July 3rd, Ireland

We had a full fun day today. Ann came to pick us up mid-morning and we went to Fota Wildlife Park. It was really neat. Lots of giraffes, zebras and other sorts of animals that you could get very close to. It rained on us a couple of times, but really only sprinkles and it lasted for only a few minutes.

Next we went to Barryscourt Castle which has been recently renovated. It was built in the 16th century (wow!). It was amazing to be inside and try to imagine what it was like then. They showed us the "murder hole" that was located right above you when you walked in the front door. If the person who walked in was an invader, they would shoot arrows through the hold and pour down boiling water. We also got to see where the lord and lady would have resided and their bedroom. You should have seen the narrow, steep and incredibly difficult stairs that you had to climb. The lady of this castle had 19 pregnancies, so our guide asked us to keep that in mind when we were walking up the stairs! Lastly we went to the bottom to see the dungeon. Gavin got a kick out of that.

Next was Cork City. It is such a pretty city and full of people! We went and saw De at work and then went to something called the English Market. Lots of produce and butcher shops. Really neat. Went to the fish market too and got salmon for dinner. Afterwards we went to a great irish cafe/chocolate shop for coffee and treats. The kids got hot chocolate. They had a large vat of melted chocolate. They would scoop some out and add the hot milk. Very good!

We were all pretty tired after this, so we went back to Ann's house and I had a bit of a nap on the couch. The kids played outside in their yard. Ann made us a great salmon dinner and we had a dessert called viennata afterwards. And ice cream treat.

Tomorrow we have to pack and get ready for our weekend in Dingle. We are staying right on the sea. We will also be watching an Irish football game at a pub which I think will be great fun. The adults may be going out in Cork City tomorrow, if everyone is up to it. All the travelers (Zack, JW, Dad, Megan) get back tomorrow, so I can't wait to hear how their trips have gone.