Dublin in a day

After a four and a half hour drive, we arrived in Dublin. One would think you would wind down as your trip comes to a close...but no. Sunday, we made our way to the heart of town by late morning, walked around the main street that was blocked off for pedestrian traffic and enjoyed watching the multiple street performers! We did a little shopping, then popped into a coffee shop for lunch. After lunch, we wondered into a darling park in the center of town. It was a smaller version of Central Park, with lots of activity! We stopped into a souvenir shop and looked at all the goofy things people can buy to remember their trip to Ireland. I prefer a beautiful wool sweater rather than a t-shirt or bottle opener.
By late afternoon, we hoofed it across town to make it in time to tour the Guiness brewery. I have to admit, it was not something I had on my list of "must-do's", but Chris was a trooper for me when I "dragged" him from one sweater shop to another.... As the tour commenced, I must say I was impressed with the story of this historic company.
After leaving Guiness, we made our way to Trinity College, where one of Harrison's Cal Lutheran classmates, Matt, is studying this Fall. Additionally, another classmate, Allie, who studied at Oxford with Harrison, happened to be visiting Matt on her way back to the States. We took them to a local hangout where Chris could get his fix for live traditional Irish music. What a treat!
Monday morning we got up early, gathered our bags and the treasures we collected along the way, and headed to the airport for the dreaded plane ride home. Everything went off without a hitch. Our luggage was within the weight limit, so we were able to wear a normal amount of clothing for our flight!
Once we landed in Las Vegas, Harrison's Godfather, George, was there to surprise him. It was only fitting he would be there to welcome him home, since he had come down from San Francisco in August to see him off. We all stayed up until after 2:00am, sharing stories about Harrison's adventures abroad. I'm certain there are some stories being withheld until the five year buffer has passed. We all had some of those stories...
As I reflect on our time in Europe with Harrison, I'm faced with the realization we've moved into another chapter of our lives with him. Although he will always be my sweet baby boy, he's become an independent man, ready and excited to create a life of his own. Chris and I agreed we will do a similar adventure with Cameron and Colin when the time comes.
We thoroughly enjoyed the memories we made on this trip. We desperately missed Cameron and Colin while we were gone (thank goodness for Skype). And we very much appreciate Chris' sisters (Tana and Vicki) for taking care of the boys, house, Duke and Puppy.

Until next time...

(Picture #2 Harrison and his friends, Matt and Allie, picture #3 our Irish music jam session, picture #4 Good times with George in Las Vegas)

Harrison taking "No Shave November" very seriously!