Journal - Recap and Vacation

Even if you are not a compulsive internet-checker, you may have noticed that the blog HIWAY99ER has been recently lacking in regular posts. This could be attributed to the author (hiway99er) being otherwise occupied with tasks including:

• reading about capoeira,
• running through the mud,
  
• researching the land use impacts of transportation,
  
• photographing a DeLorean,
• performing in an improvisation ensemble,
  
• climbing over fences in search of waterfalls,
  
• cooking a smashed potato pizza,
  
• contemplating whether that thing on the horizon is Scotland or just some large clouds, and
  
• chasing rainbows and leprechauns.
  

However, all of these perfectly valid reasons do not excuse the lack of written and pictorial updates during the past few weeks. Perhaps I may elaborate on some of these points in a future posting. But just as in Back to the Future II, I will turn now to discussing future events and wait for a future time to return to discussions of the past.

Tomorrow morning I depart on the first leg of a three-week tour of the island of Eire, composed of the Republic of Ireland and the area controlled by the devolved government of Northern Ireland (UK). The first ten days will follow the travels of two Germans and one American as they navigate the treacherous left-sides of narrow roads along the west coast of Ireland in their small European car. Theirs may be a journey of discovery and adventure, as they search for beautiful hikes, towering cliffs, historic cathedrals, and good music.

Once safely home in Belfast, there will be a brief intermission, but grab your popcorn and go to the bathroom quickly because our story continues with only a very brief break. It will then turn southward, and chronicle the exciting adventures of one family as they circumnavigate the entire island. They will likely be faced with challenging situations that test the strength of their character, and the strength of the American dollar.

So for all your Ireland-journey-blogging needs, including more frequent posts* and color illustrations, keep it tuned to HIWAY99ER.

*Subject to adequate internet access and sufficient sleep. Premium service is available for $14.99 per week. PA residents add 5% tax. Some restrictions apply. Not available in all areas.