My Goodness, My Guinness!

Well, I've arrived safely in Ireland. I've actually been here for a week now, this is really the first time I've had both consistent internet access and the time to compose my thoughts.

Surprisingly enough, the weather hasn't been "traditional." By that, I mean it's actually been quite sunny (off and on.) It is a tad cold though, only about 45 degrees. Though I have been told it's been negative 17 at home, so I should be greatful.

The first few days were nice and relaxing. Susan and I spent Thursday thru Sunday in the city centre at the Mespil Hotel. Super swank. They gave us an executive suite for the same price as any other room, probably cause we're rockstars. After that, I took the train out to Limerick for orientation. The countryside was beautiful. Too bad it was raining and I couldn't snap any pics out the window.

Orientation went well enough. I was a tad drawn out, but that's to be expected. How many time though can you be told to study? Ridiculous, we're adults (or should be) and that's on us. We did get to see a few sights, like the Cliffs of Moher. It was beautiful! They are VERY tall, and the pictures do NOT do it justice.

I would love to go back there some day, possibly with Susan since she's never been. It's definately a place that needs to be experienced once in your life.

While in Limerick I also got a chance to see King John's Castle. It was pretty impressive. We don't have these giant castles in the middle of our cities. Right on the river, they let us go into the towers and the lokout areas. They also had an archeological dig going on a few years back that was still open to the public.

As for now, I'm in my room here on campus. I've got a few more things to take care of today, then I'm off to celebrate Sue's birthday (actually on the 27th) in the city centre this evening. Life's good. I'm having a blast. This is one of the greatest adventures I've set off on in my life.