What a fantastic experience becoming grandparents has been . Some wise crack said ' if I had known what fun it was to have grandchildren , I'd have had them first '. Says it all .
Cormac George Ryan born at 3.15am Oct 23 , 2010 in Limerick at weight of 8lbs 8oz. All went really well for dear Meghan and she was a star. Cormac now home in Roscrea where we have still 10 days to help ( hopefully ) , and enjoy. Dennis' brother John's house next door has been made available to us and that has enabled rookie parents and babe to get better bonded without undue interference from doting g'parents. Thank you John. What a privilege it has been for us to see it all and be part of it and yet not be on top of them. 'Aunty Jane ' came over for 1st weekend of Cormac's life and great joy , jubilation ( and a few tears ) there . A fabulous Aunty she will be without a shadow of doubt.
M and I cleared out for 3 days and cycle toured in Dingle peninsular leaving car in Tralee . Scenery and views of highest quality . 3 nights in B & B's at v reasonable prices , 2 good dinners in Dingle and a couple of great rides round the Slea Head point in different directions . The windiest conditions we've ever encountered crossing Connor Pass on 1st day . Gusts of up to 70mph and difficulty just holding on to our loaded bikes never mind riding them . The Famine Cottages well worth a visit depicting the potato crop failure crisis in late 1840's and the horrific conditions which followed. Little pubs , like one above with superb Guiness provided welcome respite from frequent rain squalls.
Wonderfully friendly people and a great introduction to cycle touring in western Ireland. First of many tours we hope .
