My husband and I had a brief but extraordinary trip to Ireland this past week. It was a rare, early anniversary getaway alone – so rare we can't quite remember having gotten away completely alone before since usually alone means we only have one or two children with us. : )
We first checked into the historic Lake Hotel in Killarney, which was a sight to behold all by itself. (view from balcony)
What followed was a whirlwind journey through a couple hundred miles of coastal Western Ireland.
We trekked up mountainsides dotted with farmhouses surrounded by a patchwork of pastures separated by ancient stone walls.
We ventured down into hidden bays.
and colorful streets of local fishing villages.
We wrapped up with a drive through Killarney National Park just before dark.
Far too soon we were winging our way back to Germany. It is almost surreal to think of where we were. We are already plotting our return. If there was any way to stay forever, I would find it. Even taking into consideration my lifelong devotion to our Irish heritage this is an amazing place, full of warm, smiling faces. We talked to more people we didn't know in those few days than perhaps in all the months we have been in Germany. I felt so incredibly relaxed and at home.
I will resize and upload a few more pics before the wknd is over.
Starry Sky Journal 
When my mom and sister lived in Ireland in 1990-1992, I visited for two months and we traveled the island. I think doing the “Ring of Kerry” was my favorite part of all that. I love the particularly musical lilt in the speech of a Kerryman. It is nice to see from your photos that some things have remained the same in the last two decades.
Wow!
Beautiful! …and how was the food??
“We talked to more people we didn’t know in those few days than perhaps in all the months we have been in Germany.”
No joke!
Such a beautiful place, I am so glad you were able to enjoy your little getaway!
Lovely! And Happy Anniversary!
Happy anniversary! What a wonderful way to celebrate! Dh spent a week in Ireland years ago, and he said he’d never met friendlier people in his life. He even exchanged Christmas cards with one Irish family for several years afterward. He wants to live there after he retires. :o)
Wonderful! I am Irish Italian, and my dream is to someday go to both Ireland and Italy. My grandfather, Mack, was the first on my father’s side to be born in the U.S. You are so fortunate to see so much of the world. +JMJ+
So fabulous!! Happy Anniversary!
…If I don’t get my envy under control I might have to go to confession! lol š
So glad to have wifi again so I can catch up on your posts! Such gorgeous photos, Kim. And happy anniversary to you and Allen. xoxo
Happy Anniversary Kim! WOW! What beautiful pictures you took. My son Caleb will be so envious. What a blessing!
Laura