Remembering Ireland (Part 2)

One of the most famous castles and a definite must visit in Ireland is Blarney Castle.  The current structure was built over 550 years ago by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster.  The keep still stands and visitors come from around the world to "Kiss the Blarney Stone" as it is said that by doing so, you will gain the gift of "blarney" or eloquence. 

The grounds are large and very beautiful.  Nearby is the Blarney Woolen Mills which offers wonderful shopping opportunities.  You can easily walk around the area which I really enjoyed because you can truly get a feel for everything that way.  I loved hearing all the languages and of course that awesome Irish accent.  People were friendly and very polite which is great when you have a group of tourists attempting to drive on the other side of the road (scary!).  We were lucky to have someone who had spent some time there as an exchange student because those roundabouts can be a bit confusing sometimes!

Along with so much history, we were introduced to great cider, hot Irish tea (which I am still addicted to) and the hot toddy (made of course with Irish whiskey).  Really, how much better can it get? 

The Month of March...remembering Ireland (Part 1)

March is always such a gloomy month.  It might rain, sleet or snow here is Fort Wayne, Indiana so it always makes me feel kind of low.  To cheer myself up I went and looked back at my photos from a trip to Ireland several years ago.  Really is there a better month than March to go to Ireland?  Actually, it really was a great time to go.  We got our pick of bed and breakfasts since most tourists hadn't gotten there yet, and the weather was not too cold or rainy.

For those interested in history, well it doesn't get much better than this.  It was amazing to think that some of these places have been around for thousands of years.  But what really captures you is the incredible views everywhere you go.  I couldn't stop taking photos.  Unfortunately this was early on in the history of digital cameras so I was only armed with a small point and shoot camera that was limited to 4MP.  Hmm...maybe I need to take myself back there!

Well I thought in the next few posts I would share with you this beautiful country full of history, legends, gorgeous architecture and wonderful people.  Perhaps it will cheer you up as well and open your eyes to another little piece of beauty in this world.

Our first stop, the beautiful Cliffs of Mohr with O'Brien's Tower overlooking the sea.

A little know castle, Doonagore sits right on the coast and can be seen on the way to and from the Cliffs.

Couldn't resist this little cottage.  I really want one of these!

We weren't the only ones enjoying the crashing waves on the coast as the sun set.  Talk about exhilarating!

The Beauty of a Women

Women go through a lot of effort to feel beautiful whether it is getting our nails done, a new hairstyle, or maybe just a great new outfit that makes us feel sexy (with matching shoes, of course!).  Now we can add one more to the list but with a special little twist.  Not only does this feel good, it looks incredible. 

Boudoir photography has become quite popular and I think it is because it truly exemplifies the beauty that is in every women.  Showcasing this takes quite a bit of courage but the results are spectacular.  Here is just a small look at one of the beautiful women I have the privilege of knowing...thank you for letting me do this!