Homeward James

Aelish collected me at 7:30 a.m. and took me to Murlough Beach. I find the Slieve Donard to be very picturesque, in case that wasn't already obvious.

Aelish and I watched her little dog Lily run circles on the beach as we caught up on family news and news of our former employer, Vanguard.

I guess my beach photos are getting a bit boring by now, but I found each beach and each morning different.

Over the two trips mom and I have enjoyed – Donegal and Newcastle – I remember only one day of rain, during the drive to Ballyliffin. And the sun was out by the time we got to the golf course. Not what I expected for October, but I'm thrilled.

Aelish sent me another photo of this driftwood in Whatsapp with a soundtrack: I am the Walrus.

Strike a pose. I didn't take mom to this beach because you have to walk up and down through the dunes to get to it. Here are some of the dunes with the Mournes as backdrop.

Mom and I had our final breakfast in the grand dining room at the Slieve Donard, then packed up the car, visited a few gift shops in Newcastle and an old fashioned department store. I bought a mahogany floor lamp at an antique store, and a gift for David, who was in charge of Paddy for the past four days. And I got a box of produce at a greengrocer's shop, including Mourne queens – every area has its own spud.

I then drove home, settled mom in with her book, then took presents to David, walked Paddy, and went to the store. Dinner was roasted beetroot with balsamic vinegar with goats cheese and steamed cavolo nero--with the beetroot and kale coming from the greengrocer's. Not bad for an amateur. We watched Strictly Come Dancing and the results show then turned in.

Oct. 13