tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65019902024-02-19T13:19:56.909-08:00Dennis Steele - AdventuresDennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.comBlogger189125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-6265866841055364932023-01-18T18:05:00.004-08:002023-01-18T18:06:57.523-08:00Little Bend Kitchen Relocation -- blog<p> Click this link:</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://littlebendkitchen.blogspot.com/">https://littlebendkitchen.blogspot.com/</a></p>Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-11926375679173531232014-09-02T09:44:00.002-07:002014-09-11T19:54:16.349-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UFtgX1rj8is/VAXzKveSsQI/AAAAAAAAIRY/D-AG7doCTuI/s1600/st%2Bgiles%2Bcathedral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UFtgX1rj8is/VAXzKveSsQI/AAAAAAAAIRY/D-AG7doCTuI/s1600/st%2Bgiles%2Bcathedral.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Giles Cathedral,<br />
Edinburgh.</td></tr>
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September 2, 2014 -- Today is our last day in Europe and we were up early. Today is also our only "full day" in Edinburgh, Scotland, so we have to make the best of it. We started out exploring the "old city" of Edinburgh. The "only thing old" about the Old City are the buildings. Otherwise, they are filled with modern and up-to-date shops of all kinds. Restaurants are everywhere along the narrow cobble-stoned streets and the sidewalks are filled with people. Even though it was a Tuesday, tourists and shoppers were out in great numbers.<br />
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A prominent building is the St. Giles Cathedral which dates back to the 15th Century. It's been the focal point of religious life in Edinburgh for more than 900 -years. It is, without question, a beautiful and imposing structure. As we continued to explore the area we found the University of Edinburgh along one of the narrow streets. As is the case with so many institutions in Europe, and especially this part of the world, the university has a long history -- having been founded in 1583. It is the sixth oldest university in the English-speaking world!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ElRTnRYQB38/VAXzKt0qJLI/AAAAAAAAIRc/zdnBTEc-sAc/s1600/whisky%2Bworld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ElRTnRYQB38/VAXzKt0qJLI/AAAAAAAAIRc/zdnBTEc-sAc/s1600/whisky%2Bworld.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edinburgh has its fair share of "Whisky World's"</td></tr>
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6 p.m. -- The evening is upon us and we'll be attending a filming and discussion on the subject of an "independent Scotland".. It should prove interesting and invigorating!<br />
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Tomorrow we're off to the airport at 8 a.m. for a 9:50 flight home. We're sorry to be leaving, but we're glad to be going home. After a month of exploring Ireland, England and Scotland, it'll be good to get home to our friends and routine.<br />
<br />Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-9495183217710492542014-09-01T15:21:00.000-07:002014-09-01T15:21:43.037-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g0mCJBCr2es/VATwLuASXvI/AAAAAAAAIQ4/GQewF11bHiE/s1600/train%2Bstn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g0mCJBCr2es/VATwLuASXvI/AAAAAAAAIQ4/GQewF11bHiE/s1600/train%2Bstn.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waverly Railway Station,<br />Edinburgh.</td></tr>
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September 1, 2014 -- We've bid farewell to Roger and Helen this morning. They were wonderful hosts and we enjoyed our stay with them more than I can express. Helen dropped us at the Gloucester Railway Station on her way to work this morning and we boarded the 9:50 a.m. train to Birmingham. Changing trains for Edinburgh was a "snap" as we simply had to walk across the platform. A couple of minutes later the train arrived and we were on our way.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o22tFftc_L8/VATwJ4M0mCI/AAAAAAAAIQo/G0CsqmFKC7U/s1600/linda%2Band%2Bsir%2Bwalter%2Bscott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o22tFftc_L8/VATwJ4M0mCI/AAAAAAAAIQo/G0CsqmFKC7U/s1600/linda%2Band%2Bsir%2Bwalter%2Bscott.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda and Sir Walter Scott</td></tr>
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Linda and I have completed a good amount of travel during this trip, and we've been on lots of busses and trains. As mentioned elsewhere in this blog, all through Ireland the "inter-city" busses and trains were comfortable and provided us with a free high-speed wifi service. This isn't the case with our experience in England. Not only does the train have a "pay as you go" wifi service, it very VERY slow. So, most of the time, one is waiting for the page to load and appear on the screen. Add to that the train (I am writing this on our way to Edinburgh) is most uncomfortable. The seats are cramped and rigid with no leg or foot room. There is no "food service" and some of the restrooms are "out of order"! Add the fact that it is a 5-hour train ride to Edinburgh and it means we're in for a long day. But -- we're healthy, happy to be on our way to Scotland and to have had such a wonderful time on this trip.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S_C5pzjDcNY/VATwJhj0fsI/AAAAAAAAIQk/mQLnAym9A44/s1600/edin%2Bstarbucks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S_C5pzjDcNY/VATwJhj0fsI/AAAAAAAAIQk/mQLnAym9A44/s1600/edin%2Bstarbucks.jpg" height="200" width="196" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starbuck's?? In Edinburgh, Scotland.</td></tr>
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11 p.m. -- We arrived in Edinburgh at 4 p.m. and checked into our lodgings. They are just a few minutes away from the railway station and easy to find. After checking in, we got a tourist map from the receptionist and found our way to nice Italian restaurant on "Rose Street" in "New Town". After, we continued to explore the area, met some folks, drank some beer and enjoyed learning about Edinburgh.<br />
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Tomorrow will be our last day in Europe and we have the full day here in this beautiful city. So, I'll be sure to fill you in on our adventures for the day.<br />
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Ciao<br />
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Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-14953379130577602082014-08-31T11:31:00.002-07:002014-09-01T00:56:05.404-07:00A Quiet Last Day . . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0guW2YrzDcNMndxzBJG91-vBhv_UGfmAfZhC0-aCxPKAovPMgd-MlwC83Yo8xovffdD4-OAL74BXRQlARN4wbqVQF0Ey21BgIS7IH9wKZj6fdbmr24Nm82w4PndqP02JSEb9/s1600/crick+back+yard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0guW2YrzDcNMndxzBJG91-vBhv_UGfmAfZhC0-aCxPKAovPMgd-MlwC83Yo8xovffdD4-OAL74BXRQlARN4wbqVQF0Ey21BgIS7IH9wKZj6fdbmr24Nm82w4PndqP02JSEb9/s1600/crick+back+yard.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Back-Yard Garden of<br />
Bob Crick's 300-year-old home.</td></tr>
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August 31, 2014 -- Today was a quiet last day in England. After an early-morning get-together for coffee and making some plans for the day, we made our way to visit Roger's good friend Bob Crick. Bob is an 85-year-old retired "school master" who lives in Minchinhampton. His home is two-homes joined together, and are 300-years-old. There is a basement as well. Originally, the home was a "brewery". The construction is stone, wood and plaster -- and is "s-o-l-i-d"! After a tour of his home, we enjoyed coffee and snacks in his back-yard garden. We talked of language, bird-watching, flowers and gardening. Bob is an interesting and intelligent individual who is very much "English"! We enjoyed every minute.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbvmiezgtYA/VANmBjlRucI/AAAAAAAAIP8/M2FLSoRsSe4/s1600/inda%2Broger%2Bhelen%2Bcrick%2Bby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbvmiezgtYA/VANmBjlRucI/AAAAAAAAIP8/M2FLSoRsSe4/s1600/inda%2Broger%2Bhelen%2Bcrick%2Bby.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More of Bob's Garden.</td></tr>
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Helen, Linda and I walked the village of Minchinhampton as Helen pointed out various points-of-interest. The narrow streets were quiet as it was Sunday We saw the beautiful church, primary school and library. The "market square" is the site of a World War I War Memorial and lists those who gave their lives in the conflict.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cH7S-5plMww/VANmACw_mvI/AAAAAAAAIPs/f-4xHmaKonE/s1600/bob%2Bcrick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cH7S-5plMww/VANmACw_mvI/AAAAAAAAIPs/f-4xHmaKonE/s1600/bob%2Bcrick.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob Crick, the Ole' Schoolmaster!</td></tr>
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Later, and early in the afternoon, Roger took us on a car tour of Gloucester and the surrounding villages. As we drove over the ridges of the nearby hills, one could see "Wales" in the distance. The rolling hills, villages, and churches were beautiful. It was a sunny and warm day which added to the pleasure of the drive.<br />
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Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-42058300411811806962014-08-30T12:44:00.000-07:002014-09-11T19:55:54.014-07:00In and around Stroud, U.K.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ihRveJhSiZ0/VAIcg1p6xkI/AAAAAAAAIPM/2etGTOQGBV8/s1600/helen%2Blinda%2Bon%2Bcommon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ihRveJhSiZ0/VAIcg1p6xkI/AAAAAAAAIPM/2etGTOQGBV8/s1600/helen%2Blinda%2Bon%2Bcommon.jpg" height="200" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leo, Helen (in white) and Linda<br />
on the "Common"</td></tr>
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August 30, 2014 -- We awoke to another overcast day this morning -- but not too cold. Roger and Helen are wonderful hosts and we've enjoyed our first evening with them. After a bit of coffee and talk about the day, Roger was off to complete a couple of chores. Linda, Helen and I took their dog "Leo" to the <i>Common</i> for a walk. The Common is a series of large open-spaces used by and for the residents of the villages nearby. Each year, local farmers bring their cattle to graze from May thru October. Walking along the Common, one has an expansive view of the surrounding country-side. It is serene and beautiful.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MeQgWIcY3w/VAIcg4iLE9I/AAAAAAAAIO0/to5YQeb-xqo/s1600/bill%2Broger%2Bjohn%2Bat%2Bclub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MeQgWIcY3w/VAIcg4iLE9I/AAAAAAAAIO0/to5YQeb-xqo/s1600/bill%2Broger%2Bjohn%2Bat%2Bclub.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R: Bill, Roger and John<br />
at the "club" in Minchinhampton, U.K.</td></tr>
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Later in the morning, Linda was off to <i>Gloucester </i>with Helen for a visit and tour of the Cathedral. Helen is the "<i>Music Department Manager"</i> for the Cathedral Choir. Additionally, she is "Musical Director" for the Choir in a village called <i>Minchinhampton.</i><br />
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Meanwhile, Roger and I went to the "CLUB" in Minchinhampton. We drank a couple of beers and met Bill and John. We enjoyed a lively conversation about travel in Ireland, England and the United States. After about an hour, or so, we left for Helen's "mum's house" nearby. First, Roger and I explored 2 or 3 of the many villages nearby. He was driving his "MG F" and took the roads with some speed and skill! It was great fun. As an aside, Roger is a retired Lieutenant Commander from the British Royal Navy. Since he was the "Radio Officer", he and I have a lot of interesting stories to tell each-other (I was a Radioman in the U.S. Navy).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nr51t0W7910/VAIcgvygbsI/AAAAAAAAIOw/muzumckEj7Y/s1600/Gerry%2Bhelen%2Blinda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nr51t0W7910/VAIcgvygbsI/AAAAAAAAIOw/muzumckEj7Y/s1600/Gerry%2Bhelen%2Blinda.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gerry, Helen and Linda<br />
at Helen's"mum's" house.</td></tr>
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Helen's mom lives at the end of a country road in Minchinhampton. The "cottage" sits on a little "rise" among the beautiful rolling hills of the English countryside. There are 5 or 6 other cottages nearby, but there is a sense of open space and quiet. Because the cottage is at the end of the road, there is little traffic, and while we were there for an hour or so, no other vehicles passed. Helen's mom, Sheila and her step-dad Gerry, are delightful people living in this most of tranquil of spaces. While there, we enjoyed a taste of "proper English tee, coffee and biscuits".<br />
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The evening ended with a wonderful dinner prepared by Helen. Since Roger was a career naval officer, and was in the service during final years of the "British Empire", we talked about his many travel experiences and the gradual withdrawal of Britain from many of its "colonies". Helen, an ex-British navy lieutenant herself, had had training in celestial navigation. We talk about the sky and observing the stars. Finally at 1 a.m., or so, we called it "a day". I can't imagine having a more delightful day in and around the countryside of this beautiful country.<br />
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Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-91121271667938165672014-08-29T10:24:00.001-07:002014-10-19T19:06:11.971-07:00Goodbye to London . . .<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQkmv1O_DJl2bqg7T9VaB_ADv7ucY52l0HbDk78CoeP2rTGkNUp7Bm_1nehj_itSalrL-jAfeRgbthPoANdTd71DKz0FFHOCSKSofOZWdxOHpbIe-gz9vYaXamoa781-mJfCk/s1600/tv+on+train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQkmv1O_DJl2bqg7T9VaB_ADv7ucY52l0HbDk78CoeP2rTGkNUp7Bm_1nehj_itSalrL-jAfeRgbthPoANdTd71DKz0FFHOCSKSofOZWdxOHpbIe-gz9vYaXamoa781-mJfCk/s1600/tv+on+train.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entertainment Center on the train.</td></tr>
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August 29, 2014 -- We checked out of our lodgings at about 8 a.m. and made our way to the <i>Paddington Station</i> in <i>Central London</i>. Today, we'll "hook up" with our friends Roger and Helen. They live outside of London and about 15 miles from Swindon U.K. We'll be spending the weekend with them before our transit to Edinburgh, Scotland on Monday.<br />
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Our train didn't depart until 10:30, so after buying our tickets, we enjoyed a cup of coffee at the Starbuck's in the station. The train ride to Swindon was just over an hour and was enjoyable. Even though there is no wifi on-board, a video screen offered a variety of entertainment options. It made the journey quick and pleasant.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aRlPnwHuva4/VAClOfnYiII/AAAAAAAAIN0/IPh8fKPuVFI/s1600/tea%2Bwith%2Bhelen%2Broger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aRlPnwHuva4/VAClOfnYiII/AAAAAAAAIN0/IPh8fKPuVFI/s1600/tea%2Bwith%2Bhelen%2Broger.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Helen, Roger and Linda enjoy a<br />
cuppa of "Proper English Tea".</td></tr>
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Roger picked us up at at the Swindon Station around noon and we made our way to his home. Along the way, we stopped a local "pub" for lunch and a drink -- and a good amount of good laughter and conversation! The food in these little "out of the way" pubs is always enjoyable -- and ample. We arrived at Roger and Helen's home at around 3:30 and "got re-acquainted" with Helen. It had been almost two years ago since we hosted Roger and Helen at my house in Palm Desert.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKU5ezvGtp2OnQi31N3Le0SsJHGkbJzSD8ZIH4zGRl95nDSugzakISI3xMzUzZFBj0eJTeOtxiJGJkRweIYNNEh8Aj6liPOevNuVDFs9OTue9Fe9iom1Zs11KOLF-J3-xGh-rr/s1600/dinnerwroger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKU5ezvGtp2OnQi31N3Le0SsJHGkbJzSD8ZIH4zGRl95nDSugzakISI3xMzUzZFBj0eJTeOtxiJGJkRweIYNNEh8Aj6liPOevNuVDFs9OTue9Fe9iom1Zs11KOLF-J3-xGh-rr/s1600/dinnerwroger.jpg" height="128" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From L to R: Self, Linda Robert and Rick.<br />
Sue, Helen and Roger at the Hunter's Hall Inn<br />
in King's Coate, U.K.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This evening, is an 8 p.m. dinner with Roger, Helen and some of their friends. Tomorrow?? Well, we'll see what the weekend will bring.<br />
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11:30 p.m. -- We ended the evening at a delightful dinner with Roger, his wife and son and friends. The food was very good, the company was even better. We met Rick and his Sue and enjoyed an evening of good fun and humorous discussions. These British "pubs" are wonderful places to join friends and family in food, drink and friendship. Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-33596504426226394332014-08-28T10:54:00.000-07:002014-08-28T10:54:21.356-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0Sq9Nt1vVy7IfIXWSM1yz8SSgpjMKe-vxdEVCyV1-che3KVwPTtKCO66MSXMY6mhovf39EXNHRrbsGyh1JpIgGf1l2Ss7SeZw_AM5HewnkC7cL0rmrVXTbBTxqIKAq-ZWT_W/s1600/linda+and+tower+of+london.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0Sq9Nt1vVy7IfIXWSM1yz8SSgpjMKe-vxdEVCyV1-che3KVwPTtKCO66MSXMY6mhovf39EXNHRrbsGyh1JpIgGf1l2Ss7SeZw_AM5HewnkC7cL0rmrVXTbBTxqIKAq-ZWT_W/s1600/linda+and+tower+of+london.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda and the Tower of London<br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(taken on the Tower Bridge)</span></td></tr>
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August 28, 2014 -- Today is our last day in London so we decided to take care of some housekeeping chores. We located a "wash and fold" laundry a couple of stops away on the DLR (Dockside Light Rail) and dropped our laundry off for a 5 p.m. pickup. We ventured across the street for breakfast and walked back to the DLR station. We weren't really sure what we were going to do for the day, but along the way we found a very neat little coffee joint called "Husk -- Coffee and Creative Space". We stopped in to have our morning coffee and enjoy a bit of "on-line" time.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l9hNPPLZy0U/U_9nOZj2DEI/AAAAAAAAINM/Kw5_5Iuk53o/s1600/twr%2Bof%2Blondon%2Bbridge%2Bopen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l9hNPPLZy0U/U_9nOZj2DEI/AAAAAAAAINM/Kw5_5Iuk53o/s1600/twr%2Bof%2Blondon%2Bbridge%2Bopen.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tower Bridge with the<br />draw bridge in use.</td></tr>
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As it happens, and we found ourselves in these spontaneous moments from time to time, Husk is more than just a coffee bar. It's an "artist led" gallery space hosted within Husk Coffee in Limehouse London. In a partnership with "Morphe Arts" it is is a network of artists, writers, designers and performers who offer free mentoring to "students of the arts" as well as hosting monthly events. While there, one of the hosts, an ex-pat from Kentucky now living in London for 3 years, suggested we try the "Tower of London" and the "Borough Market". We found that both would be easy to reach by train, so after our coffee we took off for the Tower of London.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CcN3CFj1NPc/U_9nNa3V1FI/AAAAAAAAIM8/1wopbV2bYdc/s1600/borough%2Bmkt%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CcN3CFj1NPc/U_9nNa3V1FI/AAAAAAAAIM8/1wopbV2bYdc/s1600/borough%2Bmkt%2B2.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Borough Market, London.</td></tr>
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The Tower of London is an historic castle on the north bank of the Thames. The current "tower" was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 and durings its history, it has been a residence, a prison, a place of execution, an armory and a treasury. As we walked around the walls, we found loads of activities to entertain us. The "Tower Bridge" was in front of us. Its beautiful architecture of blue and white painted steel and grey stone date back to 1886. While we were taking some photos, the bridge opened to allow the a ship to sail up the Thames. Of course, we stopped at a Starbuck's to enjoy a coffee and sit by the river, enjoying the warm sun and people watching for 30 minutes or so. It was another most enjoyable part of the afternoon. We decided, however, to forego the 22-pound fee each to enter the Tower!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jA6Lhz2PDsk/U_9nNWeGnjI/AAAAAAAAINE/Z2gKDcYY63k/s1600/borough%2Bmkt%2Blondon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jA6Lhz2PDsk/U_9nNWeGnjI/AAAAAAAAINE/Z2gKDcYY63k/s1600/borough%2Bmkt%2Blondon.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Borough Market, Foods Everywhere!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We made our way back to the DLR and found the Borough Market a couple of stops away. As we left the "London Bridge" Underground station and were greeted by the Borough Market across the street. It simply looked like two buildings -- one obviously old and one made primarily of glass. We were pleasantly surprised as we entereed the "Market". It was packed with hundreds of vendors selling foods of all kinds. The aisles were packed with shoppers from all over Europe (in evidence by the many languages were heard). The Borough Market is one of the oldest in Europe -- and indeed is the largest and<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-FRWMdYgaCciuEqcz4f6K0xUn5z2HEyIKLLj6mbWUP6d0S7eChYDTFAnQCLs2fDM3rtVFCBUcc6-Lm4bAQgVo4hExXR5lwOsyd6qfLy_cmFD4Be_z7ots-3S2aNevbXBmotXm/s1600/cash+mach+borough+mkt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-FRWMdYgaCciuEqcz4f6K0xUn5z2HEyIKLLj6mbWUP6d0S7eChYDTFAnQCLs2fDM3rtVFCBUcc6-Lm4bAQgVo4hExXR5lwOsyd6qfLy_cmFD4Be_z7ots-3S2aNevbXBmotXm/s1600/cash+mach+borough+mkt.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cash from a Phone Booth. Neat!</td></tr>
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oldest in London. There is some confusion about the founding date of the Market. Some say 1014 while others say 1246 -- but in any case, it's been there for a while. We explored the market and tasted many of the "samples" made available by the vendors. I bought some peaches and a "shrimp cocktail". I can't exaggerate how plentiful and exotic the variety of foods were available. It was quite an experience. Before leaving, we enjoyed a Guinness at a "Market Pub" just across a narrow street.<br />
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So, tomorrow we're off to Swindon for a visit with our friends Roger and Helen -- so be sure to check back!!Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-47402038288831585402014-08-27T13:54:00.001-07:002014-08-28T02:38:10.651-07:00Bath, U.K. Telescopes, Work and "Other Stuff"...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AR6TZpFWjwc/U_5BhpipyKI/AAAAAAAAIME/YoPMbBTjttM/s1600/paddington%2Bstn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AR6TZpFWjwc/U_5BhpipyKI/AAAAAAAAIME/YoPMbBTjttM/s1600/paddington%2Bstn.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Paddington Station, London.</td></tr>
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August 27, 2014 -- Today we were off to <i>Bath</i>, about 115 miles west of London. We took the Underground the <i>Paddington Railway Station </i>and boarded the train for Bath at 10:30. The journey took 1 1/2-hours and we arrived at noon right on schedule. As a note -- trains in the U.K are fast and modern -- and electric. But, so far as we've seen, they have no wifi!! It's an interesting contrast to our experience in Ireland where all of the inter-city busses and trains had high-speed wifi for its passengers! Go figure..<br />
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As has been the case with 99% of the cities we've visited on this trip, <i>Bath</i> is a beautiful. All of the buildings are the same color and it turns out that, in this part of the country, buildings (stores, homes, government buildings -- everything) are built with "local stone" only. It's a neat architectural style and is quite beautiful. Bath is an ancient city, having become a <i>Roman Spa </i>in 60 C.E. The city became a " <i>U.N. World Heritage Site</i>" in 1987 and has all the modern amenities, including a McDonald's and several Starbuck's, so it's certainly joined the 21st Century.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u8gaVBqAU6w/U_5BgLWujbI/AAAAAAAAIL0/1fN6pBOL9Sc/s1600/jazz%2Bcafe%2Bbath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u8gaVBqAU6w/U_5BgLWujbI/AAAAAAAAIL0/1fN6pBOL9Sc/s1600/jazz%2Bcafe%2Bbath.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many cute cafe's in Bath.</td></tr>
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The main reason we went to Bath is because it is the home of <i>William Herschel,</i> an amateur astronomer and telescope maker. Earlier in life, Herschel was a musician and initially moved to Bath because of that city's influence in the medium. His "music" led him to an interest in the stars and optics. At first his observations were with a small "refracting" telescope. He soon became disenchanted with the quality and abilities of the telescope and went about building his own Newtonian reflector. His first telescope was a 6.2" he fashioned in his own shops. Finally, his largest endeavor was a 49 1/2" 40-foot long telescope constructed between 1785-89. THAT is a big telescope!! As mentioned in a previous post, and among his many observations, was credited with the discovery of the planet Uranus in March of 1781.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S8uSx-Wvmno/U_5BfF9tMtI/AAAAAAAAILk/hsDL3yl8B7Q/s1600/dennis%2Band%2Bherschel%2Bscope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S8uSx-Wvmno/U_5BfF9tMtI/AAAAAAAAILk/hsDL3yl8B7Q/s1600/dennis%2Band%2Bherschel%2Bscope.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Replica of Herschel's<br />
6.2" Reflector</td></tr>
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<br />
We enjoyed a wonderful visit at the Herschel home and museum highlighted by meeting Patrick and Debbie, the museum curator. We toured the shops, the residence, the rear yard and watched a short film about his life and efforts. It was a most enjoyable visit -- and I have to thank Linda for putting up with my obsession with astronomy and telescopes. She's a good sport!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fbmj01TFx1A/U_5BfD97JOI/AAAAAAAAILs/ltpmgOni0jg/s1600/denis%2Band%2Bsun%2Bdial%2Bbath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fbmj01TFx1A/U_5BfD97JOI/AAAAAAAAILs/ltpmgOni0jg/s1600/denis%2Band%2Bsun%2Bdial%2Bbath.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun-Dial in Herschel's backyard.</td></tr>
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We said our goodbye's to our hosts and made our way to the "<i>Museum of Bath at Work</i>". The museum was opened in 1978 and covers the subject of "<i>Work in Bath</i>" for the last 2000 years! Its 3 floors are jammed with interesting and instructional exhibits about the "common man" and his labors. We enjoyed a "cuppa" on the 3rd floor of the museum at their "<i>honor system" cafe</i>! Most interesting is that, when we entered the museum and paid our modest 4-pound fee to enter, the volunteer's name was "<i>Margaret Thatcher</i>"!<br />
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We continued on our way and explored much of the city center. During a delightful lunch break we met "Josh and Freddie" who were life-long residents of the city. We talked about the city, travel and living in the U.K. Another great day in London, its environs and the U.K.Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-69618768434238174352014-08-26T07:57:00.000-07:002014-08-26T07:57:10.160-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SIkALDI5LOk/U_yeb_yfwOI/AAAAAAAAILA/H1kk2lNeZmg/s1600/fdr%2Band%2Bchurchill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SIkALDI5LOk/U_yeb_yfwOI/AAAAAAAAILA/H1kk2lNeZmg/s1600/fdr%2Band%2Bchurchill.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FDR, Churchill and yours truly!</td></tr>
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August 26, 2014 -- We decided to take another "day in the city". It continued to rain, so we thought staying close to "home" was a good idea. Tomorrow, rain or shine, we've decided to go to Bath. But today, we boarded the Underground and made our way to the City Center again, this time looking for London't "Swiss Army mega-store. It took awhile, but we found it and accomplished our goal. We then continued to explore the city nearby.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTjSIq91csg/U_yeaVGQAlI/AAAAAAAAIKo/kOaSVAIaqSg/s1600/carnaby%2Bstreet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTjSIq91csg/U_yeaVGQAlI/AAAAAAAAIKo/kOaSVAIaqSg/s1600/carnaby%2Bstreet.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carnaby Street, SOHO, London.</td></tr>
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To our surprise, we were adjacent to the SOHO district again -- this time we found <i>Carnaby Street</i>. It turns out that Carnaby Street is a "pedestrian only" shopping district inside SOHO. Here the streets are truly narrow and it's fun wandering up and down looking at the shops and shoppers. At one point we stopped for coffee and a chance to "log on"! We like to check into the Internet from time to time. It not only keeps us in-touch with friends and family -- but it gives us a bit of a rest. We enjoyed a cup of coffee in one of the cute little shops nearby.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-42PGHKkY_Oc/U_yeYwz8-RI/AAAAAAAAIKg/VbFEtw4-V3g/s1600/british%2Bmuseum%2Band%2Bdennis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-42PGHKkY_Oc/U_yeYwz8-RI/AAAAAAAAIKg/VbFEtw4-V3g/s1600/british%2Bmuseum%2Band%2Bdennis.jpg" height="178" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the British Museum.</td></tr>
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We decided to return to our lodgings earlier than usual and saw a sign pointing to the "British Museum". Just a few blocks away, this majestic building presented itself. The museum is dedicated to "Human History and Culture". It was established in 1753 and first opened its doors to the public in 1759. As we entered the museum, the visitor is greet with the "Reading Room", a magnificent round structure "inside" the atrium and beautifully appointed. Around the perimeter of the atrium are rooms with exhibits that change from time to time. We spent an hour or so there -- certainly not enough time to do the museum, and its contents, justice.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pGiOJrBkhdI/U_yebHajeBI/AAAAAAAAIK4/7zXsX8SMSuE/s1600/linda%2Band%2Bhaircut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pGiOJrBkhdI/U_yebHajeBI/AAAAAAAAIK4/7zXsX8SMSuE/s1600/linda%2Band%2Bhaircut.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let the Cutting Begin!!</td></tr>
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Walking back to the Underground, Linda spotted a "hair cutter" and chose to stop inside. Before we both new it, she was in the chair and getting "her ears lowered" in a neat "new do"! We made it back to to our lodgings by about 4 p.m. and decided to look around the local environment for awhile -- but not after a "bit of a break", and maybe a short nap. It's been a long LONG couple of days.<br />
<br />Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-37636003246404612872014-08-25T07:35:00.001-07:002014-08-26T00:46:41.846-07:00Rain and London in August . . .August 25, 2014 -- We awoke to a rainy day on Canary Wharf. As we made out way into the city, it became apparent that the rain covered all of London. It is wet, but not cold -- so we donned our rain gear and opened our umbrellas. Our goal today is to explore more of London.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirjzF64OENU6iCFjh45jvmvgrhZxeXD4p0Y9KjRxnPsrAEEabVFmi_ieEf0XKmPH13ZwX7RmCrjIfM3WdxE6yqKMxFhR5q757XiZCol6nW4M5hEViT_1xx-oyBOJQqnjQno-jP/s1600/dennis+rain+chinatown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirjzF64OENU6iCFjh45jvmvgrhZxeXD4p0Y9KjRxnPsrAEEabVFmi_ieEf0XKmPH13ZwX7RmCrjIfM3WdxE6yqKMxFhR5q757XiZCol6nW4M5hEViT_1xx-oyBOJQqnjQno-jP/s1600/dennis+rain+chinatown.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chinatown near SOHO, London.</td></tr>
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We walked over to the Underground and took the train to the SOHO section. It took about 20 minutes with a train change at "Waterloo". As stated yesterday, the Underground is easy to use and get around. When one changes from one train line to another, the signage is everywhere and its easy to find where you're going. We started on the "<i>Jubilee Line</i>" and transferred to the "<i>Northern Line</i>" for Tottingham Court". Sounds all very british, doesn't it?? <lol>.</lol><br />
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Once at the Tottingham Station, we rode the escalator up and onto the streets. It's Monday and the streets are full of people shopping or going to work. One can tell the tourists by the cameras around their necks or backpacks on their shoulders. SOHO is a fairly large area of the Westminster section of London. It is known as the "entertainment" district. There are a good number of theaters and cinema houses everywhere. In addition, there are "jazz" and music clubs here and there. The entertainment available to the customer seems endless.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g2Ssp3Y4e14/U_tGheitSWI/AAAAAAAAIH4/t1VwKOVYdoQ/s1600/linda%2Bat%2Bsoho%2Bcorner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g2Ssp3Y4e14/U_tGheitSWI/AAAAAAAAIH4/t1VwKOVYdoQ/s1600/linda%2Bat%2Bsoho%2Bcorner.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda, SOHO and Umbrellas.</td></tr>
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We explored much of SOHO and found our way into Piccadilly Circus. More theaters and cinemas are here too. Even more pubs and cute little coffee houses and restaurants -- large and small -- are all around. It's as delightful an environment as we've seen anywhere. Two Underground stations serve the area -- Tottingham Court and Liecester Square, so it's very easy to get from place to place.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w0I5Fsk4tO0/U_tGhbyj1MI/AAAAAAAAIIA/5L8hv_5FhbM/s1600/linda%2Brain%2Bumbrellas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w0I5Fsk4tO0/U_tGhbyj1MI/AAAAAAAAIIA/5L8hv_5FhbM/s1600/linda%2Brain%2Bumbrellas.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Umbrellas Everywhere!</td></tr>
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As we ventured into Liecester Square, there were 4 cinemas on each side. One of the two <i>Odeon Cinemas</i> was showing "<i>Sin City"</i>, so we decided to get out of the rain and "went to the movies"! Earlier, during our explorations, we spotted a vegetarian restaurant called<i> Govindas</i> near the Tottingham Court Underground Station. We've decided to have lunch/dinner there before heading back to our lodgings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L0hMXa8aL0c/U_tGjPP9UCI/AAAAAAAAIIM/ni5OS6aATOE/s1600/palace%2Btheater%2Bsoho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L0hMXa8aL0c/U_tGjPP9UCI/AAAAAAAAIIM/ni5OS6aATOE/s1600/palace%2Btheater%2Bsoho.jpg" height="200" width="163" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Palace Theater,<br />
The Royal English Opera House.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Exploring London, even on a rainy day, is an enjoyable and exciting adventure. There are so many delightful districts to the city -- South Kensington, Greenwich, SOHO, Trafalgar Square -- that always finds something interesting to do. Each district seems to have a personality of its own.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrtJblT_bdIF0w7PYyIt7Jfbw6NWchGSf7ZtuoO8I1At-H71ONAWDmKXLtZBA3x9HqZCgTvnqvU4eZeLJM0F-NomY4rQGqs1t03iIOti5x1riVkn1mcqJ9wQ0oQ4xKCMwb9xIf/s1600/jim+front+linda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrtJblT_bdIF0w7PYyIt7Jfbw6NWchGSf7ZtuoO8I1At-H71ONAWDmKXLtZBA3x9HqZCgTvnqvU4eZeLJM0F-NomY4rQGqs1t03iIOti5x1riVkn1mcqJ9wQ0oQ4xKCMwb9xIf/s1600/jim+front+linda.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jim, as seen on my iPhone!!</td></tr>
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Shortly after 6 p.m. in London, around 10 a.m. in Palm Desert, I gave my good friend Jim a call on Facetime. iPhone's have this neat app that allows the caller to use wifi to contact a telephone number with voice and picture. We had a fun visit for about 10 minutes. Linda joined in the fun. At the time, we were sitting in Costa Coffee in SOHO!! Very cool, I would say.....Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-21213357195678596542014-08-24T15:32:00.006-07:002014-08-24T15:50:58.781-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJaY7KAEfDi_aaHz1IJAkmMoux6N_i4GOgh7ad_yLQ5KoKGo0EAxDxKLahryZ8YzlbRra6sd6tpy6DcT58KTbGSdnmYvDNPljtLLXwlXEL93iMcOov-6KaCCEveIzNgcGEI_b9/s1600/train+to+bletchley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJaY7KAEfDi_aaHz1IJAkmMoux6N_i4GOgh7ad_yLQ5KoKGo0EAxDxKLahryZ8YzlbRra6sd6tpy6DcT58KTbGSdnmYvDNPljtLLXwlXEL93iMcOov-6KaCCEveIzNgcGEI_b9/s1600/train+to+bletchley.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Train to Bletchley.</td></tr>
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August 24, 2014 -- Today we decided to "get outa town". After a quick breakfast and a cupa coffee, we headed off in the direction of the Euston Railway Station in Central London. We used the underground and were in the station in about 15 minutes. I must say, the London underground (its subway) is one of the best. The trains are modern, comfortable, affordable, fast and keep to the schedule. The London Underground has 270 stations with 250 miles of track. Add to that the DLR (their light rail) system, and it's an amazing transportation system.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EvbUJCSgb3A/U_pi5XC77zI/AAAAAAAAIG8/UPwh0CvrRME/s1600/d%2Bl%2Bmansion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EvbUJCSgb3A/U_pi5XC77zI/AAAAAAAAIG8/UPwh0CvrRME/s1600/d%2Bl%2Bmansion.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda and Yours Truly at the "Mansion".</td></tr>
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We had decided to venture to "<i>Bletchley Par</i>k" in Bletchley U.K. Normally it's 1 1/2-hours by train from Central London. Today, however, the rail system decided it would maintain the tracks, so we could only get as far as Watford -- about 1/2 way. From there we boarded a bus for the rest of the journey. So, instead of a 1 1/2-hour journey, it was a 3-hour journey! The bus was a "local" that stopped at EVERY little town along the way. Even though we left our lodgings at 8:30 this morning, we didn't arrive in Bletchley until 1:15 p.m.! It was a LONG ride.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w6V1QHmwqTk/U_pi5bDJIZI/AAAAAAAAIGc/aunLRUOSBOc/s1600/linda%2Bwith%2Bphone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w6V1QHmwqTk/U_pi5bDJIZI/AAAAAAAAIGc/aunLRUOSBOc/s1600/linda%2Bwith%2Bphone.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda is "Breaking the Code".</td></tr>
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Undaunted, we left the station and walked to <i>Bletchley Park</i>, about 10 minutes away. <i>Bletchley Park</i> was the central site of the U.K.'s "<i>Code and Cypher</i>" school during the Second World War. Even though the British Government had been active in "deciphering" activities for a number of years, it was in 1939 that it became active listening in on Germany. After England's entry in the war, its goal was to break the "<i>Enigma</i>" code. Even though it shouldn't have been possible -- the British were able to "break the code" and, through its efforts, affected the final outcome of the war.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhU7u8NLEUEO1kUu1sQn1bwjOpABsSyoDyQBMUAgOFcOln4kDKTDkfHRS1q0daHYP0oMoWfnsrd5J3KYyykvIkAhyUwIpQXn9l_HP1gkQ4smoPiImwcDtc4cBjWDnYFbKxkaA/s1600/gb3rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhU7u8NLEUEO1kUu1sQn1bwjOpABsSyoDyQBMUAgOFcOln4kDKTDkfHRS1q0daHYP0oMoWfnsrd5J3KYyykvIkAhyUwIpQXn9l_HP1gkQ4smoPiImwcDtc4cBjWDnYFbKxkaA/s1600/gb3rs.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Anthony at the Ham Radio Station.</td></tr>
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During our visit we toured a number of the "huts" used in the cypher effort and were helped by a "free audio guide" loaned to us by the Park. A dominant building is the "Mansion" which was the command center of the effort. All of the buildings, including the Mansion, are very well preserved. During our exploration of the Mansion and "the huts" we saw much of the original furniture and equipment used by the nearly 12,000 people employed during the effort. Old typewriters, teletype machines, radio receivers and other equipment were in evidence throughout the "museum".<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBynf8c2CPk/U_pi6VDFgzI/AAAAAAAAIGw/KkAcy6ojRio/s1600/national%2Bradio%2Bsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBynf8c2CPk/U_pi6VDFgzI/AAAAAAAAIGw/KkAcy6ojRio/s1600/national%2Bradio%2Bsign.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>I also noticed a "ham radio antenna" on the roof of one of the buildings. We found it was a "working ham radio station" licensed as <i>GB3RS</i>. We met "Anthony" who was using the ham radio station and acting as a docent for the many visitors who passed through. It was fun to talk with Anthony, send some morse code and talk about ham radio -- past and present. It is interesting to note that much of the decoding efforts were through the use of Morse Code. Thousands of professional and volunteer radio operators copied code on German frequencies and passed them on to Bletchley Park for deciphering.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-13AKGOCfO-k/U_plcjHJQbI/AAAAAAAAIHI/QhOlpXFEKbo/s1600/enigma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-13AKGOCfO-k/U_plcjHJQbI/AAAAAAAAIHI/QhOlpXFEKbo/s1600/enigma.jpg" height="200" width="194" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enigma!!</td></tr>
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<br />
We spent about 3 hours exploring Bletchley Park and decided to walk into town. It turns out that, because it was Sunday, just about every shop and pub were closed. The City, Bletchley, seems to be more of a "bedroom community" with a very limited city center. We did find an open "pub" and enjoyed a Guinness before leaving town. We met some local "folks" who were enjoying a social afternoon and had a chance to spend a few minutes talking about England and the U.S.<br />
<br />
Our trip back into Central London took just as long as our trip out to Bletchley. We arrived back in town tired and hungry. A late "bite" and a chance to sit down and answer some emails was a welcome respite to a busy day. As always we enjoyed ourselves immensely!Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-19674539593470560182014-08-23T11:00:00.001-07:002014-08-23T11:07:35.701-07:00Adventures, Exploration and Science . . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B-HP5tmbpxs/U_jIKZGZ07I/AAAAAAAAIEk/SDbPMsQ9T_A/s1600/train%2Bto%2Bgreenwich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B-HP5tmbpxs/U_jIKZGZ07I/AAAAAAAAIEk/SDbPMsQ9T_A/s1600/train%2Bto%2Bgreenwich.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The DLR train arrives<br />
for Greenwich.</td></tr>
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August 23, 2014 -- We were up again early and out for a day of exploration. After breakfast we headed out, by train, to Greenwich and the Royal Observatory. In was a 15 minute "free" ride on an elevated tram just outside and down the road from our lodgings. The "DLR" (Docklands Light Railway) opened in 1987 to serve the "docklands" around the Thames. We're staying in an area called "Canary Wharf" which has evolved into the financial center of the city. As an "elevated" system, it occurs to me that it was considerably less costly and easier to build. I read that, in 2013, more than 101-million passengers took the train along its route. By any measure, it's a great transportation system.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nPfghDkfUYY/U_jMdatMllI/AAAAAAAAIFQ/RiK8VjW3wvM/s1600/linda%2Beyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nPfghDkfUYY/U_jMdatMllI/AAAAAAAAIFQ/RiK8VjW3wvM/s1600/linda%2Beyes.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda "eyeballs" a neat find<br />
at the Greenwich Flea Market.</td></tr>
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We boarded at Canary Wharf and watched out the Greenwich station. It was just a few stops down the line. We came out of the station greeted by a beautiful suburb. Greenwich is in "southeast London" and is called a "Royal borough". Greenwich is also a "U.N. World Heritage Site" and is home to the "zero meridian". The population is about 255,000 residents. As we've seen all over Ireland and London, so far, the streets are full of pleasant shops and eateries. We stopped along the way at a delightful "flea market" where the local residents were selling some of their "treasures". Farther down the same road was an "open market" -- much like St. George's Market in Belfast. We decided to stop back for a snack after our visit to the observatory.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbiIj4hAGQKmQ6A544FpsfIxoMXjYR-IRB3fTr5cinUIy4qYjYeSCGAkslAOHvViTqk8YY4q9SDSet8FqV45Eskqlo9BvptnUN4ypMdCuoPV2IkYk2VFiYe0QKb_kVnSxCzUFu/s1600/d+l+east+meets+west.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbiIj4hAGQKmQ6A544FpsfIxoMXjYR-IRB3fTr5cinUIy4qYjYeSCGAkslAOHvViTqk8YY4q9SDSet8FqV45Eskqlo9BvptnUN4ypMdCuoPV2IkYk2VFiYe0QKb_kVnSxCzUFu/s1600/d+l+east+meets+west.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm on the West, Linda on the East<br />
Hemisphere's of planet Earth.</td></tr>
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We made our way along a long winding path through a beautiful park and up the hill to the Royal Observatory. The observatory sits on a hill overlooking Greenwich with a wider view of London in the distance. Our goal was to tour the observatory, see the telescopes and stand on the zero-meridian of the "planet Earth"! We managed to accomplish all three. It was fun joining hands across the "western and eastern" hemispheres of the world, bring them together in a gesture of "friendship". It'd be nice if the nations of the world would follow suit!!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXE6xq-FFR9jKT95q-pYFwR77CeGutPQH7FDdJdIvC7-ER2tiOmI1eegYaiW8omtRsl0k5xnvMhIlfz_XkpayX8HSgfnik99setJhVeRgCorzrA4lgWpdHZn7NnrPWrF6h15UX/s1600/28+inch+royal+obs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXE6xq-FFR9jKT95q-pYFwR77CeGutPQH7FDdJdIvC7-ER2tiOmI1eegYaiW8omtRsl0k5xnvMhIlfz_XkpayX8HSgfnik99setJhVeRgCorzrA4lgWpdHZn7NnrPWrF6h15UX/s1600/28+inch+royal+obs.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">28" refractor at the Greenwich<br />
Royal Observatory.</td></tr>
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We visited the big 28" refracting telescope on the roof of the building. The telescope was completed in 1893 and "rededicated" in 1973 by the Queen. The 28" telescope is the 7th largest telescope (refractor) in the world. Interestingly, the United States has two of the largest refracting telescopes in the world -- with the 40" at Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin and the 36" at the Lick Observatory in San Jose, California. These are all interesting and beautiful instruments.<br />
<br />
We finished our visit by seeing the "meridian telescope" used to "define" the prime meridian of the world. The meridian was defined in 1851 and adopted by "international conference" in 1884. We continued to explore the grounds of the observatory for another hour or so and made our way down the hill. Our goal was to take a boat along the Thames.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JnqPOjyMgSw/U_jTK74olLI/AAAAAAAAIF8/d2_Ss9dh_9A/s1600/72%2Binch%2Bfrom%2Bbirr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JnqPOjyMgSw/U_jTK74olLI/AAAAAAAAIF8/d2_Ss9dh_9A/s1600/72%2Binch%2Bfrom%2Bbirr.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">72" Speculum mirror from the<br />
Birr Castle Telescope</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
By chance, we decided to take a break in the National Maritime Museum not far from the observatory. As luck would have it, there was a conference underway called the "<i>International Slavery Remembrance Day</i>". We arrived in time to attend a lecture by "<i>Onyeka: African's in Tudor England</i>" for about an hour. There was an enthusiastic Queston and Answer period afterwards. Onyeka Nubia is a British writer, law lecturer and historian who has studied slavery in England for a number of years. He's the author of several books on this and other subjects.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_ae6zSKdX8XPdV9KfDuUTJDe6F3QYk8_4c_tk6bpiFOm4tau0ZTWnbX8hhHzgyFGROwz06mdAXyV-snnBS_xLljig-Fqam5gvW8Y-fWX7Sgumj_I7XTfIFioxer3emCpo_kB/s1600/greenwich+and+london.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_ae6zSKdX8XPdV9KfDuUTJDe6F3QYk8_4c_tk6bpiFOm4tau0ZTWnbX8hhHzgyFGROwz06mdAXyV-snnBS_xLljig-Fqam5gvW8Y-fWX7Sgumj_I7XTfIFioxer3emCpo_kB/s1600/greenwich+and+london.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greenwich, and London as seen<br />
from the Royal Obervatory.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Ultimately, we made our way to the dock and boarded a boat for the trip "up the Thames" to Westminster. Once there, we found our way by underground to the National Science Museum in the South Kensington District of the city. The museum is HUGE. Our primary goal was to see the 72" mirror from the Birr Castle telescope at Birr Castle in Ireland. The mirror has been in residence since just before World War II for safekeeping. It is big and it is beautiful! As we explored the ground and first floors of the museum, it was apparent that we'd need a lot more time to do the collection justice. But, we did see a good number of the exhibits and plan -- if time permits -- to come back for more.<br />
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It's been a busy day, so far, and we plan to make our way to our lodgings for a well deserved rest and some "television". We don't know what tomorrow will bring, as yet, so stay tuned and discover what we'll do to continue our explorations . . .<br />
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Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-72812880547805753132014-08-22T07:08:00.000-07:002014-08-25T02:36:40.164-07:00Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and more . . .<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDD-xnv8_j00dZ0fV0mfiRLAPn0E4JK_3InpRZzEtyOqbFi5U2XG5mMUQy337vPhYiHs66as5hUEbciM52m6_IJ-1D45HQVbqww6uCsCMaFzzr1wRuM7Dlw9dzU_KcOuq9fh7T/s1600/Big_Ben_8583a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDD-xnv8_j00dZ0fV0mfiRLAPn0E4JK_3InpRZzEtyOqbFi5U2XG5mMUQy337vPhYiHs66as5hUEbciM52m6_IJ-1D45HQVbqww6uCsCMaFzzr1wRuM7Dlw9dzU_KcOuq9fh7T/s1600/Big_Ben_8583a.jpg" height="200" width="163" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parliament and Big Ben.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
August 22, 2014 -- Our first full day in London began at our lodgings with a delicious breakfast. As we left the front door, I noticed a cute little "falafel" joint across the street. We went to investigate and met Brian the owner. He promised us a delicious meal anytime we want!! We've decided to take him up on it later this week.<br />
<br />
Today we decided to take the "underground" to the center of London around the Parliament Building. As opposed to our long and arduous bus ride yesterday, the train took only a few minutes before we climbed the stairs and came into view of "Big Ben". The sun was shining, the sky was mostly clear with a touch of puffy clouds and it was beautiful. Even if you've seen it before, it's still a beautiful sight. We learned that, for a few pounds, we'd be able to tour the building. We've decided to do that later in the week to.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hD2oVQByLi4/U_dKBm2paPI/AAAAAAAAIDA/9xbZMnvhTWY/s1600/westminister%2Babbey%2Band%2Bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hD2oVQByLi4/U_dKBm2paPI/AAAAAAAAIDA/9xbZMnvhTWY/s1600/westminister%2Babbey%2Band%2Bd.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Westminster Abby.</td></tr>
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<br />
Next door is Westminster Abbey, the church that has catered to kings and queens and even Parliament itself. It has been on the same site, in one form or another, since 624 C.E. The current church was built in 1245 on orders from Henry III. The grounds and building are impressive. Because of the current state of affairs, there was a notable contingent of "security" in and around the site. Sight-seers were everywhere, walking the grounds and paying admission for entry into the building. We decided to forego going inside the Abby itself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5FTePAasMkbrxGPCdx8WOfVqHsjShLRYugJo4Nceo78_0zIglhe4tkNr8OyWjYEGE1ftlpdGyBvRqwTFQsYpIMBY2Z6_So-j7c-j9h9loUJwbxPWVOQoHeoT2vi0x13gGFIyA/s1600/grad+with+skip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5FTePAasMkbrxGPCdx8WOfVqHsjShLRYugJo4Nceo78_0zIglhe4tkNr8OyWjYEGE1ftlpdGyBvRqwTFQsYpIMBY2Z6_So-j7c-j9h9loUJwbxPWVOQoHeoT2vi0x13gGFIyA/s1600/grad+with+skip.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Self and 'Skip' Basiel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Next door are the buildings to the Choir School. We were granted entry to the courtyard, which itself seems removed from the busy city. As we walked along, we noticed an assembly of people. At first we thought it might be a choir practice -- but in fact was it was a graduation photo session for the Hult International Business School in London. Hult has campuses in eight sites throughout the world, including Boston, San Francisco and New York. The graduates we saw had just earned their MBA degree and were in great spirits. As the photo shoot ended, I noticed a couple of gentlemen sitting with the graduates in attractive "robes". I introduced myself and met Dr. Anthony 'Skip' Basiel. Skip, yours truly and one of his colleagues (himself an Oxford grad) enjoyed a few minutes talking about the "robes" and the graduation ceremony. Skip, as it turns out, is an American living in London. He had earned a degree from Hult some years ago and stayed on in a teaching position. He is now Associate Dean of the School.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2_KVin0vx9s/U_dKBgQ-Q4I/AAAAAAAAIDc/mSC-pB-5ksc/s1600/suspicous%2Bpackage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2_KVin0vx9s/U_dKBgQ-Q4I/AAAAAAAAIDc/mSC-pB-5ksc/s1600/suspicous%2Bpackage.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "suspicious" bag!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Our next stop was Buckingham Palace. More than impressive, it is an "imposing" sight. It, too, was under guard but the tourists paid no-mind! Hundreds of visitors lined themselves along the fence around the front of the Castle. We chatted with a few tourists and one of the "bobbies" standing guard. Within a few minutes, the entire crowd was asked to "STAND BACK PLEASE"! by one of the bobbies. It seems that a "suspicious bag" had been seen unattended on the drive to. Once safely removed from the scene, and after a few minutes, a bobbie simply walked up to the bag, walked around it one or twice and then leaned down and picked it up. He held it in the air, showing there was no threat, and we all applauded. It was both tense and fun at the same time!!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Obt6dB_h5Lg/U_eOVlks4YI/AAAAAAAAID0/ygnLnPLvS8g/s1600/big%2Bben%2Bevening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Obt6dB_h5Lg/U_eOVlks4YI/AAAAAAAAID0/ygnLnPLvS8g/s1600/big%2Bben%2Bevening.jpg" height="200" width="145" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parliament in the evening.</td></tr>
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Well, we've taken our "internet" break at a Starbuck's and we're ready to get underway again. So, to quote the "governator" I'll Be Back!!<br />
<br />
7 p.m. -- After Buckingham Palace, we found our way to a cute "neighborhood" for a bit of lunch and coffee. We continued exploring the area around the Palace and set out in the general direction of Westminster Abby. The goal was to investigate the large "ferris wheel" on the Thames. Crossing Westminster Bridge was a challenge in itself. The sidewalks were teaming with tourists. We stopped along the way to take a photo or two before finding "The Queens Walk" along the south bank of the river. It too was busy with tourists and shoppers.<br />
<br />
The Queens Walk is a promenade densely populated with shops and attractions of all kinds. Street performers are everywhere. The London Aquarium is along the way. As it continued to warm up, under the clear sunny sky, we stopped for a beer and chance to rest our feet! It was a delightful break and we enjoyed people-watching and talking about the events of the day. We continued our exploration of the area as far down as the Waterloo Bridge passing the huge ferris Wheel called the London-Eye on the way.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iAfWK2mK9gw/U_sDbuOC9FI/AAAAAAAAIHk/2bK-J0eFUQs/s1600/london%2Beye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iAfWK2mK9gw/U_sDbuOC9FI/AAAAAAAAIHk/2bK-J0eFUQs/s1600/london%2Beye.jpg" height="156" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The London-Eye from<br />Westminster Bridge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once we ventured to the other side of the river, we started our way back to the Westminster Underground Station. By now it was getting late and we were getting tired. We found, along a street called Victoria's Embankment, a series of beautiful flower parks and walkways. Entering the walkways, it felt as though we were "removed from the city" even though the busy traffic was just outside. There were a number of statues to explore and benches to sit on. The flowers and lily ponds were beautiful. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. I know I keep saying this -- but we won't soon forget our experiences of the day. Our first full day in London has been extraordinary. It is quite a city.<br />
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Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-84468177219931246572014-08-21T05:41:00.000-07:002014-08-21T13:22:09.961-07:00Bound for the U.K. and London . . .August 21, 2014 -- 7 a.m. -- Today is Linda's birthday, so I thought I'd take her to London. After-all, we're here!! Right??<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zR1VgC84Uy4/U_Xjj-O4oJI/AAAAAAAAICI/l9uzGsA7iy0/s1600/irish%2Bferry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zR1VgC84Uy4/U_Xjj-O4oJI/AAAAAAAAICI/l9uzGsA7iy0/s1600/irish%2Bferry.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Irish Ferry, Dublin to Wales.</td></tr>
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1 p.m. -- We arranged for a taxi at 7 a.m. to take us to the Irish Ferry for an 8:45 a.m. departure and voyage to Holyhead, Wales. It was a 2-hour journey. Once we were safely on-board, we enjoyed a cup of coffee and settled into comfortable spot near the window. We bid "farewell" to Ireland, having thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Exploring Ireland is one of the most enjoyable "getaways" we've experienced over the past few summers. We hope to come back. Who knows!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPhXm5uQapnRkWjj4t5OpsOL-uKtEpZ_BjOw3vO5ckjuI-nd0Z7l-kfAZIuvwXvh-RM1nXwwHrE4k4DvdK9IpEa4oFn1m4gOtV8_vnVwztdrFxxJ4phR6kVG6ZNKJASnmCZOG/s1600/virgin+train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPhXm5uQapnRkWjj4t5OpsOL-uKtEpZ_BjOw3vO5ckjuI-nd0Z7l-kfAZIuvwXvh-RM1nXwwHrE4k4DvdK9IpEa4oFn1m4gOtV8_vnVwztdrFxxJ4phR6kVG6ZNKJASnmCZOG/s1600/virgin+train.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Virgin Trains from Bangor, Wales to London.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We disembarked the ferry at 11 a.m. and made our way through the port. The rail station was just a few yards away. We found our train would arrive in about 10 minutes bound for Bangor, Wales. From there, we changed trains for the 3 1/2-hour trip to London. The train is beautifully appointed -- and for a few "pounds" we're able to log onto the internet. Thankfully, the "cafe car" is just behind us, so it was easy to get a snack and another cuppa!!<br />
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So, I'll post this "portion of the blog" and update back when I have something new to report . . .<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_ftD9cqVog/U_ZSixa66qI/AAAAAAAAICk/S0AD_92lLDM/s1600/Euston%2Bstation%2Blondon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_ftD9cqVog/U_ZSixa66qI/AAAAAAAAICk/S0AD_92lLDM/s1600/Euston%2Bstation%2Blondon.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
9 p.m. -- We arrived in the central London railway station, Euston, at about 5:30 and found we could get to our lodgings by bus. In London it's necessary to purchase an "Oyster" card and then load it with funds. Once on the bus or train the Oyster card is simply "tapped" on a sensor to pay the fare. It seemed to us that the bus would be easier to use, as opposed to the "underground" because of the apparent confusion of the maps. We were both right and wrong. As it happens, the train is faster than we thought, but at first the bus is easier. However, it takes the bus MUCH longer to get around London because of the traffic. After about 45 minutes we made it to Canary Wharf and our lodgings.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BlC6SB5dKRg/U_ZSi_gJlAI/AAAAAAAAICg/VjLYpuA5xfA/s1600/london%2Bbus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BlC6SB5dKRg/U_ZSi_gJlAI/AAAAAAAAICg/VjLYpuA5xfA/s1600/london%2Bbus.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a><br />
In honor of Linda's birthday, we found a nice Italian restaurant about 10 minutes from our lodgings and enjoyed an excellent meal together. The weather in London is similar to the weather in Dublin -- overcast or mostly cloudy, windy and cooler than we like. Yet, we know it'll be a pleasant week in this most "worldly" of cities. Tomorrow we're off to the center of London for some sight-seeing. We have a list of possible "day trips" and walking tours, so it should be an eventful 8 days of adventure and exploration.<br />
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Stay tuned -- as I like say . . .Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-40272835764001256112014-08-20T05:52:00.001-07:002014-08-20T09:43:03.683-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-719DgGDngws/U_SXeoWsxDI/AAAAAAAAIBk/-HKIch5VqrE/s1600/linda%2Bsilhouette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-719DgGDngws/U_SXeoWsxDI/AAAAAAAAIBk/-HKIch5VqrE/s1600/linda%2Bsilhouette.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda in the Trinity College<br />
Library.</td></tr>
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August 20, 2014 -- (the day before Linda's birthday!!). Again, we were late getting out of the guesthouse. It has been nice sleeping in a bit. But, by 9:30 we were having coffee at one of the little "coffee joints" that populate the streets of Dublin. The coffee, by the way, is usually made with an "espresso"-type of machine and is quite good. In the event you're a Starbuck's coffee fan, the Irish just don't have it figured out. I've tried Starbuck's coffee in 3 or 4 different places. It is TERRIBLE!! Can't figure why, it just is . . .<br />
<br />
After exchanging an email and sharing my blog entry with Joe McCauley (from Trinity College) yesterday, we decided to take his advice and re-visit the<i> Book of Kell</i> and the "<i>Long Room"</i> at the <i>Trinity College Library</i>. The library is the largest in Ireland with more than 6-million volumes throughout its several buildings. The "<i>Long Room</i>" is a 217-foot long room built between 1712 and 1732. On its own, it contains 200,000 volumes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sSd7FvBzcXk/U_SXejGm8tI/AAAAAAAAIBg/iJwRC4vTQBU/s1600/dennis%2Blong%2Broom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sSd7FvBzcXk/U_SXejGm8tI/AAAAAAAAIBg/iJwRC4vTQBU/s1600/dennis%2Blong%2Broom.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Long Room"<br />
Trinity College Library,<br />
Dublin, Ireland.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Before entering the <i>Long Room</i> upstairs, one can view the "<i>Book of Kells</i>". As reported yesterday, the <i>Book of Kells </i>is an illuminated hand-written (in Latin) Bible containing the first four gospels of the New Testament. Looking at the book ourselves, we were impressed -- not with the book per si', although it is beautiful -- but rather as a "labor of love" written in 800 C.E. by those devoted to Christianity. It is an impressive sight.<br />
<br />
Upon leaving Trinity College, we turned "left", away from the river. We found, and explored, a part of Dublin we haven't seen. This part of the city has a different "feel", with shops, restaurants and pubs lining the small and narrow streets. Many of the streets are closed to vehicles and are for pedestrians only. As we walked along, passing restaurants and pubs, the inviting aroma of the different foods greeted us. They were hard to resist!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wFa0P3fWX20/U_SXeHzBdAI/AAAAAAAAIBo/mbWVYMJpFIw/s1600/dennis%2Blephrecaun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wFa0P3fWX20/U_SXeHzBdAI/AAAAAAAAIBo/mbWVYMJpFIw/s1600/dennis%2Blephrecaun.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pot of Gold? What? Where?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We've thoroughly enjoyed Dublin. It's a beautiful and modern city -- on a par with any city anywhere As we explored the many sights and wandered the streets, we were reminded of New York, Florence or Rome. But, if anything makes Ireland special, it is the people. They are friendly and warm. If one asks a question or directions, the response is overwhelmingly positive. It's been a great experience and we've enjoyed every minute of it.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow, we're up early and will be making our way by ferry and then rail for Holyhead, England and London. The transit to London will be an adventure on its own. So, as always, I'll report on our adventure along the way.<br />
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<br />Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-81491799477627362522014-08-19T09:55:00.000-07:002014-08-19T10:04:17.851-07:00Trinity College . . .<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn4fnquQgh4/U_N5BMqzywI/AAAAAAAAIAg/Q6ve33D0zes/s1600/dl%2Bbreakfast%2Bdublin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn4fnquQgh4/U_N5BMqzywI/AAAAAAAAIAg/Q6ve33D0zes/s1600/dl%2Bbreakfast%2Bdublin.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast in Dublin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
August 19, 2014 -- We were up late this morning after the long day we spent yesterday in transit from Dublin to Birr and back. It was nice to sleep late, but it also meant that we'd spend the day in Dublin. There is a lot of the city we haven't seen, so we weren't too disappointed. We made our way out of the guesthouse and down to the local "wash and fold" laundry about 5 minutes down the road.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEI7FxKiJYH2R3Y2ppBaOwl5gV_wgxiJprNnaLLXrTcgez1X4eX1LCg-5tcmFvEggemmCZt9uYgSHuAAAw_Nj1bl9etskJ_sPYOZ2N72ayftcvgx2uTWA0j0lM1dDaAsV5OvNv/s1600/dublin+sci+center+linda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEI7FxKiJYH2R3Y2ppBaOwl5gV_wgxiJprNnaLLXrTcgez1X4eX1LCg-5tcmFvEggemmCZt9uYgSHuAAAw_Nj1bl9etskJ_sPYOZ2N72ayftcvgx2uTWA0j0lM1dDaAsV5OvNv/s1600/dublin+sci+center+linda.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Science Gallery, Dublin</td></tr>
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Soon, we were in our favorite joint for breakfast. I've had the "Irish Vegie Breakfast" for the last couple of days. It's delicious. After breakfast, our plan was to take a double-deck tour-bus for a look in and around Dublin. As we walked toward the bus a "tourist information booth" caught our eye -- so we stopped for some ideas about the day. As usual, I asked the question about "science centers, planetariums or observatories". As it happens, there was a Science Gallery just a short walk across the River Liffey. We set out enjoying the sun and relatively warm weather.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2HXePsoPt9Q/U_N5CejrHcI/AAAAAAAAIAw/vAnyrgvnmME/s1600/joe%2Bmccauley%2Btrinity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2HXePsoPt9Q/U_N5CejrHcI/AAAAAAAAIAw/vAnyrgvnmME/s1600/joe%2Bmccauley%2Btrinity.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joe McCauley Trinity College<br />
Dublin.</td></tr>
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I noticed, on the map, that the Science Gallery is on the property of Trinity College. Having heard of that institution more than once, I thought it'd be fun to walk the grounds of the College. We entered the Science Center and found that it is not only free, but the theme was an interesting "<i>weather, climate change and science and their effect on the economy." </i>One of the "docents" was a student in the Physics Department at Trinity College, so I asked him about telescopes. "Yes, Indeed" was his reply. "Just head over the Fitzgerald Building and ask around. There's one on the roof". After our visit to the Science Gallery, we took his advice.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1NL-MNZhoXU/U_N5A3BTo5I/AAAAAAAAIAY/l-Ko2ejcpb4/s1600/den%2B14%2Bin%2Bscope%2Btgrinity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1NL-MNZhoXU/U_N5A3BTo5I/AAAAAAAAIAY/l-Ko2ejcpb4/s1600/den%2B14%2Bin%2Bscope%2Btgrinity.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yours Truly and the 14" SCT<br />
at Trinity College, Dublin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Fitzgerald Building is just around the corner from the Science Gallery, so we found it in short order. As we entered the building it looked deserted, but poking around a bit we found <i>Ken Concannon</i> in his office. After an explanation of our goal to "see the telescope", we were taken to <i>Joe McCauley's </i>office and introduced. Joe is an "experimental officer" at the college and was more than willing to spend the necessary time taking us through the <i>William H.S. Monck Observatory</i>. The observatory consists of a Meade 14" SCT on a pier and housed in a 10-foot dome.<br />
<br />
Joe, Linda and I spent the better part of an hour discussing a variety of subjects related to the "present day" study of the universe. Coincidently, the College has an installation of radio telescopes on the grounds of Birr Castle. Since we had just been there the day before, it was interesting to hear about their work in the radio spectrum. We had a chance to tour a couple of the college's "labs" and learned about some of the scientific breakthroughs members of the faculty have made in years past.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hWqPDWkHWY/U_N5A5sVtVI/AAAAAAAAIAc/kWdltxQ07Q4/s1600/book%2Bof%2Bkells.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hWqPDWkHWY/U_N5A5sVtVI/AAAAAAAAIAc/kWdltxQ07Q4/s1600/book%2Bof%2Bkells.jpg" height="107" width="200" /></a></div>
Upon leaving, the Physics Department, Joe recommended we stop by the "<i>Book of Kells</i>" just across campus. The "book", created in about 800 C.E., is an illuminated manuscript in Latin containing the first 4 books of the <i>New Testament.</i> We arrived at the library to find a long LONG line of people waiting to see the book, so we decided to forego an actual look at the bible. After-all, we were "there" -- right?!!<br />
<br />
As we left the campus and walked back into the center of town, we felt privileged to have had such an enjoyable and interesting afternoon with Joe McCauley at Trinity College. Every now and then, the chain of events works out just perfectly.<br />
<br />
Today was one of those days!!<br />
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<br />Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-18187036399225905612014-08-18T15:20:00.000-07:002014-08-19T00:28:33.902-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpdB8ykSXSYOI8Z7g08j8E08kchsZzpiFfk_CWyiMikxWBlK0DAxHo4Hfvyl7PfdhycvAH9BFPsOo5eJaPXBL-2t7fBZo_Xpjrt2pLj-AWADg7os0OjL-bBtDWhyphenhyphenXLVwRzgzi/s1600/Birr_Castle,_Offaly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpdB8ykSXSYOI8Z7g08j8E08kchsZzpiFfk_CWyiMikxWBlK0DAxHo4Hfvyl7PfdhycvAH9BFPsOo5eJaPXBL-2t7fBZo_Xpjrt2pLj-AWADg7os0OjL-bBtDWhyphenhyphenXLVwRzgzi/s1600/Birr_Castle,_Offaly.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birr Caslte, Birr, Ireland.</td></tr>
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August 18, 2014-- We boarded the intercity bus at 10:30 a.m. for Birr and the Birr Castle. After trying a few times to get to Birr, we found we could simply take the bus from Dublin to Athlone and then on to Birr itself. Birr is a little town in the center of the country and west of Dublin by about 2 1/2 hours by bus. It's a small village of about 4,500 people, and the main attraction is Birr Castle itself. On the castle grounds, and the attraction for me, is the big 72" telescope built by the Third Lord Rosse in 1845.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9L7l7XfPxlw/U_J6cKWUxGI/AAAAAAAAH_o/DvfIw64mFP0/s1600/me%2Band%2Bscope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9L7l7XfPxlw/U_J6cKWUxGI/AAAAAAAAH_o/DvfIw64mFP0/s1600/me%2Band%2Bscope.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The great 72" reflector at Birr, Castle.</td></tr>
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The remains of the telescope are impressive to all of those who visit the telescope. It's 7-foot dimeter wood tube sites between two 50-foot high stone walls that were used to support the telescope. The telescope moves in altitude as well as a limited amount of azimuth. The poor weather in that part of the country is said to render the telescope of little use. Still, it was used by Rosse to make some important discoveries in the field of astronomy. The telescope was built is 1845, so our understanding of the universe was just unfolding. Interestingly, too, is the fact the 72" speculum (metal) mirror was then the largest telescope in the world and remained so until the 100" telescope was built on Mt. Wilson in 1917.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iKUXqWc9lZU/U_J6c-2AYjI/AAAAAAAAH_4/cmhQHmMKKgo/s1600/scope%2Bme%2Band%2Bep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iKUXqWc9lZU/U_J6c-2AYjI/AAAAAAAAH_4/cmhQHmMKKgo/s1600/scope%2Bme%2Band%2Bep.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Eyepiece.</td></tr>
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We explored the grounds of the castle for a couple of hours. The "castle" site has been in existence since 1170 and became the property of the Parson's family in 1620. Parson's, was also known as the Earl of Rosse. We noticed the castle said "private residents only". Upon asking, we found that, to this day, the Parson's family still inhabit the Castle and still own the grounds. The current Earl of Rosse isn't an astronomer or interested in telescopes, per se', but maintains the instrument because of its historic value.<br />
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The visitors' center has a nice "science center" with an astronomy theme. It tells the story of astronomy in Europe from the earliest days to the present. Additionally, there are artifacts of the old telescope itself -- including a 24" speculum mirror built by Rosse as an experiment.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmS4nyUwWwhc38IONYnqh5uVweiu5SZENObk4evWaeXV3SqM8gembzOHqXRoshpklmsyxOcVQFx4pixM4tTm69I3voNZoiRBJNN_1dsS_91wKmyE3Dmrrrq_agEzpDwjsEl2I/s1600/24+in+mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmS4nyUwWwhc38IONYnqh5uVweiu5SZENObk4evWaeXV3SqM8gembzOHqXRoshpklmsyxOcVQFx4pixM4tTm69I3voNZoiRBJNN_1dsS_91wKmyE3Dmrrrq_agEzpDwjsEl2I/s1600/24+in+mirror.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An earlier 24" speculum telescope mirror.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our return bus wasn't until 6:40 p.m., so once we left the castle we found a comfortable "pub" for a snack and "pint". It was delightful. I noticed that, in Ireland, the pub seems to be the meeting place for just about everyone. Families with children come for dinner and socializing. Friends and families populate the booths, tables and bar stools to enjoy the food, drink and conversation. The perfect "social experiment"!!<br />
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Our ride back to Dublin was easy. As it became darker, the driver dimmed the lights in the bus that made for an enjoyable ride and a chance to catch a nap. Tomorrow our plan is continue our exploration of Dublin and take a double-decker tour bus to see some of the city, We plan to leave by "sail/rail" for London on Thursday morning.<br />
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Stay tuned, as always!!<br />
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Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-3193425771879783912014-08-17T13:24:00.001-07:002014-08-18T03:27:27.895-07:00<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l4JQLbU1mhQ/U_B-oLRwjNI/AAAAAAAAH-Y/_9W4XfxjCCk/s1600/internet%2Bcafe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l4JQLbU1mhQ/U_B-oLRwjNI/AAAAAAAAH-Y/_9W4XfxjCCk/s1600/internet%2Bcafe.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>August 17, 2014 -- 9 a.m. --As always, we were out and about early this morning. We found a cute family-owned "joint" for an Irish breakfast and headed to the bus depot. An "Irish breakfast" consists of an egg, a square of hash brown's and a piece of toast. One can choose to have sausage if they wish. It's pretty good and can be found everywhere in the cities.<br />
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Our plan was to hang around Dublin or see if we could get to Kilkenny and back on a later bus. We found we could get a noon bus for the 1 hour trip to Kilkenny. We're told it's a beautiful city, so we're looking forward to the visit. Since we had a hour-and-a-half to kill, we walked a couple of blocks to an Internet cafe for an on-line "fix". Internet cafe's are plentiful in Dublin and one can enjoy the entertainment of the Internet for 1-Euro per hour.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGj8pFX8lJU/U_EMiZSxCBI/AAAAAAAAH_A/Wg-tXnVvm6k/s1600/kilkenny%2Bcastle%2Briver%2Bnore%2Blinda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGj8pFX8lJU/U_EMiZSxCBI/AAAAAAAAH_A/Wg-tXnVvm6k/s1600/kilkenny%2Bcastle%2Briver%2Bnore%2Blinda.jpg" height="187" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda, River Nore and Killkenny Castle.</td></tr>
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9:05 p.m. -- We've just returned from Kilkenny, a bit south of Dublin. The bus journey took us 2 hours (I originally thought it was one hour!), but as we walked into town, we were greeted by a most beautiful little city. The population of Kilkenny is 9,000 residents and is in the southeast part of Ireland.<br />
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A prominent landmark is the Kilkenny Castle. The castle, built in 1195, is a beautiful building on the River Nore. As is usually the case, the castle was originally built to guard the small city. The river was used for trade and was defended by the castle as well. In 1967, the Kilkenny Castle was transferred to the people of the city for £50 and has been used as a conference venue, awards and conferring ceremonies for the graduates of the "Kilkenny Campus" of National University. We enjoyed our visit there very much.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4s_n8CCEwk/U_ENY1z6jnI/AAAAAAAAH_I/w4TdKBGva50/s1600/kilkenny%2Bbeer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4s_n8CCEwk/U_ENY1z6jnI/AAAAAAAAH_I/w4TdKBGva50/s1600/kilkenny%2Bbeer.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kilkenny Beer Anyone!!</td></tr>
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We happened into town on the last day of an arts and cultural festival. It was fun seeing the artists showing their works along a long wall adjacent to the castle. As we explored the narrow streets along the river and into the city center, we happened onto a "sign" espousing the virtues of Kilkenny Beer. We took a break and enjoyed the brew. It was especially delicious. We were a bit disappointed to learn that Kilkenny no longer brews its own beer -- but the company is now owned by a larger "out-of-town" conglomerate!! Too bad, I thought.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yzDViGVRoBU/U_EMjeEUlEI/AAAAAAAAH-8/_6h0pUFMCPw/s1600/river%2Bnore%2Bkilkenny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yzDViGVRoBU/U_EMjeEUlEI/AAAAAAAAH-8/_6h0pUFMCPw/s1600/river%2Bnore%2Bkilkenny.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The River Nore.</td></tr>
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After spending another couple of hours of exploration and made our way back to the bus depot for a 6:30 p.m. return to Dublin. We were lucky as we were able to transfer to an "express bus" and the 2-hour journey was cut to 1 1/2-hours.<br />
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(As an aside, I was interested as to why so many Irish cities begin with the prefix "Kil" or "Kill". There's Killarney, Kilkenny, Killabben -- and about 85 others throughout the country. It seems that during the Gaelic Period there were very few large towns or settlements. Most of the small settlements were referred to by a notable feature of the landscape. The term "Kil or Kill" refers to a church-yard, graveyard or woodland! Interesting huh??.)<br />
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Tomorrow we're off on another adventure -- to Birr and the Birr Castle. Notable here is that it is home of Lord Rosse's 72" telescope. Built in the middle of the 19th Century, it was the largest telescope in the world. In 1910 the 100" Hooker Telescope on Mt. Wilson took away that distinction.<br />
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So, check back. You never know what'll take place!!Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-33619439747632735162014-08-16T13:12:00.000-07:002014-08-16T13:13:47.287-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>DON'T FORGET TO CLICK ON AN IMAGE TO SEE A LARGER PHOTO</b></div>
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August 16, 2014 -- Today we were up early and made our way to the Connolly Train Station. It's about a 10 minute walk from the Guesthouse. We bought our tickets for Belfast and boarded the train for a 9:30 departure. It's a 2 1/2 hour trip to Belfast Central Station -- but it's comfortable, smooth and warm. As mentioned, one can buy snacks, coffee or juices on the train.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKo21kfmqIyY9rn-MxPXZc-r95d6aaDqY-7v-6a6c04nOrzwv3Yd4MfCZyXmK_Ds_q6W2EowZ65xwgysxQWC-ivfQC7QaDi2KX8uxVIjpG1kPfLOQHontMtr_BumVHoxYBOmVk/s1600/st+georges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKo21kfmqIyY9rn-MxPXZc-r95d6aaDqY-7v-6a6c04nOrzwv3Yd4MfCZyXmK_Ds_q6W2EowZ65xwgysxQWC-ivfQC7QaDi2KX8uxVIjpG1kPfLOQHontMtr_BumVHoxYBOmVk/s1600/st+georges.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. George's Market</td></tr>
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We didn't know what to expect in Belfast. I recalled the years of the "troubles" between the Protestants and Catholics and the IRA/British Government unrest. But, of course, that's all in the past. The <i>"Joint Declaration of Peace"</i> was signed in 1993. Still, I'm old enough to remember the events clearly -- so it was something to consider. Or, at least I thought so!! Of-course, it turned out to be "a non issue"!!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kqqxo9xMIgc/U--12pHzXQI/AAAAAAAAH9s/PxyP_GeauwM/s1600/st%2Bgeorge%2Binside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kqqxo9xMIgc/U--12pHzXQI/AAAAAAAAH9s/PxyP_GeauwM/s1600/st%2Bgeorge%2Binside.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside St. George's</td></tr>
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As we left the station and walked into the City Center, it became clear that Belfast is a modern, prosperous and vibrant city. The streets are wide and orderly, the buildings are modern and very beautiful. Certainly, there is the mix of the "old and new" that we found throughout Ireland. In just a few minute we happened upon "St. George's Market". This has been the site of a "market" since 1604 with the current building having been built in the 1890's. It was teaming with all manner of foods and crafts.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hLIqwkW7dY/U--24nUPUpI/AAAAAAAAH90/2z21hj4u3js/s1600/sightseeing%2Bbus%2Bbelfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hLIqwkW7dY/U--24nUPUpI/AAAAAAAAH90/2z21hj4u3js/s1600/sightseeing%2Bbus%2Bbelfast.jpg" height="166" width="200" /></a>We continued exploring the city by walking a few more blocks into the center of downtown. Some of the stores were closed, but the streets were crowded with shoppers and tourists. We happened onto a "sight-seeing kiosk" and had a nice chat with the proprietor. We found, also, there is a double-decker sight-seeing bus or a "black taxi" tour. We chose the longer time-frame of the two and bought our tickets for the 1 1/2 hour tour of Belfast. Our tour-guide was a young woman who was very well versed about her city. It was thoroughly enjoyable.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_LHSSKjD0Us/U--30MJ5ZhI/AAAAAAAAH98/6cp8B5r9yH8/s1600/parliament.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_LHSSKjD0Us/U--30MJ5ZhI/AAAAAAAAH98/6cp8B5r9yH8/s1600/parliament.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Ireland Parliament.</td></tr>
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We had a chance to see many sights otherwise not available to us. The "Titanic" Museum, the Harland and Wolff Shipyard (which had built the Titanic) and the Northern Ireland Parliament -- a simply majestic building on magnificent grounds surrounded by lawns and trees.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZgJtzsef4VNZJx-9W2hO8pD-GKYQPrS3qc8R99OiYjqSp5lrK1OORdy3x8213H2gGtDYvbtScDrDwwbObfClOwvkWcpzE1azcoCd3DQOqJacu5GwEwxBjUnsDN2XTBgCKQrXD/s1600/peace+wall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZgJtzsef4VNZJx-9W2hO8pD-GKYQPrS3qc8R99OiYjqSp5lrK1OORdy3x8213H2gGtDYvbtScDrDwwbObfClOwvkWcpzE1azcoCd3DQOqJacu5GwEwxBjUnsDN2XTBgCKQrXD/s1600/peace+wall.JPG" height="86" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peace Wall, Belfast.</td></tr>
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Finally, a most interesting sight was the Peace Wall. The wall is a barrier that once separated the Irish Nationalists from the Unionists. Now, of course, the presence of the wall is no longer a barrier but a reminder of an earlier time of political and social unrest. It is covered with "graffiti" of a political and/or social content. We were told that there is an active movement, in Belfast, to take down the wall.<br />
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We left Belfast on the 4:00 train back to Dublin happy that we had taken the time to see this most interesting and beautiful city. Any of you who may come to Ireland are urged to give Belfast a try!!<br />
<br />Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-75168833519583909202014-08-15T09:22:00.002-07:002014-08-15T11:26:51.499-07:00In and Around Dublin, Ireland . . .<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-D_jaTGVdeaLk_lsdFZ2qP684wiQ2zCbc_nE2uxLAaf-cRFgNDj5UvfcLXb2SktgoGlnw024eMruNOpmkTPLSX_dXIzUEAhT6TPhaVxj7Nrgue4KQ7JNMezvYeHiYubgLZ-dJ/s1600/light+rail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-D_jaTGVdeaLk_lsdFZ2qP684wiQ2zCbc_nE2uxLAaf-cRFgNDj5UvfcLXb2SktgoGlnw024eMruNOpmkTPLSX_dXIzUEAhT6TPhaVxj7Nrgue4KQ7JNMezvYeHiYubgLZ-dJ/s1600/light+rail.jpg" height="102" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Light-Rail, Dublin, Ireland.</td></tr>
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August 15, 2014 -- Today we were in and around Dublin. We started our day with the smell of food coming from below (we're on the 2nd floor). It smelled delicious and one couldn't resist going downstairs to investigate. Our host, Nicholas, and his "mum" own Harvey's, and it was Nicholas' "mum" doing the cooking. We enjoyed traditional home-cooked Irish breakfast" before setting out for the day.<br />
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Our first stop was a cute little coffee house for our caffeine fix. We then moved onto the O'Connell Railway Station for some information. Our plan is to take the train to Belfast tomorrow morning for our first Dublin day-trip. I was wondering if "northern Ireland" is a safe place to visit. "oh yes no worries" is the consistent reply. We'll let you know how it goes!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVo3zaJJBxqx8R6ZpuFfdVwdyfJUCKutqvGYR-wY7CUPSz9C8cRF0AJ5bomXPmacjrAV1d5Bvu2dxGNL2GAorv42348MtfHh8cdqKlxYi5e8jaGbww10XrrrM_igbcxtTxvsw/s1600/guinness+gate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVo3zaJJBxqx8R6ZpuFfdVwdyfJUCKutqvGYR-wY7CUPSz9C8cRF0AJ5bomXPmacjrAV1d5Bvu2dxGNL2GAorv42348MtfHh8cdqKlxYi5e8jaGbww10XrrrM_igbcxtTxvsw/s1600/guinness+gate.jpg" height="175" width="200" /></a>Our second stop was the Heuston Railway Station across town. We took the LUAS light rail for the 15 minute ride and enquired about a day-trip to Galway on Sunday. Both day-trips, Belfast and Galway are around 2 hours each way, and we'll have 4 or 5 hours in each city. We've found that, even though it takes a bit of time to get around Ireland by train, it's better staying in one place and taking day-trips here and there. The trains are pleasant ways to get around -- with the internet accessible and refreshments available from your seat! It's a neat way to travel.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Baq25DPXK5U/U-4xF-zIHdI/AAAAAAAAH9Q/7vh-6pG9pNc/s1600/guinness%2Btour%2Bw%2Bdrink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Baq25DPXK5U/U-4xF-zIHdI/AAAAAAAAH9Q/7vh-6pG9pNc/s1600/guinness%2Btour%2Bw%2Bdrink.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drink Up!!</td></tr>
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As one leaves the Euston Station and looks across the street, s/he cannot miss the "Guinness Brewery". It is a 55-acre site with an inviting "aroma". We took the 20 minute hike to the Guinness Store and bought two tours (which include a "pint" at the end of the tour). We decided to get the "audio tour" and made our own way around. It's four floors of history, artifacts and active exhibits each telling the story of Arthur Guinness and his "brew". The brewery was founded in 1755 so there's a lot of history to tell. Guinness took a 9,000 year lease from the city -- so in another 7.248 years, the brewery will have to "renew its lease"!! At the end of the tour we enjoyed our "pints" and, by chance met Gary and John from the U.K. They were in Ireland for the weekend. We enjoyed a 45-minute discussion about travel and "beer" and said our farewells. It was John's 60th birthday, so we drank to his health.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pefsxz3XiSM/U-4tNZn8OJI/AAAAAAAAH8w/zNRTzV3JS3A/s1600/ireland%2Bnatl%2Bmuseum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pefsxz3XiSM/U-4tNZn8OJI/AAAAAAAAH8w/zNRTzV3JS3A/s1600/ireland%2Bnatl%2Bmuseum.jpg" height="122" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Museum of Ireland. Dublin.</td></tr>
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On our return to the City Center, we happened onto the Irish National Museum. We spent an hour looking around the first floor at many of the historic artifacts and descriptions about Ireland and its many struggles. The building itself is "huge", made up of three inter-connected stone structures. Each of the three are massive by themselves, but when put together the museum is an imposing institution.<br />
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So, we've completed our first full day in Dublin. It's a wonderful city full of friendly people and interesting things to do and see. The weather is cool with a bit of rain and a bit of wind, but we're lovin' it!! <br />
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So, as they say in Gaelic:<br />
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seiceáil isteach arís amárach. fheiceann tú ansin.Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-88125568965847829922014-08-14T13:26:00.000-07:002014-08-14T13:26:37.391-07:00Dublin, Ireland it is . . .<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-enz_QPns6-Y/U-0WNUq6ScI/AAAAAAAAH8I/H0XOMhawoOY/s1600/dublin%2Bgobe%2Bbus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-enz_QPns6-Y/U-0WNUq6ScI/AAAAAAAAH8I/H0XOMhawoOY/s1600/dublin%2Bgobe%2Bbus.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By non-stop bus to Dublin.</td></tr>
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August 14, 2014 -- We were up early this morning getting our luggage ready for the transit to Dublin from Cork. As we readied ourselves for the 3 hour bus trip, we talked about our time here in Cork. It's a beautiful city with lots of things to do. We enjoyed our lodgings, the food and especially the people. Our day-trips to Blarney, Cobh, Killarney and Limerick made for a perfect few days. We could only think that Ireland is one of the friendliest and most inviting countries we've visited over the past few years.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5PtApSLSsGg/U-0WNhP9sHI/AAAAAAAAH8M/G4yJeKMTfqY/s1600/harveys%2Bguesthouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5PtApSLSsGg/U-0WNhP9sHI/AAAAAAAAH8M/G4yJeKMTfqY/s1600/harveys%2Bguesthouse.jpg" height="200" width="143" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harvey's Guesthouse.</td></tr>
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Our bus left at 10:30 a.m. We had "front seats" so it was a great sight-seeing journey along the modern highways and "freeways" of Ireland. Of course, we logged into the Internet for our "Facebook" and email fix! As we entered the outskirts of Dublin and made our way toward the City Center, one could tell we're entering a larger city. Traffic was thick and the roads were a bit congested. Every now and then, we'd come to a stop -- much like the roads at home!!<br />
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It turns out Dublin is a larger city from those we've visited so far. It's population is around 530,000 people and the city covers about 45 square miles. Dublin was founded as a "Viking" settlement and became Ireland's principal city after the Norman Invasion which began in 1169. Despite its age, or maybe because of it, we found Dublin to be a mix of the "old and new". There are old buildings and modern buildings, small crooked little lanes and wide modern sidewalks and streets. It isn't unusual to see a 17th Century building next to a modern all-glass 6 story office building. O'Connell Street, one of the main streets is as busy as Broadway in New York City, with large crowds of people going here and there.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KDzAc7y1Fqc/U-0WN5oLehI/AAAAAAAAH8U/65mxHUEmgVI/s1600/oconnel%2Bst%2Bdublin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KDzAc7y1Fqc/U-0WN5oLehI/AAAAAAAAH8U/65mxHUEmgVI/s1600/oconnel%2Bst%2Bdublin.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">O'Connell Street, City Center, Dublin.</td></tr>
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We've been lucky this trip with our choice of lodgings. We're staying in "Harvey's Guesthouse" on Gardenier Street Upper -- just a 10 minute walk from the bus depot and the City Center. The guest-house itself is an 18th Century building with high ceilings and creaky floors! Our room is on the second floor and is large and roomy. As one "climbs the stairs" s/he can feel the earlier generations of residents occupying the space! It's fun and interesting. There are 2 living rooms with comfortable sofas and chairs -- and, of course, reading lamps.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3rxpYI7-PPJ0OQYCUZUux5oVWAMA7HgOykx1C0-VXTtn1FXGYETIcQ_dxnF9XD1MJgtCIVuxIewvlEq2EXVN_70smvD6ipSEQ0kjXS_Sf75p35m8LFhNVW7bHS9VUfXJPc7e/s1600/starbucks+dublin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3rxpYI7-PPJ0OQYCUZUux5oVWAMA7HgOykx1C0-VXTtn1FXGYETIcQ_dxnF9XD1MJgtCIVuxIewvlEq2EXVN_70smvD6ipSEQ0kjXS_Sf75p35m8LFhNVW7bHS9VUfXJPc7e/s1600/starbucks+dublin.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Any excuse for a "Starbuck's"!!</td></tr>
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Once we were settled, we set out to explore our surroundings. Before long we were in the City Center and recognized some of the landmarks we had seen upon our arrival. We choose to take a taxi to the Irish Ferry Terminal and get our "sail/rail" tickets for the transit to London on August 21st. Our taxi driver was kind enough to wait for us as we bought our tickets and then took us back into the city. We spent the next couple of hours wandering the streets that interested us -- and of course, found a "Starbucks" for a cuppa!!<br />
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Tomorrow we plan to continue our exploration of the city. We'll be taking day-trips, using Dublin as a home-base, so it'll be an interesting week in and around this beautiful and busy city.<br />
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As always, stay tuned . . . As they say in Ireland -- "<span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: inherit; font-weight: lighter; line-height: 36px; white-space: pre-wrap;">a fheiceann tú níos déanaí"</span><br />
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Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-72995549737764096442014-08-13T12:45:00.000-07:002014-08-14T13:27:50.355-07:00Black Rock Castle . . .<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t13Y82lEBfY/U-u96E4km2I/AAAAAAAAH7U/jgPnLG4n_dk/s1600/black%2Brock%2Bcastle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t13Y82lEBfY/U-u96E4km2I/AAAAAAAAH7U/jgPnLG4n_dk/s1600/black%2Brock%2Bcastle.jpg" height="171" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Rock Castle</td></tr>
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August 13, 2014 -- A couple of days ago we went to Market Lane for dinner. We initially sat at the bar and ordered a "pint". As it is, the bar only serves "Murphy's", so we ordered it and liked it! We like Guinness better, but Murphy's is darn good. The manager, Mark, offered us a table even though it looked like were going to have drinks only. We did order a full dinner and the food, as stated earlier in this blog, was "outa sight!".<br />
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We went back again last night and were welcomed by Mark and his "girl at reception" Tracey. A "getting to know you" chat ensued, and in answer to the questions "what do you do", I mentioned I build telescopes and gave Mark my card. Tracey then explained that one of her best friends works at Black Castle Observatory. She picked up her phone, called and got us an appointment for a private tour today at 11 a.m.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mGMDEhKlx0c/U-u940jnMvI/AAAAAAAAH7Q/UxL3VHOrK3g/s1600/allen%2Bdennis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mGMDEhKlx0c/U-u940jnMvI/AAAAAAAAH7Q/UxL3VHOrK3g/s1600/allen%2Bdennis.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alan Giltinan and self in the "lab".</td></tr>
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This morning, we found our way to the bus station and by bus to Black Rock Castle. It was about a 20 minute ride. Along the way, we met Violette who was getting off at the same stop. She walked along with us a short while to be sure we got to the castle OK and we said our goodbyes. It also happens that the Market Lane restaurant has a eatery on the grounds of the castle called -- oddly -- <i>The Castle</i>. We were early enough to enjoy breakfast and a cup of coffee and then made our way into the castle/science center lobby.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lAqpgonDpxY/U-u96gXCYEI/AAAAAAAAH70/2Bgyu6WFpCM/s1600/dennis%2Bobserv%2Bsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lAqpgonDpxY/U-u96gXCYEI/AAAAAAAAH70/2Bgyu6WFpCM/s1600/dennis%2Bobserv%2Bsign.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a>The castle dates back to the 16th Century and was originally built to defend Cork Harbor and the "upper river". We had a chance to join a history tour to see those parts of the castle originally used as its defensive encampments. As has been the case with the other castles we've seen in Ireland -- the castle is fairly small, but solidly built and has a commanding view of the river. The walls, we learned, are 2.2 meters thick and will deflect a "cannon-ball" shot at close range!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFIeyDmOwM-u-B86TTVJ_x3LT0rk-YTAcqHHtRb-O3seROOCRtehKkHbz48LWrCxQby88Hq686WsjcbbcizjDRNsbDljVV1TAp9RWClHFfrVx4HpR3cr8rWEkWC8eLaUPazMlC/s1600/castle+thru+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFIeyDmOwM-u-B86TTVJ_x3LT0rk-YTAcqHHtRb-O3seROOCRtehKkHbz48LWrCxQby88Hq686WsjcbbcizjDRNsbDljVV1TAp9RWClHFfrVx4HpR3cr8rWEkWC8eLaUPazMlC/s1600/castle+thru+door.jpg" height="162" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Rock Observatory.</td></tr>
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In the early 2000's, the castle was redeveloped by the Cork City Council, the Cork Institute of Technology and a private funding source into the Science Center it is today. The goal was to create "a Center for Scientific Research, Outreach and Communication." The science center opened "for business" in 2004. I learned that the Science Center is one of the few of its type in Ireland and has been busy with visitors since its opening.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lk2RpXA_-p8/U-u960IjTfI/AAAAAAAAH7c/QNxQaEJxGuM/s1600/linda%2Bfireplace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lk2RpXA_-p8/U-u960IjTfI/AAAAAAAAH7c/QNxQaEJxGuM/s1600/linda%2Bfireplace.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda at the 17th Century Fireplace.</td></tr>
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Later in the morning we met Alan Giltinan, a System Manager (and in charge of everything!!) who was kind enough to spend an hour, or so, taking us on a private tour of the facility. Alan's tour included the "labs" and telescopes. He explained how the "outreach program" helps the staff conduct some serious astronomical research at the Center. Blackrock Castle Observatory (BCO) has remote telescopes in Palo Alto California, on the roof of the castle itself and a venue in Spain. We visited both of their telescopes, a 6" SCT and 16" Meade SCT on the top roof of the castle. The climb of 100 steps to the top was daunting, but we survived and had a great visit with Alan.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfUmHrl8QiOAqLTMegO5XwC2ZKOsWikAisMx-ROGCnfhsZfuuJg5xKfDaUjsxXdVru4HBsr1OwFTq1uXFTGrJXSid1A6yh0dolba5BgrUGlEQarKvQ1nFkm5Z-ppKxmbgLV98/s1600/observ+lab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfUmHrl8QiOAqLTMegO5XwC2ZKOsWikAisMx-ROGCnfhsZfuuJg5xKfDaUjsxXdVru4HBsr1OwFTq1uXFTGrJXSid1A6yh0dolba5BgrUGlEQarKvQ1nFkm5Z-ppKxmbgLV98/s1600/observ+lab.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lab.</td></tr>
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We left a couple of hours later, happy to have been given the unique opportunity of seeing the inside workings of the Observatory and Science Center. We wandered down and around the castle into a small village at the base of the hill. After enjoying a cup of coffee and well deserved rest, we made our way back to central Cork by bus. Since this is our last day in Cork, we continued to wander the streets of this beautiful city. Needless to say, we'd love to come back for a longer visit. We've thoroughly enjoyed the people, the food and the many places we've visited.<br />
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We're off to Dublin tomorrow. We'll use the city as "base" from which to visit many of the surrounding villages, cities and attractions. I just know there'll be a "castle" or two to be seen!! One especially is the 72" "Lord Rose" telescope in Birr.<br />
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We want to thank Mark and Tracey at the Market Lane Restaurant in Cork, Clair at BCO -- and especially Alan Giltinan at BCO -- for their help in setting up this extraordinary visit. Linda and I appreciated every minute of it. . .Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-15489996506034413602014-08-12T14:07:00.004-07:002014-08-13T01:28:15.341-07:00To Limerick we shall go.....<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rEjifNTITO4/U-qAVYKbPBI/AAAAAAAAH58/Rgg37eietTg/s1600/king%2Bjohns%2Bcastle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rEjifNTITO4/U-qAVYKbPBI/AAAAAAAAH58/Rgg37eietTg/s1600/king%2Bjohns%2Bcastle.jpg" height="81" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King John's Caslte, Limerick, Ireland</td></tr>
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Linda and I were up early and made our way to the train station. The train was a 9:20 a.m. and we arrived in Limerick about 2 hours later. I know I've said it before, but it is nice to travel by train (or bus) in Ireland and have access to the Internet!! Once in Limerick we asked some directions and found we could just walk out the front door and keep going. The city was ahead of us.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9jVwQI_oDFYu71qSxmIYylKxwbXfr1Enq7ZeFSOUC80zlHinP8yaGWcJIRo8H-vTdw6lQl6O947Ozqdsyxd1hOUYEsPTeBzXn8Kfl48Pl-nlW7q8Yvt3cJeqtRtjgfSxNDba/s1600/linda+in+mccourt+school+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9jVwQI_oDFYu71qSxmIYylKxwbXfr1Enq7ZeFSOUC80zlHinP8yaGWcJIRo8H-vTdw6lQl6O947Ozqdsyxd1hOUYEsPTeBzXn8Kfl48Pl-nlW7q8Yvt3cJeqtRtjgfSxNDba/s1600/linda+in+mccourt+school+room.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda in the McCourt classroom.</td></tr>
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Unlike Cobh and Killarney, Limerick seems more "city-fied" and less touristy!! As with the other cities we've seen, the buildings are only 2 or 3 stories high. Even though it was around 11:30, the streets were quiet. The traffic wasn't very dense and there didn't seem to be many people around. As it turns out, we were on the "outskirts" of the city center and as we walked deeper into the town it become busier. Downtown Limerick is much like many larger cities we've visited. There were many businesses, restaurants, pubs and small shops -- all catering to the local residents (Limerick has a population of about 184,000 people).<br />
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We located the tourist bureau and got the usual "go here, go there" map from a nice young woman behind the desk. We set off to visit St. Mary's Cathedral and King John's castle -- yes a castle in the middle of town. The cathedral dates back to the 12th Century while King John's castle dates from the 13th Century! Both buildings were beautiful stone structures and had a commanding view of the River Shannon.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-GQ_jlduEo7T6LDURd1Edwhh7xZ1Bfe5u8SV23aLuM87WAx0Od8nwY6CqZriifJFOWWRDBSRDBfmyvto9ShICFfR6RJL1ZdmcpG3nB6FiOhf1mLg0YluwFaBPbGI3CJ6JryK/s1600/ei4gjb+pub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-GQ_jlduEo7T6LDURd1Edwhh7xZ1Bfe5u8SV23aLuM87WAx0Od8nwY6CqZriifJFOWWRDBSRDBfmyvto9ShICFfR6RJL1ZdmcpG3nB6FiOhf1mLg0YluwFaBPbGI3CJ6JryK/s1600/ei4gjb+pub.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In The Rock pub belonging to EI4GJB.<br />
Declan, Limerick, Ireland.</td></tr>
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As we made our way back into the center of town, I noticed some "ham antennas" on the top of a 2-story corner building. I followed the wires into a window and located the door. After knocking we were invited in. Neither of us realized it at the time, but the door was to a pub called "The Rock Bar". It was darkly lit, warm, cozy with the pleasant smell of "Guinness". The bar-keep asked if he could help us and I explained I was a ham radio operator. I had seen the antennas and wondered if he knew who the "radio operator" was. "Oh, that would be Declan," he said. "But he isn't here just now." Everyone in the bar -- there were only 4 customers or so -- joined in the conversation, and we enjoyed a 10- or 15-minute chat about Declan, his radio station and Guinness. Before leaving, Linda and I enjoyed a "pint" and I bought a round for the guys. It was great fun.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSZK93iA4UI/U-qAYXY9K5I/AAAAAAAAH6M/aVLQEpJw0v4/s1600/limerick%2Bfacetime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSZK93iA4UI/U-qAYXY9K5I/AAAAAAAAH6M/aVLQEpJw0v4/s1600/limerick%2Bfacetime.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Facetime with Jim, Norm and Michael<br />
on the train from Limerick to Cork<br />
and to Palm Desert, California.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After leaving The Rock Bar, we made our way across town to the Frank McCourt Museum. It was only a 15 minute walk through the shopping district and into an area called "The Gregorian Quarter". The McCourt museum is housed in the actual "school" building and residence McCourt lived in during the late 30's and early 40'. We visited a "bedroom" as well as a classroom. The docent, Patrick Brian, was friendly and informative. We spent about an hour there, talking about McCourt and his early life. If you recall, I'm sure, he wrote "<i>Angelas Ashes</i>" and "<i>Tis</i>" in the 1990's (and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his work).<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1MFiNyJalM/U-qAcmPphlI/AAAAAAAAH6c/da506mqBurw/s1600/mccourt%2Band%2Bk6krv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1MFiNyJalM/U-qAcmPphlI/AAAAAAAAH6c/da506mqBurw/s1600/mccourt%2Band%2Bk6krv.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I managed to put my ham radio<br />
callsign on the blackboard in the<br />
Frank McCourt classroom!!</td></tr>
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By now it was getting late in the day, so we made our way back to the train station for the trip to Cork. One enjoyable event occured when I tried to call my good friend Jim on Facetime. He was in his car and answered. Facetime is similar to "Skype" with audio and video. Once I was on-line, and on the train I might add -- I called Jim's cell and we enjoyed a 10-minute conversation. As it happens, he had arrived at his destination where our good buddies Norm and Michael joined in the conversation. One can only marvel at the technology we have at our disposal these days!<br />
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When we thought of having dinner, we chose to revisit Market Lane. Their food is so good and their helpings are so ample, we couldn't help ourselves! Once again it was a wonderful meal. We enjoyed a few minutes talking to Mark, the manager, and he bought us a "pint" for being such good customers.<br />
<br />
With the end of another wonderful day in Ireland, we're ready for a good nights sleep. Tomorrow we have a special treat awaiting us -- so, stay tuned and I'll report about that later.Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-81241165693633783992014-08-11T12:11:00.002-07:002014-08-12T00:20:01.021-07:00Killarney, Ireland. . .<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HouMem6tEkk/U-kSVSLumJI/AAAAAAAAH38/Q1lUyG472vg/s1600/IMAG0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HouMem6tEkk/U-kSVSLumJI/AAAAAAAAH38/Q1lUyG472vg/s1600/IMAG0010.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda with our tour guide Pat, Killarney.</td></tr>
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August 11, 2014 -- With the help of the alarm clock on the iPhone, we were up early this morning and made our way to the rail station by 8:30 a.m. We bought our tickets for Killarney and boarded the train at 8:55 for the 1 hour trip. So far, and this is true with all the European cities I've had the privilege to visit, the train stations are near the city center. Killarney was no exception. Once there, we left the station, turned left and within 5 minutes we were in the center of the city. Our first stop was a cute little food market where we picked up some fresh fruit. It made for a good, but not filling, breakfast.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ross Castle, Killarney, Ireland.</td></tr>
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As was the case with Cobh yesterday, Killarney is a city full of stores. Shops, eateries, pubs and more pubs doted the landscape as far as one could see. Killarney is larger than Cobh with 12,500 residents and thousands of visitors from all over -- including Ireland. We were told that Killarney had 1.2 million visitors last year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ztlwy06KMaI/U-kT3fZiW2I/AAAAAAAAH4Y/0G6IDjC8PnM/s1600/killarney+waterfall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ztlwy06KMaI/U-kT3fZiW2I/AAAAAAAAH4Y/0G6IDjC8PnM/s1600/killarney+waterfall.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Killarney Waterfall in t<br />
he National Park.</td></tr>
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We walked the streets, enjoying the many shopping opportunities and meeting people here and there. After about an hour or so we spotted a "tourist information center" and went in to see what else the city had to offer. We learned that a locally owned tour bus was leaving in 20 minutes. The bus route included a variety of sites we would not otherwise see. We boarded at around 1 p.m. and took the 2 hour tour of the city and countryside. Along the way we saw some of the many lakes in and around Killarney. One attraction the "Muckross House" is a beautiful "home" built by the architect William Burn in 1843. Its 11,000 acre estate has now become a tourist attraction within the National Park.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LxU_6pDz_9A/U-kU6GNA2ZI/AAAAAAAAH4k/5h7ACWhEiy0/s1600/killarney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LxU_6pDz_9A/U-kU6GNA2ZI/AAAAAAAAH4k/5h7ACWhEiy0/s1600/killarney.jpg" height="117" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Killarney, Ireland.</td></tr>
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Later on our tour, we stopped at Ross Castle. Built in the 15th Century as a Tower House and Keep -- it stands as a reminder to the "what was" the magnificent structures of centuries past. It is also part of the greater Killarney National Park in County Kerry. I'm not sure if the entire structure was still in place -- but if it was, the castle is an example of the smaller but imposing structures that seem to dot the Irish countryside. It's beauty is offset by the surrounding river and lake to the side.<br />
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We made our way "home" at around 7:30 and enjoyed another outstanding meal at Market Lane in Cork. Tomorrow, the plan is to go to Limerick -- we're not sure whether we'll take the train or bus -- so, as always.......<br />
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Stay tuned.<br />
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Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6501990.post-56193606237482747352014-08-10T14:31:00.003-07:002014-08-11T01:21:04.181-07:00And off to Cobh, Ireland.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0Am5NaHsMynEL5AGlJQTqBjPHglUD3BCjSqO4nBlRHmDslqY7YpQYq8uTCwoYJpvoWzV1-OfTImbTndY51Ot7ihAt1xeUcrjhYI5HMxEIUvF4fWlmItK7B0FCcvVqNiWkd9l/s1600/train+to+Cobh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0Am5NaHsMynEL5AGlJQTqBjPHglUD3BCjSqO4nBlRHmDslqY7YpQYq8uTCwoYJpvoWzV1-OfTImbTndY51Ot7ihAt1xeUcrjhYI5HMxEIUvF4fWlmItK7B0FCcvVqNiWkd9l/s1600/train+to+Cobh.jpg" height="145" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By train from Cork to Cobh, Ireland.</td></tr>
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Sunday -- August 10. Our plan was to take the train to Killarney this morning. But, often, the best laid plans go awry!! We awoke at 11:45 a.m., much to late for a train to that city. As we spoke to the station agent at the train station it was suggested we go to Cobh, a seacoast town just 35 minutes away by train. We took her advice and bought round-trip tickets. At the same time we learned that we could go to Killarney tomorrow 8:55 a.m. -- so I've set the alarm clock.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-B3XQQqaOE/U-fjdu8ZvZI/AAAAAAAAH28/Cg0KjFmCS2E/s1600/dennis+in+cobh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-B3XQQqaOE/U-fjdu8ZvZI/AAAAAAAAH28/Cg0KjFmCS2E/s1600/dennis+in+cobh.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Cobh, Ireland.</td></tr>
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We boarded the train for the short trip to Cobh. As it turns out, it was a good choice. Cobh is a seacoast town with the only "cruise" terminal in Ireland. One of its "claims to fame" is that it was the last port-of-call for the Titanic before heading across the Atlantic on its ill-fated voyage. The town is full of Titanic memorabilia, including a museum.<br />
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Additionally, Cobh is as beautiful as one can imagine. Leaving the train station, and walking along the water-front, the town reveals itself as a line of one-, two- and three-story storefronts, shops and restaurants. The weather was warm and sunny, although (as is always the case in Ireland, we've discovered) rain clouds were here and there threatening a bit of a shower. Later, during our stay, it did shower for a few minutes, and the rain came down hard and dense. Fortunately, Linda and I had decided to take our rain-gear, so we were completely protected.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wLaklPPSHLA/U-fjdsBYzuI/AAAAAAAAH24/qX7puIX8XyI/s1600/linda+overview+cobh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wLaklPPSHLA/U-fjdsBYzuI/AAAAAAAAH24/qX7puIX8XyI/s1600/linda+overview+cobh.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over-looking Cobh.</td></tr>
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We decided to walk out of town and up a long hill road leading to more residential neighborhoods. There were a number of small shops catering to the local population. Many of the storefronts were closed or for rent, lease or sale. We continued walking up and up some more until we saw a beautiful and imposing view of Cobh from on-high. It was delightful. We continued "up and over" the hill a bit, and found we could walk back into the center of town without back-tracking ourselves. It was a great little excursion usually not seen, I would guess, by tourists.<br />
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We had a chance to ask a passerby if he was familiar with Cobh. "I've been here all me life," he said. "So yes, I'd say I'm familiar with this part of the world". We asked that, if he were go get a meal, where would "he" go?? He didn't hesitate when he suggested three pubs for a meal -- "oh, and they're not too expensive -- let me say", he pointed out finally. We thanked him and went on our way. We chose a crowded place on a busy corner called "The Tradewinds" for a late lunch. Again, as was our experience yesterday, the food was "outa sight". One of the most delicious meals I've enjoyed anywhere.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDHq8_NMUOo/U-fkhUKahSI/AAAAAAAAH3U/BHYR33q8WZU/s1600/trade+winds+and+ipads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDHq8_NMUOo/U-fkhUKahSI/AAAAAAAAH3U/BHYR33q8WZU/s1600/trade+winds+and+ipads.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch at the Tradewinds, Cobh.</td></tr>
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We made our way back to Cork on the 4:30 train and continued wandering around Cork itself. After a couple of hours we decided a cup of coffee or tea would finish off the day -- so we found a place called "Market Lane". We were seated and enjoyed a Murphy's, a Bailey's and some bar food before heading back to our lodgings for the evening.<br />
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I'll say it again. Ireland is one of the friendliest parts of the world I've visited. Everyone is helpful and pleasant. We found people will "take us there" if directions are confusing. Everywhere -- on trains and busses, in the restaurants, on the street and in the shops,<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A7ASeNCYu2Q/U-fnAlSHsAI/AAAAAAAAH3g/4RvrZROKzmQ/s1600/rain+gear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A7ASeNCYu2Q/U-fnAlSHsAI/AAAAAAAAH3g/4RvrZROKzmQ/s1600/rain+gear.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rain, sure -- bring it on!!</td></tr>
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one cannot have a more pleasant "interpersonal experience".<br />
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So, tomorrow we're off to Killarney. Tuesday we thought we go to Limerick and Wednesday, possibly Waterford.<br />
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Stay tuned.....<br />
<br />Dennis Steelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14739851130380595495noreply@blogger.com0