Fourth of July Festivities and More!

The Lads of Hermitage Green

                                        

Orla, Sarah, and the only Yank in town for the 4th

  Hello Blog Readers, I hope everyone had a lovely Fourth of July! Although it was quite the homesick-holiday, the Fourth of July Barbeque at the Manor was wonderful. Over four-hundred guests attended our outdoor celebration complete with bales of hay, hamburgers and hot dogs, and an ice cream van; all very American!
 
   I began planning for this Barbeque on my first day at the Manor so it has been a project near and dear to my heart since my arrival. Therefore, it was especially nice to see the hard work pay off. Hermitage Green, a local, Limerick band, whose popularity and fame has skyrocketed in the last year, played a wonderful show and created quite the outdoor dance floor. Both children and adults enjoyed our renound falconry displays and my lovely roomates conducted a putting competition for all who dared to take them on.

                                      

                         

  As the night progressed, the Barbeque morphed into a staff celebration that lasted quite late! However, it was a great chance to relax with everyone. We have all become so close these past couple months. I can't even begin to think about how hard it is going to be to say goodbye to everyone here. Ahhh! Moving on...

Dave, Gary, Mark, and a few of our international members at the Barbeque

Three lovely ladies from my office: Orla, Gillian, and Sarah

Mark and Gary, two of our Golf Pros, enjoying Hermitage Green

                           

 Alan, Orla, and Gilian 

Eoin, Rob, Mark and Cathy keeping the 4th of July party going strong late-night

Rob, Jen and Eoin 

Bryan and Rob at an outdoor beer garden in Limerick for my brithday

    The heat wave continues over here! I am not exaggerating when I say it has not rained in almost three weeks. The 80 degree temperatures are nearly melting the Irish and the tar on the roads is bubbling, but this American not complaining. I wouldn't have it any other way in July!

  This past Sunday, The Bentley Boys, a group of retired Bentley collecting gentleman, drove their prized cars from Liverpool to Adare Manor. The road trip was created to raise awareness for local charities. The Boys spent two nights in the Manor, during which their cars were on display for the public. It was a great publicity opportunity for the Manor and a really unique experience for staff and locals alike. The cars were amazing and it was a great way to spend a gorgeous Sunday.

                       

   Finally, just incase you were concerned, we are all still golfing more than ever. The lads are playing far better golf than I am but I guess I'll let them slide. Afterall, it is what they're studying.

                         

Rob pretending not to see me on the 15th tee box

 And again... Dave and Eoin hiding from my camera on the 18th green