A cool misty morning ride to the Chicago Botanic Gardens on a fine Saturday morning reminded me of my trip to Ireland a few years ago. Ireland called to me. Her song became so strong that I had to go. I booked a bike tour with Cycle Holidays Ireland and my flight on Aer Lingus. I didn’t know why I had to go to Ireland. It was something I needed to do.
I remember faces and moments. I remember that John, the owner of Cycle Holidays Ireland was a wonderful man that possessed many traits that I admire. My roommate on this tour was a Canadian named Albert, an ex-Canadian Army soldier that now works for the oil industry. I can smell the Irish coffee and see the Irish newspaper on the bar in the Aran View Inn while listening to Rick. I still feel the freedom I riding behind Maggie in the pouring rain to the Ritz in Lisdoonvarna. How can I forget the Fish and Chips girls I met in Galway before going completely solo in Dublin. In Dublin, I had a few days to spend time with myself and get to know myself better. Most people do not get that opportunity in their lifetime. Maybe that’s why I she called to me. She wanted to show me how beautiful she is, how wonderful people can be, and show me myself.
I wanted to spend more time here, go beyond the tour route John gave us, and dig deeper into the life was the area. One day, I will have that opportunity. All I can do now is remember the sights, sounds, tastes, and feelings I experienced there. The things I learned about myself can be applied in my life to make life better every day.
Tags: County Clare, County Galway, Dublin, Ireland, Lisdoonvarna, The Burren