September, Thursday 16^th:

There were a lot of errands to do. We had orientation that morning. I was completely tired. Orientation went well though. It was straightforward, and easy to follow. In America, everything has to be so complicated. Here, the school seems to be relaxed and easy spirited. I liked that. I appreciated that.

Despite the dropping of our eyes, and the lack of sleep, Annie, Catherine, Cailin, Sarah, Bridget and I grabbed a bite to eat at the local Bagel Factory. Gosh, was it delicious. I had a Club bagel. It melted in my mouth. Annie had the same thing as I did. We both looked at each other with this refreshing joy in our faces. It was nice to sit down, be together and enjoy a good-tasteful meal.

I met Annie’s roommate and her friend—their names are still beyond my ability to try and say them.  Both of these girls are from Ireland, and I enjoyed getting to know them and their ordained goals in life.

I have liked seeing the different styles of girls. Each style represents a certain aspect of one’s culture.

Later that night we went to the Roost. I loved interacting with people. Annie, Catherine, Bridgy and I met up with Rose, Evelien and a few other girls. I was enjoying being there—talking and just relaxing. We met Keith and John that night—both exceedingly kind. I admired their accents.

We left the Roost and hit up club Mantra—a quite luxurious club, I’ll say. Walking into this club was a new experience for me. I met all sorts of people and encountered all sorts of things. I saw a bunch of familiar faces there, dancing and drinking (some more than others, to say the least).

I have to get used to the heavy drinking and smoking that takes place in Ireland. This is a part of their culture. This is what people do, and how they socialize. This has been my greatest challenge. I asked Rose if it was okay that I even surrounded myself near such environments. Back home I probably would never, but here, this is a big part of the life. The pubs in Ireland are more classy than pubs and bars in America. I have appreciated this, a lot!

I slept in Annie’s room again. I was not really moved into my room yet. I did a little unpacking, but was not hurrying to complete it. This would be tomorrow’s project.