Thursday, July 18, 2013

The Birthday Party!

Last night we officially celebrated Grandpa's birthday with a scrumptious catered dinner (well played Grandma!), toasts, speeches, and of course a decadent birthday cake.  And some 18 year Jameson's!

so excited for Grandpa's party


everyone was dolled up for the occasion


Charlene crafted these beautiful flower arrangements

what a photogenic family!

Rick shows off what will certainly become a family heirloom

the blondie twins were happy to help with the present-opening

Grandpa extemporizes on.....something relevant, obviously.


THE CAKE!

the light in the castle courtyard at dusk is breathtaking, night after night




Wednesday, July 17, 2013

making connections with family

Today about half the clan set out to see the Leddy/Luddy farmstead and visit Leddy/Fitzgerald/Donovan cousins.  Little did we know we were in for an all day trip through the verdant countryside, experiencing that legendary Irish hospitality.  We met cousin Neill Donovan in a town square about an hour away and then he led our caravan on a multi-stop tour with stops in at least two counties (perhaps three, we'll have to check the map).

Neill has taken up the responsibility of mapping out all the Leddy family geneaology and was a treasure trove of information.  The cousins were riveted as he unveiled binders full of info, town records, ancient letters, and more.  And, as a bonus, another cousin, Eamon, had a sweet collection of racecars and tractors to entertain Rick and the rest of the boys while Ellen, Michelle, Peggy, Tommy, and John learned more about their family.

Next it was on to the actual Leddy farm itself, currently a dairy operation in the capable hands of Aidan (Leddy?  Fitzgerald?) and family.  Cousin Shane (Sean?) and Desmond were fast friends and Shane gave us the sort of farm tour that only an almost-4-year old can deliver (complete with a lilting "Ay that fohcking donkey, always running dis way an dat!").











party time

the whole clan, assembled for Grandpa's birthday party!


Tuesday, July 16, 2013

geeking out

high latitudes + the end of the Gulf Stream = amazingly unique vegetation!  wow!




just hanging out at the castle....

Zelik and Desmond:  fast friends
 there's something for everyone at this beautiful place


horsing around with cousins at dusk is fun....especially when dusk is at 10:45 PM


unplanned stripes festival

the playground is a real lifesaver, especially since it's within view of our happy hour spot

building a "fort" in the castle

cheers!


Animal Magic!

this morning we were treated to a visit from local wildlife wranglers/rehabbers, Animal Magic (thanks Grandma for organizing!).  Magic indeed - they were here for hours and we all had a chance to pet owls, wear snakes, hold lizards, and, best of all, get to know some amazing local birds of prey.  Don't be surprised if some of these kids want to major in falconry now!










a young barn owl




baby housemartens






a great new accessory for the birthday boy!



Hannah helps the chicken dinner look more lively