We took a stroll to pick up the bus next to a near by park. We had walked past it several times a day but the timing had not worked out so this was our first time wandering through.
We arrived at the train station with far too much time to spare. Still, we were resourceful and managed to wander down by the Liffey and look at all manner of wildlife, though it was dominated by pigeons and gulls. We also watched the trains coming and going.
After a short train trip we arrived in Kildare. It was a good 45 minute walk to our destination due to short legs and the distraction of a rather good playground. Eventually we reached the Irish National Stud and the Japanese Gardens.
The best part were the mares and foals. They have about 140 foals this year.
There were many signs warning that some horses like to bite, but since we stuck to the little ones we emerged finger intact.
I have a lot of pictures of horses now.
I also have that Patti Smith song going through my head on repeat.
Not wishing to slight other members of the animal kingdom, we also stopped to pet a very happy cat.
It was hard to drag Maggie away and in her defense the cat was very nice. Next up was the Japanese garden. It told the story of a person from birth to death. We went through the whole thing and then took the easy path the wrong way back as a short cut so we could do the story all over again.
The path of tribulations involved some stepping stones.
I think we were standing in "frustration" when we caught a good view of the bridge of life. And of course we walked by a lovely tea house before we reached the Gates of Eternity.
We considered getting a shuttle back to Kildare, but it seemed to be a shame not to take the walk back. After some credit card frustrations at the automatic ticket machine (since resolved) we caught the train back to Dublin.
Ireland has been good to us and so we say farewell. Tomorrow it is off to Edinburgh!
Wow, you guys are taking the British Isles by storm! Edinburgh already tomorrow!
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