Dublin, Ireland- February 2015

Dublin, Ireland- February 2015

In February, 2015, Terry and I, along with Jordan and Christian, Jonathan, Kristin, Mia and Sophia, spent three months in Montecatini Terme, Italy directing Faulkner University's Study Abroad program. During a free travel week, Terry and I were able to travel to Dublin, Ireland, while the boys stayed home with their older brother and sister-in-law. It was a special time away, as we had had to live apart the previous Fall for two months while one of our children was in an eating recovery center in Texas, dealing with an eating disorder. The support from each of our grown children was incredible during that long and difficult time. They opened their homes, shared their vehicles, listened to my fears, and patiently walked alongside their brother who was struggling. Dublin was such a gift to us. We were weary as our journey began, and were renewed by our return flights home. We stayed at the Harding Hotel, which is in the heart of Dublin, and was an ideal location to walk to so many local attractions. We enjoyed evening vespers at St. Patrick's and Christchurch, tours of the Book of Kells, an all-day trip to the Cliffs of Maher, a road trip to Powerscourt and the beautiful gardens. Everywhere we went we were struck by vibrant greenery! At night we went to the Brazen Head Pub, the oldest in Dublin, for a wonderful evening of Irish storytelling, Irish music, and a delicious traditional Irish Stew served on long tables full of new friends from all over the world. From the Chocolate truffles from a little shop in the countryside, to the drive along the coast, followed by a meal by the fireside...we were grateful for each moment that was a reminder of what an amazing God we serve, and how he delights in giving us the desires of our heart.