Gabriel’s parents and sister were just here for a week. We had a great time, albeit we found out that five people in a two-room flat tends not to be relaxing … but we’re very glad they put up with it and visited us anyway!

One day we left early on a train/bus tour to visit Bunratty Castle and the Cliffs of Moher.

Early in the morning on the train must not be some people’s favorite time.

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What can I say? I’m glad I married into such a photogenic family.

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(The scarf, by the way, is a gift from the university. NOT SOMETHING HIS WIFE BOUGHT FOR HIM. Edit: I should add that he didn’t pick those awful colors, either; they’re the university’s colors.)

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Bunratty Castle was beautiful and full of ancient history and beautiful architecture. I’m glad I didn’t live in it, though. Here’s why:

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See the tiny window above the statue? It looks into the huge dining/living hall. While the men ate and drank and partied, the women were allowed to watch from the window. Such was the life of the privileged.

Some beautiful plasterwork that dates back to the 1500’s. The hall would have been covered with it then.

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The view from one of the castle windows.

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Later we got to the Cliffs of Moher. They were spectacular, folks. My pictures don’t do them justice …

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… but if you come visit, you can see them in person! 😀

-JRJ