Our OverKnighter in the Black Castle {North Tipperary, Ireland}

I did a series of posts on our 10 year year anniversary trip to Ireland months ago (Ballinskelligs, The Aran Islands, and The Rings of Kerry) but never got around to sharing photos from our night (or “overknight” rather) in a private 16th century castle. When planning our trip I knew this would be perfect stay for my husband Zade, a born and bred romantic, whom has mentioned dozens of times his dream to LIVE in a castle. Our hosts Sonja and Kevin, who felt like friends from the start, are in the process of restoring this gem and their vision and artistry is apparent. Handyman Kevin discovers authentic details on ebay and repairs, buffs, and shines them to a thing of beauty. He is currently working on the “great hall” (I included a picture) where they can host intimate weddings! The night we arrived we were greeted by a jar of honey meed in celebration of our ten years. We turned on renaissance music and were transported to an age gone by. A night we will cherish always!

The Ring of Kerry {County Kerry, Ireland}

The one ring to rule them all: the magical Ring of Kerry!

We settled into Ballinskelligs and drove round the Ring of Kerry over the course of a couple of days. Most round the ring in a day. But, we sleep late, drive slower, and stop more. So, we stretched it out!

We explored 15th century castle ruins…

Skipped atop stone ring forts standing strong since 600AD…

Chatted it up with a mill worker while picking up a cute knit at the Kerry Woollen Mill…

Hopped on a jaunting cart, just at rainfall, at Killarney National Park…

Rested in the peace of Derrynane Abbey, a graveyard and abbey ruin only accessible when tide is out..

and

Discovered stones that, in Irish Mythology, mark the burial ground for a bard magician’s beloved…

Thankful to Zade who gifted me by braving all the harried driving himself!

Edinburgh, Scotland

My parents moved to Britain a few years ago and in June we were able to join them for a jaunt across the pond. Our first days were spent in darling Edinburgh! We were enchanted by...

Hot chocolate sundaes from Mary's Milk Bar

Hog roasts with sweet chili sauce and haggis

Intricate crown jewels fortified within a high castle

Golden gorse on favored Arthur's Seat

and

Lots of overdue snuggles with Grandaddy and Nene!