There are places that don’t disappoint… that live up to the hype. The Grand Canyon is like that, every bit as beautiful in person as it is in your imagination. And Jackson Hole too, with landscapes and vistas that take your breath away. But for living up to expectations there’s no place like Ireland. It’s scenic like no place on earth, here’s a picture of Jan and me to prove it. But It’s more than just beautiful! It’s interesting, steeped in tradition with a rich history of struggle and triumph. And the people are wonderful, the dear friends I’ve made there will last a lifetime. It’s everything that inspires me and my art rolled up in one place.
Ireland has become my second home, Jan and I go as often as we can (she gets to go more than I!). We’re there every New Year for sure, leaving right after Christmas with the family. And the contrast couldn’t be more dramatic, leaving the excitement and hustle and bustle of the holidays with kids and grandkids for the peace and quiet of the Irish countryside. It’s a remarkable transition that allows us to appreciate both places, and the holiday season, all the more. Ireland is surprisingly far north, really just south of Alaska, so the days are short that time of year. We see the sites when we can but we spend a lot of time by the fire, drinking tea and just talking. It’s my idea of perfection after my schedule leading up to Christmas, a time of reflection that recharges me for the coming year. I suppose I could do the same thing at home. But I’d rather do it in Ireland! If you get a chance be sure to go. So with that in mind here’s wishing all my Irish friends a happy St Patrick’s Day! And like they say, everyone’s a little bit Irish this time of year.
