Travelling from Killarney to Wicklow

Monday 1/10/11 Addendum:

I met Dominic, an Australian engineer, working out of London. He and I have a lot of similar views on things, which we discussed over whiskey and Guinness, while out with the girls. Photocopy biscuits, that will end world hunger!

Tuesday, 1/11/11:

I left the group for Wicklow today. I hate buses, so I took the train though it set me back 60 euro, and I am fortunate to have done so, because I was late getting to Wicklow anyway, and by bus would have been even later.

There are always interesting people on the train. I met a couple Irishmen, Airleas and Ian, two elderly chaps, and they regaled me with tales of their childhood as we winded through the mountains of their youth. Stephen had a few suggestions for my trip, mentioned the Glendalough. I promised to visit it, as it is in Wicklow National Park.

Ian I could barely understand, but he was jovial nonetheless. They both marveled at technology when I pulled out my laptop, and we spent about an hour looking at the photographs I’d taken.

I then took a nap. After getting off the train in Dublin, I got on the tram to get to the other station. I met 2 more Australians headed to Belfast. These two are on an 8 month trek, complete with camping gear. Every time I meet someone doing this I want to do it myself even more. It seems the best way to go about it is to go with someone.

On the train to Wicklow, I met an American, Steven, who is working in Wicklow as an evangelist. He got me up to date on all the football I’ve missed…I can’t believe the Saints got beat by the Seahawks!!! We talked quite a bit about faith and works in reference to James 2:26. That verse seems to be his theme for this mission.

When we got to town, about 7:30, is was quite late and dark, and I had no reservations at any hostel, so Steven took me into town and guided me to the hostel. Captain Halpin’s Bunkhouse is a converted family home, and the family there was quite welcoming, even though I was the only person staying.

After some dinner I went to bed early with no idea on what to do the next day.

Wednesday 1/12/11:

 After my shower this morning, I’ve decided to go to Laragh, a town just outside of the Glendalough. Trish was kind enough to offer to give me a lift.