Molly had a lot to think about on the trip home. When she arrived back in Kilmore Quay she realized that there was something important that she needed to take care of before the next weekend came around and Kevin arrived. All this time she had been getting to know Kevin, she had never shared any of this with her parents. While she regularly visited them, she did not share this special relationship that had been blossoming between her and Kevin. Now it was going to be mandatory to do that.
Molly arrived back in Kilmore Quay just around dinner time and called her parents to see if she could stop by for a bit in the evening. Peter and Kara were snuggled by the fire as the cold wind came off the sea when Molly arrived. Even in their retirement age, they still appeared like young lovers.
Previously, Molly had explained to them that she was taking a weekend trip to Dublin, but did not go into details. Both were a bit skeptical and suspicious, but knew not to probe as Molly would tell them what was going on in her own time. Peter had actually thought this might have something to do with a sailing competition, but waited patiently without asking.
Molly walked up the small hill overlooking the quay to their cottage thinking to herself that someday she would like to have something similar with someone, maybe Kevin. Her thoughts kept wandering back to how Kevin was so entrenched in Dublin, and how he might get bored living the kind of lifestyle she so loved.
Peter and Kara's place was small but very comfortable and Molly made herself at home in a big easy chair after greeting her parents. She could tell by the look on their faces, they were waiting to her to tell them what was going on. So starting back at the beginning when she first met Kevin, she told the story of how the two of them had become so close.
Peter smiled and said, “I'd been hearing some rumors from the pub that you were hanging out with some city lad. Now I know it's true. So is he a good dependable lad?”
Peter was only concerned for his daughter that she find someone good and dependable for the long run as he had. Kara was quiet during this time leaving the discussion to Peter.
“Da, he's coming to visit again next weekend, and I'd like to bring him by,” Molly explained. “I really do want you and Mum to meet him.”
Kara perked up, “Well, then, we'll have to have a perfectly planned family dinner for your friend. It's been ages since I've had to plan something special. At least I have all week to get things together. Peter, we'll need a trip to Wexford Town to shop and I need to find something extraordinary to prepare.”
“Nonsense Kara, he's just a Dublin lad, what will he care?” Peter was going to be a bit more cautious about this.
They all laughed and for the remainder of the evening Molly shared her experiences from her trip to Dublin. Her new silver bracelet with the sailboat charm did not go unnoticed by her mother either.
Molly knew the week would be busy with making sure all the sloops were ready for winter and that the sail shop had all the supplies it needed. She would be limiting hours now as the water was not fit for taking tourists out and business was slower. Next weekend she and Kevin would be doing some exploring around the area scouting places that they might take the group the following spring. Molly also wanted to take Kevin to a few other local sites that might interest him.
That next week Molly found herself working around the sail shop with more of a purpose than she usually did. She smiled more being content to know that the weekend would soon be there.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Friday, May 25, 2012
#15 The Quay
Sunday morning arrived quickly as Molly showered and dressed for her last visit of the weekend with Kevin's sister. She took the time to indulge in a heartier breakfast thinking it would last her the trip back on the bus, and also a brisk walk around the neighborhood. She decided that she could handle Dublin as long as most of her time was spent on the outskirts of city center away from the hustle and bustle of crowds and traffic.
Molly had her small suitcase packed and downstairs near the door when Kevin arrived. He seemed a bit rushed and out of breath.
“Kevin, what's up?” Molly asked.
“Oh...nothing, I just overslept a bit and was trying to get too much done this morning before I got here,” Kevin offhandedly answered. He did seem nervous about something.
Molly knew better than to grill him on what was going on. If he wanted to tell Molly, he would in his own time. Over these past few months she had learned to trust his judgment and not push.
Kevin put the suitcase in the back seat, and the two headed off to the south side of Dublin to Dun Laoghaire along the coast and Kevin's sister's house. Siobhan and her husband lived in an apartment on Harbour Road overlooking Dun Laoghaire. Other than the fact that it was an apartment and on the third floor, Molly thought the location was stunning.
Siobhan's husband worked for a national telecommunications company, and Siobhan worked at a local doctor's office handling insurance claims. They had bought the apartment before the price boom, and now were very happy that their investment paid off.
If Molly had any concerns about meeting Siobhan, they were quickly put to rest once they were introduced and started chatting. Siobhan, like her mother, was open and friendly and only wanted the best for Kevin as his older sister. It wasn't long before the two women had left Kevin and his brother-in-law inside the apartment and sat down with some tea on the balcony overlooking the harbour.
Siobhan's questions were probing, but not in an offensive way. Molly felt quite comfortable talking with her. But now Molly needed to ask Siobhan some questions that she could not, and would not, ask Kevin.
“Kevin mentioned to me that he did not always make the best of choices. Do yo know what he meant by that?” Molly asked straightforward.
“Molly, Kevin can be impulsive at times. From what I understand, you've met Erin. While they dated for over a year, that was the first time he was cautious about where a relationship was going. And I have to say, with good reason. But it did take him a long time to finally break up with her. Before that he would date a girl for a few months and think he wanted to get married. We've really tried to guide him into some better choices."
“Kevin and I are very close and while we might not see each other very often, we do chat on the phone and share our feelings about things. I could see how impressed he was after he met you the first time. I waited until he brought up the subject of sailing again several times and listened closely to what he was saying. I tried to get through the whole sailing thing and listened to what he was saying about you. He had no idea he was focusing on you just as much as he was the idea of sailing, but I could see it. I wanted to give him the chance of following his interest in sailing, but also a chance to get to know you better, so I bought him the sailing lessons as a gift. I have to say, it was one of my best choices,” Siobhan concluded smiling.
“Thank you for your honesty Siobhan. I always wonder about ulterior motives, and after meeting Erin, I felt I was so different, and was struggling with why Kevin had any interest in me,” Molly confessed.
“Molly, what you need to understand is with Erin, it was more of her hanging on to Kevin, than Kevin wanting to continue the relationship. It was very difficult for him to break it off. And I'm still not sure to this day that Erin has realized that she really has no chance with Kevin. Be careful of that one,” Siobhan advised.
“Oh, I've already had a run in with her, but I can hold my own. I might be from a small town, but there will be no walking all over me. And as for Kevin, I would not be putting up from any shenanigans from him either,” Molly and Siobhan both laughed at this.
“You are just what Kevin needs,” Siobhan. “I can see you can take care of yourself and not put up with nonsense from him. Somehow I knew that when I talked to you on the phone. He does care very much for you. He doesn't bring many girls around to meet the family. I'm so very glad we had this time to meet and chat. Don't be a stranger,” Siobhan finished.
“And I'd love for you and your husband to come down to Kilmore Quay and visit too. If you like being out on the water, we could work out a sailing weekend, maybe a family trip,” Molly offered generously.
“Sounds good, but it's difficult for us to get away. We'll see what next spring and summer bring along,” Siobhan smiled.
Kevin and Molly bid their farewells to Siobhan and her husband and headed for the bus station. This trip had been a real eye-opener for Molly and she had actually enjoyed herself. Any concerns she had about being in Dublin were dashed. While she missed the comfort and quiet of her small town, this had been a wonderful weekend.
“Molly, I hope you had a good time this weekend,” Kevin queried.
“Kevin, it was wonderful. Such a treat for me, and I loved getting to meet your family and friends. This is definitely something I'd consider doing again. I do hope you invite me back,” Molly answered.
As they parked the car near the station, Kevin had suddenly gotten very quiet.
“Is something wrong?” Molly asked.
“I just don't want to mess this one up. I mean...I...Molly...you are very important to me. I don't want to loose you,” Kevin fumbled with his words.
“Kevin, I'm not going anywhere but back to Kilmore Quay. And if I'm correct, you are coming to visit next weekend,” Molly was getting nervous with Kevin's stammering.
Kevin reached into his pocket as he started again, “I just wanted to give this to you.”
Molly was a little nervous knowing Kevin's impulsiveness, but had to smile when she saw what Kevin was giving her. Out of his pocket he pulled a silver charm bracelet with one charm on it – a sailboat.
“It's not much, but I wanted you to keep this as a memory of your visit and know how much you mean to me,” Kevin finished his speech out of breath.
“It's absolutely beautiful, Kevin,” Molly smiled as Kevin put the delicate bracelet on her wrist. A sign that he was not being too compulsive, but still very caring. She appreciated both the thought and his feelings. She had come to feel the same, but was still hesitant about sharing her emotions with Kevin.
Their goodbye said it all as they kissed and embraced for a long time before Molly headed onto the bus. It would be a long week waiting until they were able to meet up in Kilmore Quay, but the memories of this weekend would hold them as they waited.
On the bus ride home, Molly ran through all that had happened and often looked at her new bracelet as a fond memory to keep these good times close at hand.
Molly had her small suitcase packed and downstairs near the door when Kevin arrived. He seemed a bit rushed and out of breath.
“Kevin, what's up?” Molly asked.
“Oh...nothing, I just overslept a bit and was trying to get too much done this morning before I got here,” Kevin offhandedly answered. He did seem nervous about something.
Molly knew better than to grill him on what was going on. If he wanted to tell Molly, he would in his own time. Over these past few months she had learned to trust his judgment and not push.
Kevin put the suitcase in the back seat, and the two headed off to the south side of Dublin to Dun Laoghaire along the coast and Kevin's sister's house. Siobhan and her husband lived in an apartment on Harbour Road overlooking Dun Laoghaire. Other than the fact that it was an apartment and on the third floor, Molly thought the location was stunning.
Siobhan's husband worked for a national telecommunications company, and Siobhan worked at a local doctor's office handling insurance claims. They had bought the apartment before the price boom, and now were very happy that their investment paid off.
If Molly had any concerns about meeting Siobhan, they were quickly put to rest once they were introduced and started chatting. Siobhan, like her mother, was open and friendly and only wanted the best for Kevin as his older sister. It wasn't long before the two women had left Kevin and his brother-in-law inside the apartment and sat down with some tea on the balcony overlooking the harbour.
Siobhan's questions were probing, but not in an offensive way. Molly felt quite comfortable talking with her. But now Molly needed to ask Siobhan some questions that she could not, and would not, ask Kevin.
“Kevin mentioned to me that he did not always make the best of choices. Do yo know what he meant by that?” Molly asked straightforward.
“Molly, Kevin can be impulsive at times. From what I understand, you've met Erin. While they dated for over a year, that was the first time he was cautious about where a relationship was going. And I have to say, with good reason. But it did take him a long time to finally break up with her. Before that he would date a girl for a few months and think he wanted to get married. We've really tried to guide him into some better choices."
“Kevin and I are very close and while we might not see each other very often, we do chat on the phone and share our feelings about things. I could see how impressed he was after he met you the first time. I waited until he brought up the subject of sailing again several times and listened closely to what he was saying. I tried to get through the whole sailing thing and listened to what he was saying about you. He had no idea he was focusing on you just as much as he was the idea of sailing, but I could see it. I wanted to give him the chance of following his interest in sailing, but also a chance to get to know you better, so I bought him the sailing lessons as a gift. I have to say, it was one of my best choices,” Siobhan concluded smiling.
“Thank you for your honesty Siobhan. I always wonder about ulterior motives, and after meeting Erin, I felt I was so different, and was struggling with why Kevin had any interest in me,” Molly confessed.
“Molly, what you need to understand is with Erin, it was more of her hanging on to Kevin, than Kevin wanting to continue the relationship. It was very difficult for him to break it off. And I'm still not sure to this day that Erin has realized that she really has no chance with Kevin. Be careful of that one,” Siobhan advised.
“Oh, I've already had a run in with her, but I can hold my own. I might be from a small town, but there will be no walking all over me. And as for Kevin, I would not be putting up from any shenanigans from him either,” Molly and Siobhan both laughed at this.
“You are just what Kevin needs,” Siobhan. “I can see you can take care of yourself and not put up with nonsense from him. Somehow I knew that when I talked to you on the phone. He does care very much for you. He doesn't bring many girls around to meet the family. I'm so very glad we had this time to meet and chat. Don't be a stranger,” Siobhan finished.
“And I'd love for you and your husband to come down to Kilmore Quay and visit too. If you like being out on the water, we could work out a sailing weekend, maybe a family trip,” Molly offered generously.
“Sounds good, but it's difficult for us to get away. We'll see what next spring and summer bring along,” Siobhan smiled.
Kevin and Molly bid their farewells to Siobhan and her husband and headed for the bus station. This trip had been a real eye-opener for Molly and she had actually enjoyed herself. Any concerns she had about being in Dublin were dashed. While she missed the comfort and quiet of her small town, this had been a wonderful weekend.
“Molly, I hope you had a good time this weekend,” Kevin queried.
“Kevin, it was wonderful. Such a treat for me, and I loved getting to meet your family and friends. This is definitely something I'd consider doing again. I do hope you invite me back,” Molly answered.
As they parked the car near the station, Kevin had suddenly gotten very quiet.
“Is something wrong?” Molly asked.
“I just don't want to mess this one up. I mean...I...Molly...you are very important to me. I don't want to loose you,” Kevin fumbled with his words.
“Kevin, I'm not going anywhere but back to Kilmore Quay. And if I'm correct, you are coming to visit next weekend,” Molly was getting nervous with Kevin's stammering.
Kevin reached into his pocket as he started again, “I just wanted to give this to you.”
Molly was a little nervous knowing Kevin's impulsiveness, but had to smile when she saw what Kevin was giving her. Out of his pocket he pulled a silver charm bracelet with one charm on it – a sailboat.
“It's not much, but I wanted you to keep this as a memory of your visit and know how much you mean to me,” Kevin finished his speech out of breath.
“It's absolutely beautiful, Kevin,” Molly smiled as Kevin put the delicate bracelet on her wrist. A sign that he was not being too compulsive, but still very caring. She appreciated both the thought and his feelings. She had come to feel the same, but was still hesitant about sharing her emotions with Kevin.
Their goodbye said it all as they kissed and embraced for a long time before Molly headed onto the bus. It would be a long week waiting until they were able to meet up in Kilmore Quay, but the memories of this weekend would hold them as they waited.
On the bus ride home, Molly ran through all that had happened and often looked at her new bracelet as a fond memory to keep these good times close at hand.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
#14 The Quay
It was a beautiful clear day and the ride up the hill to Howth Head lead to an amazing view across Dublin Bay. Ireland's Eye was sparkling in the sunlight, and the Wicklow Mountains hazy shadows loomed behind across the shore. Molly and Kevin stood together quietly for a while with Kevin's arm around Molly's shoulder just contemplating the view. Kilmore Quay was a bit flatter and didn't have this kind of view that Molly was enjoying so much.
As they came down from Howth Head Kevin headed north out of Dublin to the Malahide Castle and grounds. Situated not far from the coastline with beautifully manicured gardens, the two walked for what seemed like hours through the lush foliage. Their quiet conversation was casual and they stopped often to talk about the gardens. Kevin had quite the interest in the gardens of Ireland and had visited many of them. He explained to Molly that if they had ventured to Powerscourt, they might never come back before dark. Locally that was his favorite.
Molly explained to Kevin about all the gardens in Wexford and how so many were also linked to castles, suggesting that they could make a day trip at some point during the winter when they were not sailing. Kevin looked forward to this.
The evening would be spent in city center again with Kevin's friends, although Kevin noted that Erin had texted him saying she was unable to make the get together that night. Molly breathed a sigh of relief not relishing another go round with Erin. If she did come to Kilmore Quay for that outing, that would be more than Molly would want to handle.
When Kevin and Molly met up in Temple Bar with Matt, Julianna and Damon, they were already inside the pub with seats saved. Molly was surprised that they were so excited about the weekend trip to Kilmore Quay that they had already started talking about when they would plan this trip and how it would work out. They had already been checking out B&Bs in the area and some self-catering cottages that would be available for a long weekend stay. Molly was glad she could add her knowledge of the area and recommendations for the best places. While it was still quite a while away, the group realized that come some good weather, reservations would be difficult to come by.
Molly was elated to hear all this enthusiasm. She knew that there would have to be a lot of planning on her end to block off a weekend where this group would be her priority. Campfires on the beach, days out sailing, and some sightseeing also would tax her organization skills. The group had already decided to rent a van for the trip so they could all ride together where ever they went, and it would also fit the girls' luggage. Although Julianna announced that she could pack as frugally as any of the lads in the group. Matt countered with the fact that he would need at least to suitcases for all his clothes changes that weekend. The date would be chosen after the first of the year when everyone could have a better look at their work calendars.
Kevin watched how well Molly fit into this group all during the evening. She was confident and friendly and almost seemed like she had known this group for ages. Molly loved how welcoming this group of Kevin's friends had been to her and looked forward to the possibility of meeting up with them again. Other than her experience with Erin, this trip was well worth it.
The night came to an end much quicker than any of the group had expected. Their excited conversation had used up most of the evening. Kevin and Molly bid good-night to all and walked the block back to the car hand in hand.
“I have to say, Kevin, that I was a bit hesitant about this weekend trip, but it has been such fun and a joy to meet your friends,” Molly explained.
“It's been great to see you interact with all of them and my family too, Molly. Maybe I just did something right this time,” Kevin had a look of confidence about his statement.
“Are you saying you've done a lot wrong?” Molly queried.
“No, just I've not always made the best of decisions in my life. This one was a good one,” Kevin turned to Molly and kissed her on the cheek. “Tomorrow we're going to make a quick visit to my sister's before I drop you off at the bus for your trip home. She's the one who pushed me into all these sailing lessons, you know,” Kevin smiled as he thought back to how all this had started.
As they came down from Howth Head Kevin headed north out of Dublin to the Malahide Castle and grounds. Situated not far from the coastline with beautifully manicured gardens, the two walked for what seemed like hours through the lush foliage. Their quiet conversation was casual and they stopped often to talk about the gardens. Kevin had quite the interest in the gardens of Ireland and had visited many of them. He explained to Molly that if they had ventured to Powerscourt, they might never come back before dark. Locally that was his favorite.
Molly explained to Kevin about all the gardens in Wexford and how so many were also linked to castles, suggesting that they could make a day trip at some point during the winter when they were not sailing. Kevin looked forward to this.
The evening would be spent in city center again with Kevin's friends, although Kevin noted that Erin had texted him saying she was unable to make the get together that night. Molly breathed a sigh of relief not relishing another go round with Erin. If she did come to Kilmore Quay for that outing, that would be more than Molly would want to handle.
When Kevin and Molly met up in Temple Bar with Matt, Julianna and Damon, they were already inside the pub with seats saved. Molly was surprised that they were so excited about the weekend trip to Kilmore Quay that they had already started talking about when they would plan this trip and how it would work out. They had already been checking out B&Bs in the area and some self-catering cottages that would be available for a long weekend stay. Molly was glad she could add her knowledge of the area and recommendations for the best places. While it was still quite a while away, the group realized that come some good weather, reservations would be difficult to come by.
Molly was elated to hear all this enthusiasm. She knew that there would have to be a lot of planning on her end to block off a weekend where this group would be her priority. Campfires on the beach, days out sailing, and some sightseeing also would tax her organization skills. The group had already decided to rent a van for the trip so they could all ride together where ever they went, and it would also fit the girls' luggage. Although Julianna announced that she could pack as frugally as any of the lads in the group. Matt countered with the fact that he would need at least to suitcases for all his clothes changes that weekend. The date would be chosen after the first of the year when everyone could have a better look at their work calendars.
Kevin watched how well Molly fit into this group all during the evening. She was confident and friendly and almost seemed like she had known this group for ages. Molly loved how welcoming this group of Kevin's friends had been to her and looked forward to the possibility of meeting up with them again. Other than her experience with Erin, this trip was well worth it.
The night came to an end much quicker than any of the group had expected. Their excited conversation had used up most of the evening. Kevin and Molly bid good-night to all and walked the block back to the car hand in hand.
“I have to say, Kevin, that I was a bit hesitant about this weekend trip, but it has been such fun and a joy to meet your friends,” Molly explained.
“It's been great to see you interact with all of them and my family too, Molly. Maybe I just did something right this time,” Kevin had a look of confidence about his statement.
“Are you saying you've done a lot wrong?” Molly queried.
“No, just I've not always made the best of decisions in my life. This one was a good one,” Kevin turned to Molly and kissed her on the cheek. “Tomorrow we're going to make a quick visit to my sister's before I drop you off at the bus for your trip home. She's the one who pushed me into all these sailing lessons, you know,” Kevin smiled as he thought back to how all this had started.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
#13 The Quay
The rest of that evening went quickly and Kevin took Molly back to the B&B never even realizing what all had happened between Molly and Erin. Molly was a big girl and figured she had handled herself well and had gotten on fine with the rest of the group.
“Remember tomorrow afternoon we're going to have lunch with my mum and granny. That will give you a chance to sleep in some and have a bit of breakfast here at the B&B,” Kevin explained to Molly as he leaned over to kiss her goodnight.
“I probably won't be sleeping too late, but might take a bit of a walk around tomorrow morning. That always gets me ready for the day,” Molly smiled back as she turned and entered the B&B for the night.
The next morning Molly quickly dressed and stopped in the breakfast room for some freshly baked scones, a plate of fruit and some tea. She usually didn't each too much for breakfast and this was just perfect. Having the added treat of freshly baked scones was only something her mum had done for her on occasion.
When she was finished she headed out the door for a walk to the National Botanic Gardens to see the glass houses with all the foliage around. Since this was winter, there were few flowers in bloom, but the glass houses held thousands of samples of what would be coming in the future. The fragrance of the mulch and greenery brought her back home since she was a bit too far to walk to the bay. The walk didn't take long and she was back at the B&B with plenty of time to get ready for lunch with Kevin and his family.
She no sooner came down the stairs dressed and ready when she saw Kevin pull up in front of the B&B. She wondered why his car was empty as she had expected to see his mum and granny with him.
“Where's you mum and granny?” Molly queried as she came out the door.
“We 're going to meet them at the restaurant, as I have some other plans for us today, and they didn't want to run around doing sightseeing with us,” Kevin chuckled.
“I knew you would be missing the water, so we're going to meet out at Howth for lunch, right on Dublin Bay. And definitely a short ride up to the top of Howth Head for a good look over to the Wicklows and Ireland's Eye. I'm hoping the fog will not catch up with us today,” Kevin explained, obviously taking in Molly's interests in their sightseeing.
Kevin traveled the road over to Clontarf which would lead them all along the inlet of the bay out to Howth. Not many boats strayed into this area, but there were plenty of fishermen out in the shallows early today. Molly enjoyed the ride and the scenery. Kevin explained that they would be going to eat at King Sitric, his granny's favorite seafood restaurant. And being on the pier, that Molly would probably like it also.
They arrived about a half hour early and took a walk out to the lighthouse at the end of the pier and back. The seals were begging for tidbits all along the way and seemed to want to come up on the pier to play. Molly's guess was that fishermen were throwing scraps from the fish they cleaned as they brought their catch in for the day spoiling these playful seals.
As they arrived back, Kevin noticed his mum's car so they headed into the King Sitric's restaurant. The smell of fish was all around and so familiar to Molly. Just like Kilmore Quay. And here they were just thirty minutes out of city center. What a surprise this was to her.
Kevin's mun and granny could not have been more accommodating. They were open and friendly from the moment Molly sat down. Molly had guessed that Kevin had been talking openly with them about her, and that they were very happy he had found someone to spend his time with. They asked loads of questions about Kilmore Quay, and Kevin's mum even mentioned that she was familiar with Molly's dad and his accomplishments in sailing.
The food was delicious, and the lunch time passed so quickly that Molly felt she could sit there much longer having this wonderful conversation. She did notice that Kevin sat back for most of the time just watching and only joining in occasionally. The lunch ended after they all had a fresh fruit sorbet, and Molly was hugged as generously by both Kevin's mum and granny as they hugged Kevin. All said parting goodbyes, with invitations for Molly to visit again, more often.
“I think that went well,” Kevin mused as he waved to the departing car.
“Your mum and granny are wonderful,” Molly commented.
“They obviously like you a lot. I've never seen them so excited about someone that I've introduced them to before, Kevin answered.
“And have you introduced them to many girls?” Molly chided.
“Only Erin...” Kevin responded thoughtfully. “Come on, we've lots to do this afternoon. Time to get going.”
“Remember tomorrow afternoon we're going to have lunch with my mum and granny. That will give you a chance to sleep in some and have a bit of breakfast here at the B&B,” Kevin explained to Molly as he leaned over to kiss her goodnight.
“I probably won't be sleeping too late, but might take a bit of a walk around tomorrow morning. That always gets me ready for the day,” Molly smiled back as she turned and entered the B&B for the night.
The next morning Molly quickly dressed and stopped in the breakfast room for some freshly baked scones, a plate of fruit and some tea. She usually didn't each too much for breakfast and this was just perfect. Having the added treat of freshly baked scones was only something her mum had done for her on occasion.
When she was finished she headed out the door for a walk to the National Botanic Gardens to see the glass houses with all the foliage around. Since this was winter, there were few flowers in bloom, but the glass houses held thousands of samples of what would be coming in the future. The fragrance of the mulch and greenery brought her back home since she was a bit too far to walk to the bay. The walk didn't take long and she was back at the B&B with plenty of time to get ready for lunch with Kevin and his family.
She no sooner came down the stairs dressed and ready when she saw Kevin pull up in front of the B&B. She wondered why his car was empty as she had expected to see his mum and granny with him.
“Where's you mum and granny?” Molly queried as she came out the door.
“We 're going to meet them at the restaurant, as I have some other plans for us today, and they didn't want to run around doing sightseeing with us,” Kevin chuckled.
“I knew you would be missing the water, so we're going to meet out at Howth for lunch, right on Dublin Bay. And definitely a short ride up to the top of Howth Head for a good look over to the Wicklows and Ireland's Eye. I'm hoping the fog will not catch up with us today,” Kevin explained, obviously taking in Molly's interests in their sightseeing.
Kevin traveled the road over to Clontarf which would lead them all along the inlet of the bay out to Howth. Not many boats strayed into this area, but there were plenty of fishermen out in the shallows early today. Molly enjoyed the ride and the scenery. Kevin explained that they would be going to eat at King Sitric, his granny's favorite seafood restaurant. And being on the pier, that Molly would probably like it also.
They arrived about a half hour early and took a walk out to the lighthouse at the end of the pier and back. The seals were begging for tidbits all along the way and seemed to want to come up on the pier to play. Molly's guess was that fishermen were throwing scraps from the fish they cleaned as they brought their catch in for the day spoiling these playful seals.
As they arrived back, Kevin noticed his mum's car so they headed into the King Sitric's restaurant. The smell of fish was all around and so familiar to Molly. Just like Kilmore Quay. And here they were just thirty minutes out of city center. What a surprise this was to her.
Kevin's mun and granny could not have been more accommodating. They were open and friendly from the moment Molly sat down. Molly had guessed that Kevin had been talking openly with them about her, and that they were very happy he had found someone to spend his time with. They asked loads of questions about Kilmore Quay, and Kevin's mum even mentioned that she was familiar with Molly's dad and his accomplishments in sailing.
The food was delicious, and the lunch time passed so quickly that Molly felt she could sit there much longer having this wonderful conversation. She did notice that Kevin sat back for most of the time just watching and only joining in occasionally. The lunch ended after they all had a fresh fruit sorbet, and Molly was hugged as generously by both Kevin's mum and granny as they hugged Kevin. All said parting goodbyes, with invitations for Molly to visit again, more often.
“I think that went well,” Kevin mused as he waved to the departing car.
“Your mum and granny are wonderful,” Molly commented.
“They obviously like you a lot. I've never seen them so excited about someone that I've introduced them to before, Kevin answered.
“And have you introduced them to many girls?” Molly chided.
“Only Erin...” Kevin responded thoughtfully. “Come on, we've lots to do this afternoon. Time to get going.”
Sunday, May 13, 2012
#12 The Quay
Molly could tell how excited Kevin was to introduce her to his friends. He barely stopped talking in the car on the way to the pub. She smiled as he talked about each of his friends trying to give her a bit of knowledge about them before they met. Up until this time he had never really talked much about Dublin, or his friends when they were together. Molly tried to keep all this information organized in her mind. Matt was the jokester, Juliana was shy, Damon was a sports fanatic, and Erin was friendly and an old friend.
Molly thought it was a little strange that Kevin mentioned Erin as an “old friend” and was curious about Kevin's wording.
“Kevin,” she asked, “When you say old friend are you talking about an old girl friend?”
“Well, actually,” Kevin hesitated as he tried to state this matter of fact, “Erin and I did date for a while. Nothing serious though.”
Molly knew that “nothing serious” for a male, did not necessarily mean the same thing for a woman. Was there something more here?
“So how long do you consider 'for a while', Kevin?” Molly would gather a lot from this answer.
Kevin hesitated, then answered, “Oh, maybe for about a year, or so. We stopped dating last spring.”
Molly knew very well that Erin would be the one to watch out for. If they stopped dating last spring, that would have been just before Kevin started traveling to Kilmore Quay for sailing lessons. This was definitely going to be an interesting evening.
Kevin pulled into a parking lot next to an old brick building. As they exited the car Molly could hear the music from inside. They walked around to the front of the building and entered through old wooden doors that looked like they had come from an ancient castle.
Kevin guided Molly to a spot he knew well. It was the place this group had been meeting since college days. Everyone looked up as they arrived at the snug in the corner and began to scoot around so that Kevin and Molly could join them.
Molly felt all eyes on her, and was not accustomed to this kind of scrutiny. She tried to keep her calm demeanor through introductions and the many questions that the group had for her. Quite a few were about sailing, and living in the small village of Kilmore Quay. The sailing questions she felt very comfortable with and answered easily. It was difficult to justify to people who lived in a big city why anyone would want to live in a small village, but Molly tried her best. During this entire time she noticed how intently Erin was watching her.
As luck would have it, Erin ended up sitting next to Kevin. Between intently watching Molly, she seemed to move ever so closely to Kevin as the night went on. Kevin didn't seem to notice as he was busy in conversation with Damon about the upcoming rugby game. Molly noticed, and Erin noticed that Molly noticed. This was making Molly very uncomfortable and after a drink she excused herself to the toilet.
She no sooner had gathered herself together and was washing her hands in the sink when Erin entered the room.
“So you've taken our Kevin away from us,” Erin stated.
Erin, “I've done no such thing. Kevin makes all of his own choices.” Molly was going to hold her ground here. She knew Erin was not over whatever relationship she had with Kevin.
“I guess that means that if I want to be close to Kevin, I'll have to sign up to take sailing lessons with you down south,” Erin's voice was getting a little terse at this point.
“Erin, that's between you and Kevin. I'd be glad to have another private client. I don't do group training sessions, so you would be on your own with me,” Molly wanted to make her position clear hoping Erin would get the point. Erin turned and left the room, but not before flashing Molly an envious look that meant she had something up her sleeves.
As Molly returned to the table she noticed that Erin was now pretty much leaning on Kevin's one shoulder and he was not pushing her away. So typical of a man. They just don't get it.
“Molly, Erin just mentioned to me that she might be interested in taking some sailing lessons. Could we do that together?” Kevin had no idea what he was getting into.
Molly was prepared and had an even better idea to quash Erin's attempt to override Molly's rules. “Kevin, I was thinking it would be a great time if all of this group could take a weekend trip down to Kilmore Quay and we could take the big yacht out around the Saltees with you as skipper. We could do a beach barbecue and all,” Molly smiled at Erin as she said this.
Damon and Matt immediately thought this would be wonderful. Juliana smiled at the idea and nodded her head. Erin muttered a quiet “okay” and didn't say much more all evening. The conversation turned to all that the group would be able to do during a sailing weekend and Kevin mentioned some of the local pubs, B&Bs, and sights that would be a fun getaway for them all. Molly had felt she had won this round, but knew Erin would not let up if she was after Kevin.
Molly thought it was a little strange that Kevin mentioned Erin as an “old friend” and was curious about Kevin's wording.
“Kevin,” she asked, “When you say old friend are you talking about an old girl friend?”
“Well, actually,” Kevin hesitated as he tried to state this matter of fact, “Erin and I did date for a while. Nothing serious though.”
Molly knew that “nothing serious” for a male, did not necessarily mean the same thing for a woman. Was there something more here?
“So how long do you consider 'for a while', Kevin?” Molly would gather a lot from this answer.
Kevin hesitated, then answered, “Oh, maybe for about a year, or so. We stopped dating last spring.”
Molly knew very well that Erin would be the one to watch out for. If they stopped dating last spring, that would have been just before Kevin started traveling to Kilmore Quay for sailing lessons. This was definitely going to be an interesting evening.
Kevin pulled into a parking lot next to an old brick building. As they exited the car Molly could hear the music from inside. They walked around to the front of the building and entered through old wooden doors that looked like they had come from an ancient castle.
Kevin guided Molly to a spot he knew well. It was the place this group had been meeting since college days. Everyone looked up as they arrived at the snug in the corner and began to scoot around so that Kevin and Molly could join them.
Molly felt all eyes on her, and was not accustomed to this kind of scrutiny. She tried to keep her calm demeanor through introductions and the many questions that the group had for her. Quite a few were about sailing, and living in the small village of Kilmore Quay. The sailing questions she felt very comfortable with and answered easily. It was difficult to justify to people who lived in a big city why anyone would want to live in a small village, but Molly tried her best. During this entire time she noticed how intently Erin was watching her.
As luck would have it, Erin ended up sitting next to Kevin. Between intently watching Molly, she seemed to move ever so closely to Kevin as the night went on. Kevin didn't seem to notice as he was busy in conversation with Damon about the upcoming rugby game. Molly noticed, and Erin noticed that Molly noticed. This was making Molly very uncomfortable and after a drink she excused herself to the toilet.
She no sooner had gathered herself together and was washing her hands in the sink when Erin entered the room.
“So you've taken our Kevin away from us,” Erin stated.
Erin, “I've done no such thing. Kevin makes all of his own choices.” Molly was going to hold her ground here. She knew Erin was not over whatever relationship she had with Kevin.
“I guess that means that if I want to be close to Kevin, I'll have to sign up to take sailing lessons with you down south,” Erin's voice was getting a little terse at this point.
“Erin, that's between you and Kevin. I'd be glad to have another private client. I don't do group training sessions, so you would be on your own with me,” Molly wanted to make her position clear hoping Erin would get the point. Erin turned and left the room, but not before flashing Molly an envious look that meant she had something up her sleeves.
As Molly returned to the table she noticed that Erin was now pretty much leaning on Kevin's one shoulder and he was not pushing her away. So typical of a man. They just don't get it.
“Molly, Erin just mentioned to me that she might be interested in taking some sailing lessons. Could we do that together?” Kevin had no idea what he was getting into.
Molly was prepared and had an even better idea to quash Erin's attempt to override Molly's rules. “Kevin, I was thinking it would be a great time if all of this group could take a weekend trip down to Kilmore Quay and we could take the big yacht out around the Saltees with you as skipper. We could do a beach barbecue and all,” Molly smiled at Erin as she said this.
Damon and Matt immediately thought this would be wonderful. Juliana smiled at the idea and nodded her head. Erin muttered a quiet “okay” and didn't say much more all evening. The conversation turned to all that the group would be able to do during a sailing weekend and Kevin mentioned some of the local pubs, B&Bs, and sights that would be a fun getaway for them all. Molly had felt she had won this round, but knew Erin would not let up if she was after Kevin.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
#11 The Quay
The big day finally arrived for Molly's weekend trip to Dublin. Molly had packed and repacked several times, unsure about what to take and what to wear to be presented to Kevin's friends. She was by nature, a very casual girl. Dressing up for a friend's wedding was about the only time she wore anything other than jeans or shorts. Deck shoes were her daily wear. So when she had the chance she made a trip up to Wexford Town to do a little shopping for this trip. Since this was the edge of winter weather, she bought a new coat and some nice boots to wear. A longer wool skirt, a couple of new sweaters, and a new pair of jeans rounded out her shopping trip. This was more than she had spend on herself in ages.
Molly didn't want to look like a country girl, but didn't want to be over dressed for any occasion. Her suitcase was packed with more than she needed, but she was worried about not being prepared for any surprises that weekend.
As she walked down to the bus stop in Kilmore Quay, she had so many second thoughts running through her head. Maybe this was a mistake. What if it all went wrong? What if Kevin's friends didn't like her? She had never really ventured far from the Quay and was feeling very uncomfortable.
Molly forged ahead and boarded the bus for Wexford Town. There were only a few other people, so she sat alone with her thoughts. Watching the countryside go by, she felt more at peace with herself and in a short time arrived at the Wexford bus station. There was only a short wait for the Dublin bus and not much time to second guess herself. Before she knew it she was on her way to Dublin.
Rolling hillsides flew by, and country roads opened up to major highways leading the road north. Even on the highway she could enjoy the views of the pasture land out the window. The afternoon ride north on a Friday was only half full this fall day. It was quiet and gave Molly time to think. Her thoughts wandered from how Kilmore Quay felt so small in relation to even Wexford. How would it feel in comparison to Dublin? Would she feel lost? And what about Kevin? How did she really feel about him? Was this some sort of fantasy her mind was playing on her? Did she have some deeper feelings that even she knew at this point? She was full of questions about Kevin and herself. What was she doing?
The outskirts of Dublin were in view and traffic slowed as is the norm entering the city. The Wexford bus drop off was at George Quay by the Custom House. This was only a few blocks from where Kevin worked and not as busy as stops across the way at this time of the day. Friday seemed to be a day when most young workers left early in the day to start the weekend. Kevin did warn Molly that he might be a few minutes late, so she settled herself on a bench next to the bus stop to wait. It was barely a few minutes when she felt a tap on her shoulder. As she turned Kevin pulled her up for a huge hug and gentle welcome kiss.
“How was the trip?” he asked.
“I'm not sure I could describe it, I had so many thoughts running through my mind and was not necessarily paying attention to all the views out the window,” Molly chuckled.
"Well, let's get you settled into your B&B and then we're going out for the evening. We need to catch the #16 to Whitehall. I'm only about 2 blocks from there, so while you are getting settled in, I'll go home to change out of this suit into something more comfortable for this evening and I'll come back and pick you up with my car,” Kevin explained as he took her suitcase in hand and lead her to the Dublin bus stop.
The Almanii B&B was just a short walk from the #16 bus stop. It was a lovely B&B not too far from Dublin University. Molly was sure this is why Kevin lived where he did. He was probably still living in the same flat he did when he attended the University. It was a lovely B&B with old world charm. Kevin waited until Molly got her room key, then headed home himself to change and pick up his car. As most Dubliners, he took public transit to work daily rather than use his car. Molly freshened up and changed her sweater. Kevin had told her this would be a very casual evening with some of his friends at a nearby pub, so jeans would be perfect. She waited in the sitting room until she saw his car out front. With her nerves barely at bay, she headed out the door for the evening.
Molly didn't want to look like a country girl, but didn't want to be over dressed for any occasion. Her suitcase was packed with more than she needed, but she was worried about not being prepared for any surprises that weekend.
As she walked down to the bus stop in Kilmore Quay, she had so many second thoughts running through her head. Maybe this was a mistake. What if it all went wrong? What if Kevin's friends didn't like her? She had never really ventured far from the Quay and was feeling very uncomfortable.
Molly forged ahead and boarded the bus for Wexford Town. There were only a few other people, so she sat alone with her thoughts. Watching the countryside go by, she felt more at peace with herself and in a short time arrived at the Wexford bus station. There was only a short wait for the Dublin bus and not much time to second guess herself. Before she knew it she was on her way to Dublin.
Rolling hillsides flew by, and country roads opened up to major highways leading the road north. Even on the highway she could enjoy the views of the pasture land out the window. The afternoon ride north on a Friday was only half full this fall day. It was quiet and gave Molly time to think. Her thoughts wandered from how Kilmore Quay felt so small in relation to even Wexford. How would it feel in comparison to Dublin? Would she feel lost? And what about Kevin? How did she really feel about him? Was this some sort of fantasy her mind was playing on her? Did she have some deeper feelings that even she knew at this point? She was full of questions about Kevin and herself. What was she doing?
The outskirts of Dublin were in view and traffic slowed as is the norm entering the city. The Wexford bus drop off was at George Quay by the Custom House. This was only a few blocks from where Kevin worked and not as busy as stops across the way at this time of the day. Friday seemed to be a day when most young workers left early in the day to start the weekend. Kevin did warn Molly that he might be a few minutes late, so she settled herself on a bench next to the bus stop to wait. It was barely a few minutes when she felt a tap on her shoulder. As she turned Kevin pulled her up for a huge hug and gentle welcome kiss.
“How was the trip?” he asked.
“I'm not sure I could describe it, I had so many thoughts running through my mind and was not necessarily paying attention to all the views out the window,” Molly chuckled.
"Well, let's get you settled into your B&B and then we're going out for the evening. We need to catch the #16 to Whitehall. I'm only about 2 blocks from there, so while you are getting settled in, I'll go home to change out of this suit into something more comfortable for this evening and I'll come back and pick you up with my car,” Kevin explained as he took her suitcase in hand and lead her to the Dublin bus stop.
The Almanii B&B was just a short walk from the #16 bus stop. It was a lovely B&B not too far from Dublin University. Molly was sure this is why Kevin lived where he did. He was probably still living in the same flat he did when he attended the University. It was a lovely B&B with old world charm. Kevin waited until Molly got her room key, then headed home himself to change and pick up his car. As most Dubliners, he took public transit to work daily rather than use his car. Molly freshened up and changed her sweater. Kevin had told her this would be a very casual evening with some of his friends at a nearby pub, so jeans would be perfect. She waited in the sitting room until she saw his car out front. With her nerves barely at bay, she headed out the door for the evening.
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