September 29, 2025: Killarney to Dublin

 Under any other circumstances, we would be walking our suitcases the 10 minute walk to the Flight Link stop in town, but neither of us are willing to risk any damage to Bill's healing incisions.  Yesterday, we had the front desk book a cab for us so that all will be taken care of.  

After what may be our final Full Irish For breakfast, we packed up the remainder of our things between the two suitcases and essentials went in my backpack.  

Bill is not used to being catered to, but he humbly went about holding doors and hotel keys while I steered the suitcases like a semi with a pup.  Our cab was on time and in no time we were at the Flight Link bus stop.  We were looking forward to a scenic ride to Dublin. 

The N21 highway supplied a good range of views, from fields, cows and sheep, to B&Bs, small towns, and wind turbines.

As we drove further from Killarney, I could feel my heart get heavy and sadness set in.  When we first arrived, we felt a sense of home around every corner and with so many of the people we met.  Sure, there is an element of sadness that we were unable to accomplish what we set out to do, and we will begin that planning shortly after we return home, but this heavy feeling is like a piece of my heart is being left behind.  It's funny how that happens in life.  We meet people and feel like we have known them for a lifetime.  We find our way to new places and, for some reason, feel a sense of familiarity with it.  I do know this.  Ireland hasn't seen the last of us.  

The bus took us through a small town called, Adare.  This will be the site of the 2027 Ryder Cup. 

 A lot is being invested into infrastructure such as a new bypass to keep traffic flowing.  We have been told about this little town and how pretty it is.  Here is Adare Castle.  It was built along the banks of the River Maigue.  

While passing through Limerick, there isn't much else to do but write one:

There once was a man named Bill.

Who set himself to walking the hill(s).

His appendix, it burst.

He went through the worst.

And now he's becoming less ill. 

- Katharyn

There once was a guy named Bill.

But he became very ill.

While walking the Kerry Way.

It was only the second day.

Thankfully, Guiness was the perfect pill.

- Bill

The slopes of the pastures are all tinted with their own shade of green like a patchwork quilt, even with this overcast sky.  

This is one toll road that we saw. 

We both agreed that taking the Flight Link bus is am efficient way to get out of Dublin to continue your tours.  We also agreed that driving in the dense traffic around Dublin doesn't look that fun!

We arrived at Terminal 1 to catch the hotel shuttle.  The shuttle driver was quite kind and helped us take the bags into the hotel.  The room has a king bed and barely enough room. To walk around it.  I'll take it!  

We finished our water and took a few minutes to wind down. Then, off to get some supper.  We hadn't had lunch, so hunger was kicking in.  The restaurant seating looked more comfortable, and we didn't have to wait long for a table.  We decided to have a variety of starters to share and to accompany our pints of Guinness.  It was good to relax and to take time together to reflect on the trip:  things we will miss, favourites, what we won't repeat, etc.  

Back in the room, I worked on the return tax document, and listening to my Book Club book before going to sleep.