pressed them for details, I'd say their expressions throughout the stay said enough.

They'll find a way to return, just as we have time after time. 

Ma and Pa and the Young Love's shut The Bar down Wednesday night, and, let's just say that's beyond rare for the bunch of us. 

When the locals, like Mary Ratcliffe and Bridie Tierney provide an atmosphere of fun and local lore, as well as unbelievable hospitality, the fun goes on and time flies by.  

Mary's husband Peader, sang and played guitar and keyboard---all the Irish and American classic favorites (Elton John, Kenny Rogers, John Denver) for three hours NONSTOP.  I emphasize nonstop because except to take an occasional sip of water, he played on.

And, the crowd loved every minute, including a family of three generations of Australians, ranging from 2-year-old Keva to Grandma.  

Keva's heart stayed with "Aunt Mary" even the next day at the ferry when the family spotted her walking to the boat. 

And, Bridie, The Bar manager and namesake for our Bridie pup, showered us with tasty goodies and drinks. 

It was a magical and memorable evening which we all shall never forget.

Many thanks to all, and, yes, we do expect to see you in Idaho some day so we can reciprocate.

Lots of photos today, including some ecopod aka glamping shots.  We Love couples each had our own unit.

These are efficiently and adequately planned structures located right next to the Atlantic ocean.  The area also has space for tent camping and, under management from another new best friend Samantha, all details receive prompt and complete attention.

The "pods" provide a perfect complement and comfortable home away from home on this beautiful island. 

Twas a fabulous experience, and our hearts will most likely draw us back again some day. 

Enjoy the photos. 

Our tour guide Joe Gill took us around the island on our very first visit.  It was nice to see Joe again and listen to his stories.

Joe and his wife Noirin own a B and B on the island known as Radharc na Céibhe

http://www.stayaranislands.com/ 

Aran Island Glamping manager Samantha Rogers offers information on island features.

 
Mary Ratcliffe's husband Peadar is an amazing musician and singer.  He often performs seven nights a week at The Bar on Inis Mor.  

Google this school and see how you can help them pay for needed repairs to keep the school open. 

Bridie, Debbie and Willie

Below:  Mary, Debbie and Willie

When you wear a ZAGS cap thousands of miles away from home, some folks notice, especially when they are on the trail and when some of them graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wash.

These three sisters are traveling with their mom, and they know ZAGS big time.

I gave my ZAGS hat to Bridie at The Bar. She beamed instantly, took the hat and came back with an assortment of Gonzaga patches from a school in Washington, D.C.  

A group from the school has traveled to Inis Mor nearly every year since the early 1980s.

What a lucky and fortunate experience for all those students.  

Now, Bridie has a hat from THE OTHER ZAGS to display in The Bar. 

GO, ZAGS!!!!

🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀

Bridie's Uncle Miles helps out at The Bar

Deliah is one of the knitters at An Pucan Sweaters and Crafts.

Mary Ratcliffe's grandmother, Maggie Dirrane, starred in the 1930s film "Man of Aran."  Two houses with thatched roofs were used in the movie. This is one.

https://www.bing.com/search?FORM=AFSCVO&PC=AFSC&q=man+of+aran