I hope everyone is doing well! This past week has involved a few more activities than the last, as we're slowly easing into the Irish culture. A large portion of my group went to Spiddal last Thursday night to enjoy the company of the locals. We went all through town and even bombarded an intense dart tournament between a couple of pubs. Most of the locals that we met were of the older generation, and really the only question they cared to know the answer to was, "do ye have land or ponies?". Owning land is a big deal in rural Ireland. All of the farms are passed down from generation to generation. We showed them some pictures of Nebraska and their eyes widened with how much farmland and space there was. The old men chatted our ears off all night, sharing their family history and culture. It was amazing to hear it from their point of view and from someone first hand rather than through a history book. After the fun night in the local village, we decided to journey into the larger city, Galway, for Friday night. Galway reminds me a lot of a smaller town in England. It's lined with older buildings and cobblestone pathways. It's a lovely area, and the people in Galway sure like to have a good time! Everyone we've met has been unbelievably welcoming, in the vulgar Irish sort of way. The greatest part about the evening was by far the live music. It's loud, happy, and beautiful. The music is definitely something to appreciate, and I know it'll be one thing I'll miss the most about Ireland. Saturday and Sunday were pretty relaxed, featuring mainly homework and sleep. A large portion of my group did stay up to watch the SuperBowl which aired at midnight local time. Unfortunately, they didn't show any of the commercials and it was a bit strange listening to a British commentator, but either way, go Broncos! There was a big storm on Sunday night also, and the tide was so high that the local boards had to go clear the streets from all of the stones that washed ashore. It's a different life living right next to the sea, as opposed to a sea of corn fields. My classes are going well! Gaelic is still tough, but my history class is pretty interesting. We're learning a little about Ireland's fight for independence from England, which happened in 1916, so we'll be celebrating their 100 year anniversary coming up! Today was the first day that the sun has been out and it was wonderful. I finally got some good pictures and went all day without worrying about being drenched and cold! I leave for Cork tomorrow with a few of my group members, and I'm excited about the change in scenery. I can't believe I get to spend two and half more months here! I'm crazy blessed.
Sending my love!
Regan
P.S. instead of spiders, we get slugs in our cottage!
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| house with a straw roof |
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| slug in our cottage |
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