A Magical Mystery Tour

I landed in Dublin yesterday and I am already packing to leave. About two months ago, I booked a Ryan Air flight to Liverpool for 26 Euros (about $30 US). It was such a good price that if I didn't use it, I wouldn't be too upset at losing $30.

As of yesterday morning, I was planning on not going to Liverpool. Being two days late into Dublin - I was a little self conscious about how much work I had to catch up on. However, after being back in town yesterday, getting caught up, and talking to my team members, I've decided to use the flight and have a weekend in Liverpool.

One of my main concerns was that I would not be able to get back to Dublin if the volcanic ash cloud shifted once again. My colleague from Liverpool has assured me if that happens, he'll pick me up from my hotel and we'll take the ferry back to Dublin.

So, with all of my concerns addressed, I'm flying out to Liverpool tonight - returning early Monday morning. Of the many things to do in Liverpool, I do plan on taking the Magical Mystery Tour, taking in some Beatles history.

I'll also likely visit Snowdonia National Park in North Wales. The rest of my agenda for the weekend in wide open. I've rented a car - let's see where it takes me.

Eyjafjallajökull Strikes Back

You thought it was under control? Awww, hell no! The Icelandic volcano which threatened my family's return from the Emerald Isle is erupting en force once again. Tonight, Eyjafjallajökull got its revenge and grounded my flight. So now I'm not returning to Ireland until Tuesday evening.

Who said wishes don't come true? Although I'm a little disappointed that the flight didn't get out - since I have a ton of things to catch up with back in Ireland - I was secretly hoping to spend a little more time with my family before heading back. Beth tells me that her Mother's Day wish came true.

So perhaps it's an angry volcano, or perhaps it's the divine hand of God. Either way, I've got another two days with my family and I'm going to cherish it.

The Flaming Ash Hole

Eyjafjallajokull? Go Eyjafjallajokull yourself. Yes, that is the name of the Icelandic volcano that has thrown European airspace asunder. Tomorrow, we get to take on the great Eyjafjallajokull by flying out of Ireland.

The flight that we're on goes back and forth between Chicago and Dublin every day. Ever since Eyjafjallajokull vomited its ash into the air, the flight had been grounded. Wednesday afternoon, serviced started up again and there have been two successful journeys to Chicago and one successful return trip.

God willing, we'll be able to fly home tomorrow. But just to be safe, we're looking to sacrifice a couple of virgins to the Volcano to appease it's hunger. Anybody know where we can find some?