Portlaoise, Laois, Ireland

It's the first part of 'The Big Adventure' where we didn't have to endure public transport. Instead, we got to enjoy the lovely company of Jason's family in the comfort of their nice, rather comfortable car. It was an enjoyable little drive down that didn't take that long. When we arrived at the 'Portlaoise Heritage Hotel' we were far from impressed. Don't get me wrong, it's a lovely hotel, but it's certainly not a four star hotel. Then again, compared to some of the places we've stayed in, it would come out on top!

It was only right that myself and my better half inspect the leisure facilities on offer by changing into our swim shorts and jump into the pool. It was lovely and refreshing. Of course, it would have been rude not to check out the lovely Jacuzzi and sauna as well. As I'm sure you can imagine, they were very relaxing. I wanted to stay longer, but Jason, who can never stay still, (honestly, it's actually quite annoying. He always has to be doing something- don't tell him I said that or he'll get all huffy-puffy. And you don't want to see his huffy-puffy face) wanted to go.

That evening we celebrated Jason's uncle Joseph's 50th with a lovely meal for the whole family. I think I must have had two meals. You have to get your moneys worth! Jason's dad, John was very hyper. His family were not impressed with him flicking food at them. It definitely didn't go down too well. Did it rain on John's parade? Are you mad? No, it didn't! Yes, he is! John couldn't care less what people think. After the meal, we all headed upstairs to one of the rooms for drinks with Jason's cousins before heading out to the local club which ended up being a total dive.

The following day, we walked into the town where we enjoyed a nice bag of chips and a pint of Guinness. I even let Jason play a couple of games of pool with his family, which I hope he appreciated! We all had a really nice afternoon, chatting away to each other! It was really nice being able to enjoy their company! After all, a year away from everyone is a very long time. People can change so much in the space of twelve months!

The main reason we came down to Portlaoise was to celebrate Joseph's 50th. And celebrate we did! His family organised a surprise party for him in the hotel. It was a really good night with music to get the crowd going. Of course, I was on camera duty, but I didn't mind. For once, we were all very well behaved! Well, except for poor Steo, who had a bit too much to drink. I don't think Danielle was too impressed. He spent the following day hanging!

The next day, as everyone left, we decided to stay for an extra night. Sure, why not? It was a nice lazy day with a stroll through the town and drinking games in out hotel room that would bring us into the early hours of the morning. We all had a good laugh. Jason's family are crazy!

The last time Jason's parents were down in the hotel, his dad at a bad accident. He went out for a smoke late at night and didn't see the step. Of course, he fell over! Lets just say there was a lot of blood and a bent finger involved! Oh well!

Did we enjoy our weekend away? Of course we did. It was really nice spending time with Jason's crazy family. With the French's your always guaranteed a laugh. They really don't care what other people think. To be honest, we loved having them all on 'The Big Adventure' with us!

By Andrew

#Ireland #birthday #2015 #rural