Catching up May 26

Catching Up May 26

Yesterday we left Sligo and the Lough Gill area. But before we did we traveled the scenic route around the north side of the lough. The water on the lough was like glass and reflected the hills and clouds so much that it was amazing. I've taken some pictures and posted one on FB, but I'm not sure they do the beauty justice. I'll work on uploading some more as soon as I can.

From Lough Gill we headed to the Tobernalt Holy Well. Tobernalt is a nataural spring well that established itself prior to Christianity in Ireland. It's definitely a spiritual place.

After a few prayers for others, we headed of to see Queen Maeve's Tomb. At least that was the plan. We arrived at the parking space just as it started to sprinkle. Now a little sprinkle would not ever deter either of us, but walking over a kilometer in a total downpour did make a difference. We sat in the car hoping it would blow over quickly, but it was not to be. Queen Maeve will have to wait for another trip. We then headed off to the Carromore Megalithic Cemetary. In this small area are around 34 or more megalithic tombs and stone circles. Across from the visitor center at the edge of a farmer's field there are 4 together in a group, and one a bit away. Around the corner and down the road in other fields are more. And that doesn't even count the larger ones as part of the cemetery. It was incredible that this all has remained since about 4000 years ago. At this point there are about 30 tombs is varying states and over 25 additional have been destroyed since the 1800. It was still raining some when we arrived, but not so much to stop this visit. We could have spend an entire afternoon here, but needed to get on the road.

Heading south I noticed a sign for Knock. It had been 10 years since I first visited and Rita had never seen the area of the apparition, so we thought it would be a worthwhile diversion and we were right. In 1879 approximately 15 people of various ages and denominations saw an apparition of Mary, St. Joseph, and St. John the Baptist on the location of the shrine. There is an old smaller church on the grounds with the alter done with a depiction of the apparation, and then also a Basilica and additional education and religious buildings, plus 3 cemeteries. Again, we stopped long enough to say a few prayers and take some pictures. Then headed on to Nenagh.

We arrived at out B&B, Willowbrook B&B, about 8:00, checked in and headed out for some dinner. It was a late night. So now I'm caught up and just need one more post for today. :)