Etherials

We have favorite wildflowers which Mark has always referred to as "etherials"  .  .  . I think that is how I will remember Spring days in Ireland.  One minute the sun is shining, then five minutes later it is shade of gray, followed by mist, followed by sun. . .they refer to "four seasons in a day" here, and it is true.

This weekend illustrated it well.

First out on Saturday, an exploration of the music stores which are everywhere in our neighborhood on Great George's Street. . . looking at bodrhans as a possible thank you to Ed for looking after the house while we're away . . . lots of educating to do when looking at instruments, and the locals are happy to help.

After a quick lunch at home, back out for our first trip to Phoenix Park, a national historic park of 1752 acres which houses the official residence of the President of Ireland.  We didn't make it that far into the park on this first visit, but I'm sure we will on a future one.

The posts say "350 year

Annivesary" but I didn't stand in the road to get a better photo

Wellington Monument

Warmed up with a cup of tea before heading out of the park

Heuston Station to catch the Luas

Finished up Saturday with some more shopping - - bookstore, wine and Mark's Valentine "flowers" - - basil and thyme plants - a kitchen garden :)

Sunday brought another concert opportunity. . . this time for a trio of Piano, Oboe and Bassoon.  For this failed oboeist, the double reeds always capture my heart.  It was an amazing concert of 20th century pieces (Poulenc, Previn and Francaix) brilliantly performed in a beautiful space . . . and it was free!  Love it!

That was followed by our first ride on the city bus service - - easy once you figure out the routes.  A 15 minute ride from the city center took us to the National botanic Gardens.  The glass houses were our original destination, but the grounds sucked us in, even though it really is early for anything to be blooming. . . nevertheless, just the forms of the trees in winter made it worth the walk!!!

Copper Beech

Spooky lane

Winter Aconite

Glass houses inside and out

Happy Valentine's Day!