Today was an early start of writing.
We had a quick workshop from 8:30 to 10 where we focused on improving our sentences—syntax, tone, rhythm, and all those good things that keep our readers engaged. Then at 10:30 we were on our way for an entire day of sightseeing!
We started with a tour of Parke’s Castle, which was fascinating. The original 15th-century footprint can still be seen in the courtyard, while the current castle was rebuilt in the early 1600s. The guide painted a vivid picture of what life would’ve been like in 15th- and 16th-century Ireland—pretty darn nasty—but at least they had a beautiful view.
From there we went up to Glencar Waterfall, made famous in a Yeats poem. Scott completely impressed me by walking the whole way up (and of course back down). It was absolutely breathtaking!
Next came lunch at the Tea Shed, which was quite tasty, though I couldn’t tell you much of what we ate—except for the potato salad, which was just as good as New York–style potato salad at home.
As we prepared to cross the street, I noticed this sign—the German threw me. Why would there be German on a sign in Ireland? I pondered that for a moment, then realized I was standing in the middle of the street. Oops. Never did get an answer to my question. But at least I moved before I got hit by a bus.
Bellies full, we took a scenic drive through Glencar Valley to see the Devil’s Chimney, Ireland’s tallest waterfall. Sadly it wasn’t “working” today. (Not enough rain! In Ireland??) Apparently in strong winds the water can actually blow backward. Still, no complaints: we’ve had nothing but blue skies in Sligo, not a drop of rain since we arrived!
Our next stop was the Benbulben forest walk, followed by a visit to Yeats’s gravesite in Drumcliff Churchyard. There we had quite a surprise: Bill Murray was filming a spot for a TV show about a guy who played many golf courses in Ireland. What a great guy! He asked if he could take a picture with us (of course we obliged). Then he quipped, “Put the little person in the middle.” I’m still not sure who he was talking about!! He also made us laugh when he asked where we were from. When we said Connecticut, he said, “Oh yes, I know where that is. It’s next to Idaho.”
After that we took the scenic drive through the Glencliff Horseshoe, which was absolutely beautiful, and admired some sheep decorated with brightly painted identifiers marking which farmer owned which flock.
We arrived back at Temple House Estate and relaxed a bit before heading down for happy hour and yet another delicious dinner.
After dinner I spent a wonderful hour or so chatting with my writing pal, Tricia. We shared stories of writing adventures and our hopes to revive our rusty research skills.
It’s 9:42 pm now, and with brain cells scheduled for duty again at 8:30 am, I’m off to post this and then to bed!
deborahsholman.com 
Leave a comment