Exploring the countryside

Today we traveled the scenic route up the County Antrim Coast, gleaning tidbits of Irish life. The hedgerows that serve as fences for fields are highly encouraged by the government. They are a significant wildlife habitat, providing shelter and nesting areas for birds. Pruning is only permitted at certain times of year to avoid disturbing the birds. The Irish can also be a rather superstitious lot. When you see a bush/tree in a place that makes no sense, chances are it’s a fairy tree. Woe be to any mortal who dares to disturb it. We also learned that sheep are raised for meat rather than wool. The wool from the Irish sheep is very coarse and not really usable. All those lovely sweaters and woolen clothing is made in Ireland, but from imported wool. Interesting 🤨. As we drove along the coast we spotted multiple salmon and mussels farms in the water. Sustainability is important. We stopped off in Bushmills for a protein packed lunch. I feel guilty when I only eat about half of what they serve me, but the portions are so generous we couldn’t possibly eat it all. We had an opportunity to walk some of it off when we reached The Giant’s Causeway. Fascinating rock formations accompanied by legends of feuding giants made for an interesting hike. We also learned that Scotland is only 12 miles away as the crow flies. Fortunately the sun came out and skies were sufficiently clear that we could spot Scotland in the distance. While at a local restaurant for dinner, we had a nice chat with a young couple from Ohio who were Pittsburgh Steelers fans. Seems the NFL is invading Ireland, as the Steelers take on the Vikings next week in Dublin. That explains all the banners we saw. Knowing that Dublin was originally a Viking town, I wonder who they’ll be rooting for 🤣.Read more