Top O the Mornin' to Ya!

On Saturday morning Dave and I woke up quite early, I wouldn't say I was in the 'Top O' the Mornin' to ya' type mood at this point however we boarded the plane for Ireland. We came across a great seat sale, £15 each, and thought when will we ever get a chance to visit Ireland again...and be able to go there for a day???

As we walked through customs it was quite comical trying to explain that although we are Canadian, we do live in Newcastle, and thus are able to only come to Ireland for a day.  And so with the clock ticking we entered Ireland with 10 hours to explore and sight see.

For me having the opportunity to visit Ireland was more than just another 'check' off the travelling map, instead it was a chance to see where my family history all began.  And honestly, perhaps it was the sentimental side in me, but every corner, every bridge and certainly every little pub, reminded me of my family.  Hahah I am sure my family could have spent hours just travelling through each of the pubs...and yes hahah, they would have had a drink at each one! Knowing my brother, he would have known the owner's life story and we would be heading back to his house for dinner that night hahah! My brother has that Irish charm about him!!!! Although, if he lets his beard grow in it could also be more of a Scottish charm!!! History Lesson: Reed actually means "Red haired one"...haha yes it's quite fitting actually.

Both my Dad's side, the Reeds, and my Mom's side, the Mahons, have roots in Ireland. As we walked along cobbled streets and toured the city, filled with so much history and rich detail, it was difficult to not wonder if at some point, many years ago, one of my relatives had a part in the many unchanged buildings and structures that still remain today.  We toured buildings, churches, pubs and libraries with some of these dating back to the late 1500's.

Trinity College. Built in 1592 and one of the oldest Universities in Western Europe

This campus was breath taking!

My gorgeous husband on the steps at Trinity College.

O'Connell Bridge in Dublin, Ireland

A Guinness at the top and all of Dublin in the background.

Portion of St. Patrick's Cathedral. Choir Room built in 1495

St.Patrick's Cathedral

Dublin Castle

Of course you cannot be in Ireland without seeing 'snakes'!

Haha We found the way to the Leprechaun Museum!!!

One day I truly do dream of being in Ireland with my family and perhaps even visiting our old Homestead to see where it all began!