MORE DEPARTURES, SOME ARRIVALS

Today is transition day in Ireland. This morning at 6:30am my friends Dave and Michelle arrived, after being delayed for an entire day when they missed the connection in Newark. They are happy to be here, finally.

When we were laoding their bags in the car, the Keyes' called me to remind me that I had forgotten to take them to the airport. Oops. Luckily I had plenty of time to go back and get them. Then Kasi and Chad arrived from their hot, humid and bug-infested new home of Charleston, South Carolina. They were elated at the mild climate, and laughed out loud at the cool rain falling. The rest of the Koshollek clan arrived by car from Dublin early this afternoon, including Amy & Victor Alatorre, and Joe, Jill & Emily Koshollek.

I can't say enough about Tom and Mary Kaye. Tom is the ultimate Irish traveler, hoisting the pints at all points of the day and looking quite at home in the local pubs. He also hit the ball quite well despite his wounded hand, which managed to heal in the week he was here (looks like Ireland is a tad more effective than the Doc). MK was cheerful all week, and spent good quality time with Shannon in Dublin. She even hugged me when she left, which means she had a REALLLY good time.

Ethel flew home after the trip of her life. I will keep confidential the total amount of booze she consumed in the world's greatest country, but let it be said that the girl can handle her Bulmer's like an Irish lass. Special and extreme thanks go to Ethel, who did so much to make the trip awesome that I couldn't recount it all -- but it included organizing the cell phones, the airport limos, the tux rentals, the photographer, my tremendous memory books, and of course the shirts, hats and golf towels that will forever remind of of this trip. Finally, Ethel was unanimously voted as having the most stunning gown at the ball. Thanks thanks and thanks again.

Andy & Sarah headed home as well after a great week of travel. Everyone here agreeds with what our family concluded long ago--Sarah is awesome. The happy young couple did their own day travel al week, and got the best Ireland had to give. Andy sowed up for the banquet in a proud kilt, and wore it traditional-style, if you know what I mean.

Also traveling like mad beavers were Jenny & Hugh O'Neil, who had their own car and probably logged about 2000 miles during the week. Every day they woke up, had breakfast at the B&B, and promptly roared off in one direction or another, not to be heard from until the sun had gone down. They saw more of Ireland in a week than most Irish folk see in five years.

Good bye all.

Tomorrow the kids are here! Hooray hooray!