Our Friend Phil

While on our trip we met another couple on our bus tour that turned out to be kindred friends. We had SUCH a fun time with them! Ryan and Phil had a great time teasing our tour director and making fun of the millions of history lessons she tried to give us. We did a lot with Phil and Ros and when the trip ended, we were so sad to say goodbye. Phil and Ros live in Austrailia - obviously far away from our little Huntington Beach. We grew very close to them and it was strange to think that we would probably never see them again. Here are some pictures of our dear friends that REALLY made our trip even that much more exciting.

This little pub was in Dunmore East, outside of Waterford - yes home of the famous Crystal factory, also home of the saying, "by hook or by crook." Phil here is modeling for us in front of the thatched roof Hayes Pub. This pub has been family owned and opperated for over 100 years! The previous owner lived to be 100 years old and was not fond of tourists. She died so we got to go visit... While at the pub we listened to the live music of Richy Roberts. He was so entertaining that we bought his CD. We still listen to it and love every minute of it!

As you can see Phil doesn't look like the kind of guy that would be touring Europe by bus. He looks like he should be touring on a Harley - which in fact he does love to do, and is the reason he and his wife Ros came on this trip.

Ros was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease not too long ago. She, obviously, wasn't too happy about the diagnosis. Phil found her one day crying in their bedroom. He asked her what was wrong and she said, "I am never going to see Paris!" He told her that if that was all she wanted that he would sell his beloved Harley and use the money to finance the trip to Europe.

When sacrafices are made, blessings are given. Just like every previous year Phil purchased a $50 raffle ticket as a donation to the MS research organization. This year was different though, the grand prize was a Harley. Guess who won!!! Phil won the grand prize, a NEW Harley Davidson!!! He procedded to sell his new prize and use that money to go on a trip to Europe. He was able to keep his beloved Harley that he so willingly offered to sell to make his wife Ros happy.

They were a great example to us and we enjoyed the trip so much more with them as our travel buddies. We hope to see them again someday... in Australia 2008!