#18 Do-Rite Donuts

Last, last December before my gluten-free days I wanted to partake in the small batch doughnut fad which was sweeping Chicago. I thought the best place to try it was Do-Rite Donuts, because they were having lines out the door. We went in December hoping that would not be the case and we were lucky to walk right up to the counter and grab an amazing doughnut creation. 

They do serve gluten-free and vegan donuts (maybe not at the same time like I need), so I may have another visit in my future. 

"Donuts. Is there anything they can't do?" - Matt Groening 

#10 Irish Jam Session at The Grafton

As if we didn't hear enough Irish music when we were in Ireland I wanted to go to the Irish Jam Session that happens every Sunday at The Grafton Pub in Lincoln Square. We went on 9/1/2013. 

It amazes me when musicians are able to "jam" and it sounds like it is perfectly planned. I definitely want to go back and experience another session soon. 

The Grafton also has special meaning now that we've been to Dublin and walked on the famous Grafton Street. 

"Music is the voice of the soul." - Unknown

#23 Get a Tattoo

I've always wanted a tattoo, so I put it on my bucket list. 

What I really wanted to get was a four leaf clover, because it has always been my lucky symbol. However, when we got to Ireland we learned clover is a weed. 

I still want to get a four leaf clover someday, but not in Ireland. Instead I got my name in Irish. A tattoo of the name Kerry in County Kerry. 

I wish I'd put multiple tattoos on my bucket list, but I will just get them anyway. 

"It's always a good day for a new tattoo." - Unknown

#27 Stay at a Bed and Breakfast

Ireland is famous for their Bed & Breakfasts and after staying at Algret House in Killarney I know why. We stayed from August 21st to 24th, 2013.  

The room was comfy and cozy and the hospitality was more than we could ask for. Greta made us feel for the 3 nights we stayed there like this was our second home. The breakfast was fantastic and served with love. It made me open to many more Bed & Breakfast experiences in the future and hope that one day we will make it back to Killarney.   

"May all who enter as guests, leave as friends." - Unknown

#101 Visit County Kerry in Ireland

My lifelong dream of visiting County Kerry in Ireland finally came true in August of 2013. Zach and I decided to throw caution to the wind and travel to Europe. We agreed on Ireland, because it is an English speaking country and we'd heard wonderful things about traveling there. Most importantly we'd heard County Kerry is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The itinerary I planned took us to Dublin, Galway City, Limerick, and finally to Killarney in County Kerry. 

We crossed the border into County Kerry on August 21st, 2013. We started of the day in Tralee, the county town (similar to capital), and went to the County Kerry Museum. Then, we drove out along the Dingle Peninsula stopping in Dingle and Inch Beach. We eventually made it to Killarney. 

The next day, August 22nd, we drove the Ring of Kerry. I am so grateful on the one day we had to take this magnificent drive the weather was perfect.

August 23rd we took a jaunting car tour of the Gap of Dunloe. 

Without this beautiful county being my namesake I may never have been drawn to it. I can honestly say it is the most beautiful place on Earth that I have seen so far. How kind of my parents to name me after such a place.  

"May the dreams you hold dearest be the ones that come true. And the kindness you spread keep returning to you." - Irish Saying