Naughties, Nineties, and The Blarney Stone

This morning we visited RedFM, Ireland’s most popular radio station. Their target age group is 15-35, because they have the most disposable income. Trying to maintain a “new” and “edgy” reputation, they play songs from musicians who aren’t on the charts yet, and play them less once they are. I like that concept a lot…it’s much better than the radio stations that play what’s popular over and over simply because it’s popular. Everyone at the studio was very knowledgeable, creative, and passionate about their jobs, which in my opinion is very important. Anyone can hold down a job, but it takes a certain person with a love for his or her field to do their job well and love what he or she is doing. I appreciated the whole staff’s generosity and willingness to help us as they went out of their way to talk to us and answer any questions we had, recommend music, share their playlists, and also take us into their recording studio to show us how the music was made. Their kindness extended to the end of our visit when they provided us with directions to Blarney, our next destination, and gave us pens from the station.


Blarney was quite a sight:: an old historical castle that is many stories high, full of narrow staircases, which made today one of the many times I am thankful to be small. I thank my dad for taking me out to go rock climbing over the years and making me into less of a girly girl (although I still am pretty girly) and showing me the outdoors…because of that, I was brave enough to climb on top of the highest ledges of the castle to get beautiful pictures (even in dressy shoes) , although it frightened my teachers. I may be clumsy when it comes to walking on a flat surface, but on the top of a castle without handrails, and a long way down, I’m pretty graceful…go figure.

Of course as it is an old Irish tradition for good luck, I kissed the Blarney stone. This time my size made things difficult. Laying on the ground and bent over backwards, I grabbed the steel bars behind my head; while two strong men on either side of me held my arms…I still couldn’t quite reach the stone. But with their help I finally did get to kiss it. Gabby took my picture so I didn’t have to pay for it. Although it is a touristy thing to do, I’m glad I had the opportunity…after all, I suppose I am a tourist.

Next we went to the Woodland Mills Shopping Center where I had lunch and spent too much money on gifts that were perfect for family and friends…I hope you all love your gifts as much as I loved buying them for you. And I finally bought something for myself:: a soft, light pink, fleece hoodie that says Ireland in dark pink letters. Just like at home, I bought it in the kid’s section, so it would be cheaper…yep, I love being tiny.

Now I’m back in our beautiful apartments, writing this to you. I am going to shower, get dinner and have a few drinks with friends, take some more pictures, and pack up my suitcases once more for our next destination…we leave for Kilarney at 830 tomorrow morning.