Our spring break this year was a little different than the rest.  We took friends!  Shane and Maisy accompanied us on our (and their) first trip to Ireland.  We started in NYC and spent the day running with the New Yorkers.

Our first day in Ireland was mostly a blur since we were all so jet-lagged we could barely stay awake, but the Blarney Castle woke us up with its many coves and niches and its impressive view.

Then it was off to County Clare and the Cliffs of Moher.  Windy and hazy as it was there were still amazing views and great picture opportunities.

The Rock of Cashel is a fortress/abbey which was a seat of power for many years.  And, as usual, Shane found plenty of things to climb on.

Our last two days were spent in Dublin, a city full of manicured parks, pubs, and clubs.  The weather held up just as on the rest of the trip, and there was no sign of rain.  The boys drank Guiness (and other Irish stouts) and the girls couldn't understand why.  

So the trip was a success! We owe thanks to the Irish people for their absolute kindness and hospitality,  to the weather for going against tradition and not raining, and most of all to Maisy and Shane for being fun and relaxed traveling companions.