Carton House
Something I did a lot as a child, and again when I was in my early thirties, was to play golf. Once upon a time I was even quite acceptably good at the game, but since my children were born (almost 20 years ago now) the games have been few and far between...
Nevertheless, when we moved to Ireland three years ago I brought my bag-o-clubs along with me, and today a friend invited me to join him for a round at Carton House, on the Montgomerie Course. Golf in Ireland does often seem to involve these amazing country estates and giant hotels. Carton House is an excellent example: two world-class links courses in the one stunning venue, and you could be playing here after only about 40 minutes in a car after getting through arrivals at Dublin airport.
We had a stunning day for it today, but I'm sure nobody would be surprised to hear that "a lot of golf was played"! I won't tell you my score, because it's pretty embarassing for someone who has played below par rounds to realise that their skills have rusted along with their golf clubs. I did get a lot of practice in the bunkers, and I lost only (nett) two golf balls.
I think I just need to be invited out more often - I checked with the kids, and they're happy to see me less often, so I'll be waiting by the phone... :-)