June 3rd- Anascaul to Liscannor

Today we were surrounded by sunshine, proof that it doesn't rain every day in Ireland. We began the day with a photo shoot at Minard Castle. A 15th-century castle meets the ocean. The interior was overgrown with beautiful flowers and ivy.

Next we moved on to Connor Pass through the Slieve Mish mountains. The pass was still, with a breathtaking view. At the top, Chris came across a harpist selling his CD's and photographed him there playing his harp.

Then we stopped at a beautiful stretch of beach called Cappagh, near Brandon Bay. This area was perfect for photographs; with its vivid colors it was difficult to tell where the sky ended and the water began. Later we drove through the town of Ardfert to visit its Cathedral churches and friary. This ruin was being renovated but there was still much history to be seen on the grounds.

Next we stopped in the town of Ballyheigh to see the ruins of the ancient castle, which is now surrounded by a very modern golf course. We also found another castle near Ballylongford called Carringafoyle Castle. It is a medieval castle, originally five stories. There was enough for us to explore and climb through. As I wander through these ancient ruins of abbeys and castles, sometimes I can sense the souls of the monks who prayed here and the lords who called them home.

At the end of the day we took the ferry across the River Shannon to visit the Cliffs of Moher. While on the ferry, we spotted a pair of dolphins, which Shelby managed to photograph.

The impressive cliffs were 700-feet tall; some of us went closer to the edges than others. I stayed firmly anchored to the path. We ended this full day at our farmhouse B & B in Liscanor and a late dinner in town near 11 p.m.

Dave, whose luggage is still among the missing, advises all travelers to pack light; You never know how little you need until you have none of it at all. If you are Dave's mom, please click here.

Geneva Becker

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