Sunday

Sunday 11/3/12 some of us went to Roscommon for meeting, some stayed behind and walked to mass.  What was special for us was for Ruben's folks to meet the friends in our area, the ones that have captured our hearts here!
From there was our surprise for the family....
Supper and the night at Ashford Castle!  
Thoughts on this place... don't even think twice about going, don't think about the cost, just go!!!  Only people eating or staying there can cross the gate and be on the grounds and see the castle.  Because of that I thought it would be a be uppity/snotty.  But not at all, I felt like a guest at someone's home, all super friendly, such a pleasant atmosphere and so relaxing.  Decompress!  I think it was a good surprise :)  Rachael was walking on air!

After being escorted to our rooms and shown around, we walked around the grounds before it got dark and of course, fantastic photo opportunities!  Madelynne was getting very keen of Uncle Dane at this point, she wanted to be holding his hand... a nice break for mamma!

Supper was in the Dungeon.  My first time to have Garlic Creme Brulee.  T'was interesting!

The next morning after breakfast, we wandered through the hotel, gift shop, signed the VERY OLD guest book and then headed off.

I had heard so much good about this place I had my reservations, yet was so excited to go.  It deserves 10 stars and after writing this post and checking out it's website again, I want to go back now!

Our room was in the original part of the castle over looking the fountain.  Loved hearing the fountain all night!  This sweet poem was on our pillows after the beds were turned down.  They even put out slippers for us all, including the children.  The boys love wearing their's around the house now.  So many nice little touches.... sigh, did I mention I want to go back now?