Dinner with Julia's extended family

Last night we carpooled up the mountain to Julia's Aunt's house. Reminded us of driving in Puerto Rico i.e. narrow roads, no lights, very many twists, turns, and switchbacks, not to mention lots of round-a-bouts. But thanks to Mario's and Joelle's driving skills, we all made it safely. After many introductions and attempts to communicate in English, French, and Creole, we enjoyed some adult beverages and appetizers. We then sat down, all 25 of us, for a wonderful dinner. Afterwards we celebrated with numerous toasts. We learned a new version of how to toast. You clink your glasses and say "chin-chin". It is a very old saying that goes back to the French kings. I am sure it is spelled much differently than chin-chin, but that is how you say it. Here are a few pictures........

Arrived Reunion Island

We arrived yesterday to bright sunny skies and temps in the 80's. Had dinner with Julia's parents last evening. We enjoyed some wonderful Creole and Chinese based dishes. We feel very welcome here in Reunion. Today we relaxed around the pool and spent a little time at the beach. Tonight we have a big dinner at Julia's aunt's house. A few photos of our "home" for the week.....

Dublin arrival

Hello all,

After a long day/night of travel, we arrived in Dublin around 9:30 Monday morning. We checked into our room around noon and then proceeded to hit downtown Dublin's Temple Bar area. Lots of neat things to see, places to eat and of course fun shopping. We were only able to touch on a few things. Trinity College is a must see if you are ever here. One highlight for me was enjoying a beautiful draft pint of Guiness at the original Temple Bar. Well, make that two pints! We also enjoyed some smoked trout on traditional Irish soda bread, that was excellent. The whole Temple Bar area is very quaint with lots of cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. We took a few pictures........Mike Madigan will note my Irish green, I'm sure! Will post them soon, I hope!

3 days and we're off to Reunion Island

Welcome to all who are interested in following our next adventure to our son's wedding in Reunion Island. It is located off the tip of Africa, east of Madagascar Island. The Island is French with a relationship to France similar to the of Puerto Rico and the U.S. It is a beautiful place with around 800,000 inhabitants. If you have time try a Goggle search on You Tube for "Amazing Reunion" and/or try this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NeBr2GwhrQ.

We will be adding pictures and posts as we go along, so be sure to check back in

Merci and for now, Au Revoir
Dave et Jan