Dublin | Ireland 2013

From the Dublin port, we headed straight to our hotel, which happened to be right across the street from the historic Jameson Distillery—a fitting welcome to Ireland! As always in a new city, we started with the hop-on hop-off bus to get our bearings, passing by Dublin’s lively streets and Georgian architecture. I was immediately struck by the street signs written in Gaelic first, and English second—a beautiful reminder of Ireland’s deep cultural pride and ongoing efforts to preserve its native language.

One of our first major stops was Trinity College, home to the Book of Kells, a breathtaking 9th-century illuminated manuscript created by Celtic monks. Seeing its intricate calligraphy and artwork in person felt like stepping into the very heart of Ireland’s medieval history. From there, we went on to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland, founded in 1191 and steeped in legend—St. Patrick himself is said to have baptized converts nearby. Inside, the soaring Gothic architecture and historic monuments were awe-inspiring, but it was the park just outside that became the most memorable place of all: Tom got down on one knee, with little Cole perched on his, and proposed to me. It was one of the most magical and meaningful moments of my life, forever tying Dublin to our family’s story.

To celebrate, we toured the Guinness Storehouse, where we learned about Ireland’s most famous export before toasting at the Gravity Bar with its sweeping views of Dublin. Wanting to connect with Tom’s roots, we took a day trip to the small town of Castlecomer, where some of his family originated. There, we visited the local church, made rubbings of old headstones, and chatted with locals at a pub—an experience that felt like stepping back into a more intimate, timeless Ireland.

We also ventured north to Belfast in Northern Ireland, and it was striking how different it felt compared to the Republic. The city’s layered history, shaped by the Troubles and its shipbuilding past (most famously as the birthplace of the Titanic), gave it a distinct atmosphere—one that was both sobering and fascinating.

Back in Dublin, we delighted in simple pleasures—strolling along the River Liffey, slipping into cozy cafés, and dining in warm, bustling restaurants. Everywhere we went, we were met with the famous Irish friendliness and charm. Our time in Ireland was unforgettable, not just for the history and beauty, but for the deeply personal connections it gave us—to Tom’s heritage, to Ireland’s culture, and to each other. We left already dreaming of returning—next time, perhaps, to trace my own family’s roots.