We four attended Mass at St. Eugene Cathedral located two blocks away –  its great youth choir sang wonderfully. After a simple breakfast at neighborhood Brooke Park, we planned an afternoon drive through County Donegal. First stop, the ancient 12th century stone fortress of Grianan of Aileach with a far off view of the River Foyle and the green Northern Ireland countryside. Sheep galore along the route! Next, we drove to the water’s edge to see Dunlee, a strategic U.S. military post in WWII.

Then, Cora drove us to Swan Park for a loop walk along its river park and the coastal beach walk which she loves. Heading out of Donegal over and through hills of family dairies and sheep ranches, we paused for pub drinks then hit the road back to Derry.  Picking up Kelly, Eleanor’s younger sister, we feasted on pizza. A great day out of doors.

Carbo-loading with an Irish breakfast.

Grainan of Aileach – Cat and Eleanor along the walk.

Sweet girls catching up…

Whimsical faery house along Swan Park’s walking path. These abodes pop up everywhere in Northern Ireland wooded spaces, a tradition to house the wee spirits.