It’s not very many folks who can say they travel to Ireland, and the weather is both warmer and dryer! However, Molly and I arrived on the SW Coast of Ireland yesterday, and clear sunny skies and temperatures which range up to the mid 50’s each day are super for us northern Minnesota kids.

We knew we were not in Kansas anymore as we drove up to the remote farm house we have rented for one week. While not on the water, we have great views down to the Atlantic.  While the “Ring of Kerry”, is not too far distant, we are situated on the Skellig Ring. This region is more remote than the Ring of Kerry, and was where Star Wars was filmed (The Force Awakens).

While I have not encountered any Jedi Knights, the birds have been fun and “new for me”. Here is how everything looked when we arrived yesterday.

Out the Front Door of our Cottage

Out the Back Door (and up the hill)

The First Found of Birds!

European Kestrel

European Robin (not a thrush like our Robin)

European Robin and Stonechat

Hooded Crow

Rook

This trip is extra special for me. I have not been to Europe for 6 years (Bicycle Tour through the Norwegian Arctic) and those years have been difficult … eye disease, Covid, open heart surgery, and prostate cancer. With the Grace of God, I seem to be doing very well. I hope to now stay healthy, and the doctors say all looks good!