Hey from the U.K.

    My goodness it's been awhile since I've updated this. Sorry about the delay, schoolwork has rapidly picked up taking up a majority of my time. However, this weekend I took a break from the books to enjoy a trip to Northern Ireland.
     Thursday night the Poth Family hosted 18 students over for 3D night to enjoy an all-american hamburger meal. Feasting on hamburgers, fries, and ice cream sundaes, we enjoyed every bite! As Sandlin explained our meal she  pointed out the hamburger patties and baps. What did she just call them? Baps? Hamburger buns are known as baps over here. Whether you call them baps or buns there's no disputing they tasted great. After dinner Kirk taught us the game 4 on a couch. Thankfully this winter at Grandma & Grandmpas house I had learned how to play during the blizzard. Thinking it was hard to explain to a group of english speaking friends, try teaching 18 international students. Thankfully it went surprisingly well. We played guys vs. girls  and came out on top, walloping the guys twice in record time! Finally they guys scored a win, but 3 of the 4 winning members were actually girls who switched to the boys team to help.

All American Burgers!

Girls win...again!

     Finishing 4 on a couch we watched the movie Freedom Writers. What an interesting movie to watch with all different ethnicities. Countries represented included: Korea, South Africa, Mexico, France, U.S., Canada,  and Germany. Centered around the connection between a white first year teacher and her students of many different ethnicities the movie also featured an interesting marriage dynamic. Although it was not the central point, it sparked great discussion following the movies end. I enjoyed hearing different perspectives and thoughts on how people viewed marriage.

     3D nights always run late leaving Abby C. and I four hours to sleep and finish packing to leave for Belfast. Morning came a bit too early as I scrambled to pack my bags and get to school by 7am to board the bus. With a 5 hour bus ride ahead of us it didn't take long to grab our ipods and fall fast asleep. Along the way we stopped at rest area which was surprisingly large and oddly comforting. It was a new building with a modern look and spacious area to eat and relax, making it feel American like. Purchasing an apple tart at the rest stop was sadly disappointing finding out the apple insides were not sweetened, but had a plain tart flavor. Back on the bus we loaded up and headed off to Dublin. With a short stop for tea & coffee we began our journey north to Belfast.
         As we entered Northern Ireland Shawney, our bus driver, explained the small differences we'd notice. The first being two are relatively insignificant seeing as though they are color changes. In the Republic of Ireland yellow road lines are used contrasting that of the North where they use white. In addition to different colored road lines, post boxes in the Republic are green, but change to red in the North. When crossing into the north there isn't a customs official, presenting your passport is not necessary. Small coloration differences are noticeable, but no major differences on initial entrance. However, this would change once in the heart of the city. Ireland is composed of four provinces, each containing counties within them. Connacht, Leinster, Munster and Ulster make up the provinces. Ulster is the farthest North containing nine counties. However, three of the nine belong to the Republic, with the other six under British control.  This area is very proud to be loyalists as it is painted all over their cities. In fact to an extent far greater than I had ever expected. I found the cities of the north to be uncomfortable presenting a hostile rebellious feeling. Murals such as the one below are painted everywhere giving an eery reminder of the battles war for power which have waged in the north.

     Scenery in Ulster is absolutely beautiful, however I didn't enjoy the cities. On a return trip I would prefer to stay farther south in a Republic controlled county, but venture up north for the beauty of the countryside.

     Arriving in belfast around noon Abby C. and I unloaded our belongings in the hostel and ate sack lunches packed that morning. You will find this frugal theme throughout our weekend. With two hours until our tour of Belfast a group of us ventured through the streets finding Victoria Square overlooking the entire city.

Inside the structure featured intriguing architectural design as well as a beautiful shopping center.  The view from inside looking out over all of Belfast was beautiful. 

Crazy designs

On our way to the top.

      Returning around 3pm we left the hostel for an open top bus tour of Belfast. Quite the experience as we dodged tree branches and braved the cool wind for a glimpse of the city. The tour was worth it and I can now say I've done an open top bus tour, however it was cold enough to make it uncomfortable.

Maeve & Elaine on the chilly open bus.

      By the conclusion of our tour dinner had rolled around and our stomachs were growling. Keeping in mind we are physically in Northern Ireland, but technically in the U.K. we had to use Sterling Pounds as currency. $1.62 = £1. Ouch! Already broke, we knew there was no reason to discontinue our frugal nature, especially now that we were paying in pounds. Blinkers, was the first and cheapest place to eat producing a mediocre dinner. It was my very first fry. Irish are known for their frys especially breakfast frys, so I gave it a go! Potato bread came out on top as my favorite food in the fry, tasting similar to french toast.

Vinny and Erik joined Abby C. and I for dinner, but had yet to make it to Victoria Square. With time to kill Abby C. and I joined them for another view over Belfast. This time inside the dome, colored lights slowly blinked on and faded off into another color making for a unique effect and different look than our last trip up to the top. Gerry, the security man in the dome was a friendly older gentleman who told us a dirty joke...so it is universal, dirty old man jokes are inescapable. 

     Making our way back to the hostel again we were able to view sites from a bit different perspective lit up by the city lights. For example city hall was beautiful in the evening with glowing lights illuminating it's peak.

     On our way back to the hostel we made a quick stop to the most beautiful grocery store I've ever seen. Please tell me if you've ever seen a Pick 'n Save, IGA or Trigs look like this?

Beautiful grocery store.

Something tells me this was not originally a grocery store. What do you think?
At Tesco Abby C. and I bought chocolate and retreated to the warmth of the hostel to catch up on the events in Africa with BBC news. With plenty of time to spare we relaxed until half eight when we ventured out to find the pubs. Most of the girls were out for a session, but Abby C., Jitka and I were too tired, making a decision to find just two pubs. First off was one of the most ornate pubs and secondly was one of the oldest pubs. We accomplished both and made it back by 11pm.

On our way out for the night we met up with Jim, a professional wrestler from Scotland. Spending the last couples of days in Northern Ireland to celebrate his birthday with family, Jim had one more remaining night in Belfast, so we invited him to join us for drinks. As we made our way to The Crown Jim looked over with a very serious expression and asked "you all known the Crown is a Catholic pub right?" Umm...No, does that matter? I thought Jim was going to crawl out of his skin. Does that matter!?!  Clearly we had a lot to learn. Both in Northern Ireland and Scotland Protestants and Catholics stick to their own pubs. In addition the color of clothing you wear distinguishes your religious affiliations. For example Jim pointed to my green coat saying I would be catholic and Sarah wearing blue would be Protestant. He went on to explain the serious nature of the topic as one of his friends was stabbed because he had a Catholic girlfriend and another friend has a scar down the back of his head and neck from an ice pick because he too had been dating a Catholic girl. Jim wasn't very comfortable going to The Crown because he's Protestant, but said it would be fine. Questioning whether or not we should change the color of our clothing he explained they don't bother with tourists knowing you don't know any better, but because he's from Scotland and knows full well the nature of the topic he would rather move on to another pub in a short matter of time.

The Crown Pub was gorgeous inside and out featuring incredibly detailed and ornate design. We were told it used to be a public disgrace to be seen drinking alcohol in public. Therefore the pub created small enclosed booths, allowing people to close the door and drink in privacy.

Girls at The Crown

Amazingly beautiful inside and out.

     Built in 1630 as one of the oldest surviving pubs in the world Whites became our second destination the evening. With lights strung in a zig zag pattern across the small inlet, nostalgic memories of a very similar scene in Denver two summers ago came to mind.  The lights gave it a cozy feeling as we entered a pub rich with history.

     

      The last 4-5 nights I've struggled with sleep, however  I've never slept so well in my life in the last two hostels I've stayed in. Go figure, a dirty, sketchy hostel makes for a great nights rest. Jitka, Abby C. and I returned home after our two pub visits to hit the hay as we had an early morning trip out of Belfast and on to Derry. Some were a bit more tired than others on our next bus excursion

Sara and Mel needed a nap

   Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge in Antrim along the coast of Northern Ireland stretches across a 23m-deep and 20m-wide chasm over to Carrick-a-Rede island. 

     Off to the Giant's Causeway an area of of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. Legend has it the Irish warrior Fionn mc Cumbhaill built the causeway to walk to Scotland to fight his Scottish counterpart Benadonner. I would explain in it's entirety, but I found it to be quite dumb, so google it if you'd like, otherwise you can stick to the marvelous pictures.

Double Rainbow! 3 rainbows in one day

Blue Sky

Basking in the sunshine and beauty of God's creation

Cylindrical volcanic formation

A rock fall ended our path, but we found another way up!

Wishing I was just a bit smaller...
Yes indeed, I would have purchased an adorable sweater.

      Driving along the Antrim coast our final destination would be Derry. Staying at the Paddy Palace Hostel I found the sign posted above the entrance to be quite accurate as it read:

Travel is fatal to hatred, bigotry and prejudice.

Chelsea & I in our quaint quad.

There are a few more stories to tell, but I have class this morning! I'll finish later.

With Love from Galway

Bike lock battle

    6:00am rolled around a bit too early this morning as I struggled to get out of bed. Managing to peel myself out of bed at 6:30, I was finally ready for my run around 6:45. It was certainly a battle convincing myself a run was worth it, especially as I heard the wind bellow against our building. Why exactly am I doing this? Oh right, that triathlon...good thing I've got a goal, otherwise these morning workouts would not be happening. Stepping outside a gust of wind came from my left as I braced myself for the Arctic blast. Refreshing? Questioning whether my thoughts and surroundings matched one another I paused and realized the wind was actually quite nice. This mornings decently warm temperature made the wind not only bearable, but even reminded me of the refreshing winds on Florida's beaches from past family vacations. Okay Abby, no more pity parties for you when it comes to running. You may be tired, but if the wind is reminding you of refreshing gusts on Florida beaches you cannot complain, as the rest of your friends and family are currently trapped in a snow cave back home. In the end the run proved to be energizing and enjoyable.

    During my run a small black kitten sat tucked behind a stone wall. Catching me by surprise I stopped to view the pudgy, all black fur ball, with bright eyes staring up at me. He looked just like Midnight, our cat I grew up with. Unfortunately, frightened he away quickly off into tall grass. However, I am determined to find him again. Daddy...you know how much I love kitties. Realistically he'll never fit in my suitcase, however you are coming in just a few short weeks, don't you miss having a cat around the house? I am your baby girl?...most of you know that my father is dying of laughter at this point and shaking his head in refusal. Oh well it was worth a shot. For now I will enjoy my kitten sighting and dream about one day having a cat of my own.

     With several errands to run I set off for class early. Arriving 10 minutes before class began gave me just enough time to pay my dues, order lunch and make it up stairs. This was however, if everything went smoothly...which it didn't. Most of the time my bike lock works just fine, however it has it's days. For a solid 10 minutes standing outside of An Tobar Nua  I struggled fighting with my lock. Twisting and turning it simply refused to lock. My time was ticking away and patience was running out. With only 5 minutes until class I had cut my finger and had enough. Just in time a man walked past me; questioning whether or not I should ask for help I figured I've got nothing to loose. Explaining my dilemma he quickly offered to be of assistance. Again the process of twisting and turning continued without success. Telling me to wait there he ran back to his truck and grabbed a spray can. Spraying the inside of my lock he picked it up and slid the joining ends to together easy as pie. What a relief. Kindly engaging in small talk questioning where I was from he responded "Well, you found the right lad, at the right time, have a nice day!" Such a kind gentleman and a blessing.

     Chicken pot-sort-of-pie. For a couple weeks now we have been attempting to cook chicken pot pie. However, Pillsbury has yet to make it's way to Ireland. Without any pre-made pie crusts and no ambition to make our own from scratch, we left out the crust. Dinner turned out well, but not quite like home.

    Yesterdays crazy warm weather has spoiled me as I am now itching for summer weather. Thinking about my favorite summer activity, waterskiing, I turned to look out my window. Low and behold there it was, a boat! Man alive I felt like stealing it to take for a spin. My second favorite summer activity is eating ice cream. Seeing as though Briqs opens this Friday I cannot help, but be slightly jealous of everyone back home. Please enjoy a cone for me!

With Love from Galway

Package bliss

     With an early 5:45am start to the day I was off on a bike ride. Without any eggs or milk it was going to be a rough breakfast. Not especially wanting to make a trip to the grocery store I figured I'd just make do. Yesterdays lesson of tangible love and service hit me, if I were Abby C. I would love to wake up and find milk for my cereal and eggs for breakfast. Rather than go for my normal run I decided I would bike this morning enabling me to bring home groceries. Heading out on my normal running route I was able to get much farther with my bike and eventually found the countryside! Yes! I've been waiting so long for this. Thankfully I brought along my head lamp because the fog covered the moon making pitch black winding roads a bit tricky. Sunrise isn't until 7:45am meaning it was a kind of creepy, but I decided to continue on and explore. As I rode, I prayed for loved ones and those on the Camp prayer list through the eery black roads. Excited to take pictures for you to see I brought along my camera, but pictures of pitch black roads aren't all that exciting...better luck next time. Maybe a 7:30 bike ride will produce nice sunrise photos.

    On my way back to the apartment I stopped to get groceries and received my fair share of odd looks. Considering Irish don't wake up early they must have been baffled to see a customer at 7am, not to mention one with black spandex tights, hat, mittens and headlamp. Thank goodness I remembered to shut off my headlamp just before entering the store. Can you imagine how dumb I would have looked walking around the grocery store with it on!

    Mondays aren't too bad with only two classes Gaelic and Castles. Both of which are quite easy, especially when my Irish professors response to whether or not be we need to complete next weeks homework is "hmm homework? Geez I'm dreadful when it comes to giving out homework..well I suppose you can do it, just turn it in whenever, I don't really bother as to when you give it to me. Whenever you feel like it." How about professors in the states adopt this attitude? Not going to happen, but it was nice to entertain the thought. During today's class flashbacks of Mrs. Wagners second grade class came to mind,  where I learned to tell time. She used big yellow clocks with stiff red arms pointing to numbers as she asked us to shout out the correct time displayed. Today wasn't much different as we learned how to tell time in Gaelic with pictures of clocks in our Irish handbook.

Clock work

     In my inbox an e-mail concerning a yoga retreat informed us about a weekend away with professional instructors. While here I've been taking a yoga class and enjoying it quite a bit. A nice relaxing weekend filled with yoga? Sounds good to me! Not so fast...as I read on, it explained "it's a silent retreat, so we'll be expected not to speak to each other while we're there" Bahah this will never work. As I explained in a previous post I can hardly manage to get through a regular yoga session without getting the giggles. An entire weekend of silence?!? Guarantee I would be the first to get kicked out.

     An hour and twenty minutes separates my last course on Mondays with my yoga class. Staying on campus to eat lunch, journal and relax, is easier than speeding back to the apartment. Today was a bit different, because I was expecting a package. Our apartment office, where packages are delivered, is only open from 10-2pm. Therefore not coming home for lunch meant no package until 10am tomorrow. A speedy bike home was well worth it considering it was 56 degrees and I wore capris and a t-shirt on my return ride to campus. As I entered the building the package sheet read Abby J. x 2. What?!? two packages? Collecting my precious parcels I eagerly ran up  the stairs to open them. The most accurate description of my reaction would be a 7 year old on Christmas morning. My eyes lit up as I let out a shriek of excitement at all my goodies. Was this really happening?!

Reeses, almonds, glue, glitter, colored pens, tic tacs, sharpie markers, Valentine's cards and more!

It came! My face in this picture doesn't do it justice.
 Clearly I had yet to open the package. Then came the shrieks.

Before leaving for school my desk was cleared...
not so much after opening my packages!

My goodies!

    My only reason for attending yoga was the fact I had already paid for the course. Had I not, I would have been home crafting all afternoon! Wasting little time I've already put my new supplies to good use making a birthday card :  )

Tea tip:

         Yesterday during church Joanie informed me I've been making my tea incorrectly. To make a good cup of tea you must first boil water and swirl in around in your mug. You'd never want to poor fresh hot tea into a cold mug...ooops! I've yet to try this new technique, but Joanie knows her tea, I'm learning from the best.

With Love from Galway

Tangible Love

     Eight-thirty this morning Abby C. and I looked over at one another with sleepy eyes realizing neither of us woke up to our previous alarms.  Gretta and Larry wouldn't be by until 10am leaving me plenty of time, but Abby C. needed to be at the University by 9:15. With a sad and frustrated expression painted on her face she explained it was too late and wouldn't make the bus. Last night while reading a friends blog I came across an interesting post that hit home. Anna found this quote, using it to describe a Christian lifestyle that's constantly looking to be filled, but not serve

“We are cups, constantly and quietly being filled. The trick is, knowing how to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out.” Ray Bradbury 

In my life I can see patterns of times when I was being filled up by the Lord’s wisdom and power through the Holy Spirit, but I wasn’t necessarily pouring out. Time spent reading my Bible, in prayer and at prayer meetings, and worshiping through music have and will continue to be part of my relationship with the Lord. Although, when spiritually filling acts become all that is my relationship with the Lord, I find myself becoming like a fat sponge which is full of water but quite frivolous and downright messy when put into action. 

As I read it became clear that I too was struggling in a very similar way. In bouts of selfishness frustrating thoughts of not wanting to love others would creep into my mind. For example, I enjoy living with Abby C, but there are plenty of other Christians in CU. Why can't they show her love, why am I living with her to constantly serve her? These thoughts are sinful and disgusting. I am to love her because Christ first loved me. Just as I am not a deserving recipient of His love, neither is Abby C.  It is out of an outpouring of my love for Christ that I show her love.  All too often I find myself caught in a trap of attending Bible study, CU, church, Bible Courses and doing my devotions all filling myself, but never tipping over to share with others. 

So how does this relate to Abby C. waking up late? After reading Anna's blog I prayed I would have opportunities to show Abby C. love in a tangible manner. Prayer request answered! Seeing the disappointment on her face and realizing I had an opportunity to show her love, I jumped out of bed explaining we would get here there. Telling her to pack her clothes and get ready, I explained I would make her lunch and breakfast. Scrambled eggs and toast along with a sack lunch were ready and waiting as she entered the kitchen. It was a joy to serve her in this manner and show her Christ's love. 

     Last week Larry didn't join us for church as he wasn't feeling well. Figuring it was most likely a common cold I dismissed the topic. Today Sandlin explained Larry has cancer and hits very low points becoming quite ill. News of Larry's illness saddened my heart. Although it's only been 2 months, it feels as though I've known him much longer. I've yet to hear Larry complain about a single thing, as his small stature off displays a bright smile. Unfortunately, the news progressed from bad to worse as Sandlin explained Gretta is suffering from depression due to such gloomy weather. Usually one wouldn't think someone of Irish descent would struggle with this, as you would assume they are used to the weather. However, it drags and wears on Gretta's precious heart. The combination of her dear Larry battling cancer and the gloomy weather brooding in has got to be an awful struggle.

     It may sound as though church was quite sad, but in fact it was grand. There were many delicious biscuits and desserts after church including Rachael's famous chocolate cake which is absolutely scrumptious! Speaking of food, Arturo and I caught up a bit while having or tea and biscuits after the sermon. Explaining his love for cooking I invited him over to cook anytime he'd like. Seeing as though I love Mexican food, but have no skill or knowledge of authentic Mexican dishes why not enjoy company. Gladly accepting the offer I believe we're about to have a fiesta!

   Arriving at church early and waking up late didn't give me time to finish my devotions. With my 40 minutes prior to the service I resided upstairs in a quiet hallway to read Matthew. What a blessing to hear the worship band play below singing praises and enjoying fellowship. Moments like these I feel an overwhelming sense of love and gratitude for my church family. Finishing my devotion making my way back downstairs Sinead asked where I had been. Telling her I was doing my devo she burst into laughter making fun of the word devo. Apparently they don't say devo over here. She thought as though I sounded like a gangster and laughed throughout the sermon about the word devo. Sinead has named me  the devo diva. I guess it works for me :  )

     Joanie, Arturo and I discussed a few differences in culture between, Mexicans, Americans and the Irish. Probably the funniest were Joanie's slang. She told me "you are gas craic all together"....I am what!?! She went on to explain it means I am just crazy fun. I suppose in my mother's words it would be similar to saying "you're just a hoot, or a riot"


Oh geez it's 10pm and Abby C. and I are running at 5:45am, time for bed!


With Love from Galway

Ricardo & Roller coasters

    Wednesday during our lunch break at Emmaus Scripture School our professor John explained the pigeon problem they are experiencing. The incredible amount of pigeons on the roof are pooping everywhere causing a nasty mess. The problem extends beyond a gruesome clean up, as they are also very loud in the morning. Students living on the top floor of Emmaus do not appreciate waking up to the sound of very loud pigeons. Can't say I blame them. Ricardo from Spain had a perfect solution. With a completely straight face and serious tone of voice he told John to get a hawk. The ensuing conversation is probably one of the funniest I've heard in quite some time. Joe, John and I laughed and stared at Ricardo with blank faces after realizing he was serious about the hawk. Really? a hawk Ricardo? Since when do people sell hawk's on the street corner? Apparently in Spain you can get a hawk and train it to eat the pigeons. Since John has nothing better to do than train a hawk why not? Oh wait, he does have a wife, two small children, teaching job, and is currently completing his dissertation. Other than that he's got nothing going on, so it'll be interesting to see how he fits buying and training a hawk in his schedule. The argument continued for 10-15 minutes with Ricardo convinced it was a completely logical solution as John, Joe and I laughed in disbelief to what we were hearing. I requested the right to name the hawk if John purchases it. No worries I will most definitely post a picture of my new hawk friend if he comes around....Henry maybe?

     I can't believe I've been here for almost two months now. The time has flown by with it's fair share of ups and downs. It's been quite the roller coaster of emotions. There's been a tricky balance to recognize emotions, feel and deal with them, but not allow them to rule me. For example Tuesday night I sat in The Crane loving the trad music and atmosphere so thankful to be here. Moments like these reaffirm my decision to study in Ireland. In stark contrast the next evening I laid in bed annoyed with Irish accents and frustrated with the culture wishing to be home surrounded by familiar sights and sounds.

Thursday after my final hour of class I was a bit overwhelmed by the tutorial, tired and desperately wishing to be in my apartment. I went outside to wearily get my bike and head home. As I began riding I realized the sun was out and it was quite beautiful outside. I put on what I call my "Jesus glasses" corny? maybe so, but it helps me think of things from His view. Suddenly I wasn't focused on how I felt, but I was grateful for the warm sun and nice sidewalk to bike on. I prayed for fellow students as I passed them on the bridge and thanked God for providing me beautiful scenery to bike past. The idea of Jesus Glasses was not my own, but from this video clip 


http://vimeo.com/11280995


It's amazing how dramatically my thought process changes when I take the focus off of myself. 


   There is celebration and props to be given out to Mr. William Peasley. From what I've heard he can now boast he's officially dunked during his high school career. Quite bummed I wasn't able to see it, but congratulations Will! Oh more like "welcome to the club"...I mean I've dunked my fair share during my high school career...or was that in my dreams? I forget, anyway nicely done Will!

      Last night Abby C and I hosted CU @ the Movies at our apartment. Cooking a meat and potato dish along with a brownie dessert we hosted 8 other friends to join us. Crunched for time our dish didn't quite turn out like it had last time, leaving us concerned about it's taste. Thankfully everyone loved it as we received many compliments. As always the brownies were delicious and received rave reviews and inquiries on the recipe. Finishing dinner we sat in a circle to play catch phrase. Such a fun and competitive game, but until last night I had not realized how many American phrases and words it contains. Often times Erasmus students would flip through a dozen words before they would find a familiar phrase to describe. A few humorous descriptions came from Francois as he sat next to me and described chewing gum as "the thing you Americans are always gnawing on." Tempted to tell Francois that isn't true! I caught myself and realized...it's actually a pretty accurate description. 

     Here are a few photos from last Saturdays trip to the market and Mutton Island Causeway. You can see from my hair the was wind quite strong. 

     Today there is no wind and beautiful blue skies. Not able to peel myself out of bed quite as early as I had hoped I still made it out by 8am for a run. Reluctantly I forced myself out of bed for a much needed quiet time in the kitchen and then off to get some exercise. Hating to be cold I had on my under armor leggings and top, however I could have run in just shorts and a t-shirt. 

     Once again Abby C. and I have opened our windows to enjoy fresh air. Time for homework, seeing as though I was just assigned a large presentation the day my family will be in Galway :  (   Oh well, I will work ahead and plan on finishing it before they arrive. For now I will enjoy the beautiful sunshine and blue skies!


With Love from Galway

Trad. Society Competition

     Monday evening Aurelie, Abby C., Elise, Maeve, Nicol, Clemence, Pettepe and I ate at Ming Garden to celebrate Valentine’s Day together. With low expectations, picturing an average restaurant, walking into a fancy dining room came as quite the surprise. The elegant atmosphere wasn’t the only surprise, prices were shockingly painful as well. Quickly searching for the cheapest and most familiar dish, I came up with Chicken Fried Rice. Boy they weren’t kidding, that’s exactly what I received. A pile of rice with peas and pieces of chicken, no other vegetables, there wasn’t even soy sauce on the table. Thankfully it tasted good, but certainly wasn’t very impressive.  I hope to never pay $20 for another Chinese meal like that again. However, none of it mattered because the customers next to us made up for any kind of short fall the evening would bring.

Ming Garden Dinner

      Although harsh, there are no other words to describe them more accurately: Giant oompa loompas. Yes that is correct, as in oompa loompas from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. As we finished our meal three couples walked in looking like nothing I’ve ever seen before. The first lady wore low rise jeans paired with a short white vest leaving lots of “muffin top” to spill out. Dressed in all white only emphasized the extent to which she had been fake tanning. There wasn’t a bronze tint, but rather an orange glow, hence her oompa loompa title. The next had large jewelry, an incredible amount of makeup, ornage glow,  and a three inch poof in her hair. I must not forget her blouse was horrendously low cut, so much so that she dropped food down it, as it acted like a nice little boat catching all of it.  As she picked and pulled getting last crumbs out I could hardly contain myself. Saving the best for last was Ms. Pro wrestler fashionista gone terribly wrong. Also dressed in white head-to-toe this lady had hair that you could have gotten lost in. It was curled, pinned, twisted and sprayed so large I’ve never seen anything quite like it. Just like the other two her makeup was caked on an inch thick as well. However the combination of her hair, makeup, fake tan and outfit just pushed me over the edge. Making a cattail line her eyeliner, it nearly met up with her hair line. In addition she also wore a bedazzled headband, but instead of on her head it was positioned across her hair line creating a jazzed up wrestler appearence. Everyone in the group ate as if they were at feeding trough, not to mention answering their ringing cell phones every 5 minutes. Thankful I wasn’t on a romantic date being distracted by these obnoxious customers it made the evening quite comical. Had it not been rude I so badly wanted to take a picture for you. Words just don’t do it justice, it was certainly a memorable Valentine’s Day.

            Returning from Ming Garden the three of us decided we couldn’t go to bed on Valentine’s Day without having any chocolate. Warm Nutella brownies and the World Champion Skiing competition made our evening complete! All in all I enjoyed my Valentine’s Day.

Nutella Brownies!

            Tuesday evenings The Crane Pub features trad music performed by students. However, it was a special night because the Traditional Irish Music Society was holding a competition. Making sure to arrive early I secured a seat for Abby C. and spent the next 5 hours listening to wonderful music. The night became quite long, but it was certainly worth it. In the states the competition would have been finished in 2 hours. After every 2-3 acts they would take a break for the audience and musics to get another round of pints, as if everyone wasn’t ordering them all throughout the night anyway. Oh well, atleast the Irish are consistent. Inefficient and slow even in everyday life as well as their music competitions.

 I took a few videos during the music competition. Realizing I was to the side of the stage I know the videos aren't all that exciting. However, I wanted you to be able to experience the wonderful music. Seeing as though I've never worked with iMovie and class begins in 10 minutes I threw these few clips together. Sorry they are a bit rough, I will work on editing later.

hmmm this appears it's not working. I'll try to fix it after class.

With Love from Galway

Oh O'Conor

     No more walking for me. Maybe occasionally, but from now on I am able to take my bike. This morning marked my first attempt navigating Galway's crazy roads. In only 15 minutes I arrived at the University ready for class!
     Could it be? Is it true? Are those oranges sitting out waiting to be eaten?!? Yesterday I failed to mention another first; my very first orange since arriving. With fruit being so expensive Abby C. and I rarely buy it, however after church they set out big juicy oranges for the taking. My heart skipped a beat when I noticed them sitting out just waiting to be eaten. Tempted to take multiple oranges and shove them in my coat pocket, I reconsidered, knowing it would be a bit greedy, not to mention awkward. I may have only had one, but I enjoyed it. Mmmmm was it delicious!

It doesn't take much to get me excited.

     David Sweetman gave our castles lecture today on the topic of Hall Houses. Up until this castles course I hadn't ever heard of him. However, today I found out he is incredibly influential in the world of archaeology and has excavated major castles. As always the lecture started quite interesting, faded to the point oh head bobbing and eyelid drooping and finished out alright with no central focus. These scatter brain castle lectures have been pretty interesting, but not all that helpful when it comes to writing a 3,000 word essay on them. Seeing as though the paper is not due until April 29th, it's nice to know I have some time. Most Irish students will party away the semester, start the essay the second week of April, live in the library, cram like mad and whip out a paper. This is all well and good, quite a bit of fun, but won't work so well for me. Writing + time crunch = no good. Some write very well under pressure, unfortunately I do not. With this is mind I attempted to start my essay yesterday.

     Logging on to blackboard I found our assigned readings for each topic and dug in. Our syllabus gives little information only explaining we are to write a 3,000 word essay on 1 of the 4 topics listed. I don't know about you, but that seems quite broad, leaving me with little direction. Trying not to get worked up about it I continued my readings. Feeling as though I was floundering I wrote to Dr. O'Conor asking for clarification. Thinking he would be no different than the rest of the Irish, who are slower than molasses when it comes to responding to e-mails, I figured it would be awhile until I received a reply. To my surprise, early this morning he responded inviting me to stop in at 4pm. It was nice to hear back from him so quickly, but my problems weren't exactly solved. Dr. O'Conor is a very nice man, however he isn't very clear with his words, using choppy sentences and scattered thoughts. Even with the opportunity to see him I wasn't too hopeful his attempt to clarify would go over well. Boy was I wrong! I'm not sure if I've ever been so happy to have been incorrect. Warmly welcoming me into his office he started right in asking which topic I selected. Explaining there would be an easy topic for me he detailed an outline of my paper. Providing me with the names of specific case studies and perspective on how he would write the paper I wanted to cry. Seeing as though this essay accounts for 90% of my grade I was getting anxious knowing I had no choice, but to write an excellent paper. My problems are not completely solved, I'll have to put in a great deal of work, but I feel much more at ease. Oh Dr. O'Conor now I understand why you were lecture of the year.

My treasured outline

     Aras Mac Leinn, student center in Irish, hosts many different events.  Home to art exhibits, dances, poetry sessions and fundraisers there is always something happening in Aras Mac Leinn. This week happens to be SHAG Week (Sexual Health Awareness & Guidance) ....great. While eating my lunch in Aras Mac Leinn I received a sex packet, complete with a condom and all...classy I know. Naively, I deciding not to promote SHAG week I would instead take a look at the art exhibit. Oh my goodness. Not thinking clearly, I wandered over to very graphic pieces of art, displaying things I didn't need to see. Duh Abby! of course the art exhibit for the week is going to match the theme for the week. My critique for the exhibit: I have no appreciation for SHAG art, as I quickly walked away blushing.

     Although SHAG art didn't go over well with me, I did enjoy the exhibit upstairs. A senior art student used donated socks and white rags strewn over the balcony to create the piece of art. Each rag was written on by different students with stories about socks, poverty, growing up etc...all creating a bigger picture of where the students of NUIG have come from. 

     Tonight the girls and I are headed out for Chinese to celebrate Valentine's Day together. :   )

Happy Valentine's Day!

With Love from Galway

Speed Demon goes to the Market

Good Morning Galway,

            The sun shines brightly over Galway city this grand morning. In about an hour I will join Larry and Gretta for church, for now I will tell you about yesterdays adventures. Waking up at 5am I was surprisingly rested, but decided to go back to sleep …for another 5 hours! Whoops didn’t quite plan on sleeping that long, oh well. Abby C., Aurelie and I showered and prepared ourselves for the day to set off to the market and Salthill. Now that all three of us have bikes we are able to travel together and make our way around much quicker. Whizzing through traffic and bustling sidewalks I felt like a speed demon on my bike. There is definitely an adjustment to be made from my usual sidewalk stroll to navigating street traffic on my bike. Tucked back on a side street we found the market humming with commotion as venders displayed their handmade crafts and fresh food. Although I didn’t purchase anything this Saturday I certainly plan on doing so next weekend.

Mittens at the market

Making our way out of the market we headed off towards Salthill. We were fortunate to have a beautiful day on our hands. The wind was a bit strong; unfortunately the closer you get to Salthill, down by the ocean, the stronger the wind is. Stopping at the Mutton Island Causeway we decided we would walk the Causeway and call it good, saving Salthill for a slightly less windy day. During our stroll we watched rugby players run, roll and wrestle through the muddy field in shorts and t-shirts. Yikes! It was indeed a beautiful day, however not nice enough to get me wet with mud and run through the wind. I suppose this is why they play rugby and I don’t. 

Mutton Island Causeway

Brrrr!

Mutton Island Lighthouse

Even the rocks in Ireland are green!

Back at Eyre Square Abby C. suggested we warm up with a mug of hot chocolate. Enjoying our hot drinks we thawed out and rested our legs. Walking around wishing shoppers a Happy Valentine's Day with platters filled with Lindt truffles women gave our chocolates to passer byes. Naturally Abby C. and I were not going to pass up with opportunity. We gladly accepted the chocolate and made our way downstairs realizing we were on the incorrect floor. At the bottom of the stairs there was another lady offering us more truffles. I must be honest I contemplated walking up and down the stairs to "burn off the calories" and receive chocolate after chocolate. Not good for my health, but I was certainly tempted. 

  
     We split off in different directions to meet up later at home. Aurelie went to Eason's to find a book as Abby C. and I went to Lidl for our groceries. In an attempt to save money we always shop together and look for the best deals. Shortly after arriving back home the rain began. Thankful for the opportunity to enjoy our morning of sunshine all three of us were glad to see the rain hold off. As usual the wind picked up and began it's routine of slamming against the building and howling through our courtyard. It was officially a movie night, to stay inside make a delicious meal and try our hand at crepe making. Rice and hamburger casserole was on the menu along with a dessert of peanut butter and nutella crepes. Having never made the casserole it was an experiment, as are most of our dinners. Delighted with the outcome, we all enjoyed multiple helpings, the rice and hamburger casserole will make future appearances on our dinner menu. Whenever we have eaten crepes Aurelie, the expert French crepe chef, has made them for us. However, Abby C. and I wanted to learn the art form and master our crepe skills. We tried making one without Aurelie's help....fail. An epic disaster is all I will say. After enlisting her skills and demonstrations it was our turn at the stove. Neither Abby C. nor I have it mastered, however we have made progress and plan on continuing our practice to master the skill. Although practice makes perfect, crepes with peanut butter and nutella make fat, so we will limit our training.

Fail

My turn with Chef Aurelie's guidance :  )

With Love from Galway,