40 Shades of Green; Ireland

"Again I want to see and do
The things we've done and seen
Where the breeze is sweet as Shalimar

And there's forty shades of green

Green, green, forty shades of green

I wish that I could spend an hour
At Dublin's churching surf
I'd love to watch the farmers
Drain the bogs and spade the turf..."

-Johnny Cash; a song dedicated to the beautiful shades of green of Ireland

And was he ever correct.  Ireland was filled with much natural beauty, and I'd go as far as saying a million of shades of green.

I was blessed to have the opportunity to travel around Ireland with T's family.  Unfortunately, he wasn't able to come with us due to Army stuff.  The worst part is Ireland is on the tip top of his travel list, so it stung a little bit to share our trip memories with him.  Even though he was missed dearly, we still thoroughly enjoyed what this country had to offer! 

We stayed in the quaint, coastal town of Howth.  We could not have chosen a better place in my opinion.  It was quiet, cozy, and had beautiful views around the town.  This was the park area we passed everyday on the way to the dart (Ireland's train).  Even though I'm not a dreary weather kinda gal, the gloomy weather while we were there sort of contributed to the Ireland experience.  It's the type of weather I always imagined Ireland to have.

After exploring Dublin, Bray, the Wicklow mountains, and Howth, I have to say the little town of Glendalough in a valley of the Wicklow mountains was my absolute favorite.  The Monastic town was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century! The unkempt grounds, shifted headstones, and eerie yet serene feeling this place offered was completely unique.  I was also in complete photography heaven. I could not stop snapping pictures!    

Last but not least, my favorite picture of the entire trip.  

Two other highlights of the trip; devouring fish and chips and Guinness pie, well and just plain Guinness, and encountering the kindest people EVER!  Although I find Italians to be nice (most of the time), the Irish were so welcoming!  In my opinion, it makes traveling so much better when the natives are friendly! Oh!! Not to mention EVERYONE SPOKE ENGLISH! Something that I no longer take for granted.  It was extremely refreshing!  

Ireland showed us a wonderful time, and I, and by "I" I mean my husband, is counting down the days until we return to the country covered in 40 shades of green and pubs on every corner. 

Until next time, 

Always