So I'm in my last two days in Ireland. Yesterday I enjoyed one last Saturday market. I have really developed a relationship with the people at the market, and have enjoyed fueling a local economy. Every Saturday I go to the market downtown and buy my produce from the same stand, and then wander the market for the day. There are multiple craft shops, munchies, and creative foods. At the end of every market run I have to swing by my favorite doughnut stand, and pay my 70 cents for my cinnamon doughnut. This doughnut is unlike anything you have ever tasted before. I was talking to him on my last day he said on a busy weekend he can sell up to 1500 in one day! He is one a very sweet man who refers to me as "red" every weekend, and claims he is going to have to take out a second mortgage on his house now that I'm returning to the states.... hahaha. I must say, when I return to Ireland one day, I will make sure I'm in Galway on a Saturday.....
Today I hiked out with some of my good friends to an abandoned castle just outside of Galway. It was a 8 mile hike round trip! We headed out this morning, and adventured out to the castle. We enjoyed the afternoon exploring the abandoned castle and sitting on the river. The Menlo Castle is situated on the banks of the Corrib River, which runs all the way down to Galway Bay. In the pasture were two horses, who definitely enjoyed our company, as they came and stood next to us for the afternoon, enjoyed being petted, and even ventured into the castles themselves. It was a nice afternoon to spend with friends, reflect on memories from the trip, and see one last castle.
I plan on spending tomorrow packing and saying my goodbyes, and hope to make it back to the states on Tuesday evening... I'm just crossing my fingers the volcano doesn't cause any airport closures, as it has caused many temporary ones over the past week.
Pictures posted below :)
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Friday, May 7, 2010
Clonmacnoise
Well with only 3 days left in Ireland, I'm trying to get as much in as I can. For months I have wanted to go out to these church remains from the 5th century called Clonmacnoise. I could never figure out how to get there because they were incredibly rural and could never find a tour company that went there. The other day I was walking down the street and saw a sign for a Clonmacnoise tour from Galway Tour Company. I booked my ticket and when I got there today I realized I was one of two people going on this tour, the other way Chris because I talked him into it :)
We got talking with the bus driver and he told me this would be an interesting day because they had never actually done this tour, and didn't expect people to sign up that fast. So, I got to pioneer the first Clonmacnoise tour. Our tour guide was hilarious, and kept saying "bare with me" as he had just studied all the information this morning in preparation.
Well the day ended up being great! It was about an hour drive out to the ruins. Clonmacnoise used to be the "mecca" or Ireland. It's situated in the literal middle of the island, and people used to make pilgrimages here. It all began in the 5th century when Christianity began to become increasingly popular and a group of monks formed a monastery on the grounds. There are 8 other churches on the grounds including the nuns church. It's crazy to think most of these were 1600 years old!
There are over 600 gravestones surrounding the ruins, and they date back to the 5th century as well. Outside of the park was an old anglo norman castle from the 11th century. It was on top of a motte (a steep hill built in the 11th century as a form of defense) and had decayed so much the some of the edges were hanging off the hillside. It's one of the most incredibly pieces of castle remains I have seen here. See my pictures below because I can't begin to explain how cool it was!
Tomorrow is my last Saturday market :( and I may go out to Athenry on Sunday to explore one last city. This trip has gone so fast, I can't believe I will be home on Tuesday evening, and be at work by Thursday morning. It's going to be very bitter sweet coming home, but I'm definitely excited to see my friends and family. Can't wait to see everyone soon!
I've posted pictures below :)
We got talking with the bus driver and he told me this would be an interesting day because they had never actually done this tour, and didn't expect people to sign up that fast. So, I got to pioneer the first Clonmacnoise tour. Our tour guide was hilarious, and kept saying "bare with me" as he had just studied all the information this morning in preparation.
Well the day ended up being great! It was about an hour drive out to the ruins. Clonmacnoise used to be the "mecca" or Ireland. It's situated in the literal middle of the island, and people used to make pilgrimages here. It all began in the 5th century when Christianity began to become increasingly popular and a group of monks formed a monastery on the grounds. There are 8 other churches on the grounds including the nuns church. It's crazy to think most of these were 1600 years old!
There are over 600 gravestones surrounding the ruins, and they date back to the 5th century as well. Outside of the park was an old anglo norman castle from the 11th century. It was on top of a motte (a steep hill built in the 11th century as a form of defense) and had decayed so much the some of the edges were hanging off the hillside. It's one of the most incredibly pieces of castle remains I have seen here. See my pictures below because I can't begin to explain how cool it was!
Tomorrow is my last Saturday market :( and I may go out to Athenry on Sunday to explore one last city. This trip has gone so fast, I can't believe I will be home on Tuesday evening, and be at work by Thursday morning. It's going to be very bitter sweet coming home, but I'm definitely excited to see my friends and family. Can't wait to see everyone soon!
I've posted pictures below :)
Monday, May 3, 2010
Conquering Clifden
This past week, Chris has his good friend Corey and his girlfriend Krista come and visit. Due to my appendicitis I was not able to do the day adventures, but I was feeling pretty good by Saturday, so luckily I was able to join them for one day.
We took the bus up to Clifden in the morning. The drive is only an hour, and Clifden is located about 1 hour and 15 minutes NW of Galway. It's a quaint little coastal town, with a significant amount of history in it. We had lunch at a little cafe in town, and started walking around. We ended up of Sky Road, which had a cool old gothic church and graveyard. As we continued down the road, it become incredibly scenic so we decided to keep walking down towards the coastline. On our way, we noticed the crest of a castle tucked into the hillside, it was barely visible from the road. There was no house nearby and nothing that said "no trespassing" so we figured we would give it a shot. We hiked down through a few fields of sheep and found ourselves at the basin of an abandoned castle. When we got home I was able to research it, and found that it was built in the early 1700's, and was abandoned during the famine in 1840. Clifden was one of the hardest hit areas by the famine.
We were able to explore inside the castle, and it was really cool because it hasn't been restored, so there were remain of the staircase, and old walls, put many portions had crumbled. There was an incredible view from the castle of the inlet from the ocean that leads into the town of Clifden. Many parts of the castle were overgrown with vines. Adjacent to the castle was the old stone farm and remain of a few smaller houses, probably the servants quarters. It was such a cool adventure because everything was so untouched. After the castle we continued out to the coastline, the view was incredible. We walked back into town later that evening and took the bus back to Galway.
I took the next day pretty easy as I was exhausted, but I'm feeling pretty good since my surgery. I've been studying quite a bit for my psychology exam on Wednesday. After Wednesday I'm officially done with my courses in Galway. I can't believe it, but I fly home next Tuesday. It's going to be very bitter sweet. I'm excited to get home for summer, but am definitely going to miss this place. It is all starting to hit me as my good friends Lauren and Beth departed over the weekend.
I have posted pictures below of the castle!
We took the bus up to Clifden in the morning. The drive is only an hour, and Clifden is located about 1 hour and 15 minutes NW of Galway. It's a quaint little coastal town, with a significant amount of history in it. We had lunch at a little cafe in town, and started walking around. We ended up of Sky Road, which had a cool old gothic church and graveyard. As we continued down the road, it become incredibly scenic so we decided to keep walking down towards the coastline. On our way, we noticed the crest of a castle tucked into the hillside, it was barely visible from the road. There was no house nearby and nothing that said "no trespassing" so we figured we would give it a shot. We hiked down through a few fields of sheep and found ourselves at the basin of an abandoned castle. When we got home I was able to research it, and found that it was built in the early 1700's, and was abandoned during the famine in 1840. Clifden was one of the hardest hit areas by the famine.
We were able to explore inside the castle, and it was really cool because it hasn't been restored, so there were remain of the staircase, and old walls, put many portions had crumbled. There was an incredible view from the castle of the inlet from the ocean that leads into the town of Clifden. Many parts of the castle were overgrown with vines. Adjacent to the castle was the old stone farm and remain of a few smaller houses, probably the servants quarters. It was such a cool adventure because everything was so untouched. After the castle we continued out to the coastline, the view was incredible. We walked back into town later that evening and took the bus back to Galway.
I took the next day pretty easy as I was exhausted, but I'm feeling pretty good since my surgery. I've been studying quite a bit for my psychology exam on Wednesday. After Wednesday I'm officially done with my courses in Galway. I can't believe it, but I fly home next Tuesday. It's going to be very bitter sweet. I'm excited to get home for summer, but am definitely going to miss this place. It is all starting to hit me as my good friends Lauren and Beth departed over the weekend.
I have posted pictures below of the castle!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Adios Appendix
Unfortunately I am not reporting to you about some crazy cool adventure in Ireland, but I can now say I've made my way through the Irish health care system.....
On Saturday morning I woke up just fine, and went to the market like I normally do. That afternoon I was over at Chris's apartment watching TV and noticed a weird stomach ache. I took a nap on the couch, and woke up and noticed that the pain had localized to my lower right side. After a few more hours, he convinced me to go to the ER.... which is know as the Casualties entrance in Ireland (personally I feel like that name sounds like I'm already dead before I even got in there...)
Anyway after seeing a few doctors and having blood work done I was admitted to the hospital very late on Saturday evening/Sunday morning. Sunday afternoon I had an emergency appendectomy. Thankfully, they were able to do it laproscopically, so I have 3 small incisions in my stomach. Oh, they don't call the operating room the O.R. here... it's called the theater... what the heck!? I fell like I should be receiving some entertainment if your going to name it that! Anyway... I spent the next two days in the hospital. While those days were fine... I really wished this would have happened in the United States as we have a little more advanced medicine/hospital rooms. I shared a room with 3 others, who were all very nice, but it made it hard to sleep sometimes.
I was supposed to be in Italy this past weekend, and I'm even more thankful that volcano blew because the language barrier was hard enough with all of the accents! My ER doctor was middle eastern, my surgical team was composed of an Irish surgeon with Nigerian assistants, the nice lady who cleaned the room every day was Polish as well as the people who brought the food. The man who gave me my prescriptions was Korean and my nurses were Irish and British. It was quite the mix of nationalities and all different accents!
Overall the experience was not too bad, and I'm feeling pretty good today. Unfortunately, this cancels my travel plans to Prague next week, but I'm hoping for a speedy recovery as I do fly home exactly 2 weeks from today. Thank you for all of your emails, notes, and prayers over the past few days, and I am excited to get in touch with everyone when I get back to the states.
P.S. Chris so kindly took a photo of my after surgery... I will be sure to post that for everyone's viewing pleasure....
On Saturday morning I woke up just fine, and went to the market like I normally do. That afternoon I was over at Chris's apartment watching TV and noticed a weird stomach ache. I took a nap on the couch, and woke up and noticed that the pain had localized to my lower right side. After a few more hours, he convinced me to go to the ER.... which is know as the Casualties entrance in Ireland (personally I feel like that name sounds like I'm already dead before I even got in there...)
Anyway after seeing a few doctors and having blood work done I was admitted to the hospital very late on Saturday evening/Sunday morning. Sunday afternoon I had an emergency appendectomy. Thankfully, they were able to do it laproscopically, so I have 3 small incisions in my stomach. Oh, they don't call the operating room the O.R. here... it's called the theater... what the heck!? I fell like I should be receiving some entertainment if your going to name it that! Anyway... I spent the next two days in the hospital. While those days were fine... I really wished this would have happened in the United States as we have a little more advanced medicine/hospital rooms. I shared a room with 3 others, who were all very nice, but it made it hard to sleep sometimes.
I was supposed to be in Italy this past weekend, and I'm even more thankful that volcano blew because the language barrier was hard enough with all of the accents! My ER doctor was middle eastern, my surgical team was composed of an Irish surgeon with Nigerian assistants, the nice lady who cleaned the room every day was Polish as well as the people who brought the food. The man who gave me my prescriptions was Korean and my nurses were Irish and British. It was quite the mix of nationalities and all different accents!
Overall the experience was not too bad, and I'm feeling pretty good today. Unfortunately, this cancels my travel plans to Prague next week, but I'm hoping for a speedy recovery as I do fly home exactly 2 weeks from today. Thank you for all of your emails, notes, and prayers over the past few days, and I am excited to get in touch with everyone when I get back to the states.
P.S. Chris so kindly took a photo of my after surgery... I will be sure to post that for everyone's viewing pleasure....
Monday, April 19, 2010
It would have been fun Italy....
Due to the volcano in Iceland, it's now made it so we are unable to fly out tomorrow. I had a week trip planned in Italy. We had booked Rome, Sorrento, and Capri, but maybe another day :( I looked into changing the flights and can't get a flight to Italy until next Tuesday due to the airline mess. Hopefully I will make it here one day!
Anyway, as for my parents they are still stuck in Ireland. I had a final exam all day today and one more tomorrow, but I am going to see them tomorrow evening. We are going to meet in a little town halfway between Galway and Shannon (where they are staying) and explore one more little town and do dinner! Hopefully they are able to get a flight out soon, but on the bright side, it's been really fun having them here :)
Anyway, as for my parents they are still stuck in Ireland. I had a final exam all day today and one more tomorrow, but I am going to see them tomorrow evening. We are going to meet in a little town halfway between Galway and Shannon (where they are staying) and explore one more little town and do dinner! Hopefully they are able to get a flight out soon, but on the bright side, it's been really fun having them here :)
Saturday, April 17, 2010
What a trip!
Sorry I haven't up dated this in so long! I just finished up an incredible 10 day vacation around Ireland with my parents. The first day I met them at the Shannon Airports at 6am, and we went back to the hotel for a bit to take a nap. Late that morning we started on a 5 day bus tour, and our first stop was out to the Cliffs of Moher. I had been twice before, but it was fun to show them the cliffs. The Cliffs are over 700 feet high on the western coastline of Ireland.
The next day we headed down to County Cork to see the Blarney Castle and the Woolen Mills. We spent the afternoon exploring the town, shopping, and toasted our first Guinness. We decided to save 20 euro and not kiss the slimy Blarney stone.... darn! That afternoon we drove to Killarney in County Kerry, which was absolutely beautiful!! That afternoon we went to for a walk down the streets of Killarney and went for a walk in the national park. When exploring the town my dad and I went to this old pub called Jimmy O'Briens. We were some of the only people in there. The bar tender, who happened to be the Jimmy O'Brien got talking with us, and before we knew it we were honorary bar tenders of the day (aka he let us take a picture behind the bar!). That evening we went out for traditional music at a pub up the street and then hit the hay.
On Saturday our tour took us through the Ring of Kerry. This is a loop of highway throughout County Kerry that is incredibly scenic. We viewed the Dingle Peninsula and may other sites in Ireland. We stopped at a bog village, which was reconstructed to display what life was like living in thatched cottages. On the way back into Killarney we stopped at the national park and got to view the Mossruck House. The weather was absolutely incredible that afternoon, I could have stayed in that park all day! That afternoon my dad and I went to a new pub where we watched the horse race and the rugby match... I can honestly say there is no better place to watch a sporting event just because of the people watching....
On Sunday we had a long drive to Dublin. On the way to Dublin we stopped at the Rock of Cashel, in which St. Patrick had visited during his qwest through Ireland. It was an incredibly intricate castle built in the 12th century on top of a steep hill. Down in the valley was an old abbey. Unfortunately we didn't get to tour the abbey, but it was quite a site from the Rock of Cashel. That afternoon we arrived in Dublin and I was able to show my parents Trinity College, Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, Saint Stephens Green Park, and Whelans Pub (where P.S. I Love You was filmed). That evening we went to the Arlington Hotel for Irish music and dancing.
The next day in Dublin we went to St. Patrick's Cathedral, Christ's Church, The Guinness Factory, and the Jameson Distillery. The St. Patrick's church was absolutely beautiful inside. From the stained glass windows, to the intricate tiles, tombs, and designs. The Guinness Tour was really well done, as it is incredibly active and you can even pour your own pint! We enjoyed our pint at the Gravity Bar, which has a panoramic view of Dublin. That afternoon my dad and I did the Jameson Distillery tour. They ask for volunteers in the beginning of the tour and I made my dad volunteer....as I knew what they would make him do.... At the end of the tour my dad had to try all 3 whiskeys infront of the group and tell them which one is best, if he said Jameson then he got a certificate.... and well he's coming home with a proud certificate!
On Tuesday we headed back to Galway and explore the city for the afternoon. I was able to show my parents the river that created my kyaking adventures, campus, town center, and my apartment. We spent the afternoon on shop street, and had a great dinner at a wine bar downtown. That evening we went to Taafes pub for live traditional Irish music.
On Wednesday we went up to Connemara and did a tour of the Connemara mountains, fjord, famine villages, and the Kylemore Abbey. Kylemore was built back in 1860, and is known as one of the most "romantic" castles in Ireland. We toured the castle, gothic church, and the gardens. You may recall in a previous blog that I took Emily there.... there are numerous pictures below! That evening I took my parents to the best fish and chips place in the world...McDonaghs! After dinner it was a beautiful sunset so we walked out to the beach.
The next day we west out to the Aran Islands. The Aran Islands are still very traditionally Irish. We toured Inis Mor... The largest of the 300 Islands. The island is inhabited by 800 people. It is one of the most pristine places I've been. Once we got off of the ferry we decided to take a 3.5 hour horse and buggy ride around the island. Our guide, Michael and his horse prince, took us up to Dun Anges, a ring fort built over 4000 years ago in 2000 B.C. at the top of the highest point of the island. The fort overlooks a 500 foot cliff. On the route out to the castle we got to witness the villages, farms, and intricate stone walls of the island.
On Friday we spent one last day in Galway shopping, enjoying the quaint cafes, and enjoyed our last Guinness's before my parents departed for the airport late that evening. They were supposed to fly out today, Saturday, but due to the volcanic eruption in Iceland they were unable to fly out, as all flights in western Europe are grounded. They ended up taking the bus back up to Galway for the day and I got to show them one of my favorite parts of Galway... the Saturday Market. We got fresh produce, and made dinner this evening, and said our goodbyes once again. They are going to attempt to fly out tomorrow but it looks like Monday is more probable. It was one great vacation, and definitely a vacation of a lifetime. I had an absolute blast and hope they did too! It was so nice to show them everything I have been living over the last several months.
This week I have a final on Monday and a final on Tuesday and then it's off to Italy for 6 days.... as long as I am able to fly out... keep your fingers crossed!
The next day we headed down to County Cork to see the Blarney Castle and the Woolen Mills. We spent the afternoon exploring the town, shopping, and toasted our first Guinness. We decided to save 20 euro and not kiss the slimy Blarney stone.... darn! That afternoon we drove to Killarney in County Kerry, which was absolutely beautiful!! That afternoon we went to for a walk down the streets of Killarney and went for a walk in the national park. When exploring the town my dad and I went to this old pub called Jimmy O'Briens. We were some of the only people in there. The bar tender, who happened to be the Jimmy O'Brien got talking with us, and before we knew it we were honorary bar tenders of the day (aka he let us take a picture behind the bar!). That evening we went out for traditional music at a pub up the street and then hit the hay.
On Saturday our tour took us through the Ring of Kerry. This is a loop of highway throughout County Kerry that is incredibly scenic. We viewed the Dingle Peninsula and may other sites in Ireland. We stopped at a bog village, which was reconstructed to display what life was like living in thatched cottages. On the way back into Killarney we stopped at the national park and got to view the Mossruck House. The weather was absolutely incredible that afternoon, I could have stayed in that park all day! That afternoon my dad and I went to a new pub where we watched the horse race and the rugby match... I can honestly say there is no better place to watch a sporting event just because of the people watching....
On Sunday we had a long drive to Dublin. On the way to Dublin we stopped at the Rock of Cashel, in which St. Patrick had visited during his qwest through Ireland. It was an incredibly intricate castle built in the 12th century on top of a steep hill. Down in the valley was an old abbey. Unfortunately we didn't get to tour the abbey, but it was quite a site from the Rock of Cashel. That afternoon we arrived in Dublin and I was able to show my parents Trinity College, Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, Saint Stephens Green Park, and Whelans Pub (where P.S. I Love You was filmed). That evening we went to the Arlington Hotel for Irish music and dancing.
The next day in Dublin we went to St. Patrick's Cathedral, Christ's Church, The Guinness Factory, and the Jameson Distillery. The St. Patrick's church was absolutely beautiful inside. From the stained glass windows, to the intricate tiles, tombs, and designs. The Guinness Tour was really well done, as it is incredibly active and you can even pour your own pint! We enjoyed our pint at the Gravity Bar, which has a panoramic view of Dublin. That afternoon my dad and I did the Jameson Distillery tour. They ask for volunteers in the beginning of the tour and I made my dad volunteer....as I knew what they would make him do.... At the end of the tour my dad had to try all 3 whiskeys infront of the group and tell them which one is best, if he said Jameson then he got a certificate.... and well he's coming home with a proud certificate!
On Tuesday we headed back to Galway and explore the city for the afternoon. I was able to show my parents the river that created my kyaking adventures, campus, town center, and my apartment. We spent the afternoon on shop street, and had a great dinner at a wine bar downtown. That evening we went to Taafes pub for live traditional Irish music.
On Wednesday we went up to Connemara and did a tour of the Connemara mountains, fjord, famine villages, and the Kylemore Abbey. Kylemore was built back in 1860, and is known as one of the most "romantic" castles in Ireland. We toured the castle, gothic church, and the gardens. You may recall in a previous blog that I took Emily there.... there are numerous pictures below! That evening I took my parents to the best fish and chips place in the world...McDonaghs! After dinner it was a beautiful sunset so we walked out to the beach.
The next day we west out to the Aran Islands. The Aran Islands are still very traditionally Irish. We toured Inis Mor... The largest of the 300 Islands. The island is inhabited by 800 people. It is one of the most pristine places I've been. Once we got off of the ferry we decided to take a 3.5 hour horse and buggy ride around the island. Our guide, Michael and his horse prince, took us up to Dun Anges, a ring fort built over 4000 years ago in 2000 B.C. at the top of the highest point of the island. The fort overlooks a 500 foot cliff. On the route out to the castle we got to witness the villages, farms, and intricate stone walls of the island.
On Friday we spent one last day in Galway shopping, enjoying the quaint cafes, and enjoyed our last Guinness's before my parents departed for the airport late that evening. They were supposed to fly out today, Saturday, but due to the volcanic eruption in Iceland they were unable to fly out, as all flights in western Europe are grounded. They ended up taking the bus back up to Galway for the day and I got to show them one of my favorite parts of Galway... the Saturday Market. We got fresh produce, and made dinner this evening, and said our goodbyes once again. They are going to attempt to fly out tomorrow but it looks like Monday is more probable. It was one great vacation, and definitely a vacation of a lifetime. I had an absolute blast and hope they did too! It was so nice to show them everything I have been living over the last several months.
This week I have a final on Monday and a final on Tuesday and then it's off to Italy for 6 days.... as long as I am able to fly out... keep your fingers crossed!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
My parents are here!
Tonight I am headed down to Shannon, so that I can meet my parents at the airport early in the morning. They are here for 10 days, and I'm so excited to see them! We are doing a bus tour for 5 days that takes us out to the Cliffs of Moher, to Cork, the Blarney Castle, the Ring of Kerry, Cashel, and Dublin. Althought I've already been to the Cliffs of Moher and Dublin, I have made sure not to go to the other places listed so that I would get to do something new with them. Although, I have no complaints about going back to the Cliffs of Moher, as they are absolutely breath taking! And well as for Dublin, there are always new things to see in a big city :)
After we spend two nights in Dublin, we are taking the bus back to Galway and spending four days on the westside. One day, I am taking them up to Connemara, where I went with Emily a few weeks back, and the other day we are headed out to the Aran Islands. I have heard incredible things about the views from the islands as well as the culture and thatched cottages that dot the landscape. I will be sure to update you when I can!
After we spend two nights in Dublin, we are taking the bus back to Galway and spending four days on the westside. One day, I am taking them up to Connemara, where I went with Emily a few weeks back, and the other day we are headed out to the Aran Islands. I have heard incredible things about the views from the islands as well as the culture and thatched cottages that dot the landscape. I will be sure to update you when I can!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Happy Easter!
Happy Easter from Ireland! Woke up this morning to a beautiful sunny day in Galway and had brunch with a group of friends that live in my apartment complex. I'm getting ready to go to church in about an hour at the United Methodist Presbyterian Church in Galway. I've always wanted to go to church this trip, so I thought what would be better than Easter Sunday? Later tonight, I am going to my friend Lauren's to have Easter dinner. We are doing a potluck and she is making ham, people are bringing vegetables and salads and well I'm bringing dessert! My Grandma and my mom would be so proud of my cake (I've posted a picture below)... I'm pretty sure I'm the next Ace of Cakes ;) hahahaha. Anyway, if I can't share the holiday with my family, I'm so glad that I have made such great friends here to make it seem like a holiday away from home.
Later this week my parents arrive for a 10 days visit. I'm so excited to travel the country with them and show them what I have been up to over the last several months. I can't believe this trip is winding down.... I leave May 11th :(. It's gone SO FAST!!! But I have loved every minute of it, and am very thankful for the opportunity to do something like this.
I am all finished with classes, and I have two 3,000 word essays due April 30th, which take place of my finals in my Castles course and my History Class- Rise of Modern America. Thankfully I have those done already! I have two written finals to go, and them I'm done with classes for the semester. Those occur on April 20th and May 5th, so I have a lot of time before those. Anyway I hope you all have a wonderful Easter and I will be sure to update you with pictures from my trip with my parents!
Later this week my parents arrive for a 10 days visit. I'm so excited to travel the country with them and show them what I have been up to over the last several months. I can't believe this trip is winding down.... I leave May 11th :(. It's gone SO FAST!!! But I have loved every minute of it, and am very thankful for the opportunity to do something like this.
I am all finished with classes, and I have two 3,000 word essays due April 30th, which take place of my finals in my Castles course and my History Class- Rise of Modern America. Thankfully I have those done already! I have two written finals to go, and them I'm done with classes for the semester. Those occur on April 20th and May 5th, so I have a lot of time before those. Anyway I hope you all have a wonderful Easter and I will be sure to update you with pictures from my trip with my parents!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Northern Ireland
Over the weekend, I traveled to Northern Ireland with a few friends. Some may not be aware, that Northern Ireland is a separate country from the Republic of Ireland, and is actually apart of the UK. The division between the country goes back to politics throughout the 19th century, but I won't get into that....
On Friday afternoon we left the Galway bus station at about 6:00, and arrived in the town of Derry at about 11:30 PM. Derry, is one of the most Western cities in Northern Ireland and is on the boarder of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. We spent the night at the Paddy Palace Hostel. It was by far the coolest hostel I have ever been to. The staff were incredible friendly, and the people that we met there were awesome. We met people from Australia, South Africa, London, New Zealand, U.S., Canada, Germany, Poland, and many other countries just to name a few!
On Saturday morning the "Paddy Wagon" picked us up and began our tour for the day. The first stop was in Donegal (the most northern county in the Repuclic of Ireland). We drove up in to the hills, and saw some of the most breathtaking views I have ever witnessed. We got to climb up a stone fort castle that was built by the O'Neil famly, around the time of Christ, and witnessed a panoramic view of the hills of Donegal as well as the inlet.
Afterward, we began heading down the hills and back into Northern Ireland. We drove along the coastline, which was absolutely incredible, to say the least. We drove past a castle that was built in the 13th century, that was literally falling off the cliffs of the coast, and some of it had already fallen into the ocean. I'm kicking myself because I can't remember the name of it!!
Then it was on to the Giants Causeway. The Giants Causeway is known as the "8th wonder of the world".... even though there are only seven. It was formed over 60 million years ago after a volcanic eruption. This is what wikipedia says about it.... "Some 50 to 60 million years ago,[3]Paleogene period, Antrim was subject to intense volcanic activity, when highly fluid molten basalt intruded through chalk beds to form an extensive lava plateau. As the lava cooled rapidly, contraction occurred. While contraction in the vertical direction reduced the flow thickness (without fracturing), horizontal contraction could only be accommodated by cracking throughout the flow. The size of the columns is primarily determined by the speed at which lava from a volcanic eruption cools[4]. The extensive fracture network produced the distinctive columns seen today. The basalts were originally part of a great volcanic plateau called the Thulean Plateau which formed during the Paleogene period.[5] "
We ended up hiking around the Giants Causeway and the national park for a few hours throughout the afternoon. The rock formations were incredible, and it was amazing how they all resembled the same hexagon tower shape. A similar rock formation is seen in Scotland as well.
After we hiked the Causeway, we went to another Ireland National Trust Site called the Carrack-a-Rede Rope Bridge. We hiked out to the Rope Bridge, and were able to cross it to the small island. The bridge was about 6 stories above the water- little scary!!!! Once we reached the island, we were able to hike around it, and we could even see Scotland! (so technically I have "seen" Scotland... well that's one more item off of the bucket list!
After the bridge, it was on to Belfast. We only saw Belfast for a few hours, but the coolest part was this bar that was built in 1851. When the Italians were emigrating to Northern Ireland and building churches, the owner of the bar asked the builders if after work they could come build his bar in return for free alcohol for the rest of their lives, and well... they agreed. The bar has the detail and architecture of beautiful European Church. There is stainglass, and amazing woodwork throughout the entire bar. We only spent a few hours in Belfast, but what I saw of the city, I really enjoyed. That night, we took the city bus back to the city of Derry, which was only about an hour and a half drive.
On Sunday we explored the town of Derry. Derry is known as the "wall city". In the 1600's, they built these extensive walls around the city as a way of defense. The walls are about 6 meters high (a little over 18ft) and still have the cannon holes, original defenses, and are incredibly preserved. I was also able to see the cathedral that inspired John Newton to write the song amazing grace. Later In the afternoon, we were in the city center, and couldn't figure out what all the noise was, and realized they were filming a movie for the BBC channel, so we were able to watch a portion of that as well. We boarded the bus late in the afternoon, and headed back to Galway. This time it was daylight as we drove through County Donegal and County Sligo, and the views made the 5.5 hour drive go incredibly fast! I can easily say that this was my favorite trip so far, although I have sincerely enjoyed all my experiences on this trip.
I have posted pictures below :)
during the
On Friday afternoon we left the Galway bus station at about 6:00, and arrived in the town of Derry at about 11:30 PM. Derry, is one of the most Western cities in Northern Ireland and is on the boarder of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. We spent the night at the Paddy Palace Hostel. It was by far the coolest hostel I have ever been to. The staff were incredible friendly, and the people that we met there were awesome. We met people from Australia, South Africa, London, New Zealand, U.S., Canada, Germany, Poland, and many other countries just to name a few!
On Saturday morning the "Paddy Wagon" picked us up and began our tour for the day. The first stop was in Donegal (the most northern county in the Repuclic of Ireland). We drove up in to the hills, and saw some of the most breathtaking views I have ever witnessed. We got to climb up a stone fort castle that was built by the O'Neil famly, around the time of Christ, and witnessed a panoramic view of the hills of Donegal as well as the inlet.
Afterward, we began heading down the hills and back into Northern Ireland. We drove along the coastline, which was absolutely incredible, to say the least. We drove past a castle that was built in the 13th century, that was literally falling off the cliffs of the coast, and some of it had already fallen into the ocean. I'm kicking myself because I can't remember the name of it!!
Then it was on to the Giants Causeway. The Giants Causeway is known as the "8th wonder of the world".... even though there are only seven. It was formed over 60 million years ago after a volcanic eruption. This is what wikipedia says about it.... "Some 50 to 60 million years ago,[3]Paleogene period, Antrim was subject to intense volcanic activity, when highly fluid molten basalt intruded through chalk beds to form an extensive lava plateau. As the lava cooled rapidly, contraction occurred. While contraction in the vertical direction reduced the flow thickness (without fracturing), horizontal contraction could only be accommodated by cracking throughout the flow. The size of the columns is primarily determined by the speed at which lava from a volcanic eruption cools[4]. The extensive fracture network produced the distinctive columns seen today. The basalts were originally part of a great volcanic plateau called the Thulean Plateau which formed during the Paleogene period.[5] "
We ended up hiking around the Giants Causeway and the national park for a few hours throughout the afternoon. The rock formations were incredible, and it was amazing how they all resembled the same hexagon tower shape. A similar rock formation is seen in Scotland as well.
After we hiked the Causeway, we went to another Ireland National Trust Site called the Carrack-a-Rede Rope Bridge. We hiked out to the Rope Bridge, and were able to cross it to the small island. The bridge was about 6 stories above the water- little scary!!!! Once we reached the island, we were able to hike around it, and we could even see Scotland! (so technically I have "seen" Scotland... well that's one more item off of the bucket list!
After the bridge, it was on to Belfast. We only saw Belfast for a few hours, but the coolest part was this bar that was built in 1851. When the Italians were emigrating to Northern Ireland and building churches, the owner of the bar asked the builders if after work they could come build his bar in return for free alcohol for the rest of their lives, and well... they agreed. The bar has the detail and architecture of beautiful European Church. There is stainglass, and amazing woodwork throughout the entire bar. We only spent a few hours in Belfast, but what I saw of the city, I really enjoyed. That night, we took the city bus back to the city of Derry, which was only about an hour and a half drive.
On Sunday we explored the town of Derry. Derry is known as the "wall city". In the 1600's, they built these extensive walls around the city as a way of defense. The walls are about 6 meters high (a little over 18ft) and still have the cannon holes, original defenses, and are incredibly preserved. I was also able to see the cathedral that inspired John Newton to write the song amazing grace. Later In the afternoon, we were in the city center, and couldn't figure out what all the noise was, and realized they were filming a movie for the BBC channel, so we were able to watch a portion of that as well. We boarded the bus late in the afternoon, and headed back to Galway. This time it was daylight as we drove through County Donegal and County Sligo, and the views made the 5.5 hour drive go incredibly fast! I can easily say that this was my favorite trip so far, although I have sincerely enjoyed all my experiences on this trip.
I have posted pictures below :)
during the
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Youth Services Galway
Of the course of this trip I have spent a number of hours volunteering my time at Youth Services Galway, so I thought I would write a little bit about it. It's a free program after schools for under privileged children in the Galway area. Most of the kids come from the caravans of the area, which are the equivalent to trailer parks in the United States.
Usually they come to the community center directly after school for 2-3 hours, and we greet them with a snack. The we help them with their homework for about 45 minutes and then have snack time. I'm pretty good at helping them with their subjects except for Irish. It's funny because the kids always get the biggest kick out of things I say... for instance, I complemented a girl on her Hannah Montana backpack. She looked at me funny and then started giggling... I was a little confused and then she explained to me that it's called a school bag. They are always curious about what we call things in the states, and think that "recess" is the coolest word they've ever heard.
After homework and snack we usually do a craft...today we made Easter cards, they even made me one! Then it's usually on to the gym to run off some energy. We ended up playing basketball today. Overall it's been a great experience, it's kind of sad to know the backgrounds they come from, but as the same time I really enjoy helping them after school. Some days they are a little wild and other days they are super sweet, but it keeps it exciting I guess.
Usually they come to the community center directly after school for 2-3 hours, and we greet them with a snack. The we help them with their homework for about 45 minutes and then have snack time. I'm pretty good at helping them with their subjects except for Irish. It's funny because the kids always get the biggest kick out of things I say... for instance, I complemented a girl on her Hannah Montana backpack. She looked at me funny and then started giggling... I was a little confused and then she explained to me that it's called a school bag. They are always curious about what we call things in the states, and think that "recess" is the coolest word they've ever heard.
After homework and snack we usually do a craft...today we made Easter cards, they even made me one! Then it's usually on to the gym to run off some energy. We ended up playing basketball today. Overall it's been a great experience, it's kind of sad to know the backgrounds they come from, but as the same time I really enjoy helping them after school. Some days they are a little wild and other days they are super sweet, but it keeps it exciting I guess.
Friday, March 19, 2010
St. Paddy's and Pete!
As most of you know Wednesday was St. Paddy's Day.... and well it's nothing short of madness here in Ireland. I went to the parade with friends in the morning, and the parade lasted almost 2 hours. In Ireland, St. Patrick's Day is a national holiday, so all of the kids were out of school. The parade was absolutely packed, and included a bunch of songs and dances by numerous ethnic groups, a few floats, a lot of marching bands, and a few other acts. The city was dressed in green!
Although I didn't get to experience the pubs on St. Patrick's day something better happened! I got a call about 7:30 on Wednesday night from my mom saying that Pete (my brother in law who is the army) would be stopping over in Shannon, Ireland on his way back to Iraq at about 5:00am. He was returning from 2 weeks of R&R. So I was able to get on the last bus out of town at 10:00 PM that night, pulled an all nighter at the airport and was able to see Pete.
But there is more to this story.... Unfortunately on the way to the airport, my wallet was lost, and so I was without identification.... kind of a problem at the airport! Thankfully, I was able to call my parents back in the states and they were able to fax over a copy of my passport to the airport police, and then I got to be escorted by airport police until I met up with Pete. Kind of a crazy day, but definitely worth it! I got to spend about an hour with Pete at the airport before he had to get on his next plane. I got home about 10:30am on Thursday, napped for a few hours and then was off to class. I slept like a baby last night :)
One week left of classes..... this trip is going so ridiculously fast!
Although I didn't get to experience the pubs on St. Patrick's day something better happened! I got a call about 7:30 on Wednesday night from my mom saying that Pete (my brother in law who is the army) would be stopping over in Shannon, Ireland on his way back to Iraq at about 5:00am. He was returning from 2 weeks of R&R. So I was able to get on the last bus out of town at 10:00 PM that night, pulled an all nighter at the airport and was able to see Pete.
But there is more to this story.... Unfortunately on the way to the airport, my wallet was lost, and so I was without identification.... kind of a problem at the airport! Thankfully, I was able to call my parents back in the states and they were able to fax over a copy of my passport to the airport police, and then I got to be escorted by airport police until I met up with Pete. Kind of a crazy day, but definitely worth it! I got to spend about an hour with Pete at the airport before he had to get on his next plane. I got home about 10:30am on Thursday, napped for a few hours and then was off to class. I slept like a baby last night :)
One week left of classes..... this trip is going so ridiculously fast!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Connemara
My friend Emily (who has been one of my closest friends since 5th grade) came to visit this week. Earlier in the week we went to Connemara for the day. Connemara is just north of Galway. It contains many villages that were severely impacted by the Great Famine in Ireland. (If you don't know what the Famine was, read my paper posted below on it and it might give you a greater understanding)
We headed up the coastal road on our tour bus and the sites were gorgeous. We drove through numerous villages that still have thatched roofs, and small cottages. There are many lakes when you drive through the Connemara region as well as fishing towns. The big stop of the day was at Kylemore Abbey. It's a castle that was built back in the 1850's by the Henry's. When Mr. Henry's wife died back in the early 20th century they sold the castle to a series of nuns. Emily and I were quite proud to be there because we were putting our Forest Ridge educations to use since we were taught by nuns back in middle school. On the grounds are the original castles, the gothic church, and beautiful gardens. When my parents come visit next month we are going to visit there again, and I can't wait to see the gardens when they are bloomed.
After the Abbey we continued our drive for the reason and got to see the only Fjord in Ireland, which was absolutely beautiful. The drive home was funny because we got to witness our first irish traffic jam.... Sheep were in the middle of the street and the bus couldn't go anywhere for awhile! Overall it was a gorgeous day, complete sunshine too! I have posted pictures below for you to check out as well.
We headed up the coastal road on our tour bus and the sites were gorgeous. We drove through numerous villages that still have thatched roofs, and small cottages. There are many lakes when you drive through the Connemara region as well as fishing towns. The big stop of the day was at Kylemore Abbey. It's a castle that was built back in the 1850's by the Henry's. When Mr. Henry's wife died back in the early 20th century they sold the castle to a series of nuns. Emily and I were quite proud to be there because we were putting our Forest Ridge educations to use since we were taught by nuns back in middle school. On the grounds are the original castles, the gothic church, and beautiful gardens. When my parents come visit next month we are going to visit there again, and I can't wait to see the gardens when they are bloomed.
After the Abbey we continued our drive for the reason and got to see the only Fjord in Ireland, which was absolutely beautiful. The drive home was funny because we got to witness our first irish traffic jam.... Sheep were in the middle of the street and the bus couldn't go anywhere for awhile! Overall it was a gorgeous day, complete sunshine too! I have posted pictures below for you to check out as well.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Why Lauren is qualified to now teach a birthing class...
I never thought I would be so thankful that I knew how to swim until today. So thank you mom and dad for those years of commitment to swim lessons and weekends spent and swim team. So you might wonder where I'm going with this.... well yes it's another tale of the kayak club.
As I put my freezing cold wetsuit on this morning I though nothing of it. Before I knew it we carried our kayaks over to this side stream, passed them down a short cliff, the hiked down to the base of the stream. This was one of the first times I had ever done rapids in a kayak, but I thought I could handle it. We head down stream and stop about 100 yards before a short waterfall. I'm pretty stoked at this point because I have gone of bridges so this really couldn't be that bad right?!
We start heading down stream and we are supposed to keep 2 boats lengths infront of us. This guy was ahead of me who looked like was going to die.... probably the same expression I had the first time I went off the bridge. Everyone was trying to get his confidence up, and of course I ended up behind him. We were instructed to stay left because there was a large rock on the right. So what does he do.... He goes right... Of course! His boat is now stuck infront of me going perpendicular to the rapids and blocking the entire width of the stream. I can't stop because we are in rapids, so I turn my boat to the side so that I can dock up against him and push him off. He is so scared that he grabs my boat so fiercely that mine flips into the rapids. He is even more distraught.... My boat fills with so much water that it sinks and then reemerges and floats down stream with my paddle. We had a guide 300 yards down stream making sure everyone came out of the waterfall okay so he was able to get my boat. I was able to send the guy who was freaking out over the waterfall, but here I am boatless with one other guide.
We hike off to the side and he give me two options. We can either hike down the street to get our boats and swim. Ummm let me think... I'm not swimming down at 40 degree river with rapids... i think not. So we begin to hike and come upon a house. On one side it boarders the river, on the other side it boarders the stream, there was no way around it. About 3 feet up was a small step, we climbed up and realized we were on the roof of a house. Walked to then end and realized it was about a 15 foot jump to the ground. Well- guess that means we are going for a swim. So I climb down the side, and the next thing I know I'm in the river. Oh, by the way- did I mention by this time there were atleast 50 people on the ridge watching this whole episode. By the time it was over it seemed like there were 100 people.
We start floating down the river to the group. I tried not to go into shock with the temperature of the water so I tried to take my mind off of it. So I started doing deep breathing...hahaha I felt like I was in a birthing class...heck I could probably teach one after those breathing skills! About 200-300 yards later we finally catch up with our group and the boats. By this time I'm pretty sure everyone on the ridge watching this episode has taken a picture, but I decided I'm totally cool with that- may I will see myself on the cover of the next "outdoor explorers magazine"?! who knows. Or maybe they were paparazzi?!
So I finally get in my boat and we kayak the rest of the rapids, and I make sure I stay in front of the guy who was deathly afraid of the rapids. We get to the end of the river, and then got to carry our kayaks back to the shed. 15 minutes with a kayak on your back...awesomeness... you get some really weird looks, oddly, no one wanted to take my picture then, so maybe I will just stick with swimming?
I wish I had pictures to illustrate this adventure, but don't worry, just pick up a tabloid and maybe I will be on the cover?! Who knows?
As I put my freezing cold wetsuit on this morning I though nothing of it. Before I knew it we carried our kayaks over to this side stream, passed them down a short cliff, the hiked down to the base of the stream. This was one of the first times I had ever done rapids in a kayak, but I thought I could handle it. We head down stream and stop about 100 yards before a short waterfall. I'm pretty stoked at this point because I have gone of bridges so this really couldn't be that bad right?!
We start heading down stream and we are supposed to keep 2 boats lengths infront of us. This guy was ahead of me who looked like was going to die.... probably the same expression I had the first time I went off the bridge. Everyone was trying to get his confidence up, and of course I ended up behind him. We were instructed to stay left because there was a large rock on the right. So what does he do.... He goes right... Of course! His boat is now stuck infront of me going perpendicular to the rapids and blocking the entire width of the stream. I can't stop because we are in rapids, so I turn my boat to the side so that I can dock up against him and push him off. He is so scared that he grabs my boat so fiercely that mine flips into the rapids. He is even more distraught.... My boat fills with so much water that it sinks and then reemerges and floats down stream with my paddle. We had a guide 300 yards down stream making sure everyone came out of the waterfall okay so he was able to get my boat. I was able to send the guy who was freaking out over the waterfall, but here I am boatless with one other guide.
We hike off to the side and he give me two options. We can either hike down the street to get our boats and swim. Ummm let me think... I'm not swimming down at 40 degree river with rapids... i think not. So we begin to hike and come upon a house. On one side it boarders the river, on the other side it boarders the stream, there was no way around it. About 3 feet up was a small step, we climbed up and realized we were on the roof of a house. Walked to then end and realized it was about a 15 foot jump to the ground. Well- guess that means we are going for a swim. So I climb down the side, and the next thing I know I'm in the river. Oh, by the way- did I mention by this time there were atleast 50 people on the ridge watching this whole episode. By the time it was over it seemed like there were 100 people.
We start floating down the river to the group. I tried not to go into shock with the temperature of the water so I tried to take my mind off of it. So I started doing deep breathing...hahaha I felt like I was in a birthing class...heck I could probably teach one after those breathing skills! About 200-300 yards later we finally catch up with our group and the boats. By this time I'm pretty sure everyone on the ridge watching this episode has taken a picture, but I decided I'm totally cool with that- may I will see myself on the cover of the next "outdoor explorers magazine"?! who knows. Or maybe they were paparazzi?!
So I finally get in my boat and we kayak the rest of the rapids, and I make sure I stay in front of the guy who was deathly afraid of the rapids. We get to the end of the river, and then got to carry our kayaks back to the shed. 15 minutes with a kayak on your back...awesomeness... you get some really weird looks, oddly, no one wanted to take my picture then, so maybe I will just stick with swimming?
I wish I had pictures to illustrate this adventure, but don't worry, just pick up a tabloid and maybe I will be on the cover?! Who knows?
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Things are picking up
At first this whole thing felt like a vacation. I had so much time on my hands to do whatever around town, but things are picking up. This whole trip is going so fast I feel like I'm going to blink and I will be home for summer.
I had my first midterm essay due this week (that I posted on Monday) and I have another essay due early next week. I have been working on it all weekend because my friend Emily comes a week from today, and I want to be done with my midterm by then! This one is easier because it's for my Rise of Modern America class, so I am much more familiar with the topics.
I had class all week as usual, and started a new job at Kelly's Bar. It's nothing to glamorous- I stand outside and promote the bar. It's been ridiculously cold out though, so it's not making work too fun at all.
Yesterday I went down to the Saturday market. I absolutely love going every week and getting my produce from there. There are so many different stands.... crepes, fallafel's, sushi, produce, bagels, jewelry, chess stands, olive stands, bakeries, artists, jams, fish, flowers, home made gadgets and much more. It's so fun to walk downtown on Saturday mornings and see all of this. I would post pictures.... but my camera is still dead. Emily is bringing my charger so I will definitely have pictures soon :)
I had my first midterm essay due this week (that I posted on Monday) and I have another essay due early next week. I have been working on it all weekend because my friend Emily comes a week from today, and I want to be done with my midterm by then! This one is easier because it's for my Rise of Modern America class, so I am much more familiar with the topics.
I had class all week as usual, and started a new job at Kelly's Bar. It's nothing to glamorous- I stand outside and promote the bar. It's been ridiculously cold out though, so it's not making work too fun at all.
Yesterday I went down to the Saturday market. I absolutely love going every week and getting my produce from there. There are so many different stands.... crepes, fallafel's, sushi, produce, bagels, jewelry, chess stands, olive stands, bakeries, artists, jams, fish, flowers, home made gadgets and much more. It's so fun to walk downtown on Saturday mornings and see all of this. I would post pictures.... but my camera is still dead. Emily is bringing my charger so I will definitely have pictures soon :)
Monday, February 22, 2010
19 Century Ireland Midterm Paper
So I finished my first midterm paper so I thought I would let you all read what I have learned about the Irish famine so far. Sorry if it's boring!
The prompt was: Evaluate the role and policies of the British government during the Great Famine of 1845-1850
Here is my proof that I actually do school work here :)
As the eve of the 1845 famine descended on the Irish people, no one could predict the severity. The Irish had suffered through a previous famine in 1821, but the length of the impending famine was unforeseen. With 45% of its population dependent on the potato, it would be easy to predict what might occur when the potato crop was lost. Throughout the Great Irish Famine of 1845-1850 the British government failed to make great strides in the improvement of the Irish economy and food aid, but they were not completely to blame. Extreme weather, environmental factors, and disease also contributed to the severity of the devastating famine.
Throughout the 1830s, the British government had control over the land of Ireland. In the early 1840s, the poverty levels began to rise throughout the Irish countryside, and a problematic trend in Irish society was noted: The Irish were subdividing their land, which decreased the rate at which one could provide food to their family and make a living. The increased the demands on the land, led to problems before the start of the famine. Other issues of the time included the fact that the landlords were living beyond their means, agrarian violence was on the rise, and the rate at which tenants were being evicting was increasing. The British believed that the Irish landlords were hard to manage, but when the famine occurred, they began to look towards the landlords for assistance. With a poor communication system between the British government and the Irish landlords, this set the foundation for many problems that arose between the two countries during the famine.
The famine emerged in 1845 when Blight, a disease that caused the death of a third of the potato crop that year, began to appear. With 45% of the Irish citizens dependent on this nutrient crop, it provided the foundation for a drastic downturn in the Irish population. As the British government began to learn of the Irish Famine, they believed that it was exaggerated and would be short-lived. With the lack of photography during the era, all they had were sketches to help them understand the extent of the famine. Although they carried a laissez-faire attitude, this was seen as an “aspiration rather than a reality”. However, Sir Robert Peel, the British Prime Minister in 1845, did not adopt this same idea. He secretly purchased Indian meal from the United States to attempt to feed the suffering Irish people. He also attempted to create a scientific commission to try to dry out the potatoes or use diseased potatoes to create a starch. Although no solution was discovered, these efforts revealed Peel’s concern for Ireland during the famine.
During Sir Robert Peel’s administration, Charles Trevelyan also played a prominent role in the British political influence on Ireland. Trevelyan promoted the Laissez-Faire attitude, and was adamant about the British government not intervening in Ireland’s marketplace. He believed that people should work for aid, and that it should not be given to the people in the form of food. He also felt that all efforts must benefit the society rather than the individuals. He attempted to collect funds from Irish citizens, but poorer communities were unable to produce sufficient funds, which meant that those who needed the most aid were not able to receive it. To continue with his economic ideas, he oversaw all relief efforts and controlled the Board of Works. Over 5,800 people were employed to build roads around Ireland. Although this idea implemented Trevelyan’s notion that people must work for their food, it became contradictory because he attempted to lower the wages to keep people out of work and also implemented “task work”. Task work meant that people were paid in an amount proportional to the amount of work they did. People were paid much less than they expected to be paid because they did not have the energy to produce sufficient work because they were not able to feed themselves before long laboring days. Although Sir Robert Peel and Trevelyan made strides attempting to correct the famine, they were not enough to provide sufficient relief to Ireland. By then end of 1846 the Conservative Party began to split, and Peel’s administration failed.
In addition to the help coming from Britain, Daniel O’Connell, an Irish politician, also attempted to correct the famine because he was living through it. From 1845 through June of 1846, O’Connell focused on political issues rather than directly on the potato famine. He began to form a strong relationship with the Whigs and began to reunite the followers within the Repeal movement. He believed that if he waited for the Whigs to return to power, they may provide more relief, which caused a split in the Repeal Movement. However, support for O’Connell began to dissipate because he was not providing any immediate relief to the Irish people. As the Young Irelanders emerged they became very critical about O’Connell, which forced O’Connell to denounce them, which lead to a greater split in the Repeal Movement.
In June of 1846, O’Connell succeeded. The Whigs came into power, and replaced Sir Robert Peel’s administration with the administration of Sir John Russell. Russell’s administration was interested in continuing relief efforts and felt as though the famine would begin to improve. However, environmental factors out of their control led to the worsening of the famine. During the summer of 1846 Ireland received 11 inches of rain, which caused the complete loss of the potato crop. Four million people now relied on relief, and with no immediate change to government policy, it seemed that the people of Ireland were doomed. Russell’s administration also failed to make advances with the Board of Works, which led to internal power struggles and a hollow government.
Although there were failures in both the Peel and Russell administrations, this does not mean that these parties did not attempt to correct the famine. With potato crisis also occurring in Scotland at the same time as the famine in Ireland, it seemed as though Scotland was receiving more aid and attention because they had been integrated for a longer period of time. The British lacked aid to Ireland, but in retrospect, there were many coalitions formed to fight the famine. The problem was that they did not exist at the strength Ireland needed to rise from the famine. Although relief organizations such as the Board of Works paid their employees in cash, there was no available food to purchase, and they were paid irregularly.. Many landlords had mortgaged their estates before the famine, which caused up to a quarter to become bankrupt during the famine. Other organizations such as the Society of Friends were established to help feed masses of people. These helped reduce diarrhea and dysentery, but the working class was not entitled to them even though their wages were not sufficient enough to feed them. Following the Society of Friends, the Soup Kitchen Act emerged in 1847. Soup Kitchens were established in all Poor Law Unions, and were a major factor in combating the crisis. Another relief effort was the British Relief Association, which was a small private organization that attempted to provide food and aid, but it ultimately failed because it was unable to provide for large groups. Finally, the Poor Law attempted to provide work for those in the worst conditions. They provided work houses and rations, but as the famine worsened the rations in the work houses were eventually cut in half, creating poor working conditions.
In retrospect, the British politicians during the famine did attempt to create relief for the people of Ireland, but they were not able to do so in numbers large enough to benefit an entire country. The fact that the famine was seen as exaggerated and the fact that the era lacked photographical evidence may provide reasoning for the smaller attempts to relieve the starving Irish. Scotland was also experiencing a similar crisis due to the same potato-killing disease, which also contributed to the lack of support from the British government. The lack of communication between the British politicians and the Irish people was a major factor in the increasing poverty levels that led to the severity of the famine by the late 1840s. Other contributing factors included the significant drought that led to the destruction of the entire crop in 1846, and the spread of Blight. Overall, the lack of support from the British government and the unforeseen environmental factors led to the devastation caused by the Great Irish Famine. Although it was a decade of devastation, the Irish did not have time to point fingers, they had to focus on what to do next. Whether this caused the Irish people to emigrate or to rebuild their lives, they carried on with pride of their Irish roots, but the famine was never to be forgotten.
The prompt was: Evaluate the role and policies of the British government during the Great Famine of 1845-1850
Here is my proof that I actually do school work here :)
As the eve of the 1845 famine descended on the Irish people, no one could predict the severity. The Irish had suffered through a previous famine in 1821, but the length of the impending famine was unforeseen. With 45% of its population dependent on the potato, it would be easy to predict what might occur when the potato crop was lost. Throughout the Great Irish Famine of 1845-1850 the British government failed to make great strides in the improvement of the Irish economy and food aid, but they were not completely to blame. Extreme weather, environmental factors, and disease also contributed to the severity of the devastating famine.
Throughout the 1830s, the British government had control over the land of Ireland. In the early 1840s, the poverty levels began to rise throughout the Irish countryside, and a problematic trend in Irish society was noted: The Irish were subdividing their land, which decreased the rate at which one could provide food to their family and make a living. The increased the demands on the land, led to problems before the start of the famine. Other issues of the time included the fact that the landlords were living beyond their means, agrarian violence was on the rise, and the rate at which tenants were being evicting was increasing. The British believed that the Irish landlords were hard to manage, but when the famine occurred, they began to look towards the landlords for assistance. With a poor communication system between the British government and the Irish landlords, this set the foundation for many problems that arose between the two countries during the famine.
The famine emerged in 1845 when Blight, a disease that caused the death of a third of the potato crop that year, began to appear. With 45% of the Irish citizens dependent on this nutrient crop, it provided the foundation for a drastic downturn in the Irish population. As the British government began to learn of the Irish Famine, they believed that it was exaggerated and would be short-lived. With the lack of photography during the era, all they had were sketches to help them understand the extent of the famine. Although they carried a laissez-faire attitude, this was seen as an “aspiration rather than a reality”. However, Sir Robert Peel, the British Prime Minister in 1845, did not adopt this same idea. He secretly purchased Indian meal from the United States to attempt to feed the suffering Irish people. He also attempted to create a scientific commission to try to dry out the potatoes or use diseased potatoes to create a starch. Although no solution was discovered, these efforts revealed Peel’s concern for Ireland during the famine.
During Sir Robert Peel’s administration, Charles Trevelyan also played a prominent role in the British political influence on Ireland. Trevelyan promoted the Laissez-Faire attitude, and was adamant about the British government not intervening in Ireland’s marketplace. He believed that people should work for aid, and that it should not be given to the people in the form of food. He also felt that all efforts must benefit the society rather than the individuals. He attempted to collect funds from Irish citizens, but poorer communities were unable to produce sufficient funds, which meant that those who needed the most aid were not able to receive it. To continue with his economic ideas, he oversaw all relief efforts and controlled the Board of Works. Over 5,800 people were employed to build roads around Ireland. Although this idea implemented Trevelyan’s notion that people must work for their food, it became contradictory because he attempted to lower the wages to keep people out of work and also implemented “task work”. Task work meant that people were paid in an amount proportional to the amount of work they did. People were paid much less than they expected to be paid because they did not have the energy to produce sufficient work because they were not able to feed themselves before long laboring days. Although Sir Robert Peel and Trevelyan made strides attempting to correct the famine, they were not enough to provide sufficient relief to Ireland. By then end of 1846 the Conservative Party began to split, and Peel’s administration failed.
In addition to the help coming from Britain, Daniel O’Connell, an Irish politician, also attempted to correct the famine because he was living through it. From 1845 through June of 1846, O’Connell focused on political issues rather than directly on the potato famine. He began to form a strong relationship with the Whigs and began to reunite the followers within the Repeal movement. He believed that if he waited for the Whigs to return to power, they may provide more relief, which caused a split in the Repeal Movement. However, support for O’Connell began to dissipate because he was not providing any immediate relief to the Irish people. As the Young Irelanders emerged they became very critical about O’Connell, which forced O’Connell to denounce them, which lead to a greater split in the Repeal Movement.
In June of 1846, O’Connell succeeded. The Whigs came into power, and replaced Sir Robert Peel’s administration with the administration of Sir John Russell. Russell’s administration was interested in continuing relief efforts and felt as though the famine would begin to improve. However, environmental factors out of their control led to the worsening of the famine. During the summer of 1846 Ireland received 11 inches of rain, which caused the complete loss of the potato crop. Four million people now relied on relief, and with no immediate change to government policy, it seemed that the people of Ireland were doomed. Russell’s administration also failed to make advances with the Board of Works, which led to internal power struggles and a hollow government.
Although there were failures in both the Peel and Russell administrations, this does not mean that these parties did not attempt to correct the famine. With potato crisis also occurring in Scotland at the same time as the famine in Ireland, it seemed as though Scotland was receiving more aid and attention because they had been integrated for a longer period of time. The British lacked aid to Ireland, but in retrospect, there were many coalitions formed to fight the famine. The problem was that they did not exist at the strength Ireland needed to rise from the famine. Although relief organizations such as the Board of Works paid their employees in cash, there was no available food to purchase, and they were paid irregularly.. Many landlords had mortgaged their estates before the famine, which caused up to a quarter to become bankrupt during the famine. Other organizations such as the Society of Friends were established to help feed masses of people. These helped reduce diarrhea and dysentery, but the working class was not entitled to them even though their wages were not sufficient enough to feed them. Following the Society of Friends, the Soup Kitchen Act emerged in 1847. Soup Kitchens were established in all Poor Law Unions, and were a major factor in combating the crisis. Another relief effort was the British Relief Association, which was a small private organization that attempted to provide food and aid, but it ultimately failed because it was unable to provide for large groups. Finally, the Poor Law attempted to provide work for those in the worst conditions. They provided work houses and rations, but as the famine worsened the rations in the work houses were eventually cut in half, creating poor working conditions.
In retrospect, the British politicians during the famine did attempt to create relief for the people of Ireland, but they were not able to do so in numbers large enough to benefit an entire country. The fact that the famine was seen as exaggerated and the fact that the era lacked photographical evidence may provide reasoning for the smaller attempts to relieve the starving Irish. Scotland was also experiencing a similar crisis due to the same potato-killing disease, which also contributed to the lack of support from the British government. The lack of communication between the British politicians and the Irish people was a major factor in the increasing poverty levels that led to the severity of the famine by the late 1840s. Other contributing factors included the significant drought that led to the destruction of the entire crop in 1846, and the spread of Blight. Overall, the lack of support from the British government and the unforeseen environmental factors led to the devastation caused by the Great Irish Famine. Although it was a decade of devastation, the Irish did not have time to point fingers, they had to focus on what to do next. Whether this caused the Irish people to emigrate or to rebuild their lives, they carried on with pride of their Irish roots, but the famine was never to be forgotten.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Sorry it's taken me so long to post everything from Paris. It's been a busy week.
Anyway, I landed in Paris early Saturday morning and met up with Chris. It was pretty cold, and it was actually snowing, but Paris was so beautiful it was hard not to go out and explore the first day. We walked through the Pantheon, a series of churches, and a few colleges in the Latin Quarter. I had noticed on my flight from Ireland that everyone was wearing Ireland rugby jerseys, and then I realized that the Ireland vs. France rugby match was on. We got some food that afternoon, and then went to a pub to watch the game. Unforunately Ireland lost.... badly....
The next day we did a lot of exploring along the river. We took the subway out to the Eiffel Tower. We were going to go to the top but it was Valentines day and it was a 4 HOUR WAIT. So we decided against that, and to come back later that night. We started walking alone the Siene River, and I felt as though every quarter mile there was some large landmark. I have never seen a more beautiful city. It was clean, and the architecture on every building was so incredibly intricate.
As we walked along the river we ventured off to a little cafe' along the river and got some lunch. The staple foods for the trip were banana nutella crepe's and mozzarella/ tomato and basil panini's. Not a bad life I must say! Later in the afternoon we walked through the Louvre, the national museum, Notre Dame, and the military museum. Later that night we had a great dinner at this little french restaurant. I had braised pork shoulder, and Chris had a really cool dish. It was lamb inside a roasted baby pumpkin with potatoes. Sounds kind of weird but I had a bite and it was delicious! After dinner we went back to the Eiffel Tower, and unfortunately the 3rd level (the one we wanted to view the city from) was closed. But we did get to see the tower sparkle at night!
The next day we went up to the northern part of Paris and saw Sacre Coeur and Monmarte. The church was beautiful, and it was meaningful to see since I went to one of the schools of the Sacred Heart (Forest Ridge) for middle school. It was built on top of this massive hill and is quite a site in the city. We then went over to where all of the artists paint and went through an art gallery with paintings from all of the famous French artists such as Picaso. We had tea at a little cafe and sat on the porch and watched the artists paint scenery and portraits.
The final day in Paris we went and saw the Arc de Triomphe and the tomb of the unknown soldiers. We didn't have much time this day because of our flight being in the afternoon. Overall, I would love to go back to Paris- especially if it gets a little bit warmer! I have never seen such beautiful architecture, and such a clean major city. The details within every building were absolutely outstanding.
This week I've been back into my normal grind at school. I decided to get a job here, and so I dropped off my resume at a few places this week, and got a job at a local pub called Kelly's doing promotional work. I started today, and although it was a little cold out it wasn't too bad! Everyone who works there is Irish and I'm excited to get to know them better.
I have posted pictures below of Paris. Unfortunately, my camera battery died on the second day. Chris took pictures the other half of the trip but I haven't been able to upload those off his camera yet. I will put his up as soon as I can but here are a few :)
Anyway, I landed in Paris early Saturday morning and met up with Chris. It was pretty cold, and it was actually snowing, but Paris was so beautiful it was hard not to go out and explore the first day. We walked through the Pantheon, a series of churches, and a few colleges in the Latin Quarter. I had noticed on my flight from Ireland that everyone was wearing Ireland rugby jerseys, and then I realized that the Ireland vs. France rugby match was on. We got some food that afternoon, and then went to a pub to watch the game. Unforunately Ireland lost.... badly....
The next day we did a lot of exploring along the river. We took the subway out to the Eiffel Tower. We were going to go to the top but it was Valentines day and it was a 4 HOUR WAIT. So we decided against that, and to come back later that night. We started walking alone the Siene River, and I felt as though every quarter mile there was some large landmark. I have never seen a more beautiful city. It was clean, and the architecture on every building was so incredibly intricate.
As we walked along the river we ventured off to a little cafe' along the river and got some lunch. The staple foods for the trip were banana nutella crepe's and mozzarella/ tomato and basil panini's. Not a bad life I must say! Later in the afternoon we walked through the Louvre, the national museum, Notre Dame, and the military museum. Later that night we had a great dinner at this little french restaurant. I had braised pork shoulder, and Chris had a really cool dish. It was lamb inside a roasted baby pumpkin with potatoes. Sounds kind of weird but I had a bite and it was delicious! After dinner we went back to the Eiffel Tower, and unfortunately the 3rd level (the one we wanted to view the city from) was closed. But we did get to see the tower sparkle at night!
The next day we went up to the northern part of Paris and saw Sacre Coeur and Monmarte. The church was beautiful, and it was meaningful to see since I went to one of the schools of the Sacred Heart (Forest Ridge) for middle school. It was built on top of this massive hill and is quite a site in the city. We then went over to where all of the artists paint and went through an art gallery with paintings from all of the famous French artists such as Picaso. We had tea at a little cafe and sat on the porch and watched the artists paint scenery and portraits.
The final day in Paris we went and saw the Arc de Triomphe and the tomb of the unknown soldiers. We didn't have much time this day because of our flight being in the afternoon. Overall, I would love to go back to Paris- especially if it gets a little bit warmer! I have never seen such beautiful architecture, and such a clean major city. The details within every building were absolutely outstanding.
This week I've been back into my normal grind at school. I decided to get a job here, and so I dropped off my resume at a few places this week, and got a job at a local pub called Kelly's doing promotional work. I started today, and although it was a little cold out it wasn't too bad! Everyone who works there is Irish and I'm excited to get to know them better.
I have posted pictures below of Paris. Unfortunately, my camera battery died on the second day. Chris took pictures the other half of the trip but I haven't been able to upload those off his camera yet. I will put his up as soon as I can but here are a few :)
Friday, February 12, 2010
I just got home from class and have a busy afternoon ahead of me. I need to print out all my confirmations and finish packing for Paris! I leave a little after midnight tonight, so I am hoping to nap from about 6:00 to midnight. I get into Paris tomorrow a little after 9:00 am. Chris arrives from Abu Dhabi about 7:00am, so it works out perfectly!
I have had a busy week with classes. I have been really trying to work on my midterm and final papers. They are not due for over a month, but I feel like I have so much coming up that I should get a start on them now. I'm actually really enjoying writing them. One is on the Resconstruction Era after the American Civil War, and the other is on British Politics during the Famine in Ireland in the 19th Cenutry. The one on Ireland is a lot harder to write since I'm as familiar with the history, but I'm slowly making progress.
Yesterday, I went to kayaking club. It was barely above freezing outside so it was pretty cold, but like always, I really enjoyed it. I learned how to go off a short waterfall (only about 5 feet), and then got launched off another bridge that was a bit higher than last weeks 15 foot bridge, but not by much. I definitely was not fearful this time, and am kind of addicted to this adrenaline stuff! I'm starting to meet a lot more people through the club- but like always I wish there were more girls in the club!
I get back on Tuesday and will be sure to give you a full update on Paris and post more pictures. Enjoy your valentines day weekend!
I have had a busy week with classes. I have been really trying to work on my midterm and final papers. They are not due for over a month, but I feel like I have so much coming up that I should get a start on them now. I'm actually really enjoying writing them. One is on the Resconstruction Era after the American Civil War, and the other is on British Politics during the Famine in Ireland in the 19th Cenutry. The one on Ireland is a lot harder to write since I'm as familiar with the history, but I'm slowly making progress.
Yesterday, I went to kayaking club. It was barely above freezing outside so it was pretty cold, but like always, I really enjoyed it. I learned how to go off a short waterfall (only about 5 feet), and then got launched off another bridge that was a bit higher than last weeks 15 foot bridge, but not by much. I definitely was not fearful this time, and am kind of addicted to this adrenaline stuff! I'm starting to meet a lot more people through the club- but like always I wish there were more girls in the club!
I get back on Tuesday and will be sure to give you a full update on Paris and post more pictures. Enjoy your valentines day weekend!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Community Service
So with the ridiculously easy school system here I have a lot of extra time on my hands. I decided that since I'm in a foreign country I probably shouldn't spend my semester on Facebook! (my dad would be so proud :)) So yesterday I put in an application to become a scout leader for 6-8 year old kids in the Galway community. I really hope I get it because I absolutely LOVE working with kids, and I think it would be a great way to get more involved in the culture here. I heard back from them today and filled out a more complete application, so hopefully I will hear back soon! If I get the position, I will work with them once a week for two hours and plan a fun and educational meeting.
I have had my normal classes this week. The weather has been really good as well. I've been going on runs up through the hilltops that have been really scenic! This weekend I am going to Paris to meet up with Chris (my boyfriend) for Valentines day weekend. He is actually currently on a trip around the world. A few weeks ago he started in Seattle, flew to South Korea for a few days, then on to Bangkok, then to Australia, and he leaves for Abu Dahbi today, and then on to Paris to meet me this weekend. We are quite the traveling couple at the moment. I am really excited to see Paris, and it's supposed to be sunny for the entire time we are there, although it will only be in the 30's and low 40's. I hear that Paris is absolutely beautiful, and contains a lot of amazing architecture and historical buildings. I will try to take lots of pictures to post on my blog.
I have had my normal classes this week. The weather has been really good as well. I've been going on runs up through the hilltops that have been really scenic! This weekend I am going to Paris to meet up with Chris (my boyfriend) for Valentines day weekend. He is actually currently on a trip around the world. A few weeks ago he started in Seattle, flew to South Korea for a few days, then on to Bangkok, then to Australia, and he leaves for Abu Dahbi today, and then on to Paris to meet me this weekend. We are quite the traveling couple at the moment. I am really excited to see Paris, and it's supposed to be sunny for the entire time we are there, although it will only be in the 30's and low 40's. I hear that Paris is absolutely beautiful, and contains a lot of amazing architecture and historical buildings. I will try to take lots of pictures to post on my blog.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Want to jump off a bridge?! (the kyak edition)
After my morning classes today I went to kyak club. It started out with our normal stroke practices... ect. ect....
Then we get to this bridge, paddle under it, and our guide stops up. He tells us to get out of our boats, and climb up onto the wall. Before I know it- I'm scaling a wall in my booties, wetsuit, and kyaking gear. Let me tell you- it was quite the experience. We then reach this grass area where we cross the street back over to the other side of the bridge. Even seen 10 people carrying kyaks and paddles in wet suits cross the street? Yep- we definitely stopped traffic. As I'm looking at this bridge we are informed that we are going to be launched off of it. It looked like it was atleast 15 ft above the river. Here's what runs through my mind:
Lauren:
"Are you kidding me??!?!"
"Okay how do I plot to get out of this, it's not like I can hide under my kyak and become invisibile"
"Maybe I will just walk with my kyak back to the shed" (which is about a mile- i'm sure that doesn't look weird of anything)
Being the typical American.... "Did I sign a waiver for this?!"
"What are our guides on?!"
(side note: Thank goodness Linfield got us international health insurance!)
Before I could blink our instructor, Jordan, of course grabs my kyak, and goes "whose kyak I this?!" I raise my hand with a few choice words going through my mind. He then holds it off the edge of the bridge and says "climb in!" Well Lauren, I guess you were out of options here. I scale the side of the bridge, climb in, and before I know it I get launched in to river. IT WAS AWESOME!!! Little shocking at first, but like the coolest thing ever. I want to do it again and again and again,so I might go back tomorrow just so I can do it again. Afterward we paddles back up stream and played water polo, kyak style, in the canal of the river- super fun! Minus the fact that my competitive spirit kicked in a little and I almost capsized- but thank goodness for the "slap stroke"- I survived!
I posted a picture of us below, suiting up. The only reason I look huge is because the boys didn't have the rest of their gear on yet- so don't judge me :) I have also created a diagram so that you may envision what I looked like going off this bridge.
Scoreboard:
Lauren 10
Bridge 0
Then we get to this bridge, paddle under it, and our guide stops up. He tells us to get out of our boats, and climb up onto the wall. Before I know it- I'm scaling a wall in my booties, wetsuit, and kyaking gear. Let me tell you- it was quite the experience. We then reach this grass area where we cross the street back over to the other side of the bridge. Even seen 10 people carrying kyaks and paddles in wet suits cross the street? Yep- we definitely stopped traffic. As I'm looking at this bridge we are informed that we are going to be launched off of it. It looked like it was atleast 15 ft above the river. Here's what runs through my mind:
Lauren:
"Are you kidding me??!?!"
"Okay how do I plot to get out of this, it's not like I can hide under my kyak and become invisibile"
"Maybe I will just walk with my kyak back to the shed" (which is about a mile- i'm sure that doesn't look weird of anything)
Being the typical American.... "Did I sign a waiver for this?!"
"What are our guides on?!"
(side note: Thank goodness Linfield got us international health insurance!)
Before I could blink our instructor, Jordan, of course grabs my kyak, and goes "whose kyak I this?!" I raise my hand with a few choice words going through my mind. He then holds it off the edge of the bridge and says "climb in!" Well Lauren, I guess you were out of options here. I scale the side of the bridge, climb in, and before I know it I get launched in to river. IT WAS AWESOME!!! Little shocking at first, but like the coolest thing ever. I want to do it again and again and again,so I might go back tomorrow just so I can do it again. Afterward we paddles back up stream and played water polo, kyak style, in the canal of the river- super fun! Minus the fact that my competitive spirit kicked in a little and I almost capsized- but thank goodness for the "slap stroke"- I survived!
I posted a picture of us below, suiting up. The only reason I look huge is because the boys didn't have the rest of their gear on yet- so don't judge me :) I have also created a diagram so that you may envision what I looked like going off this bridge.
Scoreboard:
Lauren 10
Bridge 0
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Unfortunately I can't claim that I hung out with any celeberities in my last couple of days, but hopefully by the next blog I will be able to! This week has been a typical so week so far. I've gone to all my classes, crossed the streets without being hit by a car, and done my reading. It was my first week I actually had a little bit of homework... I had to read a whole 20 pages.... sounds tough right!?
I have been running a lot, and exploring Galway that way. Not your typical running path- especially when there are castle remains and old stone buildings every mile or so- no complaints!
I have my first tutorial for my Rise of Modern America class tomorrow- I'm actually really excited for it. Since our lectures are held for well over 200 people, we are divided into tutorials that meet once a week for an hour that only have 20 students in them, and it's a discussion type class.
Tomorrow night, a bunch of bands are playing a free show at the Roisin Dubh Pub in downtown Galway, so Brooke and I are going to go watch the show for a bit. On the topics of pubs, I must say my favorite part is that all of them have REAL FIRE PLACES!! It's so nice. Granted, the buildings are also much older here. I have kyaking on Saturday this weekend as well, lets hope I don't get to flip into the river this time :)
I got the good news yesterday that my best friend from 5th grade, Emily, is going to come visit in March for her spring break! It should be really fun!
Sorry this wasn't as entertaining as my last blog- I will try and do something crazy cool between now and the end of the week so I can write a cool story about it :) haha
I have been running a lot, and exploring Galway that way. Not your typical running path- especially when there are castle remains and old stone buildings every mile or so- no complaints!
I have my first tutorial for my Rise of Modern America class tomorrow- I'm actually really excited for it. Since our lectures are held for well over 200 people, we are divided into tutorials that meet once a week for an hour that only have 20 students in them, and it's a discussion type class.
Tomorrow night, a bunch of bands are playing a free show at the Roisin Dubh Pub in downtown Galway, so Brooke and I are going to go watch the show for a bit. On the topics of pubs, I must say my favorite part is that all of them have REAL FIRE PLACES!! It's so nice. Granted, the buildings are also much older here. I have kyaking on Saturday this weekend as well, lets hope I don't get to flip into the river this time :)
I got the good news yesterday that my best friend from 5th grade, Emily, is going to come visit in March for her spring break! It should be really fun!
Sorry this wasn't as entertaining as my last blog- I will try and do something crazy cool between now and the end of the week so I can write a cool story about it :) haha
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
