The Schedule
so.... here is the plan
We are so excited as we get closer and time moves on.
As you know, this is not a group activity - we are all on our own journeys here; however, here is the general plan that we (Eric & Dónal) will be sticking to.
We will be in Ireland from Saturday, March 14, until Saturday, March 21.
You are all welcome to join us at any time; in fact, we'd love it!
However, in Dónal's hometown, there are very few places to stay, so perhaps on those days, it would be a good time for you to get out and see the country!
Saturday, March 14
Hey everyone - Dónal here!
Today we'll land in Dublin. If you are coming the US, - East Coast, most flights land in the early morning -West Coast, most flights land later in the day. We are are coming from LA, so our flight will probably land in the mid-afternoon. We'll most likely go straight to Kilcock (my hometown), hang out with my family, have dinner, and then head to bed... we will definitely not be going for an adult beverage to celebrate the occasion! (wink, wink)
Sunday, March 15
Today, the party starts. We are heading west to Galway. Travel to Galway by Train, Bus or Car... all of them are great options in Ireland - we have a great public transport system - unlike other places!! No shade!!!
We will stay somewhere on Eyre Square in Galway so we can enjoy all the fun the area has to offer, including the music and the great "craic" the city is known for. This is the location of my favorite and the best fish & chip place in the world... yes, the world!
McDonaghs on Shop Street, close to the Spanish Arch. Order a smoked cod, with lots of salt and vinegar with either a garlic cheese chips or curry chips... your'e welcome!
Monday, March 16
When we wake up, we'll enjoy an Irish breakfast... somewhere... yes...all the meat!
Then we plan to take the ferry from Galway to the Aran Islands... for lunch!
Later in the day, we will leave everyone and head back east to Kilcock.
This is where you need to decide: where will I be for St. Patrick's Day?!
We are spending St. Patrick's Day in my hometown, but remember there is limited accommodation in that area (unless you stay in Maynooth, which is 3 miles away by taxi). Ireland has a ZERO tolerance policy for drink driving—one drink is over the limit, and Gardaí (Irish word for police force) will be out in full force. It's not worth the risk, especially on Paddy's Day. (By the way, it's never Patty's Day—it's Paddy or Patrick!) We'd love for you to hang out with us in Kilcock; it will be much fun—but we just can't house you! If you look at Maynooth, my first choice would be The Glenroyal Hotel, then The Carton House which is super fancy, but you're worth it!
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Whatever you do for St. Patricks Day, its up to you to make your way there today and get situated. Ireland closes for Paddys day - shops close, banks close, buses and train run on a reduced schedule - its the national holiday! Make a plan and get there and let the fun begin - today... St. Patricks Day Eve is sometimes as much if not more fun that Paddys Day itself! You've been warned!
Tuesday, March 17
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Today, we pick shamrock from the garden, the side of the road, or buy them in the store.
We pin them to our coats and wear them with pride. St. Patrick used shamrock to teach the ancient pagans about the mystery of the Blessed Trinity. Since then, it has become the unofficial symbol of Ireland, with the official symbol being the Celtic harp.
We'll start the day at Mass – Eric's favorite! Then we'll have a drink. Next, we'll gather for the St. Patrick's Day parade, which goes through town, where local organizations and families dress up, and we all have a great time. After that, we’ll have another drink. We'll listen to some great music on the main stage in the square. Then we'll have another drink. We'll follow the music and the crowd throughout the day, and then we'll have another drink... then we'll fall over and go to sleep.
It will be glorious!
Wednesday, March 18
Today is famously known in Ireland as the day of "the fear"! If you're curious about what that means, just google "the fear, Ireland" – you're welcome!
It's another exciting day to gear up for the festivities! You have today and most of tomorrow to chase your dreams in Ireland.
If you're in Galway for St. Patrick's Day, why not explore the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher or visit the enchanting Kylemore Abbey?
In Dublin , go to the stunning Glendalough in Co. Wicklow, home to St Kevin or check out Avoca wollen mills , or enjoy a fun-filled day in the city center with a hop-on-hop-off bus tour... don't miss out on the Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson Distillery (just a heads up, Dónal can't join in on that one - Eric)!
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Whatever you choose, make sure to have an unforgettable time!
Thursday, March 19
The day has finally arrived!
Once you finish living your best tourist life, it's to put your hair up in a high bun, throw on your Black Tie formal attire, and head to the Castle!
We will gather between 6 PM and 7 PM for a champagne reception and music by the magnificent Tom Clarke!
Our vow renewal ceremony will be at 7 PM, presided over by our wonderful friend the Rev. Tom Reid, Pastor of Newtown Presbyterian Church just outside Boston.
After our vows, dinner will be served along with a few (short) words from family and friends [Eric put the short in there!!].
Then we will sing, dance, and drink the night away—in a castle—all fancy-like!
Friday, March 20
We will awaken and gather in the castle for breakfast!
From here, we will say our goodbyes.
We will spend our last night at home with family before heading back to the States.
We are so grateful and honored that so many are planning to join us in our celebration. Thank you!
We hope that your time in Ireland will be magical!
Please feel free to participate in this schedule for as little or as much as you'd like—this is your vacation, it's your time - enjoy it and do what YOU want... but please, do come to the castle!
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all our love,
-Eric and Dónal