Golden Morning Sunshine

Seaside Resort Town of Wicklow, Ireland ~ County Wicklow Crest

8 Miles Today; Forrest ended the month of May on a high note. I left for my walk as the sun was coming up. The sunrise was just fabulous and the bright sunshine rained down on the walking man for the whole 2 hours and 15 minutes. Part of the reason Forrest is feeling good is that his left hip is on the mend. Compared to a week ago, today I would say my physical condition is about 80 % and getting better. With my miles today Forrest finished the Month of May walking 238 miles. My total overall miles stand at 6,634 in 954 days. The Real Forrest Gump has got to be getting nervous.. ha-ha. Anyway lets get back to why I walk, it's to write about places I dream about. Forrest looks forward to setting down at the computer and looking where his "Working On A Dream Journey" leads him. Today, Forrest visited the seaside resort communittee of approximately 10,100 called Wicklow Town.

The Garden Of Ireland (County Wicklow)

Bray, Ireland ~ Coat of Arms..7 Miles Today; Another early morning walk this morning, for today is Baseball District Tournament time. Games start a 10am. Forrest and his bride arrived home from Chicago around midnight last night. Forrest is disappointed I didn't reach the 50 mile mark for this past week, I finished with 49 miles.. With the kidney stone episode and the sore hip I was fortunate to keep my walking days going. I have to admit my hip feels a whole lot better after reducing my miles. Forrest hopes it's temporary. Now back to Ireland.......Forrest has listened to a number of Irish ballads on my journey thought Ireland and there is a song lyric that seems to be held truly to the people of Ireland. The lyric is "The Town I Love So Well" represents the town Forrest visited today perfectly. Bray, Ireland and the County Wicklow is a place that should be on every one's itinerary that visits Ireland. County Wicklow is also known "As The Last County" as County Wicklow was the last of the original County's. Town Wicklow (pop. 10,100) is the county seat even though it's not the largest town. The town of Bray is the largest with a population of 32,000. The scenery is so magnificent here you would get a blister on your finger taking pictures. County Wicklow is truly the "Garden of Ireland" until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Jessie-Marie Needs A "Sharpie"

Chicago's Magnificent Mile...........7 Miles Today; After spending last evening enjoying traditional Irish music from the group "The Dublin City Ramblers". The groups manager, John Ryan introduced me to the lead singer and banjo/mandolin player Sean McGinness. I'll post a picture of Sean and I asap. The group arrived in Chicago Thursday morning. They did last nights show, today it's Oskosh Wisconsin, Saturday in Philadelphia then back home to Dublin for shows in Ireland. I mentioned to Sean that since Forrest is retired he would like to be his advance man. Now that sounds like a nice gig for the walking man. Forrest and his bride spent last night at my daughter's condo here in Chicago. Forrest took Jessie-Marie (the dog) on his morning walk on the shores of Lake Michigan referred to as the Magnificent Mile. My route took me to the Chicago Zoo, the Magnificent Mile shoreline, The Navy Pier then a return trip. Between people saying, "oh there's Lassie," look there's a little Lassie" or "You have such a beautiful dog", or "Can my baby pet your dog" can I take a picture" Forrest felt like Jessie-Marie's hired help. Forrest thought if Jessie could write she would probably have a Sharpie Pen to sign autographs. Well now it's back to Michigan today. State Baseball Playoffs continue tomorrow. So until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk.

..PRICELESS...

Aran Sweater or Irish Sweater ... 7 Miles Today; Forrest had another early morning walk. It was like yesterday, humid and damp. I've been wanting to do a story about Irish sweaters and today is the perfect time for it. Dublin is a major producer of these sweaters. When you are in Dublin one cannot miss seeing the name of "Blarney Woolen Mills" everywhere you travel. Have you ever seen people wearing these sweaters and said to yourself that sweater needs to be washed in Woolite. That's what Forrest thought for the longest time. Boy was I ever in the dark on this subject. Little did I know I was making light of one the most cherished items linked to Ireland or for that matter, the world. The most sought after Irish sweater is "The Aran Sweater" (its proper name). The Aran Sweater takes its name from a set of islands on the West coast of Ireland. The Islanders were fisherman and farmers whose lives were deeply intertwined. The Aran Sweater was born in this environment, passed down from generation to generation, and since become ultimate symbol of Irish Clan heritage. A finished sweater contains approximately 100,000 carefully constructed stitches, depending on the particular clan pattern being followed. Here are some of names of stitch patterns and what they symbolize. The Diamond & Honeycomb (for success hard work provides)~The Irish Moss Stitch (for carrogeen gathered at low tides) The Cable Stitch (for fisherman's ropes) The Zig-Zag Stitch (for shoreline cliffs) The Double Zig-Zag Stitch (for all the ins and outs of married life) note: (the double Zig-Zag sweater has Forrest's name all over it.) next we have The Trelllis Stitch (for stone-walled fields) The Basket Stitch (For cod) followed by The Tree of Life Stitch (for family strength) and finally The Tree of Life Stitch (for family strength) Today the demand for a Aran Sweater continues to grow with the shortage of skilled knitters. The result is a huge demand for these sweaters making them rare and extremely valuable. The next time Forrest sees someone wearing one of these sweaters I'll ask if I can touch it. Just one word describes the Irish sweater....PRICELESS.... Now it's time to sign off for today, because my bride, the mutt (Jessie-Marie) and I are headed for Chicago in about an hour. Tonight we will be enjoying "The Dublin City Ramblers" live from Chicago's Irish-American Heritage Center. Until Tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk
Posted by Walk Forrest Walk

Dublin Welcomes Forrest

8 Miles Today; It has taken Forrest a little over 2 months to get to Dublin but the wait was worth it. Forrest wanted to learn all he could about Northern Ireland's six county's and it's biggest city Belfast then work my way south towards Dublin. It would be nice when I complete my virtual tour of Ireland, come over here in real life and retrace my journey. That's why I call this adventure "Working On A Dream" Today's walk was better than yesterday's because my hip I hope is on the mend. There were a couple of times on my route, I felt that Forrest had his SWAGGER back. Lets hope so. The baseball team won it first game of the State Tournament yesterday 7-3. Now it's on to the Districts this coming Saturday. My sister-in-law (Mary) encouraged me, if and when I get to Dublin write about the half-penny bridge. The Ha'penny Bridge is the best know of Dublin's bridges. It was built in 1816 and was the first iron bridge in Ireland. It is a single span structure with cast iron railings and beautiful decorative lamps (see picture at right). The bridge has thee lamps supported by curved ironwork over the walkway. In a bad state of repair, the bridge was closed in 2001 for major repairs. It was reopened, with its original paint color restored and changes made at the ends to allow standing room for pedestrians before crossing. The bridge was originally named the "Liffey Bridge" but is now called the Ha'penny because until 1919 to cross the bridge there was a half-penny charge. FYI the contractor that was hired to restore the bridge is the same one that built the "Titanic". As Forrest works his way South on N11 toward County Wicklow and County Cork I'll write about Dublin quite a bit. Tomorrow my bride and I are taking the four drive to Chicago see the Dublin City Ramblers perform. Their US Tour stops in Chicago tomorrow night. After writing about them in my blog I'm looking forward to meeting the group. Forrest will have to get his walk in tomorrow very early. We leave for the Windy City at 9am. Until tomorrow for Dublin, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

County Dublin, #15 on Journey

Dublin's, O'Connell Bridge

7 Miles Today; Forrest got his walk in early today. I left in the darkness, and finished in the daylight. Today is a busy day for me. The State Baseball Tournament start today. Dewitt (20-7) league champion faces Lansing Sexton. It takes 6 victories to be State Champion. Now fast forward to Ireland. Forrest is at the western edge of the City of Dublin. Dublin is located in County Dublin or more correctly called in modern times the Dublin Region. This area contains the city of Dublin, the capital of Ireland and the largest. The Dublin Region consist of four modern counties: City of Dublin, County of dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, County of Filngal, and the County of South Dublin. Approximately 1,500,000 live in the four county region. More from Dublin, Ireland tomorrow, so until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Men Of Honor

Kenneth L. Olson ~ US Army (Vietnam) 1968
Woodrow W. Keeble ~ US Army (Korea) 1951
Forrest did his walk this morning (7mi) but this morning I'm putting Dublin on hold because my "Working On A Dream" journey through Ireland will be there tomorrow but today in America it's "Memorial Day"..It's a special day where we as citizens, honor our war dead. Today Americans are being asked to stop whatever they are doing at 3 p.m. local time to share a minute on Memorial Day and honor those who have died in the cause of freedom.
Americans are being asked to take one minute at 3 p.m. Monday to pause and reflect on those who died in battle.
"The time 3 p.m. was chosen because it is the time when most Americans are enjoying their freedoms on the national holiday," This brings Forrest to the reason for writing in his own words about two men, in two different wars who received this nation's highest military award, The Congressional Medal of Honor. I encounter both men's stories while on my Walk Across America journey last year. In my September 8, blog entry I wrote about a boy born on May 26, 1945 to parents Ben and Lydia Olson in Willmar Minnesota. The boy Kenneth Lee Olson the youngest of three boys who grew on the family farm in the small town of Paynesville, Minnesota. Ken graduated with honors from Paynesville High School, went on the the University of Minnesota and also graduated with honors. Kenneth enlisted in the US Army before he was about to be drafted.. Spec. Kenneth L. Olson was KIA May 13, 1968 just six weeks after deploying to Vietnam. For his bravery and valor in battle he was the recipient of the "Medal of Honor".Kenneth's 64th birthday is tomorrow. As Forrest's journey continued north into the Dakotas, blog entry of October 1, 2008, he came across a story of a Native American named Woodrow W. Keeble. "Woody" as people called him is the first Sioux Indian to be awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Korean War. The sad part of this story is that Woody was not recognized for his heroism until twenty years after his death in 1982, and after more than six decades after his heroic action in Korea. By all accounts due the negligence by our officials in Washington DC. Woodrow W. Keeble was born on a Indian Reservation on May 16, 1917 in Waubay South Dakota. Msgt Woodrow Keeble is only one of six Native Americans who have been awarded the "Medal of Honor". I read everything I could find about these extraordinary men. I know for the rest of my life that Memorial Day and Veterans Day will not pass without me pausing to reflect and saying a pray for Spec. Kenneth L. Olson and Msgt. Woodrow W. Keeble. So today have a safe and happy holiday but most of all take a moment to remember our military and those made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. God Bless, Walk Forrest Walk

County Kildare, #14 on Journey

Town Kilcock, on the Royal Canal

6 Miles Today; Forrest is not 100% but he feels so much better than yesterday. Today's walk was in bright sunlight and temperature of 70 degrees. My Bride Joanne and the Dog (Jessie-Marie) joined Forrest. So according to the Mrs., and I quote "So we can walk as a family"........Then the question I have is...... "with each one of us having ipods and the Mutt who can't wait to get home for her treat of ICE CREAM, then how can that be called family time?????? Forrest entered County Kildare this morning, my 14th County on my Working On A Dream Journey of Ireland. Forrest is located between the towns of Kilcock (pop. 3,000) and Maynooth. Maynooth is a university community. Where Kilcock is referred to as the (Canal County). Maynooth is known for being the home of a fine school of higher learning called NUI or National University of Ireland. Maynooth (pop 10,700) is also known as the "Gateway to the West" because of the main route west out of Dublin. Tomorrow is America's Memorial Day where as in Ireland it's May 1st and is called Remembrance Day. Both country's pay homage to their fallen heroes on this day every year. Forrest will a have a remembrance of his own for two very special US Army Soldiers he learned about on his journey across America in the states of Minnesota and South Dakota. So until then God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Close Call

7 Miles Today; Somehow Forrest will have to Bookmark today's blog entry. I may have difficulty explaining the last three days in my personal life and my Walking life. As people know Forrest has had trouble with his hips. Last Wed. at my visit to my chiropractor he suggested I showed signs of a bladder infection and to see my primary physician. The next day after blood showed up in my urine during my daily walk I went to my doctor who sent me directly to the hospital for a CT Scan. of my abdomen, kidneys, and hips. The results were KIDNEY STONES. Well to continue this, last night while I couldn't sleep because of back and hip pain, my only small relief was when I paced the floor. So now this is where Forrest comes into play......Forrest says to himself "As long as I'm pacing, why not put my shoes on and hit the roads??? Because in my mind I truly believed that this was the end of my consecutive days of walking. July 16th, will be 1000 days for Forrest. And of course the Big Prize is overtaking the Real Forrest Gump would of ended 7 months short. To some this all up, Forrest made his 7 miles but it was by far my most difficult day of my walking life. Two hours after I got home my Bride Joanne, took Forrest to the same hospital where I had my CT Scan. Four hours later and feeling better because the stones decided to leave my body I was sent home with two prescriptions. Outside of feeling like I have been in a Prize Fight I feel the worst is over and I can continue my journey of my beloved Ireland. I bid everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day and please say a prayer for the men and women in uniform who have fought and died in battle to make sure we enjoy the freedoms we cherish today. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Dublin, One Way or Another

Downtown Dublin......7 Miles Today; Forrest waited until 10am to see if the extra time would help my hurting hip. Well I got my miles in but it took me 11 minutes longer that my normal time. Forrest will make it to Dublin even if he has to crawl. Forrest has a championship baseball game to announce in 2 hours. I'm going to post this short version of my blog. Hopefully I'll add to it tonight. If Dewitt wins I know I'll be in a good mood. See-ya later, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Dublin In My Sights

County Meath Coat of Arms

7 Miles Today; My walk this morning, which I got in very early went very nice. Forrest left in the dark at 5am and got back the sun was shinning at 7am. Forrest had the pleasure of entering his 14th Irish County this morning. I visited the border town of Kinnegad population 3,850. Kinnegad is a pleasant little with a beautiful 19th century church and believe it or not, a Irish town with wide streets!! Now that Forrest is few miles into County Meath it's time to tell you a little about my latest Ireland county visit. Meath County has a population of 163,000. Now with that big number,, one can tell that you are approaching a big metropolitan area. In this case it's "Dublin". Meath County, sometimes called the Royal County is known for its excellent farming, consisting of all kinds of grain, potatoes, and dairy industury. Meath County is home to Europe's largest lead-zinc mine. A few of County Meath's surnames include, Peppard, Braky, Maguire, Clarke, & MacEntee. Forrest is now on a different road. It's call M4, this road looks like it will take Forrest all the way to "Dublin Town". Forrest has a busy day ahead of him. Baseball last nite, announce two games today and a championship game tomorrow. So until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

A Wounded Forrest

Ireland's Provinces.....7 Miles Today; It was a wonderful warm and sunny day to walk but Forrest had other issues. His left hip. I just got back from the chiropractor. He said, "no wonder I was in pain." He worked on my hips and in a stern voice said, "I should be alright if I take it easy. If not, give him a call." With my fingers crossed behind by back, Forrest said "I promise Doc"... Today is my last day in County Westmeath. Forrest is only a couple of miles from County Meath. In yesterday's blog I forgot to mention, that along with popular singer "Joe Dolan" another notable person was born in the town of Mullingar (a still resides there). He name is Michael O'Leary born in 1961. He is the owner and CEO of Ryanair, a very profitable airline and thus making Michael a very rich man. County Westmeath has been a very interesting visit for Forrest. So until tomorrow from County Meath and closer and closer to Dublin, this is Forrest bidding everyone farewell. God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Rock Festival??

Main Street, Mullingar..7 Miles Today; Forrest reduced his distance today. He enjoyed the 70 degree temperature and the clear blue skies. This morning it felt like a stroll instead of point A to point B walk. This I hope will give the old tender hip some time to feel better. OK, now lets talk about where I am at today, a very nice quiet town in central Ireland called Mullingar pop. 17,260. At least that's what Forrest thought when he arrive this morning. The Mullingar Advertiser had headlines that read Search for Ireland's Greatest Rock Tribute hits Mullingar. Forrest felt like he hit the jackpot. I like beautiful scenery, cliffs, waterfalls, etc.............WRONG..to my surprise, today in this picturesque town they are hosting a Rock Band talent contest!!!!! It seems a All Ireland head banger talent show (that's what Forrest calls this kind of music) just happen to be here today, May 19 this same day as Walk Forrest Walk hit town. Listen to some of the names of the bands......"User Illusion"....."Metallitia"...."Thunderstruck"....The Rubber Plants". (OMG). Joe Dolan (famous singer born here would roll over in his grave) Where are the Dublin City Ramblers when I need them. All I can say is "it's a quick visit to the Pub called Caffereys for lunch and off to Dublin before sundown." Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Wecome to County Westmeath, Ireland

County Westmeath Coat of Arms

9 Miles Today; It was bright and sunny but very cold (42 degrees) this morning.. Sweat pants and sweatshirt were the uniform of the day. Forrest could have used gloves for the first couple of miles. My left hip just won't loosen up. My time was nothing to write home about (2hr 45min). When I start feeling sorry for myself with occasional aches and pains, I just think about getting home and blogging about my "Ireland Journey"..... that somehow energizes Forrest. Today Forrest enter his 13th Irish County on this wonderful journey of Ireland. County Westmeath is 20th in land size of the 32 Irish county's. With a population of approximately 79,400 is refereed to as the "Lake County". Popular surnames here include, O'Coffey, Brennan, O'Malone, O'Daly, Dalton, O'Mulleady. County Westmeath has a strong agricultural economy. With its magnificent grasslands County Westmeath is renowned for horse and stud farms. Mullingar, the county's largest town has a population of 8,900. Forrest will have information on Mullingar tomorrow. I plan on having lunch in Mullingar at either Danny Byrnes Pub or Caffreys Pub before heading east to Dublin Town. Nothing like Forrest getting the feel of the local environment. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Ireland's Ambassador of Song

1913 Photo~ World Renowned Irish Tenor

7 Miles Today; Even with a stiff hip, and cool weather Forrest still managed to have a nice walk this morning. I did get a lot of sun however. Now lets fast forward to where I'm at in Ireland. Forrest is approximately 60 miles from Dublin at the intersection road N4 and the north/south road N55. (Forrest wonders how can a north/south road began with the letter "N"???). If someone knows let Forrest know by clicking on the "comment" at bottom of blog. My attention is directed 22 miles south of here on road N55. I mention this because this town Athlone, Ireland is the birthplace of perhaps the world greatest tenor (living or deceased). Before there were super stars like, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley there was a man born in this town still considered to be the standard which all Irish tenors are measured. I'm taking about John McCormack born 1884 in Athlone, Ireland and died in 1945 in Dublin. McCormack began his career within the Catholic Church of Dublin. This eventually let to America. John McCormack's warm reception from American audience prompted application for American citizenship in 1914. For the next 25 years McCormack sang all over the world. With this expos er John enjoyed extreme fame. McCormack received honors for the Vatican, the French goverment gave him the "Legion of Honor" in 1924. Notre Dame University honored him in 1933. Hollywood also bid for his singing services. McCormack gave his last concert in London in 1938. Upon retirement he kept home in both the United States and Ireland until his death in September,1945 in Dublin. Just imagine how McCormack's voice would sound with today's digital technology. Today Forrests honors "Ireland's Ambassador of Song" with my lead in song on my blog playlist. That's it for this Sunday in May. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Longford, The Heart of Ireland

8 Miles Today; Forrest has come to an end of a trying week. My left hip troubles are still with me but I know I'll soon get over this bump in the road. Forrest logged 55 miles for this week. That's down from 61 last week. The weather is extremely cool for this time of year. With warm weather coming I know that Forrest will be back in fighting shape. Today I walked in a steady mist with a temperature in the low 50's. Now lets get back to my Ireland....This morning Forrest passed through a neat little town called Longford. Longford (pop. 13,000) is situated in the heart of Ireland and the surrounding villages all have that rural Irish charm. Forrest hopes these towns never give up their way of life. With the beautiful Shannon River and nearby walking trails, sailing, fishing, photography, etc. no wonder people like it here. Plus, Longford is the home of St. Mel's Cathedral and Saint John's church, both dating back to the 19th century. Both churches are big tourist attractions. FYI- movie actor Mel Gibson's mother is from this part of Ireland. With that bid of news Forrest better sign off for today, until tomorrow God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Back On Track

Longford County, Coat of Arms

7 Miles Today: Forrest is not 100% but he feels a whole lot better than yesterday. It was nice weather to be outside. The temperature was around 70 degrees. My post today won't be very long because I've have a baseball game to announce at the high school in a couple of hours. My Ireland update has to come first. Today, Forrest is in the County of Longford just outside of the town of Longford on road N4. County Longford (from the Irish name "Long Phoirt" Long meaning ship and Phoirt meaning port or dock. Co. Longford is the third smallest of Ireland's 32 counties with a land mass of 421 sq miles. Agriculture is prominent here, sheep, cattle, oats and potatoes seem to be the economic base. The most prominent surname for this county is O'Farrell or Farrell. When a person talks about beautiful, quiet place Co. Longford fits the bill. FYI....In the month of Feb. of this year only 69 new cars were bought in this county. Is that TMI....(too much info). OK, enough for today. Tomorrow Forrest will coming to you from the town of Longford. So until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Rough Thursday For Forrest

Flags of Ireland's Provinces...7 Miles Today; It was a struggle this morning, the left hip really gave Forrest a problem. I'll ice it today and see if I can overcome this, like my previous difficulties caused by walking so much. Changing my routine is out of the question. Forrest has got to keep going, the real Forrest Gump is not that far ahead of Walk Forrest Walk. I'll reduce my miles a little, and that's it. The good Lord will let me know when it's time to give up my passion for walking. If it wasn't for walking and my blog (thanks to my son Anthony) Forrest's love for Ireland would still be a dream. Now I can say it's a reality. Life sure has a lot of twist and turns, my Ireland experience is what folks who know me call this journey "Fate or Destiny". That seems to be the right explanation in my case. Lets see where Forrest is located today.........He's heading east towards Dublin on road N4 at the intersection R371. That leaves Forrest about 4-5 miles from a new County. County Longford, will be my next project. As of right I know nothing about Co. Longford, but I will by this time tomorrow. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

A Beautiful & Historic Carrick-on-Shannon

Rush Hour, Ireland..7 Miles Today; With heavy rain due today, Forrest was out bright and early. It wasn't one of my better days. This time my left hip was tight for all of my walk. Lately it has been the right hip that gives me discomfort. At my age, I'm thank-full the good Lord allows Forrest to get outside and enjoy what he loves to do best. I better start taking Tri-Girl's advice, and do stretching exercises before walking. No more pitty-party for Forrest. Now for my favorite subject, Ireland. Today Forrest finds himself 2 miles east of the Irish town called Carrick-on Shannon, population 3,165. Carrick-on-Shannon is nestle on the most scenic stretch of the "River Shannon" and is also surrounded by some of the most beautiful and unspoiled scenery in all of Ireland. Carrick-on-Shannon has a very rich history. One of the accounts of historical events that happen here really caught my attention. The year was 1790, near the clock which I have posted once stood an old courthouse which was the scene of a tragic event. Following the defeat of the United Irishmen and the French Army by the England Army. The English Commanding Officer by the name of General Corwallis ordered the French soldiers held as prisoners but didn't do the same for the Irish soldiers. Corwallis ordered a certain number of Irish soldiers to be executed by hanging on the spot. A lottery was held and as a result, 17 Irishmen were hung in this town square near this clock.(posted picture) For the record this man, Cornwallis is the same Cornwallis who surrender to General George Washington at Yorktown in 1781 thus bring an end to the American war of Independence. Forrest loves it when he can find these kind of stories on my walking journeys. Before I sign off, Forrest would like to say hello, to Wendy, my nephew Eric's better half. It was nice hearing from family. Until tomorrow Forrest bids everyone farewell, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Co. Roscommon, Connacht Province

Coat of Arms

9 Miles Today; It was another nice, but cool day today. It took 2 1/2 hrs to get today's miles in. But the nice weather and my ipod makes the time go by quick. Co. Roscommon, not to be confused with Michigan's own Roscommon County is Ireland's second least populated county in Ireland, after County Leitrim. On another note, County Roscommon is ranked 11th out 32 countys in square miles. Roscommon has a total of approximately 59,000 people. The name Roscommon comes from the Irish "Ros"word meaning a wooded, and gentle height and "Coman", the name of the county's famous saint. Saint Coman, who built a monastery there in the 5th century. the woods near the monastery became knownas Saint Coman's Wood, or "Ros Comain" in Irish. The name was later changed to Roscommon. Forrest's stay in this county will be short lived, because tomorrow with only 5 miles of walking he will be entering for the second time County Leitrim. So tomorrow Forrest will be doing his blog from a very beautiful place in this Emerald Isle called Carrick-on-Shannon. As my "Working On A Dream" journey nears it's halfway point I bid you farewell for today. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

The Song, Ireland's Call

What a song!!! Ireland's Call is the anthem of the Irish Rugby Football Union. Despite the division of Ireland this song is unique. The song "Ireland's Call" was written by Phil Coulter in 1995 is the only song played at the beginning of rugby matches in Northern Ireland. If the match takes place in the Republic of Ireland, the Ireland Nation Anthem, is also played and sung by everyone in attendance with extreme pride. Usually only the first verse followed by twice the chorus is play and sang lustily. So today, Forrest has "Ireland's Call" as his opening song on his play list. I must say, "It does bring out your Love for Ireland..... ENJOY I'll enter my Tuesday's blog after I get my walk in. Later "Forrest"

Ireland Full Time

Near Castlebaldwin....8 Miles Today; Forrest is back on track to devote all his attention to learning and writing about Ireland. My walk this morning was on the cool side for this time of year. There was places where there was a little frost. Today my Ireland journey has Forrest on N4 traveling southeast with Dublin in my sights. I'm spending my last day in County Sligo. I just visited a small village called "Castlebaldwin" Forrest looks for interesting stories, I have one here.....Castlebaldwin gets its name from a nearby castle called Castlebaldwin. The castle is a 17th century castle made from stones taken from a nunnery that was near the village. To hold the stones together blood from animals was mixed to sand to form mortar to help the stones stick. Castlebaldwin is situated beside Carrowkeel Passage Tombs which are some of the oldest tombs in Europe. Tomorrow Forrest enters County Roscommon. Roscommon County Michigan is one of the five Michigan countys named after Ireland's county's. Here's hoping tomorrow will be a little warmer, until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Forrest in Chicago

Navy Pier & Chicago Skyscrapers.8 Miles Today; Mother's Day and nice weather in Chicago is what Forrest ordered. Forrest was out early today walking the Lake Michigan shoreline. The picture of Navy Pier that I have posted is just over 2 miles from my daughter's condo. As part of my walk I include the Navy Pier. Forrest has some big news,, ELVIS is "Alive" Forrest's saw him jogging this morning along the lake shore. He had the whole get-up on. Long jet-black hair, trade mark sunglasses, side-burns, silk shirts and running shorts. Forrest is disappointed,,,,,ELVIS didn't recognized the walking man. That's OK, Forrest is completely happy with his journey through Ireland. Now back to my journey. As I am now south of Sligo on a main road called N4 walking east towards Dublin. Today's walk ended at a small Irish town called Lackagh. Forrest has learned that Ireland doesn't observe Mother's Day the same day as the USA, the people of Ireland have already celebrated Mother's Day on the 4th Sunday of Lent. (before Easter) To all the Mothers out there, enjoy today, you've certainly earned it. Now it's breakfast on the balconey compliments of my daughter Renae. Until tomorrow,God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Sligo Ireland

A Look At Sligo, Ireland

6 Miles Today; Forrest is coming to you from a very WINDY Chicago. This fine city is living up to it's nickname (Windy City). With 30 mph winds, Forrest shorten his walk. The shoreline of Lake Michigan was my backdrop this morning. Usually there is a whole lot of people either biking, running, walking, but with the weather that was not the case today. Anyway Forrest has another week of miles to report. I had sixty-one miles for the week, and so far a total of over 400 for the Ireland Journey. Today Forrest is downtown Sligo, (pronounced Sly-Go). From here I'm turning east and have my sights set on DUBLIN. A short blog today....If I have some time today I'll add some information about Sligo. So that's it for today, until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

8 Miles Today; Forrest was out at 4:15am for my walk. It was dark when I left and dark when I got home at 6:30. The is the reason, at 9am, Forrest, his bride and the DOG, (Jessie-Marie) are bound for Chicago. My daughter Renae is having us as her guests for Mother's Day. Forrest has learned he has to earn his room and board. I have the job of painting the ceiling and trim in her bathroom. Forrest painted the walls the last time we visited the Windy City. Now back to Ireland, today Forrest is on the northern edge of Sligo (pronounced Sly-Go). County Sligo is a county of about 61,000, with Sligo as the County Seat. County Sligo ranks 22th in area of Ireland's 32 Countys. If a person is into traditional Irish music, there's no finer place in the world that County Sligo, Ireland. County Sligo has a long history of traditional music. The southern part of the county is particularly noted with such fine musicians as James Morrison, Michael Coleman, Paddy Killoran, Fred Finn, Peter Horan, and the list goes on & on. The county has many music festivals and also home to a well known Queen Maeve International Summer School of traditional music and dance. If a person comes to Ireland, County Sligo should be on the top of your "Places To See List. Now its off to Chicago, and hopefully some Irish entertainment might be on the agenda for the Walking Man. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Glencar Waterfall, County Leitrim Ireland

7 Miles Today; The weather today was not too bad, cloudy and 60 degrees. Forrest had a little discomfort in his right hip so he eased up on the miles. But that might change, you see Forrest, his Bride, & the mutt (opps,,,I mean Jessie-Marie) are headed to the the big city of Chicago tomorrow after Forrest gets his walk in. We will be guests of my daughter Renae. She is treating her mommy to dinner and a live musical production called Million Dollar Quartet. Forrest will be doing his walking on the shores of Lake Michigan. An update on yesterday's post about Academy Award winner James Cagney. He was the second of five children. He was named after his father, James Francis Cagney, who was descended from the O'Caignes of County Leitrim. It was Cagney's mother, Carolyn Nelson (Cagney) who was the main influence in his early years. Carolyn Cagney was half-Irish, Half-Norwegian. Her mother was Irish, born also in County Leitrim. To musical artist also call County Leiltrim their home, they are guitar player John McCartin and traditional Irish singer Eleanor Shanley, both well known on both side of the Atlantic. Tomorrow Forrest will enter the county of Sligo (Sly-Go). That's about all for today, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lietrim County (pronounced Lee-Trim)

County Leitrim, Countryside

8 Miles Today; Another nice day for walking and my miles seem to show it. Forrest was unaware, but his dog Jessie-Marie was following him as I left this morning's walk. When Forrest turned on a main road, Jessie-Marie stop at the edge of that road and stayed there until a neighbor noticed her and brought her home. I didn't know anything about the incident until over 2 hours later. It sure is nice to have great neighbors who look out for you. It might be great weather here in Michigan but Ireland is a different story. Forrest is dealing with wind and rain here in Leitrim County. Today I'm just east of the Town Manorhamilton on road N16. Forrest's only gripe about my Ireland Journey is....that's it very difficult to tell where the county boundaries are. Forrest spends a lot of time trying find out when and where I enter or leave a county. Example.. Yesterday I was in and out of Cavan County so quick I didn't even know I was there. Apparently I just clipped the upper corner of Cavan County. Lietrim County is ranked 26th out of 32 in area. It's has a population of approximately 30,000. The county, which is thinly populated, is hilly , ranging from shaggy brown hills to lofty mountains, with deep valleys. with many beautiful lakes (in Irish it's Loughs) The most common surnames in Leitrim County are Kelly or O'Kelly and Reynolds followed by some very familiar Irish names, how about Flynn and O'Flynn, Rooney or O'Rooney, Reilly or O'Reilly, Maguire, Gallagher,Mulvey, I could name more but I'm running out of room and time. I wonder if my surname could be O'Forrest, hmmmm just a thought. If Forrest can keep his county's in order he'll be back tomorrow. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Farewell, Northern Ireland

Republic of Ireland...12 Miles Today:. Forrest just crossed into County Sligo, Republic of Ireland. I noticed when I started out today that I was 11 miles from the County Fermanagh/County Leitrim . So I said, "what the heck, it's nice outside, why not just walk until I cross the border." I'm on road N16 heading west to Sligo. Forrest has learned much about Ireland, so far. Northern Ireland's six counties I've visited was quite an experience. Belfast is high on my list to visit in real life. Forrest can say he knows a little something about all six Northern Ireland Counties and glad I took time to read about Northern Ireland history. I tip my hat to all, Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Derry, Tyrone. Now part II of my Ireland Journey begins.....The Republic of Ireland has 26 counties. Hmmmmm, How just how many counties Forrest visits is not set in stone, so stay tuned. My Ireland experience makes me want to walk twice a day. I can't wait to get home and log on the computer and research Ireland for my blog. Forrest is tired, so it's time to take a hot shower. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Historic Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Wharf on the River Erne at Enniskillen.8 Miles Today; Another nice day, Forrest had to wear a long sleeve shirt because I was outside by 7:30am (42 degrees). The weather was perfect when I got home at 9:45 (58 degrees). After 12 miles yesterday, my hips feel pretty good today. Now lets back to Ireland. Forrest is now in the town of Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Enniskillen, the largest settlement in the County has population of approximately 11,500. Enniskillen is located exactly in the center of a natural island which separates the Upper and Lower sections of Lough Erne. Lough means "Lake". Enniskillen's town center is build along a narrow main street, which gives a person a real sense of a home town atmosphere with the pubs, shops etc. Forrest in his research of the history of Enniskillen discovered that there was a tragic period which this town experienced. The day was November 8, 1987, what is called in Ireland as Remembrance Day (America calls theirs Veterans Day). People of Enniskillen had gathered at the town's war memorial, when a massive explosion brought the collapse of a nearby building where eleven people died. The restored war memorial in the center of Enniskillen is a fitting reminder of this dark day in Enniskillen's history. Also one dove for each of the victims of the Remembrance Day has been added to the War Memorial (see picture at right). Forrest has done a lot of reading on the troubles of Northern Ireland but this is a walking blog. So I want to keep it to walking and the beautiful stories about Ireland. So on that note, Forrest bids you farewell from Enniskillen. As Forrest heads west on A46, it's only 11 miles to the UK/Republic of Ireland border and only 28 miles to Sligo Ireland. God Bless the people of Enniskillen, until tomorrow Walk Forrest Walk

Mark It Down: Warm Weather

County Fermanagh, Crest..12 Miles Today; It must be summer, Forrest for the first time this year (123 days) walked with shorts and T-shirt. Also no baseball cap either. I think I got too much sun on the old dome.........oh well, Forrest needs to get a suntan. The weather was 70 degrees and a very bright sun. My walk this morning took 3 hrs and 20 minutes. According to the map, Enniskillen is only 8 miles away. Forrest should have a lot to write about Enniskillen tomorrow. I do know from reading about Northern Ireland that Ireland's richest person now lives in Enniskillen, he is originally from the town of Derrylin. His name............Sean Quinn......hmmmmm, Forrest wonders? My family on my mother's side has the name Quinn. Forrest should extend an invitation to Mr Quinn to visit Michigan USA for a cup of coffee. Today, Sunday was a long walk day but short blog post. So until tomorrow from Enniskillen, County Fermanagh Forrest says God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Enjoying County Fermanagh

Sunset, County Fermanagh.. 7 Miles Today; Forrest just arrived home from a baseball game, before my bride catches up with Forrest to do yard work, I must get my blog posted, so here goes. I walked before daybreak, Forrest put on his white stuff, and reflector vest and set out at 5am. Got home at 7am. It gets light now about 6:30am. My miles logged for this week were 58. Forrest had to get to a baseball game in a neighboring town by 9am. Now fast forward to County Fermanagh (pronounced Fur-man-na). Fermanagh is the westernmost of the six counties of Northern Ireland. Also Fermanagh is also my sixth Northern Ireland County that I've visited on my virtual Ireland journey. Ireland has 32 counties, I know Forrest won't be able to visit all 32, but I made it my mission to visit all six Northern Ireland Counties. And I must say, "I was not disappointed". County Fermanagh has a population of about 58,000 and is 25th on the list of Irish counties by area. Fermanagh is often referred to as Ireland's Lake District. Waterways are extensively used by small pleasure craft and anglers. Agriculture and tourism are two of the most important industries in Fermanagh. Forrest's next town to visit is the county seat of County Fermanagh which is named Enniskillen. More about Enniskillen when I get there, which should be this coming Monday. Before signing off today, Forrest would like say a big hello, to a fellow from Northern Ireland who read my blog for the first time a couple of days ago. Quinn466, "Thanks for stopping by" Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

May Day, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland

County Fermanagh, rural scene..........8 Miles Today; Forrest had a lot going on today but I finally made it to the computer. I had my walk in by 8:30am. The temperature was cool 54 degrees. You don't suppose the reason it was cold for Forrest is because he was wearing shorts? hmmmm... Today Forrest is at the border between County Monaghan, Republic of Ireland & County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Forrest is on R187 walking east towards the small town of Rosslea. I just visited the town of Monaghan, the administrative center for the county of Monaghan. With a population of about 6,000, it is known for its furniture, poultry and mushroom production. The center of town is built around a diamond-shaped green, in the manner of most towns established during the Plantation Period of Irish history. The architecture of the buildings is sturdy and elegant. A lot of buildings feature unique carvings on their exterior. It seems all the building are made out of limestone. The bottom line according to Forrest is....."It doesn't matter what town in Ireland I visit, their all unique and beautiful. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk