The Merry Ploughboy Irish Dancing and Music

1/30/2014

            So hard to get up these days. Again, started off the morning right. When I got to class, I decided not to sit with Ana because she always sits in the back and I like the front because I concentrate more. This class seems so easy and I used Inventor in high school and it seemed to be like that (on line drawing and dimensions). But the entire class seemed like a waste of time.

            After class, I had 4 hours. I decided to work out but truly had to convince myself to do so. I went on a beautiful run, the first time it wasn’t raining, and then did some insanity. I felt great after, of course. I just wish I felt that way before I started, it would make doing it so much easier.

            I made lunch and by this point it was like 230 PM. I was hungry. I had a salad and some brussel sprouts and then realized I had class at 3. My roommate, Kaci, only talks about how she doesn’t have money and all these issues she’s dealing with. She also told me her journal she writes in every night is getting boring and nothing GREAT and EXCITING is happening. She said its all good, but nothing different each day. And all I could think is it’s what you make of it, ya know? She obviously sits in our apartment every day and doesn’t do much so, ya, that’s what it’s going to be like. Now, for me, my journal, or blog, is consistently like pages. I have not had one dull day. I love it here!

Well, I walked in and it was the lab class for manufacturing (the class I had earlier that day). We had to do some drawing and sketching. It started at 3 and went until 6, when we got kicked out. We still weren’t finished but all of the people I worked with were so smart. I felt like everyone was just going too fast for and I felt lost. But the Irish girls were very helpful. The teacher looks like a lunatic and no one can follow him. His hair is greasy and everywhere. He actually looks insane. And he chews gum and he has things hanging off his lips. It gets better, his jeans sag. We were talking to him and he talks so much that I think he was still talking to me as I left. He is missing a lot of screws.

            I missed trampoline club because I wanted to make dinner because I was starving and then we were going to go see Merry Ploughboy at 730.

            I ate and then we ran to the bus. I sat next to a girl from Pennsylvania and she was so chill. She has all of these trips already ready and is even staying over the summer to do more Europe traveling. She has my dream vacation to Budapest, Prague, Berlin and Rome. I asked her if I could join and she said yes! They already looked into a lot of it and are looking for where would be the cheapest to fly in and out of and then will contact me. I really hope this works out because I would absolutely love that!

            At Merry Ploughboy, there were musicians, 4 of them, and they played great Irish music. Then we watched Irish dancers. That’s all I wanted to do and I was ready to pay a lot for it, but this trip was free! And I even got a free Irish coffee, which by the way was so tasty! It tasted like pudding with hot chocolate or something. But there was Baileys in it and once I hit that, I was over it because I don’t like alcohol. Gross.

            Her name was Lee, and she was friends with Brittany who I met through running club. I ended up sitting next to Brittany and running into her everywhere. It’s crazy how many people I feel like I am meeting. Also, to add, on the bus, Lee had 2 roommates (who were awesome and I’m jealous I don’t have cool roommates like that) and they both used the bathroom on the coach bus even though we weren’t supposed to. Her roommate was really drunk and couldn’t help it but it was hilarious!

            On the way home I met a Korean guy, chemical engineer that also lives in our apartment and talked to him the entire way home. I also met a girl from the south side and someone else from near Chicago! I met so many people. Good times!

Cheers to another night J

Its Wednesday and I am at Captain Americas in Dublin

1/30/2014

            This morning I had a 9 AM and I really just want that 5 more minutes after time. It’s so sad. So hard to get up in the morning but still of course went. I started off the day right, with a little 4HB leg workout for 5 minutes, my 2 bottles of water and an egg white. I went to class, and the professor is actually hilarious. When it hit 9 AM and he wasn’t there, my friend, Paul from Syracuse, was convinced that his wife had the baby and class was cancelled because the professor said she’s like a week late so he may not show up. A minute later, he was there and class was on. No worries.

            It was raining a lot so I was determined to get home. I had some lentils for some protein and went off to Refreshers day. It is where all the clubs and societies get together so we can join what we want. The first one I saw and went to was scuba diving club. I am super excited about it and the guy seemed to be interested. He said most people go now and the best time is to go now, but I just can’t imagine how cold it must be. I think I am going to join because it would be great for weekend trips…just super freezing no doubt. The next I went to was athletics club, running. I met someone that is interested in doing a half marathon which I would be down for but I am not sure I want to pay for it…I would just rather run it instead, ya know? But it’s nice to meet someone else to run with.

            Then, I looked for Spanish society. I signed up for boxing club just because I felt bad after walking up to them. And then I saw horse racing club. I really just wanted to know if you rode or just watched so I asked and they just watch. I didn’t know that was a thing, so again I felt bad and just signed up. The sad thing is that all of these societies cost euro to join. I didn’t pay for any of them (except trampoline club) so that was fine, but I’m sad we have to pay.

I left for my next Spanish class. This class is so boring. He just says stuff and we take notes. That’s it. I was going to fall asleep. I had 3 hours. I went running and then did an episode of insanity. Trying to start over. Even got some yoga in. That was great!

I went to my next Spanish class. This one is better because it has like more to it than writing. We were going through a worksheet and speaking in all Spanish. I am still having trouble understanding because I have been out for so long. As the professor read, he would stop and ask everyone if they had any questions on what vocab meant and then continue. So, I asked, “Que es cannibus? Is that cannibalism?” And everyone laughed. I guess it was the term for weed. Later that night, when we hung out with Liam (Irish guy from my Spanish class) at Captain Americas, he made sure everyone knew about this one.

            After, I walked with Liam to his house. It was funny because we both really had nowhere to walk to, but we were just hitting it off and enjoying are walk and talk. He wanted me to meet his dog so he invited me over. We walked to his place and he stopped in front of this huge house and then he was like here ya go! And I was like this is it? And he’s like no. But then the people that lived there pulled up. He was so embarrassed and it was hilarious! We went back to his place. It was also really nice though. I talked to his sister that goes to school in the city center. The dog was cute. Did you know that you have to turn on the water heater when you take a shower?

            At 6 I went to listen to Andy Steves. He was so interesting and friendly. He talked about getting around Europe for cheap and I was really listening except he talked so fast and never once mumbled. He sounded so high spirited and like a free bird. He started his own company for people like us to travel and do planned stuff for free so we don’t have to waste time finding things to do which is like a travel agent but so legit.

            Then, I came back and of course this dumb flight to London is screwed up or something and the helper people are done for the day and the office is closed. I don’t think I am going to go anymore. Had dinner while the roomies did too, but I was in my room and in a rush.

            Then, I met Liam and his friend Lionat or something and we took the bus to meet the rest of the guys and Karolina and Ana at Captain Americas. They had a table in the back which was nice but it was funny because some family or party rented it out to watch a movie about President Nixon. Why on earth would you want to pay to watch a movie at a bar? I don’t get it.

            Well, we all had a really good time. We smoke twice. And again, I think Jeff and Colin were in heaven. I heard they even gave a ring to Liam to get some yesterday. While we were all standing outside and at first Liam started lighting it on Grafton Street, I thought it was fine but his friend and everyone were freaking out because there were guards but we definitely thought nothing of it. By the way, his friend holds the world record for drinking a pint of beer. He can do it in less than 2 seconds and he’s the smallest person ever. Well, then we went to burger King and then to the bus because the last one was at 1110 PM. We wanted to catch that so we wouldn’t have to pay. I keep saying like logical questions in my head but I guess they aren’t so normal because everyone starts laughing at me and they think I pretty much need a smartness book. I hope they start it soon.

I pretended to pay for the bus because I ran out of mine and you get unlimited rides each day you use it and since it was only there and back and I didn’t pay for there, I didn’t want to pay for back. Liam, his friend, and I waited for the next bus because his friend couldn’t take the one we would usually take to UCD because he is an Irish fella. I think he smoked again. I can’t believe how much they smoke! Insane!

PS Jeff is staying at UCD! That’s awesome and I think he’s making the right decision. Talking to Adam and going to bed. NIGHT!!!

Trying to keep up

1/27/2014

            Yesterday I woke up for my 9 AM class and for some reason was exhausted. I started my 4 Hour Body lifestyle. Got up, drank 2 water bottles of cold water. Did like a 3 minute workout and had some protein. Went to class. The professor is hilarious. Apparently, his wife is supposed to have a kid and he said it so casually like he might not be able to make it to class if it happens. But no big deal.

            When I came back from my Spanish class with Prof Johnston, I had an hour till the next class so I tried taking a nap. I’m not so good at naps. Went to my next class, came back, had lunch and watched arrested development.

            Next, I had lunch. Salad and some beans and carrots. I am really trying here with this 4HB thing. I love food, so it’s really difficult. I did some emails and then went to my third class of the day where I will ultimately have to give a presentation. The people I am working with are awesome. The one girl, Jordan, is beautiful. And the guy really wants to do well, but you would never think it because he smokes and drinks and he said that he barely passed all of his classes last year (he went abroad to Spain where GPA didn’t matter).

            It started raining and the cold wind really didn’t help. The weather has been pretty awful lately. I definitely didn’t prepare for this. When I got back, I wanted to start my first day off right. I wanted to go running for 45 minutes and then do 1 insanity video, just like I should do insanity. So, I started running and went to the gym to maybe run on a treadmill because it was raining outside and cold. Everything was taken so not only was I not able to run inside, but by then I took off all of my clothes and cooled down from my run there. I hate when that happens. Well, I ran outside and it turned out nice! Not like the rain, but I enjoyed the run. There is a path that goes around campus and it’s nice because its gravel and through trees and all. I did that for 45 minutes and then came back and did insanity. I am so out of shape. I can’t do pushups anymore. It felt good to finish but all I was looking forward to was that warm shower at the end and then eating. For some reason, eating has become a hobby of mine and I really like it! I don’t know why, and I hope this hobby doesn’t keep up because it is not too healthy.

            Well, I went to take that shower and the water was definitely freezing and was not warming up. I was not prepared but there went my first freezing shower that actually is supposed to be how you shower for 4HB.

            Then I showered and ate and then decided to go to the on campus bar, The Clubhouse. I can’t believe I went, but I did. It was nice to go. Karolina, Ana, John *from Alabama), Jeff and Colin were there. I found out that Jeff is leaving UCD. Mostly, I think it is because he came here with his girlfriend but they broke up….awkward. Well, he’s having a really rough time but damn, like don’t do that.

            All of my friends, I think, think I am so stupid and dumb because I ask how you not know that questions, which I think is pretty funny. I am kind of dumb because it is hard for me to retain knowledge. Whatever, we had a good time. And the music was absolutely awesome!

            I invited my friend, Liam, from our Spanish class. The kid is awesome. He started hanging with us and everyone was getting along and then he asked if anyone wanted to smoke weed. Colin and Jeff were sooooo happy! I totally made this one. I deserve mad props. Colin is like addicted and loves weed. So we smoked and it was great and then Liam decided that he should leave and get more if we were up for it. We got kicked out of the bar while he was getting more and I was going to leave because I didn’t want to smoke but then I felt bad because I invited him and couldn’t just peace out. So, I stayed and then we smoked. He drove us around and we smoked and then went home. It was so nice of Liam to smoke us out. Especially, when it is like double the price for weed here. Colin was so happy because I hooked him up with someone to get weed from.

            At the end of the night I texted him thanking him and he was so sweet. He responded saying, that it was funny because he was going to say the same thing and that he was happy that I invited him and my friends are chill and he feels lucky, because he met me!

            Alright, I will leave you with that J

1/28/2014

            I had my 10 AM this morning and I really wanted to sleep. Like a lot. I went to class and then came back to have lunch. I decided to book a flight to London and was actually freaking out. And I mean, like freaking out. I didn’t know what to do because all of my friends were going, and although I really wanted to go, I also had a different one day trip I was really looking forward to. Glendalough. So, I asked Chelsea and started looking into other trips I wanted to book and found that that would be a good weekend to go and I should, just why not go. At least I would have someone to go with. I kept going back and forth about the entire thing. I ended up booking it! I was really happy and everything started falling into place. Then, I got an email that said that saving my seat was about to expire. I didn’t know what that meant…if I booked it or not. So, I started freaking out and such even more. How great right? Well, I barely got most of my work done and sat in my room all day until my next class. I was planning on finishing the class, a tutorial for my controls class, and then working out. However, I was freaking out about London that I was just stressing and had to call. I found out that it really didn’t go through and I had to rebook it. I think it turned out that it was the same amount, which was good, but definitely not worth the stress.

            Once I got back and no working out, I felt kind of bumpy and sad. I had some dinner which has really consisted of wheat barley and lentils. I like it because it was warm, but it was my second day of 4HB and that quickly went down the tubes because I went for that sweet potato and some peanut butter. Woops!

            I talked to Liam about the presentation we had to give and we started talking for like 30 minutes about our lives. The guy is great! He is so interesting and when I start talking I get so excited. Good motivation, and he has great motivation to do well, which is crazy when you look at him haha

            Chelsea said that I should’ve looked into going into town, but honestly, I was kind of on a time crunch, and I like my room, and my computer goes nowhere cause of the dead battery.

            My next thing was trampoline from 8-10 pm. I met Lani there. She is the girl that is California Irvine and when I had a question, I would ask her. We did some trampolining and I found that it is a very SOCIAL club. Little trampolining involved. I got really tired, as I was all day. I talked to Lani on the way home and right when I walked in my door was ready for bed. I went to grab a snack and nothing was satisfying me and unfortunately, I am going to have to start 4HB tomorrow because I definitely had everything not on that list and didn’t stick to my workout routine. I am sad, but that was a lifestyle I was so used to that it was hard to change. I did it for one day. I am going to start over tomorrow and keep my fingers crossed! I ate so much I felt awful. My goal for tonight was to not wake up in the middle of the night to eat. Well, turns out, at least I accomplished one thing that day! I didn’t and that has been a habit. I am happy to say I conquered one night. I’m ready to change my lifestyle and start a new habit! This way I can look good (hopefully as good as the summer) for when I come home and see Adam! YAY!!!!

PS Liam asked to hang and if I wanted to smoke. Can’t handle another night of that.

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. When life gives you Trampoline club, do Trampoline Club.

1/23/2015

            I went to my first Trampoline club meeting! It was great because now I am official and could possibly go to a competition in Scotland if it is open. That would be so cool to say.

I was going to go to the Traffic Light Party which was in the city but I couldn’t really get myself to go. I think I should’ve because it would help me get to know other international students but there was really no incentive. I was tired and felt weird and didn’t want to go out and feel awkward, which tends to happen. I think I ended up making the right decision, though, because I had a friend that went and said that he wished he didn’t go.

1/24/2014

            I got my period! This was insane! I haven’t had it for about 3 years and I am supposed to be going to see a doctor, but I got it. It was funny because I was telling mommy the night before that I was a bottomless pit and that I thought I was getting my period. And it turns out, I was correct.

I had class, which I thought was at 9 AM but turns out it was at 10. I took videos for recruitment going on in Syracuse while I was waiting and then went to talk to Joanne. She again helped me because she’s a great individual.

            Paid for housing. A LOT OF MONEY eeeeek and I was charged a late fee which I am trying to get out of because I didn’t know about it :/ Then, went back for lunch and then wanted to go into the city because I had nothing to do all day, except that.

I got a phone! 15 euro for the phone and then it will be 20 euro for each month. I went in and just started walking around. For some reason, I was really craving a croissant or something. So, I bought some yogurt and jelly. That didn’t really help. I passed a window that said “would you like some ass?” I laughed and took a picture and found that it was a small little Mexican restaurant. I haven’t had Mexican since like before high school. I went in and ate it up! So good! And the girl that helped me let me know that it was all fresh, as I saw them roasting the vegetables and everything right in front of me. It really satisfied the cravings I had all week. While I was even eating it, I was thinking to get a second but it filled up my bottomless stomach. I was so happy. It was perfection.

            Then, I kept walking around and came up to a store that is part store, part café which I feel like is normal here. I saw in the book Chelsea bought me about Europe, that the café, KilKenny, is a good place to go. So, I stopped in and had a scone and tea. I started getting really tired, but I really enjoyed drinking tea and people watching. I felt like a true tourist, abroad.

            I started walking again and had no place to really go but enjoyed roaming the streets. My next quest was to go home, change and look kind of more presentable. Once I got back, I asked some people if they wanted to join, but they had other ideas. I was so ready to go back into town, roam, people watch, and casually drink if I wanted to even though I don’t like to drink. I thought it would be adventurous.

            Well, I didn’t end up doing that. Instead, I went to The Clubhouse (bar on campus) and then we went to see Gravity in 3D. I feel like the people I went with, did this because they wanted to save money, however, I think they spend more doing things like this, or at least just as much. Whatever. I’m not judging.

            Gravity was not great except George Clooney is hot. Why do I want to twirl in space when it’s almost impossible? Haha whatever. We all ended up going back to our apartments by 11. Lameeeee.

A Perfect End to the Day in the Dublin City

1/25/2014

            This morning I woke up and went running with Danny. We called it for meeting at 10. Yup, went downstairs (he lives with Ana), and he woke up to me at his door. That was kind of like whaaaa? He’s like 2 minutes…haha ok he got ready pretty quick and we went off. I tried to go to the place Laura took me the first day I went running and through the park. I kind of lost my way so we ended up back on campus. The campus run though is very beautiful and long for being on campus. It is through trees and is all gravel. We didn’t talk much but he made it about 25 minutes, which is pretty good because he couldn’t really remember the last time he went running. I kept on going, but not for long because the rain started coming with added cold, wind. I turned back not shortly after Danny left, unfortunately. Then, I thought, I should start doing insanity again because I do not like the size of the gym (the people there seem like they wouldn’t judge) nor do I know where I could do insanity, so I thought where can I do it at home? I moved m room around, and although it is really small, I think I can manage which is really nice. Then I won’t have to pay for swimming (or want to). However, I did want to do P90x, but do not know where I could get the weights or where at the gym I could do it.

            Anyways, my plan was to go into town with Ana and apparently Karolina was coming too. I wanted to go around 12 but Ana wanted me to wait because she wanted to go on a walk to break in her new hiking boots…so I waited but probably wouldn’t have left until them anyways. I watched some more of Tim Ferris. I want to be him. He’s an inspiration. I love what he does, and the research and the miracles he puts together. I also love that it has to do with exercise and just pure perfection of what I want my future to be.

Once I finally left, Ana and Karolina both backed out. I am so happy I waited for them…that’s why I wish I had someone that was like me, like the twins that have their twin. Like my brothers and sisters that have their twins. Or a best friend. You know what though, I have found to love that I am independent and can get a lot done quicker.

            I walked outside and then back into my apartment 3 times. Each time, I needed to find something warmer because I don’t have a winter jacket but I need one. I was freezing. Also, I somehow hurt my toe and it really hurts to walk sometimes. I don’t know how or what from.

            I met up with the twins in Temple Bar area. We decided to go museum hopping. We found the Leprechaun Museum. When we got there, it was sold out and the next one was for about 45 minutes so we decided to go check out some other museums that were free. As we were off, we passed a farmers market. It was so great to see people like that around, it make me really enjoy the culture and people in the area. We ran into men on stilts and I LOVED talking to them! They were hilarious and Alexi was freaking out because she thought they were stealing stuff out of her backpack.

            It started raining again but we tried to keep going towards the museums. We made it to the national art gallery museum in Dublin. It had some pretty good paintings that I really enjoyed; ones that had really amazing detail. There was a Van Gogh and Picasso. Before we went, a girl told us that she doesn’t know how we will make it through all of it within today, though because when she went, she would stare at them for so long, get lost with time.   We made it, went through 2 exhibits and then got coffee because we were going to fall asleep. Then, tried to finish the rest, but turned out we saw all of it within like 20 or 30 minutes. Well, off to the next museum: national museum of archaeology. We were also told this museum would be something we would need time in. Once we got there, it was going to close in 30 minutes or so. I timed how long it would take us to go through: 9 minutes and 21 seconds. However, we did get shoved out at the end because they closed early and didn’t let us stay. We do want to go back and make some art work, because that was fun!

            We decided we should go back to UCD, get warmer clothes, and prepare to go out for the TRADfest. I think this is just a music fest that happens every year. Then, we would meet back and go to the awesome Mexican place I went to the day before that I LOVED! As we were riding home, we stopped at Tesco to get food and decided just to eat at home (hopefully save money) and get back together to go out.

            Perfect timing. We did that and then went back into town to meet Colin, Paul, Brittany and Kaylie at the 5 story Fitzgerald bar. We were there before and it was just kind of nice. So, I didn’t really care to go back. The twins and I also really wanted to see TRADfest music and get into the culture. We didn’t want to listen to techno music and sit and stare at each other. So, we went to say hi to them and then they wanted to meet with other people. As we went there, we saw a band playing called, “Musicfishe”, I believe. It was exactly what I was looking for. They were playing Irish music and everyone was standing on the street listening. All I could ask for to make it perfect would be Irish dancers, but this was close enough. There were 5 people playing and there was 1 guy playing 4 different instruments. It was fantastic. Then, we met the rest of the group, switched bars to meet others. Then, left because we were on a mission to see more performers. We ended up back at Fitz because on the first floor there was live music. It was absolutely perfect! That is the type of going out I really enjoy. We all stood in front of the musicians, sang and danced a little. Then, the rest of the group met back up with us and we all stayed and listened. I wish I could do that every day.

            I really enjoyed my time with the twins today. They are so sweet and so my style. At the end of the day, we were all smiling and talked about how much we loved today and hope to continue doing it every weekend. J Smiling as I fall to sleep tonight!

            Also, I became addicted to Tim Ferris and the 4 hour body. I am going to stay the slow-carb diet again. Tomorrow, I hope to try going running again, then insanity. Then, scholarship work. Then, I am supposed to go on a bike ride with Laura (the running girl I met) at 3. I hope it works out because I am not doing anything else, so that I can join her.

Black Out Monday and who knew I am a Syracuse Student?

Day 6 – 1/20/2014

Today was my first day of classes. My first one was at 9 AM. That felt so late after my last semester, which consisted of 4, 8 AMs. My first class was process and controls. An engineering class. Ana and Paul were both in it, which is good support. In came our professor. He seemed a little young and all I could hope was that he was our professor because he was definitely a cute Irish man. We began class and went straight into learning for the semester. After about an hour, it was over. I, and the two other abroad students, introduced ourselves to the professor. He was helpful and brought us to where we could purchase our books. At UCD everything is posted on Blackboard because I think they believe in no paper and conserving energy or something like that. I personally like printing, but I am not about to pay for every page. Then I found 20 euros on the ground. Nice. I went back to get some things ready and set for my next Spanish class. This Spanish class seems that it will be easy. The professor, apparently the department chair, was joking the entire time. He was great! He said that there would be no final exam. I raised my hand and apparently, everyone knew what this exam was. I think they all laughed at me and that’s when they all realized the “abroad student”. It probably helped that I also sat by myself. Again, after class, I introduced myself to the professor. He was very comforting as I let him know that I have not spoken it in a while. He walked me to the library and showed me where to buy the book we need. He also spoke with me the entire way about the UCD Spanish experience. I went back to eat lunch and then off to my next Spanish class. This one was really scary.

            This was the class with C. Rosaria. I met with her already. This class seemed more intense where we would need to know the grammar and understanding of Spanish. I was not prepared. There were a lot of people in our class. We were split into 3 groups and within this group; we had smaller 3 person groups. I was paired with a chill guy and really pretty girl. I met some students from Ireland. 3 of them went to Spain last year to study. That was a program that the UCD students are offered. If they take a language they get to go abroad for a year.

            There were 5 of us talking outside. These kids were chill and introduced me to Black Out Monday. The first day of the semester. One of them invited me to the on campus bar around 5. And another was going to the city later. I walked with a girl to her bus and we talked the entire way there. Oh, so cool! I loved meeting Irish kids!

            At 6, I was getting ready to go running with the running team. I was afraid I was not going to find them, but I did! There was one girl, Laura. She was from Galway. Extremely small and skinny, but had the energy of a bunny. We started running and she taught me a lot. She brought me to a spot in a park in Dublin I don’t think I would have ever discovered. Even though it was dark and hard to see, I saw really nice houses and we looked into the city with all the lights. It was like being in an airplane. Beautiful. We continued back where she showed me all the new buildings and lakes around UCD. I ran home to shower and get ready to go out.

            I found it really difficult to get a hold everyone. I don’t have a phone but everyone else seems to have one. The twins ended up taking a taxi and we took the bus. Everyone left without me :/ I somehow ran into them though. I got super lucky! We went to a bar called Diceys. The line was HUGE like a block. We had to pay cover which was 5 euros and coat check. I didn’t get a drink but got some water. I saw the 2 girls that I met from my first day of orientation when I was really confused and walked up to them. They were both from Marquette and very sweet to me.

            Danny, from Evanston, and I were not really into it. He doesn’t like clubs and I just wasn’t drunk enough or couldn’t get into it. I don’t know why, but I tried. I think that maybe it was just weird because it was a Monday night. Somehow, we both agreed to catch the bus before 11 o’clock (buses only run until 11). We first decided to leave by 1230, but then that went to 12 and really quickly to 11 and then even faster to we aren’t even going to get any more drinks. We talked a lot and he told me about his relationship with his girlfriend. They seem to really like each other, or at least know each other really well. I don’t like talking about feelings but I love listening to them. I love being someone that people can talk to. I hope I helped.

            Once we got back, I found 2 euros. WOooo! First day of school and I was up 22 euros (almost 30 bucks).

21/1/2014

            This morning I had class at 10. Again, I had class with Ana and Paul from University of Alabama also studying mechanical engineering. After, Ana and I introduced ourselves to the professor of mechanical engineering design. We again will not have a final in this class which is comforting. He talked to us about what to expect for the next 30 minutes. He couldn’t believe that our classes counted against our GPAs either. He said that classes used to be a black from about 12 to 4 pm and then if you had labs after. Then the university changed its policies. And now, no one goes to class and everyone’s grades just dropped. Womp.

            That was my only class for the day. I started watching Vicky, Christina Barcelona. The Wi-Fi went out. I went to talk to some people about traveling and they gave me museums for if I stayed around here. Other than that, not much help. Then, I did some more scholarships, traveling looking up, and then eating. I was so hungry for some reason. I really got into beans and lentils. I love it! And it is also really cheap here. I like cooking. I was so tired today and didn’t know what to do. I feel like no one stays in contact with me. I have to find some peeps or get a phone or something

            Today I found out I am withdrawn from Syracuse. No big deal. Then I tried to change it on my application but cannot get into it from Ireland. Womp womp. Well, if they waited this long, who cares for a few more days. Actually, this wasn’t my fault. It was the abroad coordinators as Syracuse. What dumbassses. Do you think if I dont fill out anything, I would get away with not paying tuition and still get my credits to tranfer?

I met up with a girl I ran into that I have gone out with. We went to another friend’s apartment but they were just watching a show so I left really quickly. But, I did get a clubs catalogue and emailed a ton of clubs, like scuba, cycling, and even trampolining to get into it! I am so excited to start. I’ll run or something in the mornings and then do that or the free work out classes at night. 

Lost in Dublin Shopping

Day 5 – 18/1/2014

          So last night (Day 4) we did end up going out. We went to the Temple Bar area. It had 5 floors and we found a booth that held our like 15 people we travel with. Thaney had a friend visiting from SU. She was great and loved to travel as well. It was nice to get to know her. We all talked for a while and then wanted to go to the roof. It was freezing so we went back but lost our seats so we found another new place to sit, which I don’t think was really meant for us. Well, that’s fine because we made it OK. It was Paul’s 21^st birthday but sadly, most of us had little energy to celebrate. Some people took some shots, but then most of us were ready to go home and fall asleep. I still didn’t end up falling asleep so easily but it wasn’t as bad as the previous nights. I think I was able to get about 8 hours. Yay altogether that meant like 15 hours in the past 4 days.

         The next morning, I was determined to do the walking tour in Dublin’s city center. We had to meet there at 11:30 pm. I knew just about where it was but I don’t know exactly how to understand the addresses. They look something like this: Áras Chrónáin Orchard Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. It reminds me of the hunger games. Anyways, I missed it. Sad story. I was really sad because I felt like I was the person that set it up for all of my friends but that’s fine. Later, I found out that it was freezing and not the coolest thing. Also, the twins left early because it was too cold and didn’t enjoy themselves.

          Instead, I enjoyed the city. I was a little cold, but I decided to walk through Trinity College. I walked along St Stephens Green, which has a ton of shops. I even went to my favorite, the Disney store! Then, I found a mall. I went to Dunnes Store which I think has been my favorite store since I have been here. It was really cheap. Furniture, clothes, and a café on top. And a grocery store on the bottom. I found parsnips for 19 cents and mushrooms for 59 cents. This was insanity! I thought, why not buy it all! Which, I did. I needed toilet paper…but that was going to have to wait because one thing they do here in Dublin, is you have to pay for plastic or paper bags when you buy things. You, instead, have to bring bags EVERY TIME! Luckily, I bought a sweater from SOHO (a store that is from NYC haha) and stuffed everything in there. I walked around more of the city center. Found an Abercrombie and then went in. It had a life sized or bigger sculpture in the middle. My bag started to brake; I was cold and smelled, and decided to head to the bus stop.

          I took the bus home, showered and went back to the city center within an hour to find everyone at the mall I was at an hour before. It was crazy to be able to do that all so quickly. I was impressed with myself and the ability for everything, even with transportation, to get everywhere when I wanted. When I got back, I found how difficult it was to find everyone without a phone. It made me realize how important these phones are here to contact each other. Once I found everyone, we went to this one store, Argos. They had a computer where you would search what you wanted and then basically order it from their stockroom where they brought it to you. It was so cool! They had like thousands of things that you could buy.

          The twins and I split from everyone to do our own thing. I like that they are their independent and ready to do things on their own like I am. We walked around and then got dinner at a café. The environment and atmosphere was really welcoming. We went home and I was happy to say that I ate a very exciting meal filled with Parsnips J With a little more to do, like scholarships, I finished the night happy and ready for bed to start the next morning ready for my first day of classes. But I miss Adam wahhhh

Cliffs of Moher

Day 4

  Got up at 550. A total of maybe an hour and a half of sleep and 7 hours from the late nights the night before. Thought I would sleep on the bus but that didn’t happen, I also didn’t realize it was going it be all day trip. We got on the bus and actually did quite a few stops. It wasn’t as much squishing and bus touring I thought it was going it be which was nice. We saw 2 castles and the Cliffs of Moher which was the main purpose.  When we got there it was cool because it was so high and such a huge drop. You could tell it was made from the water. All of the land used to be under water for which is why I think all the rocks are throughout plots of land. We went out to eat but I didn’t like the food...as normal. Everything is already prepared. I also feel sick from sitting in the back of the bus.

   While I was taking in the great views of Moher, I realized how much I missed being with the family and how we would take pictures and then get going and doing adventurous things. They stayed there for a while but the cliffs went on for a while and I wanted to walk the entire thing but we had a time limit. The twins kind of do their own thing and don’t wait for anyone who is comforting, but they have each other and I don’t have anyone. Well, I guess I’ll make like a #wherestrevor. Start doing my own thing. I ended up going the furthest and left the group which I’m happy about.

   On the bus I had some quality time with Colin and we talked about a lot which was nice. The tour guide is really funny and tells a lot of jokes. Everyone is sleeping and again, 1.5 hours and I still can’t, I don’t feel it. As usual, not sleeping.

   I think I’m still going to try going out tonight but we do have something in the morning I want to get to. So hopefully I can sleep tonight.

Running lost in Dublin

Day 3

   1130 was the engineering orientation.  I was late as usual but I thought someone would’ve messaged me or something. I felt forgotten: / anyway the professors were really funny and seem to get that we are here to travel and drink. I’m more here to travel and get the experience but sure if they know what’s up, better for me. So the classes are based on usually just a final and maybe a midsemester exam. I’m fucking scared. Excuse my language, but how the hell do you do that!? That’s insanity! I also looked at my schedule for the first time. 9 am classes. So much better than 8 AMs. I will take that. I have q class on Friday merrrrrr

    Ana was going to go climbing and I wanted to go on a run but she was too hung over and tired so she didn’t but I wanted to go running still, and I am extremely happy with my decision.  I ran for about 50 , minutes and then found that I had no idea how to get back and I felt like I might’ve been a little farther than I thought. I wanted to tell Ana because she was waiting for me to go to Tesco and get food. I also didn’t want her to leave because then I wouldn’t know what to do the entire time or night and I like being with someone. A very nice man helped me in the mall I found where I was lost and he was a runner. That was really nice of him to help me. Again, nice people. Took the bus home and met a girl that told me about a trip through the student society to I think it was Belfast but we also got to do a lot of other traveling along with it. I was really interested. Then I found out I didn’t have euros and you had to pay then and I was freaking out and the line was huge and we still had to go to Tesco, and I had no one to go on the trip with me but really wanted to do his cheaper traveling experience, and we had a pub crawl soon! So much going on. Anyways, I found out my plans, I’ll do the trip late, go to Tesco and then our crawl maybe. Tesco or course was expensive.  Food is really expensive here. I think I’m going to be eating a lot of wheat barley and beans. Cheapest food I could find. Also, they charge you for check out bags. After we realized my bag was going to break and I couldn’t hold it because it was so heavy, we decided we needed a cab. There were 2 other girls that did the exact same thing as us and didn’t realize there wasn’t a bus nearby so we all decided to get one together. It took like a half hour of running back and forth, I found it really interesting because these girls went to the university of San Francisco and one of them studied Spanish in Spain last semester and I was so jealous.

   Well, we made it home and probably gained some muscles. I got to eat real food! I made myself some wheat barley; after all I think all I had eaten was bananas, apples, and carrots. This is fine with me but that got boring. It was nice to eat real food and one the third pot of food I made, I burned the pan ad f course my roommates came home then and judged me so hard. Whatever. One of the girls was like....I can cook. And I was like I’m a good cook; I was just on the phone bitch! She was all over me and tried to clean and do everything for me and was like I think we should have a meeting soon.

   Whatever, I ate so much! It was kind of nice.  I also needed to catch up on work and talking to people which I did. Now all I have are those scholarships which I’m really nervous about. Well, I went to bed around or at least tried. I think I fell asleep for an hour and then was up for a few hours researching flights and Ryan air and things to do for cheap.ni found that my goal is that if I go somewhere that I would find a had marathon and run it too and bike the city. So some progress. Attempted to sleep for 30 minutes and then had to be up at 550 am for our trip to the Cliffs of Moher.

Guinness Factory

Day 2

  Woke up for the morning orientation.  Walked out and found a group of Syracuse University students!!!! Happiest, craziest moment. There are 14 Syracuse students here. I knew that there were only going to be 2 others. I couldn’t believe it and was so excited. There are twins that just transferred into mechanical engineering and were already getting plans started. I loved it. Surprisingly, the majority of the kids are engineers. Again, amazed. Couldn’t handle it. I love having that kind of quality in common with people. Well, we were going to meet up again to go to the Guinness factory! First, met with the Spanish director or someone important to make sure that I will be able to handle the 2 Spanish classes I’m taking. Honestly, I think I’m going to need a lot more help than I think and I think that is what is going to make this semester so difficult. Anyways, we met and off we went.

   We arrived at the Guinness factory and I had been talking to everyone as I loved everything we shared. It was a great group of people. We began the tour. I bought a ticket for 18 years and younger just because why not and it’s cheaper. Then, we realized we get to go into a taste room and get a free pint at the end of the tour. Well, I didn’t meet the age requirement. The best part was the tasting room. In this room, it seemed almost like Charlie and the chocolate factory. The room was entirely white and there were 4 bowls that had the liquid nitrogen effect of the smell of the different types of beer. The woman behind the counter looked fake and angelic. Like a surgery room, or an insane one at that. Then, we went into another room where they taught us how to drink beer. Inhale, take a gulp...not a sip, and then drink it than exhale. You cannot sip it because then you get the bitterness. Mind blown. I actually didn’t mind the beer his time!

    A few mire stops and then the top! Here, we were given a free pint of Guinness while we looked over Dublin, Ireland. We stayed there a good amount of time where we just drank and talked. It was so comfortable. If you wondering, they didn’t even take my ticket and I don’t think, if they did, they would’ve noticed the age. Anyways, I don’t like beer, and/or the effects to your body, so I decided not to drink it but make sure to take the cup. This had to be done quickly because they come around and take it when it’s empty but there were cameras so yup. I did it and I’m so proud! I got a Guinness cup from the Guinness factory. And I don’t have any silverware or anything so that was nice to have and use.

    Well, and then off to Tesco. But while we were waiting for the bus and I went to grab tea, the group decided that oh wait we are just going to go to a bar and get some more beer. Well, it was a good surprise because then I wouldn’t have thought about it as much. We went to the first bar and I felt a little out of place and didn’t want to spend money on a beer I don’t ant to drink. The bar tender gave me free tastes but I still hated it but the Irish guy next to me made sure to finish the rest of the beers for me. We got to talking and it was really fun to meet a native. I love getting to know the culture and what he people are about. He seemed a little crazy. He said he got drunk by age 11 and did some drugs. This is when I found out that I think people do pot here just like in the states where it’s illegal but it’s still done. Well, then I talked to some other Irlandians and he offered me a taste of his drink. Again, so nice and kind. Talked with Ana and Colin and then off to another bar! Flanerys.  I think we were the first people there. I like the set up and it was nice but I wasn’t wearing the appropriate clothes and was cold and a little tired but YOLO.

   Still didn’t want to buy any beers. Ana bought me a mixed drink though. It was really sweet of her but I’m sure that was even worse for me haha. We met some Irlandians again and they were nice guys. Also, more kids met up with us from UCD.  Someone from Chicago, Danny.  So many things happening, it was great.

    Karolina, Kaylie, celeste and I went home around 230. I ate and Skyped and didn’t go to bed until 330. Me and not sleeping again. Oh, and I still don’t have sheets or covers for anything....

day 1. Chicago to London to Dublin

Day 1

So how do I start this? I’m not much of a writer, that’s why in an engineer, but I definitely started off excited. Actually, I would say I almost felt like I had no feelings or didn’t know how to feel. I wouldn't say numb, but how can you judge the future? Therefore, I went into going abroad with an open mind and not much research...just the way I do it. I’m trying to figure out if that is a good thing or not. My theory is, if I can get away without having to remember something, then why waste the brain power?

   Anyways, of course mumsy was freaking out because at the time she wanted me to be at the airport, Erica was still pumping or little Q. well, nothing I can do so no need to freak out. When I got there, mumsy already let me know that I had to pay for a second bag no matter what so do not worry about it. It was 100 dollars. I didn’t like it and even the flight attendant man was like you shouldn’t....and I didn’t know what to do. How can you not? Anyways, got my bag and waited for the plane. My first flight was to London Heathrow Airport.  I couldn’t sleep, as usual. I got there and was so tired. I couldn’t believe how short the plane ride was, 6 hours ish. Even my layover, 5 hours, was almost as long.  I tried taking a nap but again, couldn’t fall asleep. Then, a simple 1 hour flight to Dublin. Wow! Who ever thought a trip could be this short. I guess I’m just used to these ling trips out of the country.

   When I landed I bought a bus ticket from the airport to UCD. I love talking to people to learn and of course, the first people I met, including the bus driver were so nice! So helpful! He taught me some stuff as we were driving. The day and weather was nice which I think is really lucky as it tends to rain here. I was dropped off at the bus stop right outside of UCD. This was the most difficult thing. You have to enter the campus with you 2 bags, which 1 of mine broke, and drag them though to a place you had to go nut had no idea where. By the way, yes, the airport broke my bag and I’m not kidding! Literally there was a slit through the bottom and my clothes falling out and a handle taken off. Anyways, the people guided me through the struggles to my apartment.  I literally had no idea what to do. Ana, a Syracuse University mechanical engineering student with me turned up at the perfect time, right when I was about to cry. It turned out that we were living at the same apartment and she could let me in but not into my room. Then I found out we had to sign in and do registration stuff that I didn’t realize. Well, got basically settled in and wanted to go to the first orientation.  Unfortunately, I missed the first half so I felt really out of place and didn’t know anyone so I tried. I met some girls from Marquette who new Patrick which was really exciting. Well, I got over that fast, went back and unpacked and then my roommate, Kaci, invited me for whine with her Denmark and Australian friend. It was really fun! I really like her as a roommate. Then, I passed out for the first sleep in, was it? 2 days slept.