Comments from Previous Guests

If ever there was a home away from home...it would most definitely be here!

Your kindness, warmth and hospitality are most welcoming. You have set a precedent by which all else will be compared!

Thanks ever so much! We will be back!

Bob & Chris - Philadelphia, PA - Oct 2007 www.enchantingireland.com

Thank you for sharing your lovely Knockahopple Cottage with us. Your information/guide packet is wonderful testimony to your attention to detail and commitment to your guests' comfort and enjoyment of the cottage and the country. Your personal touch is evident everywhere even though you are in Milwaukee and we are here.

Thank you for the opportunity to experience Ireland in such an intimate way.

Kathleen C. M. - WI - Oct 2007 - Self-Catering Guest

This trip to Ireland has been "most" memorable. Of all the places I've traveled – this is the most beautiful – My lovely daughter Michelle handled the "tiny" roads like a pro! Spending time at "Knockahopple" with her was wonderful and will remain a favorite memory of mine.

We will miss the cottage and Ireland. God outdid himself when he (or she) created this beautiful country. Would love to return some day. Take care of the cottage and Milton (the chicken). Come see us in Charleston, SC.

Faye O. - Charleston, SC - Aug 2007 - Self-Catering Guest

Liam, it's beautiful here. Once we finally arrived a day late, we have traveled near and far in this GREEN country - goodness it's so pretty.

Your cottage is delightful. Mom and I loved spending some special time together. We learned to navigate the roads and byways of Ireland fairly well.

From Rock of Cashel to Ormond Castle to Cahir to the Vee, Giant's Causeway, and by far the most fun Castle Otway - loved exploring w/out the tourists. Met a gentleman in Templederry who could tell us so much history - very local flavor

Thanks, Liam - I will miss the peaceful nights here in the cottage with the fire blazing.

Michelle O. - Charleston, SC - Aug 2007 - Self-Catering Guest

July 2007

Dear Liam,

Thank you for introducing me to Ireland. Through you I have met the people, seen the places and fallen in love with the country.

While I am returning to my everyday world, the warmth and friendliness of this place will come home with me.

I hope you will come to Louisiana and let us show you another world. We would love to share our culture with you as you have shared yours with us.

It was an opportunity of a lifetime, one I will treasure always. I look forward to the day I will return.

Beverly S, Baton Rouge, LA - July 2007

Dearest Liam,

What a fabulous holiday you've given us! You've completely spoiled us and we'll never want to travel without a "Liam." You eliminated ALL the stress and worry of navigating unknown territory. Thank you for giving us such a memorable and marvelous two weeks.

We really want you to come to Louisiana and we'll all "pass a good time" together. It will be fun, albeit challenging to reciprocate your superb hospitality.

"Merci mille fois" for your kindness, patience, humor and all-around wonderful nature. You're the "finesht!"

With love from "those people,"

Emily S. - Baton Rouge, LA - July 2007

Liam,

...this is, again, a holiday I'll never forget! ...every day was an adventure - I love Ireland - it's amazing. I hope to return again soon.

We packed a lot into the 10 days. Thanks for being you - the food, driving, sights, people, drinks, castles, shopping, Limericks, friends, etc.

Laury H - Greenfield, WI - July 2007

Liam,

What a wonderful place you have here! I've really enjoyed this trip to the fullest. The scenery is beautiful. I loved the coastal drive, although the "hedgerows" do tend to interfere with "looking."

You've been a gracious host, always ready to answer the next question even though you've answered it 2 or 3 times before. Your love of Ireland certainly shows in the way you want your guests to see and experience "the true Ireland."

The pub food has been wonderful - the breakfasts great, especially the way you present them. I've enjoyed "trying" the different traditional "Irish" drinks we've had in the evenings by the fire, although I think the "Smithwick's" is my favorite. The car rides were certainly interesting with our "first responders" in the backseat. I will certainly encourage others to plan their trip to Ireland by way of "Knockahopple"

Your friend,

Dee P - Janesville, WI - June 2007

Liam, Liam, Liam; you are...

• a good listener
• pay attention to detail of all excursions
• magpie terminator (you don't want to know)
• pays attention to details of breakfast
• friend
• soothing voice
• patient...with three women shrieking
• overflowing with Irish stories
• server of liquids
• restorer
• great at fruit presentation
• skilled driver
• Knockahopple creator
• finder of points of interest that are not tourist traps
• preparer of sensation snacks
• sharing
• contagious laugh
• finder of cemeteries
• tolerant
• Irish singer
• steeped in Irish history
• actor shows through
• thoughtful host

Your friend, The First Responder,

Coral N - Janesville, WI - June 2007

This trip to Ireland,
Though it almost didn't happen,
Has turned out to be,
One ne'er to be forgotten,

A neat little cottage,
Down Liam's Lane,
I really, truly hope,
I can return again.

Liam you are such a gracious and funny host. Great knowledge of Ireland. Good experience with my friends. Great breakfasts and evening drinks and snacks. Driving in Ireland seemed very harrowing at first, but Liam you made it tolerable after a day or two, I think! I'll have memories of narrow hedge-lined country roads, green fields, rock walls, castle, quaint villages, friendly people, comfy quarters and good meals in Irish pubs.

Shirley S. - Janesville, WI - June 2007

Such a charming Irish Cottage set in the beautiful countryside. It has been a perfect adventure for our family and a special family reunion full of memories that will last a lifetime.

John, Wendy, Calli, Johnny & Brendan - Jan/Feb 2007 - Self-Catering Guest

Liam, there are comments that you hold inside your heart as special gifts and right now we have so many that you have given us in the last two weeks. I don't know when I've laughed so much. You are the perfect host and Knockahopple and our time here will be with us forever. Thank you.

Thelma & Pat G - Milwaukee, WI - July 2006

Ireland has become our Mecca thanks, in many ways to Liam's love and knowledge of all things Irish especially in our native Tipperary. There is probably no on in this beautiful country who knows more about the history and sites in this area. Thanks, Liam, for taking the time to show us the wonders around Knockahopple.

And we'll all go together,
To pick wild mountain thyme,
All around the bloomin' heather,
Will ye go lassie go.

Slan,

Jim & Betty S. - Phoenix, AZ - June 2006

"Bring jackets, raincoats, sweaters" we were told...

By those who said, "Ireland can be very cold!"

Day after day through sunshine we tredged.

While trying to see what's behind that damned hedge!

Hiking and climbing and castles galore

Beautiful mountains and ruins to explore.

Where were the mitts and wind and rain?

"Hush!" They'd all say, don't be such a pain!

So on we traveled day after day,

Through a country so lovely we wanted to stay.

Just before leaving there came a nice storm,

Knockahopple Cottage kept us safe, dry and warm!

The fire was always cozy, conversation quite free

New friends were made that always will be.

Let's not forget that very last day,

When Liam drove home that round about way.

Three in the front of the car meant for two

His treasure filled the boot. What else could we do!

Now it's all over and sadly we leave,

OK! I give up...I can't think of anymore. someone else can finish this silly thing...

Liam! It was just the best, best, best!

Love to you,

Ronni - Algoma, WI - June 2006

Liam, We had a great time, host, etc. Plus we found a new friend. You even produced beautiful weather on demand.

Gary - Algoma, WI - June 2006

What special memories we have! Waterford, Cliffs of Moher, holy wells, sunsets, great weather, Kinsale, ruined priories, cathedrals with spectacular windows, St Victoria (we'd never heard of her!), Guinness, amazing vistas of farms and sea, Silvermines Mountains, sports day Sunday service and icons at Glenstal Abbey, picnic at Slea Head Drive, fantastic dinner at Inch House, navigating curvy, narrow roads; asking directions, friendly folks everywhere, walking Kilkenny, shopping, jam, woodword, silver, lotions. Most of all - wonderful breakfasts, ideas, directions and "welcome homes." Thank you for sharing a special place with us.

Barb & Steve A - Milwaukee, WI - June 2006

Thank you for the opportunity to experience Knockahopple Cottage! The sunsets and rainbows were fantastic!! Thanks also for the great travel and shopping suggestions – we made 3 trips to Hanley Woolens!!

Mary & Nancy - May 2006

Liam, this place is magical! Such a friendly place with such history! Thank you so much for the experience. I can't wait to come back and see the completed addition...

Rick B - Pewaukee, WI - May 2006

Enjoyed the Irish hospitality. Find the people very friendly. Weather wet at first but had a few really sunny days, a good surprise for this time of year.

Pam & Ken B - East Yorkshire, England - Self-Catering Guest

Thank you, Liam, for everything: We discovered some of the many beauties of the Emerald Isle.

We loved the cottage, you have done a wonderful job. Can't wait for the new addition. We can see why you can't wait to come back here.

Jim & Margee E - Vero Beach, FL - Self-Catering Guest

Liam, I am so grateful you took the time to show us around and tell us all about our family heritage. I would love to learn more and I hope to come back soon. Thanks a million for your hospitality.

Brynn H - Cave Creek, AZ - Aug 2005

Sure appreciated the hospitality and it was great to "come home." Thanks so much.

Diane, Jeff & Jaren - Cave Creek, AZ - Aug 2005

How lucky I am to have you for a cousins. You have been more than wonderful to us. Your place is so beautiful and welcoming. Makes me glad we're half Irish. Don't forget we are in AZ and you will ALWAYS be welcome to stay with us.

MJ & Steve C, Fountain Hills, AZ - Aug 2005

Liam,

Thank you for the grand time! Your place is very quaint! Thank you for the yummy breakfast and snack and drink at night. Ireland is a beautiful place to visit and really hope to be back again some day! Your a terrific host!

Martha U - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2005

Dear Liam,

Words will never express how much I have enjoyed this trip. It is a dream come true for me and you certainly helped fulfill it. You made us all feel welcome and we appreciated your fantastic tours. I really hope to see you again.

Leah G - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2005

Hey Liam!

I had a blast these ten days! You are such a great guy and tour guide! You know tons of stuff! It was really informative. Dublin was great! Shopping grand. I definitely want to come back. Maybe even live here!!! I love it here. Hook me up! Ha ha! Thanks again for everything! The food was great!! so were the drinks and beer! Thanks again!

Love ya!

Aimee U - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2005

Dear Liam,

Where to begin (where is the postbox?)! From the moment we entered the cottage I felt I was in another world, filled with countless personal touches, each one noted and appreciated with a smile. Thank you for sharing your Ireland with us, the Ireland we would never have known, the hospitality, the friendliness, the neighborliness, the importance of family, the shy quietness of the Irish people, the enormous sadness and oppression they had suffered. Perhaps the highlight (of so many highlights) was the night at Jim O' the Mills and especially hearing your wonderful ballad in your beautiful voice. I'm glad I videoed it! Come now, Liam, give us a song.

Thank you for everything! Affectionately and still laughing

Miriam S - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2005

PS - What post office?

PPS - Mashed, boiled, oven baked, chipped? Or all of of the above? :)

Dear Liam,

What a wonderful way to celebrate 50 years of religious life! Experiencing your Irish hospitality and the peace of your hill, learning and seeing the Ireland of the people and their lives, especially the evening at Jimmy the Mills! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Kay S.- Milwaukee, WI - June 2005

Dear Liam,

Little did I know there was such a charming oasis of beauty and comfort in this world!

Thank you so very much for sharing your place and giving so graciously of your time and talent, but most especially of yourself - you are a special guy! What fun!

Ruth G - Portland, OR - June 2005

It's true. I liked everything the best! Thank for a wonderful holiday - for a warm Ireland welcome and for sharing stories, songs, history, style and food favorites and incredible views and places. Thank you, thank you, thank you for the "snapshot of the authentic Ireland."

You are the best! Hugs-

Mary S - Janesville, WI - May 2005

This visit to Ireland met all my expectation and many more. The scenic drives, laughter, songs, Limericks, Jim O' the Mill's, 99s, history lessons. I could go on and on. This was the best trip ever.

God bless,

Barb A - Janesville, WI - May 2005

Liam,

Thanks for letting your cottage to us for our Easter holiday, and Darren's graduation gift. Your guidance and itinerary made for a memorable trip for our family. It was so good to come back to Knockahopple and your cozy Irish cottage each night. The only thing missing was you!

God's blessing to you,

Linda, Denis, Nolan and Darren M - Whitefish Bay, WI - Mar 2005 - Self-Catering Guest

Uncle Liam,

Had a great time, hope to come back. Thanks for wonderful holiday, can't wait to come back...

It's been fun. Even tho there was a bit of a "mishst" it was still the "fineshst." I don't know why my sister was complaining, the house is just lovely, you shouldn't put it in your will that it go to someone who did not appreciate the "luvly" home as much as I do.

Eric S - Racine, WI - Aug 2004

To our dear friend Liam,

Word cannot fully show my appreciation for all you've done. Thank you for your hospitality and personal touch to allow us to enjoy the EMERALD ISLE!

Mike K - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2004

Liam, Thank you for ten of the best days - rain or shine. You have a wonderfully cozy cottage. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. Ireland is so beautiful - I hope I can return again some day. This will be a vacation to remember and talk about for years to come. Twas grand!

Pat K - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2004

Liam - I feel so privileged that Pat and Mike invited me along on this journey. I have enjoyed each and everyday of our time together. Thanks especially for the laughs and wonderful hospitality.

Affectionately,

Sue K - Eagan, MN - June 2004

Dear Liam,

Knockahopple is a little bit of heave! And you are the resident Angel. I loved it ALL.

• The flowers everywhere
• The green hills
• The amazing hedgerows
• The songs of Ireland
• but most of all the kind Irish people.

I will be back!

My love to you.

Nancy - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2004

Liam, Your cottage is lovely and grand! Ireland is much more than I expected, the people are fun and friendly and delightful. Thanks for the individual attention and the great tours.

Knockahopple Cottage is a dream that you share with your guests - we are definitely coming back when your addition is completed.

I love the 99s, brown bread and the poteen!

Thanks Liam. You are a great host.

PS - Jimmy the mills is a must-see.

Judy B - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2004

Liam - Thanks for the attention to everything special. Your knowledge is remarkable and your ability to share it is even more remarkable. I hope my return is swift. May your example fill many a hearts to dream and reach for corners never thought reachable.

With much respect ,

John M - Milwaukee, WI - Oct 2003

Dear sweet Liam,

Thank you so much for sharing your warm welcoming home, your beautiful Ireland and for opening up your heart while I was trying to heal mine! The laughter helped too - I will always think of you when I hear about Mr. O'Queef.

Love,

Liza B - Philadelphia, PA - Oct 2003

Liam,

Where to begin --- What a wonderful first time visit to Ireland! You are a grand host, tour guide, purchaser of 99s, story teller, etc. We'll be back when your addition is finished.

Slainte - God bless,

Alvy M - Peoria, AZ - Oct 2003

What a beautiful place! What a wonderful time! Thank you for showing us the "real Ireland."

Things to remember:

• In Ireland, the shortest distance between two points IS NOT a straight line
• Portumna Castle is a great "trip"
• Tractors are not "just like cars"

It was an honor to be your first guest to do the "Keeper Hill" tour.

Many Thanks,

Sandra P - Ishpeming, MI - Oct 2003

There wan an innkeeper named Liam

Who charged a very reasonable per diem
He was handsome and tall,
But in spite of it all,
He'd rater be eating ice cream.

Thanks for sharing this beautiful country and your friendship.

Love,

Jerry F - Mequon, WI - Aug 2003

PS - Sorry I broke your "irreplaceable" lamp shade which I replaced at the first place I looked ;)

My friend Liam is known as dreamer.
He longed to become and Irish innkeeper.
After learning the skills,
He bought a cottage in the hills,
And now all who visit Knockahopple leave a believer.

Thank you Liam for sharing your dream with me,

Kevin B - Mequon, WI - Aug 2003

Liam,

Thanks for everything. Our visit to Ireland was wonderful. Your cozy cottage was a great base to tour from. You do a great job of guiding and explaining the mysteries of "mothern" Ireland. with your help, I learned much about the old Irish ways that I grew up with. I will long remember this trip and your hospitality.

John D - Milwaukee, WI - July 2003

Thanks a lot for showing us around Ireland and telling us about it. Your cottage is beautiful and very cozy. I had a lot of fun here and would recommend it to anyone.

Thanks again,

Nick D - Milwaukee, WI - July 2003

Thank you for helping us see Ireland and appreciate its people, land and culture. You're a wonderful guide to this beautiful countryside. The cottage was always warm and inviting, as was the hospitality. We even enjoyed the local gossip! Thanks for making our vacation so rick in memories.

Lauren B - Milwaukee, WI - June 2003

It was a delight staying here even though I was stalked by little green men. The cottage is very nice and cozy and anyone who stays here is very lucky. Ireland is also very beautiful too. I hope I can return again when your addition is done.

Kim J - West Allis, WI - June 2003

I enjoyed staying here very much. The cottage was very nice and Ireland is a very neat country. I hope I will be able to come here again.

Anne W - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2003

Liam,

Thank you for taking such good care of us and showing us the Ireland you know and love.

Someone as kind and wonderful as you deserves to succeed and I know that you will. Enjoy!

Mary W - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2003

Liam,

Thanks for the opportunity to see and experience the real Ireland. Your hospitality and guidance made our trip fun, relaxing and interesting. Please keep us up to date with your progress at the cottage. I hope to visit here again.

Katie D - Wauwatosa, WI - June 2003

What a treat to experience Ireland while staying at Knockahopple The cottage is warm and cozy no matter what the weather...and the host...GRAND! Our adventure was widespread and I really liked Lord Gort's Basement - The Quiet Man's Cottage - I know the true value of Wellies! I have really enjoyed my time here and can't wait to tell others!

Barb C - Milwaukee, WI - June 2003

Weather beautiful; seen a lot of old friends. Seen a lot more of Ireland than I ever saw before. This is my 3rd trip to Ireland, and I enjoy it more each time. The guide was terrific.

Bob (Uncle Buck) Hughes - Ishpeming, MI - March 2003

You've come a long way baby! From turquoise walls with mold to a cottage that is comfy and cozy. Memories galore are stacking up. The trip up the mountain in Waterford almost killed me, but the view was worth it. I'll never forget running thru the slurry and then going to the pub.

You know I'll be back. Thanks for a great time.

Judy J - Marquette, MI - Aug 2002

Enjoyed our great visit here in beautiful and refreshing Ireland. Thank you, Liam, for all your tour guidance to all the wonderful sites of charming Ireland. We appreciate your warm hospitality and cozy little cottage.

This is one of the greatest experiences of my life which I would never forget. If you are ever in Iron River stop by to visit. Would love to see you again, Liam. May God bless you.

Dottie & Bob S - Iron River, MI - July 2002

How can I express the joy these two weeks have given me - a little taste of heaven! It saddens me to be leaving such a glorious, charming place - Ireland and your cottage. I see why so many say "once you're in Ireland you're hooked and never want to leave." I'm hooked and it's mostly because of you.

You have opened our eyes to the "real" Ireland, with your stories, your beautiful, cozy cottage and all our adventures.

Thanks for evenings near the fire, the quiet Irish music and good conversation. God has given you a special gift and I'm lucky to have had the opportunity to experience it.

Cindi J - Marquette, MI - July 2002

Thank you for a great time. We love your stories and leaned a lot about Ireland and their people. We enjoyed the charm of your cottage. We had many good laughs. The thoughts of our visit will always make me smile.

Mel & Pat R - Col. Heights, MN - July 2002

You encouraged me to come to Ireland and you received me warmly at Knockahopple Cottage. But, more importantly you provided the opportunity for me to visit my ancestral homeland in Myshall. That visit was a milestone in my life, and for that I am eternally grateful.

Your friend,

Russ P - West Bend, WI - June 2001

It was lovely here. Thanks for collecting me at the aeroport and for the pints. Top-o-th' mornin' to ya.

Jerry P - Omaha, NE - June 2001

Thanks Liam for a truly wonderful time at your darling Irish cottage - your warmth friendship and hospitality was SO appreciated on our first trip to Ireland. THIS was the BEST part.

Judie B - Greendale, WI - June 2000

Thank you Liam for sharing your lovely cottage and your spectacular countryside. Your kindness and Irish hospitality was wonderful. Thank you for everything.

Beth B - Bangladesh, India - June 2000

Wow what a great place :) Your lovely cottage made us feel right at home. Thanks so much for welcoming us into your home and making our trip to Ireland so memorable.

Blythe B - Marquette, MI - June 2000

Your cottage is awesome Liam! I love the brickett fire. It made this place a home. Always stop and eat the ice cream because it's a precious opportunity! When you return to Muckross Head, make sure those sheep are bathing their behinds.

Miles B - Marquette, MI - June 2000

"Sure a little bit of heaven fell from our the sky one day" and Liam, you found it and your extended family and have made the warmest home which you fill with your friends, fun and laughter! A million thanks from the bottom of my heart for sharing so generously with us.

Gretchen B - Marquette, MI - June 2000

On a hill there's a high brow of land.
Where lives Liam and his people so grand.
They embrace us with arms
Filled with wit, care and charms.
They're a nation blessed by His hand.

Blaine B - Marquette, MI - June 2000

This visit has given me a lifetime of wonderful, happy memories and I thank you , but don't forget " for this I saved for a whole year."

Lalor E - Danville VA - May 1999

Thanks for the wonderful hospitality and conversation. Your home is beautiful.

Rosemary R - Waukesha, WI - June 2000

I've discovered my new Ireland home - you won't be able to keep me away. Many, many THANKS, Liam.

Peggy R - Waukesha, WI - June 2000

There a no words to express my joy at being here - nor my sadness in leaving. This "little bit of heave" will be in my thoughts and prayers always. Thanks, Liam.

Gainey R - South Bend, IN - May 2000

Comments taken from the Knockahopple Cottage Guest Book - some comments were edited for length.