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« on: April 06, 2007, 07:46PM » |
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A few years ago, while driving in County Clare, Ireland, I became lost between Ennis and Lisdoonvarna. I stopped at a crossroads to examine the direction signs, which were in several languages, with assorted B&B and Pub signs tacked on for good measure. It was raining and foggy, so I got out of the compact rental car, to examine the directions more closely. It was then I noticed a man approaching the crossroads with a huge dog, It was an Irish Wolfhound who appeared to be friendly.
"Are ye lost Yank"? he asked, no was my answer. Yes ye are he said. Where are you headed? Lisdoonvarna I replied. You missed the Matchmaking Festival, it was last month he said. I don't care about the Festival, sounds like trouble to me. Why are you going to Lisdoonvarna then? I like the sound of the name, and I am taking the long way to Galway and the Aran Isles. It's about a mile and a half to the next crossroads, but you could make a wrong turn and get lost again. If you like I will ride with you and show you the way. As I thanked him and entered the car, he opened the door on the rider's side, pulled down the seat and said in you go Rory to the Wolfhound.
I knew what was next, the dog shook the water off himself and all over the inside of the car and occupants. I have another dog just like Rory, but he's at home today. Needless to say I was glad he was not here to join us in the small car.
As we were driving down the road, I realized that the Wolfhound's head was extending into the front seat area, and in order to hold a conversation with my new friend, Emmet, I would have to lean foreward to see around Rory's head. I asked him the best way to the Burren, he laughed, and said man your in it. He was correct this area is on the southern tip of the Burren. ( The Burren covers 300 square kilometers and is the largest karestic limestone area in Western Europe. The Burren is covered with limestone slabs and patches of grass, with very few trees.) Galway Bay and the Aran Isles, can be seen from the northern edge of the Burren.
When we arrived in Lisdoonvarna, Emmet said here we are a Pub on one side of the road and a B&B on the other side. I thanked him profusely for his kindness, and asked if I could take him to his original destination. Aw no he replied, it was my pleasure. I then said come into the Pub and have lunch and a Guinness. Thank you kindly he replied but I have to be on my way. Enjoy your stay in Ireland and God Bless You.
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