So it was off to Dublin I went, by plane from Edinburgh, just a 50 minute flight to the capital of Ireland, then a hop on the train, 3 hours later I was down in Waterford to hug my daughter and grandchildren.
I use to go over there regularly every year bass fishing but not this visit, my stay would be taken up entertaining my daughter and her family.
In between the visits to the local shops, the seaside and eating out, I managed to escape for a few hours to relax and sample the local brew.
One thing about Ireland is there are plenty of good pubs, all selling excellent beer.
However, not everyone likes the taste of Ireland's favourite tipple.
It was an enjoyable couple of days, but was soon over, I am now back in Edinburgh getting my fishing gear ready.
I wonder how the Clyde is fishing?