Blarney Castle

On Sunday morning, we left Killarney and drove to Blarney Castle in County Cork.

Just a quick note about Grace's hair. While mine just got huge and frizzy in the rain and humidity, Grace's was so beautiful and wavy. It's like it was meant to live in Ireland.

The boys explored some spooky passageways under the castle, but Grace and I were a little too nervous and claustrophobic.

Of course we had to get the gift of the gab while we were there, so we started the long climb to the top of the castle to kiss the Blarney Stone.

There were tons of people waiting in line to kiss the stone and not once did I see the man use the spray cleaner he had sitting next to him! It was very nasty indeed. But we all did it, except for Sam, who got within an inch of a kiss before chickening out. Since you have to hang over upside and backwards with a huge drop underneath, not to mention the disgusting aspect of the whole thing, I'm not sure I blame him!

Standing at the base of the castle and looking up at the Blarney Stone.

Next to the castle, there is a walled garden pathway called the Rock Close that was a very neat place to explore.

The Witches' Cave.

Legend has it that walking down the Wishing Steps backwards with your eyes closed will make your wish come true. Not sure this one works, since Sam hasn't got a dragon yet.

Declan was the official navigator and took his map responsibility very seriously.