Tag / guests

by shannonchance

Gathering in Ireland in 2013

Downloaded from The New York Times.

The New York Times‘s description of Ireland and image of the Cobblestone pub. (Downloaded from The New York Times.)

The New York Times just released its list of top “46 places to go in 2013.” Ireland showed up at #40. Not bad!  But in my book, it’s #1!

The image The New York Times selected to illustrate Ireland is none other than the Cobblestone pub. The Cobblestone is my own “home away from home” and it holds a very special place in my heart. I’d say it’s *the* place to go in 2013. I can’t wait to bring my guests to the Cobblestone for a true taste of Ireland, present and past.

The pub’s previous appearances in the New York Time travel section included: A Changing Smithfield Still Holds On to Dublin-Style Fun and The Cobblestone – Reviews and Ratings of Bars and Clubs in Dublin – New York Times.

In addition, The New York Time explains, this year Ireland is hosting “the Gathering.” According to the Gathering’s “About” page, “Ireland will open its arms to hundreds of thousands of friends and family from all over the world, calling them home to gatherings in villages, towns and cities.” You can view and create gatherings on its website.

I’m trying to do my part to help family and friends visit the Emerald Isle in 2013.  I look forward to welcoming those who’ve scheduled ahead: Kitty Lee and Patty, Pam and her husband Dave, mom and Ann Marie, my Dave, Toni and Giuseppe, Tarrah and Kelly in the months to come. Between guests and work it looks like I’m going to be very busy!

by shannonchance

Traveling Bunny

Bunny at dinner in Dublin.

Do you have something unique you do to remember your travel experiences?  A bit of home you bring along to help you remember who you are?  Some way you “frame” what you’re seeing that helps you understand and interpret what’s going on around you?

My unique take involves capturing photos of “urban reflections.”  I enjoy having this storehouse of images to look back on.  In future years, I’ll be able to reminisce about the places I’ve been and fun I’ve had.

And, I’ll be able to see how things have changed over time in the cities I have loved!

My current house guests, Mary and Tim, have their own way of framing their travels.  They bring thier “Bunny” with them everywhere they go.

Since they are accomplished travelers, they have pictures of Bunny in famous sites all around the world!

Here, Bunny nibbled a plump Irish carrot — while we dined on quiche and steamed veggies!

by shannonchance

Home Sweet Home

The living/dining/working area of my apartment in Dublin.

My “integrated” kitchen — the cabinet fronts hide the dishwasher, combined washer/dryer, refrigerator, and freezer.

Your guest bedroom.

Dave and Shannon’s room.

Dinner with Mom (right) and her neighbors from Pennsylvania, Mary and Tim. They arrived today for a two-week visit. And, then Tim and Mary hosted dinner at my place tonight! What great house guests!