FAREWELL IRELAND

In Oz we regard England as "the Mother country". If that's so, then Ireland is our "Father country"!
There are many links between Australia and Ireland, even if they don't do cricket.
It's still expensive here in Ireland (maybe not as bad as England) and we're hoping the continent will be kinder to our pockets. I tell everyone we're on a SKI holiday (Spending Kids' Inheritance) - and I think they're after every red cent!
People in Ireland have been extremely friendly and helpful. Unfortunately they have a few problems... like their road signs. As a result of poor signage we've found ourselves lost a few times. But there are always friendly faces to help get you back on track.
The Dingle Peninsula (SW area) was great. We were in a museum near Dunquin when Tony & Carol Slater showed up. They are Cooma folk that we'd not seen for about 10 years. Tony was dentist to Fay and son Jeremy.
Roads can be tricky round here. When there's an approaching bus or semi there just isn't room to squeeze past unless you head for the hedges!
We've seen some structures which date back to 1000 AD and even further back. Unbelievable!
The pubs are warm and friendly places and we've been to a few and tried out Guiness! We've been entertained by singers, musicians and dancers.
I've picked up a couple of number plates (licence plates) here in Ireland - "No, you don't say!" says one of my kids. They will join the display I have back in Dubbo. Over 200 plates I guess.
Fay and I have had the chance to chat with boys at a local school this week. Thanks Madge and Brother B for having us in your rooms. We even had to sing Waltzing Matilda with the 9 year olds! Thanks Kathleen and staff for making us so welcome.
Hey... one of the problems here is that they're really pushing the Irish language now. That's great... but sometimes the signage is ONLY in Irish!
Ryder Cup starts tomorrow! All hype here! Europe v America. Should be a good battle.
Special thanks to the team at the monastery here in Clara (Co Offaly) where we've been staying for the past few days. We have really been accepted as family. You blokes and the ladies that cook and clean have made us feel very much at home. We shall miss you all.
Now, for Paris! We fly out of Dublin at midday tomorrow (Friday).
Sorry I've had trouble with photos. Don't know why.