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Have you ever put your foot in your mouth, embarrassing
yourself and offending someone else? Well, if you've ever wanted the gift of
gab instead of awkward silence, you're in luck - the Luck of the Irish, to be exact.
Here, at Ireland's Blarney Castle, one little kiss can grant you
the gift of eloquence.
May the road rise to meet you when we try to kiss the
Blarney Stone! Seeking a smooch is no easy feat. First, we must climb to the
top tower on the spiral staircase. Then, not only will you have to lean over
backwards with a stranger supporting your legs, but you'll have to lean between
two walls until you lower your head to be even with the stone. Pucker up!
Perhaps you'd prefer to kiss a lass or lady? Your wish is my
command! The Wishing Steps are another magical place at this medieval Irish castle.
These naturally-formed rock stairs will grant you any wish - that is, if you're
able to walk down them and then back up, with your mind on nothing but your
wish. Most importantly, your eyes must be closed! Can you handle it? If so,
legend says that your wish will be granted within a year's time.
Aren't you glad we left Easter Island to visit the Blarney Castle? This 600-year old structure is
actually the third building to stand on this site. In the tenth century, a
wooden structure stood here. Then a stone structure replaced it in 1210 AD.
Finally, in 1446, Dermot MacCarthy built the current castle to replace the
stone structure with its troubled foundation.
Later, the King of Munster, Cormac MacCarthy, lived in the Blarney Castle for some time. During his reign, he
ordered 4,000 Munster
men at the Battle of Bannockburn to serve as Robert the Bruce's barricade. The
Scottish royal was so thankful for this support that he gave half of the Stone
of Scone to MacCarthy in appreciation. This is the Blarney Stone that you
kissed today, cara (friend).
Clovers, Gaelic, kisses, good luck, castles, and Guinness.
How could you not love the majesty of Erie? Ireland is
truly a breath of fresh air. To celebrate the Emerald Isle, why don't we stop
at this local watering hole before we journey across the Irish
Sea? Here's a toast to you, cara,
"May the strength of three be in our journey."
Next Stop…It's
Big. It's Ben.
Resources
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blarney_Castle
http://people.howstuffworks.com/saint-patrick2.htm
http://www.destination360.com/europe/ireland/blarney-castle.php
http://tacomaweekly.tripod.com/Irish-Quotations.html
http://www.blarneycastle.ie/
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Re: Kiss Me! I’m Irish.
