New climbing wall in Dublin

As mentioned in a previous blog posting, we finally got the floors installed in the living room and sitting room. We're thrilled.

Living room with sunshine and new floors

Ok, now on to business.  In last week's Sunday Business Post, there was a fascinating article about a new climbing wall in Ireland.  So FABJ and I checked out on Saturday.

(Sorry - I tried to find a link to the article, but there is no access to it on Sundays.  So here's a summary - it's all free climbing, also called bouldering.  No ropes.  So the walls aren't that high.)

FABJ action photo!

FABJ had a great time.  I fear it's going to be an expensive hobby.  But we can get shoes at a reasonable price from our favorite outdoor store, Decathlon.  This store is awesome - there is one near LBJ's parents' house in France.  I think we spent 200+ euro last time we were in France on athletic gear for us and the girls, such as FABJ's horse riding clothes.  Why can't she like inexpensive sports like basketball?

"Please take my picture"

She made it to the top of a few routes of the easiest color (purple).  In fact, the only challenge for her was when she simply isn't tall enough to reach from one hold to the next.  But she had a great time, which is the important thing.

Afterwards, we went to visit the animal shelter to look at cats to bring home.  We've started the process (which takes a while), so stay tuned...

More holiday photos

I discovered a few photos on my computer this evening, so I thought they were worth sharing.  First up a is a photo of the three cousins.  As you can see, they are enjoying themselves.

The power of the iPad ...

Next up is ORBJ wanting to show off one of her Christmas presents.

In fact, we nearly had a problem on Christmas morning when FABJ didn't get the same present.  "But I wanted a doll with matching pajamas, too!"  Fortunately, this was a short-lived concern (and the first we had heard of it).

Me too and mini me too

Of course, once FABJ saw me with the camera, you can guess what happened next ...

Rudolf's cousin, perhaps?

The in-laws had an informal gathering (a "grazing") to introduce friends and family to APB, the girls' cousin.  It was an enjoyable event for all, although APB was put to work afterwards:

Surely some violation of child labor laws here ...

It was a rude awakening after two weeks off to return to the world of school / alarm clocks / work.  But that' ok - a couple of days later the hardwood floors were installed in the living and dining room, so the house is nearly complete.  At this point, I hardly care about the remaining tasks (although it would be nice to have them complete).