Day 2 AM: We woke up early in the morning and after a traditional Irish breakfast of smoked salmon, eggs, sausage, cheese and rustic bread, we set off for the Clliffs of Moher, the crowning glory of the Clare coastline. At 700 feet at its highest point, the Cliffs offer an unrivaled view of the far side of the Atlantic Ocean. We hiked around the rim on paths that at times veered fearsomely close to the edge, and experienced extreme changes in the weather. From one moment to the next we would be shedding our jackets or putting on a rain suit. At times the winds were so intense Joanne was afraid she would be swept off the cliff and dropped down into the sea like the Irish myth which tells of a hag who tried to follow her unrequited love. Losing her footing she fell into the ocean staining the waters red with her blood. Others around us were unfazed by the treacherous ledge. They leaned over the edge to take selfies or pretended to take off in flight. There was a memorial plaque in remembrance of those who lost their lives here and a hotline number for those contemplating ending it all to call.

The Cliffs of Moher looking north

The weather can change dramatically.

Cliffs of Moher looking south.

Branaunmore Sea Stack

700 foot drop

Joanne in her rain suit.

Joanne at O’Brien’s Tower built in 1835.

Aran Islands from the Cliffs of Moher

Selfie Takers

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Taking flight.

Memorial plaque.