Just a stone's throw from here ... in fact, it's so close you could hit it with that stone ...

.... but don't because you might break a window. TWO people gave that same advice to Jean as she was getting directions to our most recent "self-catering" abode. We are now safely ensconced in it ... and another lovely townhouse. Three bedrooms (one is being used to open all the luggage!) and four baths ... we are going to stay here through Christmas. But unfortunately, no ... we will push onto the Cliffs of Moher eventually.

Today was spent traveling from Kinsale to Kenmare via the Atlantic Coastal Highway. It added a significant amount of time to the journey but we wouldn't have changed one minute of it for the amazing views ... first of the ocean and then, as we drew closer to Kenmare, we went over the Caha Pass, where I spent some time moving away from the window and the sheer drop-offs. But once again, John came through with sterling driving although even he was exhausted by the time we reached Kenmare.

Speaking of sterling ... another stop that added quite a bit of time to the journey was at the Kinsale Silver Shop. Jean had read about it back in the States ... and while John and Rob just shook their heads in mock agony ... Jean and I managed to find "just the right thing" for ourselves, family, and friends. We also strolled across the street and found a darling apron for Sabrina ... one that she can wear as she and her mom bake in their new house ... because yes, they are in it!! It is a beautiful house ... far more room, as Becky points out, than their little family needs. On the other hand, plenty of room for visitors, which the extended family needs!

And, if you remember back to one of the first blog entries, going to Kenmare was prompted by a picture of the Kenmare bookshop that my dear friend Marsha took nearly 20 years ago. As we drove into town, the first thing we noticed was the bookshop. So we were "home." A touch of familiarity goes a long ways when you are going to be on the road for 2 weeks.

We explored the town and the harbour after dinner last night ... because it's barely dark by 10:30. I understand why ... but it continues to surprise me ... as does the sunrise ... by 5:00. It provides plenty of time for us to explore ... which we are about to do. If you don't hear from me again ... look for us somewhere on the Ring of Kerry. Happy Sunday!