We saw the rainbows, but where were the leprechauns?

I've been away from blogging recently as we've been quite busy this month.  My parents came for an exciting 2 week stay, during which we visited Ireland, attempted a trip to Oxford and watched a lot of Fireman Sam.  My parents haven't seen Aiden in person since February when he was about 7 months old and just starting to crawl.  So, I was super-psyched to see them again and watch them interact with my much changed little boy.


After a couple of days in Cambridge, we set off for Ireland.  I was a bit apprehensive about taking a toddler on an airplane, but it wasn't a total nightmare.  Aiden actually did pretty well.  He entertained himself by playing with the window shades and tray table and playing peek-a-boo with the man behind us.  He was very friendly and happened to be from Galway, where we were headed and so, gave us some good local tips.  We spent a total of 4 days in west Ireland, where we trekked along the famous and ruggedly gorgeous Cliffs of Moher.  Aiden loved splashing in the puddles and climbing steps.  He hardly wanted to be in the pushchair at all - he's so independent these days!  At times, Grandpa put him up on his shoulders and Aiden quite enjoyed this mode of travel.  We did a driving tour of the area surrounding Connemara National Park and had a brief hike there before lunching at the Kylemore Abbey cafe.  I most enjoyed Galway, where we stayed three nights.  The city centre streets were fun to wander along and one night, Don and I listened to some traditional Irish music in a local pub.  You can see some pics and a video on my picasa site - click on the picture to the right.


At the end of our trip, Aiden suddenly got sick on the way home from the airport.  He was ill with a stomach bug for a few days and then seemed to perk up, the better he felt.  So, we chanced an overnight trip to Oxford.  That night, Aiden was fine (well, aside from teething and hardly sleeping), but me and Dad weren't!  We must have caught the same bug.  So, with most of the crew down (Don had a cold), we just piled back in the car back for the comforts of home in Cambridge.  We did see the Oxford city centre and high street, but that was about it!  Oh well, perhaps we'll be able to see it again some other time.


Illnesses aside, we've had a wonderful couple of weeks with family and enjoyed spending time together.  As Thanksgiving approaches, I hope all of you have a great week with your families and friends!