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"Welcome back Ms. Harrington," said the immigration officer when I arrived at his window this morning at 8am. "Oh no, you see this is my first time in Ireland," I replied. "No lass, your people are from Ireland, I'm sure of it. I can see it," he answered. "My father's family is from Ireland," I confirmed for him. "So you see then, welcome home," he said with a smile and stamped my passport. Despite the -2 C weather, my heart was warmed by Ireland and I began to fall in love.

The people are remarkably kind. They are proud of their country and are pleased to have visitors. Everyone smiles and there is laughter in the air. On Diane's first double decker bus ride, we met a little girl and her mother. The little girl with big blue eyes was so excited since it was her first trip to the city of Dublin. We became fast friends when she learned it was my first trip to the city as well and together we took in the sites from the top of the bus. "Look a little girl like me... see those people croossing the street... why is that building purple?" Joining her in childlike wonder, Diane and I watched the city of Dublin unfold before us.

At our stop near the Liffey River, we wandered over to Temple Barr where we walked through TradFest, the annual music festival in Dublin. Music was everywhere from bawdy pub drinking songs to haunting harps and violins. We strolled through the cobblestone streets and browsed the old book bins. Every step more enchanting than the one before.

After a long rest this afternoon, we headed out to see a traditional folk music and dance show. The music was lively, the company fantastic and the dancers were mesmerizing. We had Beef & Guiness casserole which despite the fact that I don't like Guiness was delicious. But these things I have described are tangible details so they are easy to record. The harder part is explaining the sound of the Liffey flowing or the lilt of Irish laughter, the smell of stew and fresh breads, the mystique of the old buildings, and the feel of the breeze as it wraps around you. It is easy to fall in love with Ireland.... welcome home.

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