November 10, 2004 - page 2



The next day we continued through the rolling hills to visit several old castles and fortresses. When we reached the Blarney Castle in Cork, I knew I would have to climb to the top and kiss the infamous Blarney Stone. You have to lean over backwards when you do it and someone to holds you so you don’t fall. I made the mistake of opening my eyes and seeing the huge drop down to the moat below. According to legend, kissing the Blarney Stone will give you the gift of brilliant speech and oratory. I haven’t noticed much of a difference in

my speech yet, but perhaps it just needs time to sink in.

A final stop was made to the majestic Cliffs of Moher on the southern coast. These are among the sharpest-dropping cliffs in the world and they overlook the Atlantic Ocean. We visited at a perfect time, I think. The sun was streaming down and reflecting off the water. It was truly beautiful, and it was one of those moments when I felt really small in comparison to everything around me.