Mid-term Holidays in Wicklow - Oct. 27th to Nov. 3rd, 2007

Word to the Wise: if you are asked if you'd like to see my pictures from Ireland, you might want to politely decline!! For the last two weeks, I've been trying to get my pictures into some sort of order, sorting through them on my computer and trying to pull the "best of the bunch", so that I have a nice slide show to show people. And it's getting ridiculous!! So many, MANY photographs! Oh, well...digital pictures is one thing that can't take up too much space in my suitcases home...

Here is a sampling of pictures from Wicklow, which is on the east coast of Ireland, about an hour away from Dublin.

The fall colors honestly about took my breath away...


Sunset at Winston and Alison's house (Olwyn's parents)

This picture doesn't show the colors very well, because it was starting to get dark, but it was such a fun evening that I couldn't resist throwing this picture in anyway. Alison and I took the kids on a walk at Avondale, to see the deer. We bundled up, and crunched through the leaves, talking turns carrying Rhia and Harvey.

These pictures were taken at Glendalough - it might look familiar! That is because I visited it the last time I was in Wicklow with Nigel, Cormac, Clinton and Linley...we didn't have time to explore properly, so we headed back for another day. The picture above is a view of the tower and the surrounding hills.

Umm....does anyone else notice something wrong with this picture?? Yup...the gravestone is upside down! Or at least the writing is...!

St. Kevin's Church - I liked the series of archways.

This picture actually looks a bit eerie, doesn't it? Harvey...exploring.

Olwyn and the girls (Shirley is in the bottom of the buggy...you can't actually see her, but she's there!)

Harvey enjoying some tunes on the way back from Glendalough! He was one happy boy!

The following set of pictures were taken at Powerscourt House and Gardens, another day's worth of adventure. Powerscourt is one of the most beautiful country estates in Ireland. Situated in the mountains of Wicklow, it was originally an important strategic site for the Anglo-Normans who came to Ireland in the 12th century. (Does that sound like something out of my guide book? Yeah? That's because it pretty much is!) The house you see here was built in the 1730's, but various strongholds and castles were located here dating back to the 12th century. The house was destroyed in a fire in 1974, the night after a press conference was held there regarding the house and gardens being opened to the public for the first time. In 1996, restoration was begun, and the house is now open to the public. It isn't a furnished house, although weddings and reception are held in the restored ballroom. One of my new favorite shops, Avoca, is located in the house.

Powerscourt House and gardens

One of their more angelic moments...no worries, it won't last long! = )

Pepperpot Tower - such an UNROMANTIC name for something that reminds me of the tower from the Repunzel fairytale! It is located in Killing Hollow, which is even more unromantic, I suppose...

Rhia and I at the Repunzel Tower = )

View of Powerscourt House from the Repunzel Tower

View of family graveyard from the Repunzel Tower - unfortunately, it was all walled off, so I didn't get to meander through this one.

Does this not look like the best place for some well-placed cushions, a cup of tea and a good book?? - The reception room, off of the ballroom

A kid-free day in Dublin, with Gill, Ciara and Linley - Guess what we found right off?? STARBUCKS!

Liffey River, Dublin

Family picture at Alison and Winston's house - Alison and Winston, along with Brian and Ciara (who live up the lane) are actually moving to Scotland sometime soon. More than likely, it was the last time for Nigel and Olwyn to stay at the house Olwyn grew up in. And it was my last weekend with people I have come to see as family. So...a bit emotional all the way around! This picture was taken right before we left Sunday evening.

All for now! I'll be seeing everyone very shortly now! I leave Ireland a week from today, and England 6 days after that. Mixed emotions, let me tell you!

Luv, Alissa