Finally

Finally, a “fine day” - so we set out for a scenic drive north and west of Westport to one of our favorite circuits - through Newport, past Mulranney, and on to Achill Island.  We drove to the top of Minaum Heights, where  the views can be simply spectacular.  Last year, I had written that we had “climbed” Minaum, which drew a comment from Padraic that I had taken undue liberties with the language and that readers would think I actually “climbed” the mountain.  I assured him that anyone familiar with my commitment to physical fitness would have no doubt that I had employed a powered conveyance.  After all, I’m the guy with the cartoon on the fridge in which the man on the examining table says to the concerned looking physician, “Will I still be able to not exercise.?”

And, in keeping with the spirit, may I tell you of the lovely crumble I had at The Beehive on Achill?  Yes.  Yes.  Yes.  It was a mixed berry variety with luscious raspberries, blackberries, and pomegranate.  And, of course, a dollop of fresh whipped crème on the side.  Combine with a well-crafted latte and you have a very satisfying mid-afternoon snack.  Will I still be able to not exercise?  Be kind.

You wouldn’t be kind if you knew what we had at Padraic and Marion’s house a few nights earlier.  We started with two huge bowls of local mussels cooked in Padraic’s own terrific seasonings.  Most of us followed with a poached sea bass (Carol had a lovely ribeye of fine Irish beef grilled by our gracious host).  A fresh salad, a groaning bowl of fresh roasted seasonal root vegetables, and a baked potato rounded out dinner.  Then came dessert - lovely fresh sliced strawberries and orange sections with double cream, a fresh made apple crumble, two kinds of ice cream, espressos, and throughout the meal, for those who chose such, white and red wine, Guinness, Coors Light (Padraic’s favorite “import”), a few cordial glasses of fine Polish vodka, and then, for god sakes, Jaegermeister.  Lorraine - your father-in-law is a gracious and persuasive host.  What a great night - the very reason we love to come back to Westport.

Paul & Carol watching the hang glider who took off right in front of them

Croagh Patrick as seen across Clew Bay from Mulranney.  Tomorrow, we climb (no quotation marks!).