Day 5: "Come away, O human child! To the waters and the wild With a faery, hand in hand" ~ W.B. Yeats

 
          Since we are staying at a lodge, one of the activities Josh and I have the ability to partake in is to go canoeing (as the site describes) in the morning :) an excellent way to wake up (and to remind me of Algonquin). After, we will pack up and make our way to Trim castle. What would a trip to Ireland be if we did not stop and see castles! One of my favorite movies of all time is Braveheart and I was astounded to read that this Medieval castle was featured in the film (LP 542). Thus out of the many castles of Ireland this one holds a special place in my heart. Perhaps Josh will allow me to paint half of his face blue ... We have to ensure we stop here in time for the tour at 11 A.M

FREEEEEEEEEDOM!!!

          After viewing this spectacular castle we will make our way to the Hill of Tara. Before touring the Hill, I will visit the Old Tara Book Shop to purchase the book The Tara Walk written by the store owner Michael Slavin. In it are instructions and information on how to experience this historical pagan site (LP 541). I can't wait to walk through this area and really soak in Irish folklore at its best, while learning more about my Irish roots and feeling the presence of some mystical magical power that lingers here still. This is one stop I cannot overlook. Hopefully, I will not let superstition get the best of me as I traverse this pagan ground (especially when viewing the Fairy tree as shown Below)

Hawthorns: Cloth wards off bad luck from fairies

          Once we have finished the self guided tour, we shall make our way to the Midlands where we will be staying the night. We will have dinner at the Old Fort Restaurant. Situated on the Shannon River, the restaurant was once a fort used to defend Ireland from the infamous Napoleon (LP 509) It is the perfect night to relax and enjoy a three course meal after such a busy day (perhaps I will even try the Slowly Braised Lamb Shank as the menu describes ... yum)? Shannonbridge is described as being "picturesque" so we will definitely take the opportunity to walk around this quaint "sleepy village" (LP 509). It sounds so relaxing :)
          Of course, the best way to end the day will be by stopping at Killeens Village Tavern (where we have to leave Josh's business card, it is tradition LP 509)  for a nice pint before our heads hit the pillow. We picked Gullane's Hotel out of convenience as it is situated close to the next day's activity therefore cutting down on drive time, while also close to Shannonbridge.