September 21, Tuesday
When I think about this day, I think “walking and errands”.
I got a lot done today. I made stops to various offices and was able to check off my list of “to-dos”. I walked probably in total of four hours. My legs hurt.
Today I had Anthropology, English and The Irish Sociological Imagination class.
My Anthropology and Sociology classes were HUGE. I am talking like a few hundred people in each. This is totally different than Saint Mary’s. A lot of “Matured Students”, as my friend Taylor says, were in these classes. Matured Students, meaning older adults.
I was thinking to myself, “Wow, I am in a class with people of all backgrounds and ages. This is really neat.”
I met Paul, who works in the International office. Him and I were talking about the culture differences between Ireland and America. He is headed to America for a week. The Irish folks love to talk. They love to kick back and enjoy each other’s company. I found myself looking at my watch—I need to watch that. I am in Ireland now, not America. I mine as well through my watch away. I am adjusting to the slow pace of life.
Taylor, Megan and I went to Tesco’s, a big department store which carries just about everything—besides for fans. I was in desperate need for a fan, as was Taylor. The noise tends to carry, due to the lack of support of our walls. When we arrived at Tesco’s, we ran into Kara, who had just bought a T.V. She accidentally knocked down Quinny’s TV. (A gentleman from Australia who is apart of our group), and had to replace it. Poor thing. Things could be worse though.
Taylor found a Fan Heater last minute. We thought that it would do the desired trick. I needed a fan with a lot of noise, so that I would not hear the outside noise. Honestly, it is like a social gathering outside at like all hours of the night. The environment is different here—people enjoy hanging out along with a desire to drink pint after pint. Something that I am not used to, but then again this is a part of the culture here.
I noticed that a lot of the professors have made funny comments about the drinking here. One professor said, “You should spend as much money on books for my class, as you do on drinking.” Of course we was only trying to bring a sense of humor into the classroom. Professors here are most certainly aware of the “young adult” social life.
Tonight Annie, Bridgy, Cailin, Catherine, Sona, and I ate dinner at Rose’s apartment. Evelien made us tasty pasta. There was a yummy cheese spread with crackers as well. I tried goat cheese with garlic herbs for the first time. This type of cheese is certainly now one of my favorites. I love food, and since I did a lot of walking today, I figured that I could enjoy the cheese even more. I am enjoying this year with trying different types of foods.
We hung out for a while, and some drank wine. It was just nice to be together. I enjoyed being around my friends and I liked relaxing.
I am sleeping in Annie’s room tonight. We have a 9 A.M. class tomorrow—Philosophy. Yes, I love early classes…..
September 22, Wednesday
Annie and I woke up around 8:30 to get ready for our 9:00 Philosophy class. I am not necessarily a morning person but I have done my fair share of early mornings—plenty.
I really enjoyed the philosophy class. The “lecturer” as they call them here (Professors) was very excited about the class and what it had to offer. Whenever someone is positive and happy, it makes me want to learn more. My interest in the material is that much more special.
He wants to challenge us this semester to put out ideas into perspectives, to look more at strengths and weaknesses, and to view ourselves and the society in which we live. Most importantly, to commit to honesty.
I like the focus of this class and believe that this will be an interest of mine. I want to think in ways that I may have never thought before. I think that this is the purpose of my journey in Ireland—to see the world through different lenses, and to be challenged in my thoughts.
After class, I walked April over to South Campus, so that she knew where to register for classes. I then went back to my room, got ready for the day and ate an apple with peanut butter.
Part of the deal here is that the Saint Mary’s girls get a weekly stipend of 55 Euro. This typically covers costs for food and basic supplies. Not everyone will spend the 55 Euro for food alone. Some will buy the basic necessities and even alcohol with their stipend. It is all about particular interests. Budgeting can be tough, and I think that a part of this journey requires becoming more mature in spending habits and more aware of what is really a need versus a want. For me, budgeting teaches me how to simplify my life, so that I am not distracted by the desire to want and want.
Although I am used to grocery shopping and cooking dinner (I live with my dad), I believe that that experience here in terms of cooking, planning, preparing, and budgeting is something new for me. Especially preparing meals for over 10 people has been challenging. About 10 of us Saint Mary’s girls are on this cool system. We each take turns planning an evening’s dinner. This way, we are saving money, buying in bulk and we get to be together.
In my Anthropology class, we watched a movie, titled the Final Contact. The film amazed me because I was able to explore a different way of life that people live. When I say different—I mean really different. This is fascinating to me. God has created many different human beings, with so many unique areas of interest.
Annie, Bridgy and I went to Dunne’s, a local store in town. They sell everything here—besides for fans (which I needed the other day). Annie and I bought taco stuff. Bridgy bought ice cream and apple pie.
We cooked at Rose’s apartment. It was so fun to all be together again, for an evenings glory. We chatted, ate yummy food, and just hung out—it was that simple. We got a lot of laughs in as well—thanks to Bridgy’s very funny personality. Bridgy, we will never forget that you spent 2 Euro on ice cream. : )
After dinner, I came back and had the chance to skype with one of my best friends, back at school. Shelby and I lived in Queen’s Court together last year. A lot of people do not know what real friendship is—I do. She is a real friend to me. She would do anything for me, and she prays for me. I am glad to know her and cannot wait to explore many more ventures together. It has been hard for me to be away from her, but God keeps us together. We both know that.
I have been thinking a lot about friendship on this journey. I have observed a lot of people on this journey. I am truly grateful for those who I consider my dear friends. I am just blessed. Plain and simple. I may not be perfect, but they accept my weaknesses and help me to become the best person that I can possibly be. This is why I smile.
It has been hard to be away from those I love—very hard. God is good though. He knows how this time away will be of a greater mark. I just smile and keep strong.
Although most apartments here are co-ed, I share a unit with all girls. One girl is from China, and the other two are from Ireland. I have not had the chance to get to know them very well. A lot of students from Ireland go home on the weekend. The girl from China and I talk occasionally. Us four are on totally different schedules. I cannot wait to have the chance to talk with them more. I consider Rose and her three roommates to be that “family like community” for me.
I am in Liffey. The way that these apartments /dorms are designed is much different than America. I have my own single room, and then I share a kitchen and common area with my “flatmates” We each have a section in the fridge, where we store our purchased food.
I have learned some great language. I am catching myself sometimes changing the twist of my voice. A lot of the Irish folks say, “grand, brilliant” The word “Pissed” in Ireland means drunk. “Do you want a drip?” means would you like a drink?
Well, I am headed to Annie’s room to spend the night with her. I love sleep over’s. I love her. Her and I just met this summer, and she is someone that I know will always offer me the truth, and best of love.
Dear God, please allow me to have the mind- set of compassion. Please guide my heart, protect my soul and mold me into your greater design.
Until tomorrow, Godspeed.
September 23, Thursday
Usually, students here at NUI can get away with not attending lectures. (The notes are always online) I however believe that part of the experience of learning a different culture is to soak up a new appreciation for learning. I have been amazed by my anthropology and Irish Sociological Imagination course. I have found myself taking pages of hand-written notes—not surprising really, considering the fact that I do not want to miss any important piece of information. Yes, I am a perfectionist.
The classroom setting difference, compared to Saint Mary’s speaks highly of the different approach to learning. In my Irish Sociological Imagination course, the material and topics that are discussed are very interesting to me—this is my field and my focus, so I am that much more excited.
The international office here at NUI has not been necessarily the best organized, to say the least. Annie had a rough day, with the International office. Her patience was tested.
Annie, Rose, Sonali and I walked to Tesco, a local store in town. We do a lot o walking here in Ireland (which makes up for all of the carbs consumed). We all got what we needed and then we causally sprinted back in order to make it to the Roost by 5:59. Today was Arthur Guinness’s Birthday. We made it to the Roost by 5:59 to get a free pint of Guinness. It was literally packed to the maximum in there. I barely had any room to breathe. I had two sips of my beer and then kindly handed the glass over to my friend Evelien, who agreed to finish it.
Annie and I went back to get ready for the evening—we were still in our sweaty clothes from the day. A shower and a more fancy look for the evening, were both calling my name.
Evelien and I walked over to the Roost together, as we would eventually meet up with Annie, Catherine, Bridgy, Cailin, Sonali, Rose and Caitlin. Evelien and I had a great talk on the way over.
The Roost was crowed (not surprising). It was a Thursday night, which is a popular evening out for many local college students. Evelien and I met some “interesting” gentlemen, who clearly had a glass or two. There were bands playing. Eventually the rest of the girls met up with us and we all spent some time dancing on the dance floor. I was wearing Steve Madden, high heels. Mind you, high heels are not recommended for a lot of movement and walking. What was I thinking? Well, my shoes did in fact look good with the black, laced dress that I had on. Maybe that convinced me enough.
I am always watching what I eat—our bodies are temples of God’s design. This trip though, I am not worrying so much about the food that I eat. For once in my life, I am healthy and do not get sick when I eat. Last year, I dealt with a handful of health issues. I believe that since I am doing a lot of walking, I can consume a few extra carbs. Sonali, Caitlin, Cailin, Catherine, Annie and I went to Mizzoni’s for pizza. The box said, “Probably the best pizza in the world.” Heck yes it was! I had a small, vegetarian pizza. It had corn on it!!! Yummy, yum.
We brought the pizza back and ate in Catherine’s room.
It was a fun evening. I love being around these girls. They are enjoyable, relaxed and are kind people. We travel on a journey, not knowing what to expect. I never expected to meet friends who have a loving heart for life. This Ireland journey is dependent upon one’s own individual walk and leading power. The vision of the journey is dependent on one’s own choices and desire. Many people walk a journey differently. I choose to walk this journey with open arms, love, acceptance, fearlessness, trust, determination and understanding. I am truly and humbly blessed. I am thankful and I praise God for this opportunity. It has been much more glorious then I could have ever imagined—and it just begun. That is the exciting thing!
September 24, Friday
Philosophy class—very confusing but I am really thinking beyond my known thoughts. The purpose of this class is to think, to think in a new way. It is a 9 am class; so many people come tired, drained and hungry for a cup of coffee. Some look anxiously at their clocks while others are glued to the lecturers interesting knowledge. I was somewhere in between.
In the afternoon, nine of us went to Dublin for the rest of the day. Making this trip was Sonali, Caitlin, Cailin, Catherine, Kara, Bridgy, Rose, Annie and I. We look a train nearby.
The city is absolutely beautiful. Praise God. I thought that I was in New York City. I mean, I am just amazed by how big, beautiful and great this city is. There is a lot of life, and happiness in the city. On the street corners I encountered homelessness, people selling fruits, the sound of musical instruments, and typical families. As I walked past people, I noticed the unique design of clothing, plastering through the crowds. I saw many different races and ethnic backgrounds. In that moment, I found myself embodied in a world of difference, yet beauty. I was walking alongside people who may be living a complete different life then myself. The heart of humanity rested upon the streets of Dublin. I felt like I belonged in the crowds. Despite the differences of look, beliefs, traditions, and foundations, we serve a common purpose. That purpose is to live in this life—to live in a life that has the craving potential for unity, knowledge, true understanding and requested vision.
I may not understand half of the traditions or beliefs out there—how could I? I have lived in America by whole life. It is now time though, to stretch my comfort even further, and to rise above the common element. I want to understand all people. I want to appreciate their way of life. I think that just by simply walking down a street in the middle of a diverse city, I have a better understanding before I got on the train.
The girls and I walked around—we stopped in Penney’s, a popular store for women’s clothing. The affordable prices make it that much more appealing.
We walked through Trinity College, located in the heart of the city. There, the Book of Kell’s remains. We had the opportunity to walk through the library. I appreciated learning more about the college and the tradition behind it. The college buildings were beyond beautiful. The older look, ravished my mind—the design made it that much more beautiful.
For dinner, we hit up O’Neil’s pub. The food….amazing. I had a sandwich (build your own). I also had a bucket of fries, literally a bucket, and potato salad. The menu had many great options to choose from. A few of my friends had Shepherd’s pie, lamb, and burgers. The nine of us smashed our hungry bodies in a corner table. We were very satisfied when we ate. There is something special about eating together—which is something that we have done a lot of this trip.
Kara, a fun girl, with a spunky personality, was thrilled and rather excited that Starbucks existed in Ireland! A starbucks stop was a must—and so we stopped.
We had about 40 minutes to catch the train back home—if we wanted to get on the 9:16 train. Karen Chambers, my program coordinator told us, “Always remember the difference between an adventure and a crisis.”
Sonali and Catherine stayed back, to meet some friends at a local pub. The rest of us headed back. Thank goodness for maps and human GPS’s (Kara and Caitlin). The adventure of finding our way to the train station was not so much relaxed as it was nerve racking. We literally sprinted up and down streets, with sudden stops if we thought that we were going the wrong direction. Those millions of carbs that we consumed at dinner were starting to work off. That may have been one perk in our 40-minute sprint-type walk.
The walk was almost a crisis, as we got lost a few times. It was pitch dark. We were in the middle of a large city. Chances are, we are going to get lost. I was no help at all. I just followed the crowd, hoping that they were knowledgeable to read a map—I sure wasn’t.
We stopped to take a quick group picture on the bridge, overlooking the water. In the distance, you could see a Farris wheel, a boat and many blue lights. It looked like paradise. Is this real life?
We did in fact end up making the train. We barely made it though. The sprints and fast running made it possible. I was the “leader” of the group. I encouraged them to keep walking, and to keep up the good work. Picture me in a city—not really known to me, telling the girls to keep going. My fast walk-style was evident to many people, who strangely starred at me.
A good time in the city, serves as a powerful memory for life. I enjoyed this evening, and am thankful for this opportunity to see more of Ireland. There is so much out there. We just have to be willing to grab it.
Annie came over for a sleep over—I had a hard time falling asleep. I think I got 4 hours total. It happens.
September 25, Saturday
Today was a great day. When I say great, I mean great. Our whole group had a chance to bond and unite in a new way.
That is one great thing about group trips, they simply bring people together. Together, we cherish a newfound culture and piece of life that was once unfamiliar.
Our first stop was to Glendalough. St Kevin founded this early Christian monastic site in the 6th century. Set in a glaciated valley with two lakes, the monastic remains include a superb round tower, stone churches and decorated crosses. The Visitor Centre has an interesting exhibition and an audio-visual show.
I was astonished by what I saw. We first watched a short film on the history of Glendalough. Our tour guide was very motivating and excited about this place, which made me more excited. Although the tense in his voice, was a bite frightening—even though he was just super excited and pumped. He loved what he was going.
After the 30-minute tour, we had the chance to roam around. The group took countless pictures. It was evident that we were tourists. We look pictures of everything. Pictures capture that instant moment.
I enjoyed this site and tour because a lot of monks came to spend time in solitude. This is something that I feel called to do. In order for me to step away from the outside world, I feel that a place like this would be good for me. In order to fully discern and soak in my calling, I believe that I would be able to further carry the shield of God’s plan for my life.
Because this site used to be a religious pilgrimage, I was just thankful to be walking on the same path, that many have printed years ago. I felt God’s peace, radiance and lavishing grace, shedding through my spine. This place was magical.
For a moment, I actually thought that I died, and that I was in heaven. Why, because of the beauty that I witnessed with my own eyes. Our next stop was Powerscourt Gardens. When someone sees mountains, gardens, fields, bright green grass, waterfalls, and miles of landscape, how can they not believe in an awesome God? This place is by far, the most peaceful and beautiful place that we have visited. I kept asking myself, “Am I really experiencing this?” I honestly saw the face of God through His creations, through the peace that was in my heart, through the silence, through the voices of strangers and through the smiles on my friend’s hearts.
We had a great lunch there. I had spinach, pine nut and feta cheese quiche with three salad choices. I also had a rich, piece of cake. Overlooking the dining area was a beautiful garden, and the mountains remained in the distance.
This experience brought our group together. We all laughed together, took pictures together, and simply had a great time.
Both experiences taught us each something—and unlocked a special place in our hearts. Experiences like this not only shape a person, but further speak in a prominent volume to one’s capability to reach for the stars.
I have no words to describe how God has enriched my life through these experiences. He continues to teach me valuable tools about life. Life is an ongoing journey. A journey that only gets better, if we are serving Him.
What will these experiences today teach our group? I cannot speak for everyone else. But I am more than confident that hearts for transformed in greatness and excellence to know what is possible.
September 26, Sunday
Today was another group trip. We were in the bus for a long time today—some were more inpatient than others.
Our first stop was to the Clonmacnois. Clonmacnoise was founded in 545 by Ciaran of Clonmacnoise. Until the 9th century it had close associations with the kings of Connacht. The strategic location of the monastery helped it become a major centre of religion, learning, craftsmanship and trade by the 9th century and together with Clonard it was the most famous in Ireland, visited by scholars from all over Europe. From the ninth until the eleventh century it was allied with the kings of Mide. Many of the high kings of Tara and Connacht were buried here.
We stopped at a fancy hotel for lunch. I had fish, mash potatoes, rice, veggies and stuffing. It was like a Thanksgiving meal. I decided to be good, and rather than having a tasty treat, I chose fruit.
Our next stop was to Bru na Boinne. The Bru na Boinne interprets the Neolithic monuments of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. The extensive exhibition includes a full scale replica of the chamber of Newgrange as well as a full model of one of the smaller tombs at Knowth. All admission to Newgrange and Knowth is through the Visitor Centre, there is no direct access to these monuments.
The site covers 780 ha and contains around 40 passage graves, as well as other prehistoric sites and later features. The majority of the monuments are concentrated on the north side of the river. The most well-known sites within Brú na Bóinne are the impressive passage graves of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, all famous for their significant collections of megalithic art. Each stands on a ridge within the river bend and two of the tombs, Knowth and Newgrange, appear to contain stones re-used from an earlier monument at the site. There is no in situ evidence for earlier activity at the site, save for the spotfinds of flint tools left by Mesolithic hunters.
However, there is evidence that this site was visited repeatedly during the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Medieval periods, as evidenced by the multiple Beaker, Roman, and Medieval artefacts that were found during O'Kelly's excavations from 1962 to 1975.
Numerous other enclosure and megalith sites have been identified within the river bend and have been given simple letter designations, such as the M Enclosures.
When we got back, a few of us went to mass, at a local church. I asked my grandmother and family up in heaven to intercede for me. I continue to hold on to strength. The priest was talking about how we are called to act out of love. This has been my goal on this journey. The group that I am traveling with comes from a very diverse background. I have to always ask God for a pure heart to keep loving and growing as a daughter of Him.
Tonight for dinner, I had pizza and salad. I was able to bond with one of my roommates. I enjoyed that time together. She is biology major and plans to hopefully get her masters someday. It was nice to just casually chat with her.
My friend Catherine’s 21st birthday is tomorrow. Tonight, some of us are headed to Sona’s room to celebrate. I am going to stop by and then come back to get some sleep. I need sleep.
Today I experienced amazing beauty—as I have a lot on this trip. The bright green grass, and the spark of the country fields, fills my heart with intense happiness. It is a different life—almost like living on a complete different planet. The beauty that I have been experiencing was once unknown to me. For that, I am truly thankful.
Classes are in action for tomorrow. But for right now, I am enjoying the quite touch of grace that is fuming in my room. I like time to myself. I can debrief and reflect on the beauty and precious moments of each day. I smile.
