More than a Feelin’!!!!! Scotland n England 2011

So this is everything I wrote while I was in Scotland and England crunched together. Enjoy.

I am sooo pumped for this trip!!! I didn’t go to sleep last night, so I might just be on an adrenaline rage, but I am so excited!
Have I told you the best part? Because I booked at separate times but didn’t want to spend too much money, the plan was to fly back to Dublin after Glasgow and then fly back into Liverpool.
EFF THAT NOISE! I’m not goin back. There is more to be seen. All my flights back get back so late the taxi fees I’ll save will cover an extra 2 nights in the UK. Thinking Edinburgh and Newcastle, but who knows. Only extra fee will be the buses to Newcastle and then to Liverpool, however, since my time is my own, and I’m not dedicated to either, I’m going to try my hand at hitchhiking. ‘Bout time. Planes were sunk costs anyway. I’m going to take advantage of this.
Life is great right now. The last couple days I have relieved huge stresses by knocking out tons of studying, and I have perfected the absolute most ballin playlist in my short life. Sitting here waiting to board looking at the sunrise, knowing I’ve got the unknown, Nessie, Anfield, Wiz, and London coming this week on the cheap, and jamming out-mmmmman! Priceless!
Bros, if you guys think you’re escaping out travels without a couple of FIJI hams hitting you in the face from the highlands, you’re mistaken.
Dig me up from under what, is cover-eheheheh-henn the better part of me.
 
First Impressions
Love train stations. Glasgow Central made me feel like I was rolling into Gringots in Harry Potter. Sat across from an awesome old coupleDublin has a diverse group of people. Glasgow has diversity across the board. The architecture here is all over the place. What themes I do see I find super interesting. Glasgow has really colonial architecture. It makes me think of India, the Jungle Book, and south Africa. But there is a lot of modern, weird artsy, and super old mixed in.
The people seem super nice. Right out of the station I was handed free Vitamin Water. Seconds later, I was trying to take a picture, and a bus driver literally stopped his bus in the middle of the road, full, to let me finish. I didn’t notice until I was already focusing, so I finished. He waved and smiled and all. I’ve also been drowsily making a nuisance of myself trying to walk and observe, and everyone has said sorry to me even though I’ve been at fault everytime. The tourist office is super convenient and helpful.
Complaint. I have no problem with the economic rise of Asia. I don’t feel threatened or anything like that. But I will start a war if Asian tourists don’t change their ways. Nothing is more annoying than a group of Asians my age. They suck, and the problem is growing-as they get wealthier they get more annoying, and more of them come over. Blah.
So Still haven’t slept. Getting worn down, but still treading on. I’m having to recharge my camera battery at the Winter Gardens/People’s Palace, which is a cool looking Victorian Greenhouse in a park. That’s why I’ve found time to write and jam out. Glasgow has several pretty good parks. The coolest thing so far is the Necropolis in connection with all the stuff around Glasgow Catherdral. I had no idea Cathedrals were that massive! I think Notre Dame etc are going to overwhelm me. The Necropolis has to be the highest point in the city, great views the camera just couldn’t capture. I took a cat nap on John Knox’s Memorial, much to the dismay of a few tourists I think, but I was soaking in the sun. Felt weird trying to nap in a cemetery. I wouldn’t do that back home. I felt more like I was sleeping on a textbook.
I had lunch in George Square with the town and the pigeons, who are nuts as I expected. I fed them well though. Don’t get to do that that often. I enjoyed throwing bread in the path of cyclists so they’d get swarmed. Hah. Do the Bartman.
Along the way I’ve run into a few people and hideaways (BlackFriars-remember that one) that have helped me figure out what to do at nights here. Man, I wish I could be here on the weekends, some topnotch fun to be had. But there is decent fun for Thursday.
Highland tour-highly recommend Timberbrush tours. Great stops and cheap. We saw everything I wanted to see other than Stirling Castel, which we did see from the road. Good times with Shelby, my pledge brother. Glencoe is amazing. The highlands in general are amazing. Loch Ness was cool too. Didn’t take the boat tour, but had a good time at a Loch side pub. Belhaven Best is a sweet brew.
Went to Edinburgh the next day by myself. Stopped off to see the Falkirk Wheel. The people of Falkirk are incredibly nice. I didn’t pay bus fare the whole way. They all were so excited to meet me and tell me their connection to America. I talked to one bus driver for a half hour in the middle of a road. He just stopped the bus and had a chat. No bother. Falkirk wheel was cool to see. I recommend this stop for sure.
Edinburgh is Ballin, absolute ballin. This is a well made town. I loved the architecture and time to put it all together. Walking around was great. Got a Celtic away Jersey. Had lunch in a superb park below the castle. The people were brilliant. Great stuff. Rocked out the city and caught the bus back to Prestwick. Decided train/bus to Newcastle then Liverpool was too costly and not worth it just to catch Wallis and Gromit and Fireworks.
 

Whoa. So I, like several others, thought the flight left at 11:45. I could’ve sworn it left at 11:45, but I guess it left at 11. I got there and the gates were unmanned. By God’s grace I caught a Ryanair man cleaning up and he found gate stamp for me. I then rushed through security and sprinted with bag like a mile to the farthest gate. Made it by 4 people in line. Whew. Idiot. Got there quick.
At the Liverpool airport I started asking around for places to stay in Liverpool. FormulaOne Hotel was recommended so I thought I’d do that and head into city center. Well, the buses had already stopped. Took me 45 minutes to figure this out. So I met these Vietnamese Liverpool fans and this girl from Lithuania studying in Majorca, Spain while waiting. I caught a cab with them after long debates. It was £23, but because they wanted to save money, it only cost me £3 to get to the city. We dropped her off in another part of town, as I decided not to ask to stay with her-she was nice and cute and had a friend she was staying with. I pushed on with the Vietnamese guys. But also, I was the only one who could talk to the taxi. This always has benefits. He realized I had no place to stay and had Irish roots like him and automatically wanted to take care of me. So I helped the Asian guys communicate with the taxi and we found our way to the Anfield Guesthouse in the ghetto.
Walked up to this anfield guesthouse with these Vietnamese guys. The taxi driver says go ahead and ask if you can stray, so I did. Brian, the manager, was obviously skeptical, but felt super bad. He said I’d certainly be mugged and not find a place otherwise. Anfield is not in the best part of town. I put on the naïve tourist face too. I just asked if he had anywhere, ANYWHERE he could put me. A closet, anything. I mean it was 1:30am by now. Anyway, got this £35 a night guest house lounge room for £10, which was all I had on me. Sweet. Well, I hung out with Phuong for an hour talking about America and his upcoming trip. I felt bad because he and his friend were paying so much. Obviously a bit of racial favoritism in play. So I told him I’d write Roy Blunt about him getting a work Visa. I will. They have brought me much needed luck amidst my stupidity.
Well, at about half two, Spanish guys have come back from city centre. They wanted to finish a new bottle of the Famous Grouse. Phuong and I obliged to help. Drunk. I love how cherry faced Asians get though. We talked crap on Christiano Ronaldo, praised Xavi, and enjoyed the cultural exchange. They tried to give me an American cultural education while mixing up Harrison Ford and Robert Redford. It was a good craic though. Me, a Vietnamese dude, and three older Spaniards. Sweet. And at the Anfield Guesthouse. Laugh it up world. I won tonight (by your Grace). Tomorrow will be Epic.
Tomorrow was epically poor. Liverpool lost 0-2. Everyone was bummed. The atmosphere was owned by Tottenham away fans for sure. After the game I rushed back to the guesthouse and grabbed my bag. I penned a hitchhiking sign “Lift to London”, and I went to the busy point near the buses. In my attempts I was mostly laughed at, or given the look of “good luck, you’re eff’d you silly idiot.” I did get to see the Liverpool humor though. Classy ;). Well these three kids who cheekily asked me if I wanted to borrow their bike came back and grabbed me and offered to help. Their intentions were good. They spent a good three hours trying to help me out, collecting money to get me to train and bus stations. Nothin worked out. Good couple of scousers though.
So I was lucky last night and randomly found a place to stay in Liverpool at 1am with 2 Vietnamese guys and a Lithuanian girl in shitsville. All free. Tonight's not working out yet. May be sleepin on the streets. Phone dead. Laptop dying. Rain. Darkness.
Yep, just slept on the streets. Got booted from two spots by security. The second pair recommened sleeping under the front of St. George’s. So I did. By 4am I was freezing. I returned to a 24/7 taxi coffee bar I’d been kicked out of earlier. I bought half a cup of coffee with some change I had found and got to see some grungy nightlife walk in. God, that lady was mean as hell. No heart. I was freezing, and she actually pours me a half cup and says since I only bought half a cup I can only stay 30 minutes. Also, my pen exploded in the pocket of my favorite pair of pants, and I’ve been toughing it and spreading it without knowing it. I’m just a mess now.
Slept for an hour in the bus stop after a nicer taxi guy told me the secret way to get in. Then Security woke me up in the morning and gave me the boot. I spent an hour walking around town while the city woke up trying to find a place to exchange euros in the early morning. Nothing til 9. Luckily when I returned to the bus stop to beg the managers were there and took pity on me and hooked up an old machine that took swipe credit cards. Finally I felt relief. I’d be out of here soon. Oxford bound.

Oxford is absolutely beautiful. So jealous of these guys. Drinking in these cozy little pubs 800 years old. Had a great meal at a Tapas bar. Mmmmmmm. And after the meal we went punting through Oxford. So amazing that they have gotten to live there all year. Met the aristocratic youth of Oxford. Strange to be walking around so many people who are just loaded. It was Grace’s birthday (Shelby and Anna’s roommate) and this random big girl showed up wearing nothing but black lingerie and gave her a couple of birthday lap dances while she sang to her. The rich English people were dropping money on everything. They’re weird though. The rich English guys that stuck around insisted on passing out to the Blair Witch project. I stayed up so I could get at some of the £90s worth of Dominos they got at 3am. Great party….
 
Got to spend some time with Alan which I enjoyed. I ended up staying the night there too and chilling to Tommy Boy. I think he lives a very nice life. His area of London was great. Diverse, relaxed, safe. Between the two main areas of London I hung beside city center, I found London to be a very desirable place to live. I know that’s not the case everywhere I might go, but Shepard’s Bush/Nottingham gate in the west and Clapham in the south were nice. And I was glad I got to see a little bit more day to day normal London. Honestly, I can’t write much about Tuesday night and seeing Wiz khalifa. Wiz is awesome, though he made us wait forever. It was worth it to see him come out and enjoy life right in front of me like only Wiz can enjoy life. London has made for a very interesting visit. The subways were so easy and efficient. Brillianty planned if you ask me. £6 for unlimited travel all day by any transport was a pretty good deal, especially in consideration of how much everything else costs in this city. Got a free day tour run by this irish fellow and I thought he was hilarious. Lots of tidbits of info I wouldn’t have gotten on my own, and there was still plenty of time to do my own thing. One good story he told with pride was of the Irish drunk who broke into Buckingham palace for a whole night and had a blast until he tried to pass out in the Queen’s room. I guess they really beefed up security after this. Big Ben and parliament were by far the coolest sites, and one of the best sites I’ve seen so far. I wish I could’ve gone inside Westminster abbey because it was incredible from the outside. Presto and I just wandered all day.
For every six hours you’re there you’re on video an average of all but 7 minutes. At Shepards Bush people were passed out drunk in the park, all sorts of illicit stuff was going down, and it wasn’t a bad area either. It was pretty nice.
Met this Scottish guy at Presto’s hostel and these Australian girls. That Scottish guy was hilarious and generous and kept popping in and out of our night at the most convenient times. We lost track of him before the concert and were walking around afterwards and were talking about him and obnoxiously I said, “duuuuuude” and I hear in my right ear “duuuuuuuuuuuuude” and there he was dominating a noodle box in a nook. Haha, the chances. Magic man he was.
There was something just awesome about Wiz stepping out, looking high as hell, grin across his face and that amazed look in his eye taking the crowd in and just doing his Wiz laugh. The Wiz concert was dark. One thing about London that made me think was the tons of black people and how untraditionally black they seemed. It was weird to think that the history of blacks in England, and current population is different than from the US. It’s just not the same as seeing a black guy walking around KC.
Lots of immigrants, big African presence, but it was a thoughtful area. Like Mos Def might’ve come from. Had an absolute nut come up an read us his crackhead newspaper in broken English about a man-bird living on the east side. Half mockingbird, half man. I thought it was genius schizoid-metaphor by the end. He thought it was hilarious. I thought he was distracting us so his buddies could rob us, but no. Just a friendly nut. Others came by and accused him of trying to become a preacher. He just laughed and we continued to sit uncomfortably. The little park outside the venue had a dog park, a playground, and it all seemed like while it wasn’t spectacularly nice, it was a very important and cared for space by the community around it and the people there, though I’d say most Londoners in are probably very independent, routine, and generally walked about aloof. This is Ipod nation by the way.
I thought London was dirty and very clean at the same time. Not like some areas were cleaner than others, though that’s true, I guess I was just kind of impressed by how clean it was. The parks were nice, trash was around, but not in heaps and I had the feeling it was only temporary trash that would be cleaned up with great detail before the next morning. The city seems very well run for its size. I really appreciate its management.
All in all for England I have had a really good experience. I think I’ve gotten a really good view of the UK for having only spent 6 days there. Touristy, chilled with many different classes of people and a wide variety of settings, good friends, some crazy nights. I really did all this by mistake. It worked though.
Got to finish with a special shout out to everyone who went out of their way to help me on this trip. Phuong, Scott, and Luke. Liverpool is kinda a crap hole without you guys. Also my middle name. George helped me out this weekend I think.

Happy Mother's Day! -this post has nothing to do with that though...

Alright guys, I'll be in Oxford either late sunday night or early monday morning depending how wasted I get in Liverpool. I suppose also there is a substantive risk Nessie might eat me, or I might flow off on her back into outer space. An unusual number of people have dreamed of me lately and found the dreams noteworthy enough to tell me. something big is about to go down....

for this summer, we have no idea where we're going. options abound, only barcelona is certain. obviously if we could we'd hit all the cities we could. we may end up skipping italy entirely though and save it for another time far far away. sell me. i've basically been compiling my dreams on paper so tim and mitchel can read them and add to it, and then we can all choose.

Ireland was great, and will be when I return from England. Up until a few weeks ago it was almost pure joy, but i've had to hit the books significantly harder since mid april. april's weather was amazing, so not like i can complain about sitting outside and reading in the grass on beautiful days. i did accumulate a lot of grass in my sheets from taking my comforter outside though.

this week it has rained pretty much all the time. good to focus me and get my rest while friends are away i guess. kinda miserable though. highlight of my day is a raging coffee induced night run in the sprinkles. i feel like I'm in a gatorade commercial each time.

my hair is now officially the longest its ever been (still not rediculously long). I'm never sure what to do with it. been rocking a dirty comb over....it gives me power, and when mixed with the beard, absolute arrogance in the midfield. I've been playing center mid for the grad saturday team (B team) and excelling (though there is this assistant coach who coaches sometimes and won't play me at all. douscher Ireland first guy-no one cares man).

this friday was a magical evening for our game. rain cleared, great park and turf near the harbor, classic blue collar opponents, primo sunset, ferris wheel and church steeples rising above the trees, flower pedals floating through the air, children playing, a community watching, spliff scent in the air mixing with spring. tremendous feeling! heaven. thats whats nice about ireland. those moments you can have anywhere when you just feel great are that much more incredible, fable like.

i cannot wait to get to scotland and england this week.

killin dat skewl

Well and Alive

Can't party. Attempting to critically evaluate hip hop and globalization for my final essay. Bit off more than I can chew. Guess I have to listen to Lupe, Wiz, Roots Manuva, Weezy, etc all by myself. Power me through this 110% effort.

What do you guys think? Does Globalization=Americanization? As answer it, think about the contention and how you formulate a response. How is your thinking guided? Does this change the way you think about it? If not, take a bulldozer to my Ivory Stump.


One more thing to complain about. Having to fight my way through bull guidelines of three different overly-bureaucratic organizations: Jewell, DCU, and IES. Coordinating between 3 groups in 4 different locations in the world- is this what the business world is like? Is this law? What is this crap? It needs to go, or I need more clout.

GOT MY LIVERPOOL V TOTTENHAM TICKETS!!! Huge match, teams are 5th and 6th respectively, fighting for the last Europa League Spot at 5th!!

Lucky

This April was the sunniest on record and 3 degrees above normal on average. Darn straight.
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2011/0503/breaking30.html

If anyone cares to read essay negating Euro collapse....not bad for my first IPE class...

My Euro is on the Euro.

The euro is the most recent and significant advance in European unification. It’s no wonder that in the face of crisis the question arises: will the euro collapse? The euro can and will avoid collapse. The Eurozone has the financial ability, flexibility, and interest to maintain the euro, so the question is of politics. Politically an integrated Europe is a well grounded aspiration because the EU, and the euro have been so many years in the making. Their maintenance is essential to the European project, so leaders in the EU will cooperate and find the necessary political support to survive this and future crises.

The people of the EU are certainly less convinced than some of its project-minded leaders that the EU should be as integrated as it is. Integration necessarily gives up sovereignty. It is a cost, so the benefits need to be reiterated clearly, be they economic or security. The fall of the Soviets relaxed one reason for integration (Rosato 2011). With Europe under significant economic stress, the peoples of the EU are understandably pessimistic and protective of their own. In order to keep the EMU together during this and future crises, individual nations will have to sacrifice for others whether bailing out, accepting potentially suffocating fiscal terms, or enduring unfavorable monetary policy. Whatever series of events occurs in support of the euro, it is a consequence of a loss of sovereignty and, “…sovereignty is inextricably linked to nationalism, an especially powerful political ideology…” (Rosato 2011).

Portugal has just started negotiating what is the Eurozone’s third bail-out. Germans are noisily against additional lending, as are the Finnish, and the caution is manifesting in local elections. The Greeks are discontent protesting and preparing for massive strikes in May. PIG debt may need widespread restructuring. The situation resembles other debt crises. The social mood in Europe has deteriorated under the continued pressure of an ominous and burdensome future of bailouts and recessions, representing the tension of a divergent economic future within supposedly one union. Europe is still not used to this level of solidarity. Even Europe’s strongest leaders may not be able to convince their people to bail-out Spain, an expensive task financially and politically. However, the debate is being framed as costly on both sides: pay up and shape up, or the EU fails (The Economist 2011).

This framing is politically useful in supporting the project to the public, and begins to spell out the clear benefits necessary for euro survival. Importantly, however, I think the situation is the other way around. If the EU fails, the euro will fail. The question is of politics, not of economics. Europe is either intent to converge on cooperative economics to achieve the single market or it is not. The stresses have been weighed, the strength has been measured and the euro can survive if Europe is united. There is considerable evidence that it is sufficiently united.

In a flattened world with so much to gain, there is so much to lose if countries do not work together, and it is clear that the countries of the Eurozone are aware of this. This test of unification has been met with distiniguished levels of international cooperation and assistance. Although domestic support is far from 100% behind them, both French and German leaders have repeatedly said they will not let the euro fail. European countries have not just talked the talk, but they have been walking the walk, each being thorough negotiators for its populous, but also taking on domestic political risk. Risky bailouts have been met with a firm commitment to the euro and this is reflected in the ForEx markets where the euro is solid (if not too strong for exporters). This commitment has not only been shown by sacrifice, but by intense cooperation to explore many ways of improving the EMU system (Rücker 2011). A strong defense of the euro is rational action in the interest of self preservation for these supporting countries. The banks of these supporting countries have large existing exposures to the banks and governments of those in need, and so it is a worthwhile bet to prop up struggling neighbors (The Economist 2011).

If these euro zone nations are united enough to compromise on fair adjustments, they can avoid collapse, and they are. An example of the willingness to adjust was seen in Greece’s very integration into the EU. Many macro problems of Greece were identified prior to acceptance into the EMU. Tough reforms were made and the group still united and took on the risk, and it was a popular move (BBC 2001). The politics that will govern how much nations negotiate still have strong lingering beliefs that EU integration leads to economic prosperity, among other powerful interests. The single market hinges on the euro’s existence. There is an overwhelmingly larger political force in play (Rücker 2011). In such a closely related democratic system, the balances of political power are always shifting, but toward overall stabilization.

First, ability and motivation are enough for the euro survive the current crisis, and the early problems of monetary union. The political situation in Europe is far different now than it has ever been in modern times. There is a new history, with a goal and steady achievements towards that goal stretching across generations. A united Europe, one that has moved beyond cooperation to significant integration, is still a prototype, an artificial, but real experiment reflecting the interests and values of most Europeans. The EU, at 27 member states and 17 in the Eurozone, is growing. Growth reflects the popularity and optimism of better times and envisioned times when losses of sovereignty matter less. The system may not be perfect, but the will exists to fix these problems and crises in the interest of a more prosperous and peaceful Europe. Integration is intended to bring a prosperous equilibrium to a group diverse in economic history, fiscal policy, and strength (Jacques 2001). Unification is important in its own symbiotic right, but also breaks down the dooming North/South political roots of major debt crises of the past which the Eurozone resembles. The integration of European countries will force a common ground and care that has not been found in other crises and negotiations like the IMF and Argentina (Oatley 343-344). The future is distinguishable from past failures in the political regard. Populist anger will die down as prospering economies continue to grow and suffering economies receive negotiated stabilization packages.

The monetary union is proving of significant advantage in the crisis even as it shows its weaknesses, and this shakes a calming uncertainty into a scattered, but loud populous revolt. The introduction of the euro, and several treaties in the monetary union, give implicit guarantees of bail-outs even in the face of the explicit Maastricht Treaty. The bailouts are happening, and regardless, risk is reduced because the implicit guarantee exists, making a solution more viable. The debt crisis is stabilizing, and although the economic structure of the Eurozone allowed the situation to get worse before it got better, economic scrutiny and politics caught the situation before it was beyond repair (Bagus 2011). The economic advantages of the most recent steps in economic integration like the existence of the European Central Bank and the creation and adoption of the euro, while being challenged by the crisis, have been realized. Right now, the Eurozone economy is growing at a promising pace, and Spain doesn’t seem to be following any trend of the moral hazard (Winning 2011). In addition no one is in serious danger of dropping the euro and causing panic. There are no other good options, there is no plan B other than the euro. Even if one came about, the logistical hurdles would be immense (Welfens 2011).

The euro is argued to have irreconcilable structural problems, a single central bank financing multiple independent states (part of a tragedy of the commons), and loopholes (Bagus 2011). It is easy to get caught up in a debate over whether these issues if left untouched mean eventual collapse. If any of these issues is identified as a true problem, the problems will be addressed and the Eurozone will change, or break rules from time to time, but not collapse. No doubt these structural properties of the EMU that supposedly contributed to the crisis, or have hindered recovery will go through a new round on intensive evaluation, and this will take time. But there will be time before a collapse (Bagus 2011). In fact the existence of a single currency, the central bank etc, is just the current result of many decades of steadily increasing integration (Rosata 2011). It is a step in evolution, just a degree of change, and arguments against the structures ought to be weighed against over half a century of successful, orderly adaptation.

I am not having my cake and eating it too. Advances in integration have been small enough to say the system is careful, flexible, stable overtime. And at the same time, they have been large enough to each state, and attracted enough support, to show the larger goal of integration is an overwhelming political force. Even if the claim that European nations have increasingly pursued self interested economic policies over those of the community recently were true, it does not mean that when the life of the euro and EU are said to be on the line, cooperation wouldn’t occur. It is notable that stable euro countries are accepting responsibility for pursuing loopholes in structural arrangements even unrelated to the crisis (Rücker 2011). In politics and economics, the idea that European integration and cooperation leads to prosperity and equilibrium has a stronger record and representation in policy than disintegration or collapse due to the long term similarities of European states (Jacquet 2001).

It is wrong or at least inadequate to measure Eurozone integration against traditional political economy theories or approaches for multiple states, or a single state. The envisioned form of this economic union is in constant development, yet undefined. One constant remains: integration. The system is unique for example, because states technically have no control over monetary or exchange rates from one perspective, but by being a part of the Eurozone, realistically have sway on both, and have free capital flow. It’s a unique take on the triad. The independence of the ECB creates political harmony and eliminates leverage, but spurs conflict and difference in a quest for influence. There are many similar paradoxes within the EU economic system representing incompletion and flexibility (Oatley 2009, 214-305). In such an undefined environment a strong political conviction, like that of the project, will prosper and dominate the details of solutions.

For millennia, the unification of Europe has been the project of emperors, madmen, idealists, and in the vein of the latter, most common folk. The first half of the twentieth century served as the tragic and climactic reminder that this project has never enjoyed lasting success. The current economic crisis is the first major test of decades of careful, democratically executed political and economic integration. Though populous politics are making for tense negotiations, the euro and European project have an overwhelming and reasonable political undercurrent. Political strength creates economic strength. Because the eurozone has the means, motivation and flexibility to deal with the crisis and structural problems, the EU and the Eurozone will emerge from this crisis stronger. My euro is on the euro.



 
References
Bagus, P. The Tragedy of the Euro. The Independent Review, Vol. 15, No. 4, Spring 2011. Business Source Premier. Dublin City University on 18/04/2011.
BBC News. Greece Joins Eurozone. January 1, 2001. . 15/04/11.
Jacquet, P. and Pisani-Ferr, J. Economic Policy Co-ordination in the Eurozone: what has been achieved? What should be done? Sussex European Institute Brighton, UK. January 2001. . 15/04/11.
Oately, T. International Political Economy. 4th ed. New York: Longman, 2009.
Rosato, S. Europe’s Troubles. International Security, Spring 2011, Vol. 35, No. 4. ProjectMuse. http://muse.jhu.edu. William Jewell College on 04/21/11.
Rücker, J. 2011. Shaping Europe’s Economic Future with Solidarity and Responsibility. 2/22/2011. Stockholm School of Economics.
Welfens, P. From the Transatlantic Banking Crisis to the Euro Crisis. 3/30/2011. Springer. Business Source Premier. Dublin City University on 18/04/2011.
Winning, N. Euro-Zone Economy Expands. Wall Street Journal. 4/20/2011. p. A11

Family Time

Well, catching the bus worked out this time. Barely got the 41, the 41 was quick, went to the wrong street downtown, called the Bus service(Kearns is great), sprinted a long ways to get there one minute late, bus still there, boomtown. Good start boys.

I arrived to a very fun Good Friday party in Barbara’s back yard. So much tasty food. Full buffet of meats, veg, sweets. Stuffed. The backyard was beautiful though, like out of a children’s book, if I’d imagined a spring party that’s what it would’ve looked like. Everyone seemed in a good mood as well. The evening found us out playing horseshoes (which I got decent at-shoot, I held my own against Cliddy-Frank, u da best), having family games and pranks (Dick, I’m coming for you), and relaxing. Nan and Molly chit chatted away, read some poetry, and looked comfortable in their big lawn chairs with blankets and a lantern to keep warm. I spent good time sitting behind Nan listening to her speak. I absolutely love listening to her, which is good, because she has things to say.

Dick, for God’s sake would you run for political office? Make him Liz.

Went back with Maureen and Enda and we all just relaxed and had a good finish to the night. Good cousin bonding, some TV for God’s sake, and a freakin comfy bed. As I lie in Cliddy’s cabin right now, I’m realizing that these beds in other places probably aren’t actually that comfy. My bed in my room is just that uncomfortable.
Went up to Cullahill Mountain, where Nan was born and the historical family residence is. Cullahill is in county Laois (pronounced leash). We found Mic, and he is doing well and sends his love to the family.

I looked around Cullahill Castle for a bit. Nan introduced me to Nancy, her school friend from long ago who lives near the castle. The castle is from the 1400's, so it's a little wrecked. I saw the Sheela na Gig, a modest one.

Going up the mountain while listening to Nan talk about walking to neighboring villages and walking these bare roads on her feet made me feel like I was in the real life Shire more than I think I ever will. My God it’s beautiful from up there. Look at the pictures.

Met Bridie, Bill Tobin’s sister (also Cathy, John, and Rhea), and took a lengthy afternoon tea with her. The Irish do not understand “No I’m fine, thanks” when it comes to food and drink. As a result of constant poking and prodding I probably downed 4 whole buttered scones, and 4 cups of milky, sugary tea, God help me.

Have I mentioned how cute little Will is (Bubbles Obrien, Willem). For that matter, shout out to all of my little cousins and their parents. It’s a good looking generation to be sure, and such spirit.


Speaking of spirit, I was visited, haunted, whatever by one in Barb n Cliddy’s cabin. Now I’ve seen some things, and I’ve been spooked before, but this was a legit presence. I had just gotten to sleep. I woke up to the house cracking, like one will at night from the change in temperature. Still uneasy to listen to. Then I could hear both the front and my room door open in succession just a tad bit. I was laying facing away from it all. This got me spooked a little. I had my adapter plugged into the wall, so I had a bit of light. I could see the air get kinda fuzzy around me, and my backside got kinda cold. And then I felt something sit down on the bed next to me. At this point I tripped out and rolled over. There was a dark shadow covering half the room floatin right in my face. I looked at it, but honestly after I realized there wasn’t an actual person in the room, I was relieved to see it, though spooked. It hung out for awhile, just floating, and I watched it for ten or fifteen minutes until it eventually receded back into the ceiling corner. It didn’t go away but I saw no harm in it. It actually kinda felt familiar. So I rolled back over and started to fall asleep again.

Woke up to the rooster at half six, ran out and opened the hen house so they could escape. I was under the impression that rooster were a one time cock-a-doodle-doo deal. It was like a never ending snooze button. So, as comfortable as the bed and room was, I did not get very good sleep. But the food and company were good and I got that much better at understanding Cliddy and Rooster, and Barb is always awesome.


Went to see Sean Ross Abbey in Roscrea(where dad was born) with Barb and Nan. Jesus Christ- that’s all I have to say publicly. Still processing might be a bit better. Nan is an incredibly strong woman might be the best thing to say.

We also stopped at Kinnity Castle and checked it out before returning to Nan’s so she could talk to my dad. I’d say Nan will either sleep like a baby, or not at all tonight. Finished the day off with tea. Goodbye Easter weekend and family. I love you all! Barb and Maureen thanks again.


For the future, I think I’ll take Nan to see Obama. I just finished my letter to the White House (since I’m here, and Ross Crea is near, and of course MoneyGall is in Offally, maybe we’ll be worth meeting personally) I have a dream of having a beer with Obama. For God’s sake don’t I deserve it? I’ve already made a campaign contribution!

Too lazy to go to Tesco. Think I’ll just pick off the mold from the bread, endure the day old milk, enjoy my wilted lettuce and survive without my Redhot!

Mid April...my God in Heaven

Hello everyone. Just trying to keep things alive at least once a week.

Preston, Sean, and I (the original three who went to Kerry) were ordered to return to Kenmare by Niamh to hang out with some of her friends and check out Skellig rock and do some fishing. We eagerly carried out our orders!

We grabbed a bus down to Cork so Niamh could pick us up. But the trip was looking grim to start. We had to sprint about a half mile with our bags and barely caught the bus downtown. But because it was mid-day, traffic was awful, and it looked like the bus wouldn’t make it in time. So we hopped off half way and grabbed a cab (costs are mounting) and the cab raced us down there and charged us extra for racing. We barely make it to the bus station on time only to find out Sean didn’t look up the right times. So we were an hour early (hey, better than late). So we decided to relax and enjoy a beautiful Dublin day down by the river. Lots of people out on lunch breaks etc, so the scene was a great balance of calm and liveliness.

Anyway, finally make our way down to Cork, meeting some very interesting, generous, and social minded Nigerians along the way ;)

Got to Cork and Niamh was delayed from work a few hours, so we started hopping from pub to pub. Got some good local pints in us and Niamh picks us up. The back seat is loaded with snacks and more beer!!!! Road trip! Yah, we rocked out hard on the trip to Kenmare, embarrassingly hard, air band and everything. Good time. God bless you for driving Niamh, but you keep it interesting with your driving. One way means one way, there’s no discussion.

Arrived to a delicious meal like always. I’m telling you guys, Lissy Clearig B&B outside Kenmare. Eat, sleep, shower, and look like you’re in heaven. We all ate too much, and were getting a little hung over from a day of partying in cars and buses, so the night hung a little heavy, but Square pint was good as always, two bachelorette (hen) parties. With all the hen parties I’ve seen in Kenmare I’m surprised there are any single women left. Very upsetting thing happened to me. A drunk $^%$&^$#%$%^%^4&**!@#$ Irishman stumbled up, singled me out, and dismissed my presence by calling me Justin Bieber. It was so unexpected and uncalled for and ridiculous that I have spent the whole week being called Biebs.

Woke up to a fine breakfast before going out to Skellig.Going along with the three of us to Skellig were four of Niamh’s friends from around Ireland, and a couple of straight up alien looking dudes from Switzerland, Men In Black style. One was short and crazy eyed. The other was tall, gangly and bald. They were dressed uniquely weird as well. The tall guy didn’t talk and generally looked like a daydreamer, and Arund, the short guy wouldn’t shut up and said the most interesting things in his broken English.

On the boat out to Skellig, Arund went to the bow to sit. I think because I was most interested to meet him and because on the rocky seas holding on to shaky bars on the side of the boat was kind of dangerous, I was the only one who went up to hang out with him. We sang song of the seas (or I tried-he kept getting stuck on the word flowing like a computer glitching out) and we talked of love, life, the sea, and God.

Here’s his story. Arund was visited by the Archangel Michael and continues to be in touch with God through him. He follows his heart. His heart and St. Michael have told him he needs to bury a crystal from his mother’s mountain in Switzerland on the top of Skellig Michael (the part of Skellig the monks lived on). He was proud to whip out his crystal, which was massive, from his pocket. His next mission was to put one on top of Mont St. Michel in France, and then follow up on other spots all the way down to Greece. Apparently all the sites of St. Michael rise unexpectedly out of surrounding land and happen to form a straight line across Europe.

Unfortunately we were not going to be able to land on Skellig that day as the seas were very rough and 5 ships had already had to turn away. Arund assured me half way out that we would be able to. I decided I would convert if we could. He had absolute certainty in his eyes.

Long story short we could not land. But I will give him this. When we went fishing he caught the most Pollock and he did this by calling the fishies with a little instrument that sounded like a hillbilly didgeridoo.

This was my first time out on the actual ocean in a boat. I got pretty sea sick on the way back when the boat would stop and rock, but I felt incredibly bold riding the waves on the way out. I liked it. And looking back at Ireland as we got out to sea gave me some perspective on how crazy everyone was who ever let out to go to America, much less try and find a new route to India or explore the unknown. Cheers ancestors!

The rest of the weekend was just good fun.

Played in a game this Monday. Got thrown at right back and did well, then someone got hurt, so coach put me in center mid again. I really lifted the team. I felt confident, took people on, almost scored and I would say got two half assists. I was having fun and feeling pro. I even took a dive near the box when I got kinda clipped. LOL. We won 3-0, two after I got in the middle. I was wrecked at the end. My calves were cramping.

Going to Tullamore this weekend for family time and sightseeing. All week I've been in debate mode researching/ finding articles for my International Political Economy final. Will the Euro Collapse is the prompt I chose, because its hard, and I want to figure it out. Going pro with this one guys.

Afternoon educational activities.

Thanks to Joe and Wikipedia.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Piran
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cornwall

I had thought that other than Irish I was Welsh and German. Well, I’ve been informed it’s Cornish and German. Close though. So here here is a small world-history lesson for the day.

St. Piran is the patron saint of Cornwall. He came from Ireland and is probably the same guy as the Irish saint Ciaran of Saighir who founded the monastery in County Offaly, IE (where my dad’s side of the family currently lives-Tullamore) and is one of the 12 apostles of Ireland for helping St. Patrick out. Piran in Cornish was Ciaran in Gailic. March 5th is the feast day to celebrate him in Cornwall.

Black white and gold are the colors. He is the patron saint of tin makers, and important Cornish trade.

St. Michael’s Mount is a sweet Cornish site meaning the grey rock in the wood. It was where lots of prominent Nazis wanted to retire after conquering England. It is a tidal island, suspected of being a major tin trading port in ancient times, as mentioned by the Greek Posidonius. It is a counterpart of Mont Saint Michel in France, and that place looks sweet and will be visited in June. I might see if I can make it to Cornwall since I’m here.

Anyway, learned plenty about all the Celtic stomping grounds on the Atlantic coasts. I can afford to do this because I'm done with my first big culture project. Back to IPE.
Tomorrow is the IES leaving dinner downtown at a nice place. Excited about that!

Cheers!

Breakfast Sludge

First the part of class I did listen to is worthy of concept of the day. Gemeinschaft. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gemeinschaft_and_Gesellschaft

I’m chillin here on a huge caffeine buzz. Started making this breakfast sludge of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, wheatbisk, milk and it rocks!!!! Got out of my culture class early today, thank God. I want to offer a glimpse at what I did all class, takin straight from my notes. Padraig, if you were at all interesting to listen to, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity. And for the record, everyone in my class is NUTZ. When you read the following, you will further appreciate how NUTZ they must be by comparison.

Today is the day the burka ban took effect in France. I have too many feelings on this issue, and so I have none to report. In honor of this instant distraction from class, as well as an old book about daydreaming, I present to you my list of 22 Everyday Creative Activities for the Modern Man, and yes, specific to men. Girls can partake if they wish. Why 22? Because 22 is half of 42, and 42 is the meaning of life. (just go with it).

1. Make a playlist and share on the internet
2. Write a song or poem
3. Make a list of your favorite words and phrases, things you would consider for tattoos
4. Fog up the window. Express yourself.
5. Walk with a song in your head. Mumble, and have a light groove to your pace
6. Make a random line in your notes. Wait. Take it from there and draw something.
7. Table top beats
8. Draw on your #2 pencil
9. At a restaurant. Demand the kids menu and crayons, or that your tablecloth be paper. Go!
10. Sit in your car while it rains. Find a song to match/harmonize the rain rhythm and sound.
11. On windy day, set chairs facing the wind with friends. Imagine you’re on a rollercoaster.
12. Dress up super goofy for pick-up game. Play tips in underwear to show you don’t care.
13. Spend the night in a bar and see how long you can consistently act like a made-up person.
14. Record an honest conversation with yourself. 3rd person style is encouraged.
15. At work, grab scrap material. Begin to carve. Add sharpie or paint later.
16. Cooking. You love to eat. Make your own meal and recipe.
17. Operate your facebook/blog with authoritarian like control. Pose for photos, remove tags.
18. Make an album cover. http://www.darknet.com/2008/01/diy-random-cd-c.html
19. Make a list of crap you think is worth reading.
20. Take a free art class. Pretend to know the words to every Snow Patrol Song.
21. Establish a ridiculous problem. Spend a ridiculous amount of time solving it.
22. Think of your love for StumbleUpon.com, your appreciation for humanity. Lose control.

There you have it.

More random thoughts. Fern Gully, Pocahontas, and Avatar are nearly identical in theme and plot. Is it concerning that the presentation of this story has become increasingly militant over time? Consider the main man and woman in each movie, what they look like, their behavior, and the culture they represent.

Finally, I cannot understand something about myself. I don’t like Kansas. Pretty much every time I’m there I dislike my experience. But when I’m missing home, the image that comes into my head is of a Kansas sunset. What the heck?

Weekend Update April 9, 2011

Had a match against Whitechurch FC today. This place was in the councils (as in city housing). Pulled up, there is trash everywhere, no nets, glass everywhere, a big burnt patch in the middle of the field with a burnt little kids bike in the middle, condoms, a good smattering of dog poop. Well, by the time the game started some groundsmen had cleared up the big stuff and put up nets, but there was no way I was slide tackling anyone today. On the bright side, it was an absolutely beautiful day and every plant and flower has just exploded with fragrance and color. I think everyone from this little area came out to watch the game and have a beer the day was so grand, so it was a cool community experience. Good view of southern Dublin from the pitch as well. If the field had been better, I would have been that close to heaven.

Yesterday I went with a group of people studying in Spain on the Guinness tour. So many people get the pint and then don’t drink it, lucky me, didn't have to eat dinner. I must say, I poured an outstanding pint, a drop more would have spilled taking it to my seat, and the head was a work of art. Got some good city walks in throughout the day, just strolled and enjoyed the air and meeting people. Once again glad I don't have an Ipod, though it seems like everyone else in this city has something in their ear. I really love taking the bus as well. I understand why people drive cars. Plenty of bonuses with that. But I really like public transportation. Anyway...

Next weekend I am lucky to be able to go back to Kenmare with Niamh (pronounced Neeve). It's me and the two other guys that went before. We will be going out to Skelligs Rock. Please check it out on this website, I am so excited. http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/757

We will hopefully also spend a good part of the day fishing. Fantastic.

Then, on Easter weekend I'm going back to see Nan and the family to see some of the historical family sites. Excited for that as well. Dad, if you read this, coordinate with someone to get on skype that weekend.

Family near and far, I love you all.

Canaries Report-OH YEAH!

Flyin into the Fuertaventura. Sick!!!! I’m like this close to Africa!!!! It looks amazing and I can’t wait to get on the beach. Stepping off the plane I can immediately feel the warm air. We stayed at a place called Las Olas in Corralejo, which just by itself would be a sweet vacation, especially during prime season. The rooms are decent, definitely worth 30euro for six nights

Our neighbor from below is just some old guy and his wife who likes to party as well. He welcomes us with a pretty expensive and tasty red wine. Good start. We hit the beach within an hour of getting off the plane. I sat down to sangria and seafood paella on a beachside restaurant, which for some reason I kept calling papaya to the servers. So good, big portion, and so cheap compared to Dublin. I was full until late in the night. I really love paella. Its healthy, got to be easy to make, and looks cheap to make. I will say however, that a few nights later when we treated ourselves to a fine dining experience I tried some phenomenal paella that totally killed this, but I had paella and sangria everyday for lunch on the beach. Next up was a massage on the beach. Some little weird asian lady was roaming around giving cheap massages and you can bargain with everyone anyway so I got a 45 minute massage for 10euro on the beach. It was pretty decent as well, though everyone laughed at me for getting it. I would bet it was kinda awkward to be around.

Speaking of awkward, these were definitely clothing optional beaches. Seriously though, I got used to dealing with naked old men quick, and it was alright because there were plenty of more attractive naked things all around. But that just wasn’t a big deal either. So on the whole I am for the freedom to be nude on beaches. If you want to, then you ought to be able to.

The beaches we stayed on for most of the trip were within 5-10 minutes walk of our place and were developed, so it was very convenient and easy to relax. The waters were super clear, the beaches a nice pure sand though there were sections of volcanic seaside which were cool to look at. Directly off the beaches is a cute volcanic isle called Isle de Lobos so the whole setting is just super picturesque for a tropical paradise. We essentially went to Europe’s Hawaii. Just more deserty and less tropical. Waves were great on some beaches, and calm waters were elsewhere.

It’s Spanish owned so at night we behaved as Spaniards and stayed up til the sunrose all but one night. I should say I did, not we. For some reason four of the group were on and off sick the whole time which sucked for them, and only five of us really went hard the whole time. We all went our own ways at times too so the stories are great. There are no rules on this Island. I mean there are, but you can do whatever you want and I will just say that what happened in the Canaries will stay on the Canaries.

Favorite vacation drinks. Maspalomas Sunrise (a totally fruity and embarrassing drink- a splurge at a nice pool bar), Super Coronas (how did I not know about these), and San Miguel (the best cheap beer ever). But at all the clubs there were free tasty shots and cocktail being handed out. I don’t know how these places turn a profit because I paid for like 3 drinks the whole time I was there outside of preparties, and we did damage all night.

Nightlife generally went as follows: party at Las Olas until midnight, got to this giant building of bars and karaoke places til 2 or 2:30, then go down to Waikiki club til morning and see what adventures you get roped into while hanging around down there and on the beach. Wake up at say 11 the next day, go the beach, eat, pass out, play in the water, pass out happy hour, eat, go back to the pool, nap, eat, start hanging out again. It was cool.

Snorkeling was great except because I went with the group, I didn’t get to stay as long as I would have liked, or paid for. Saw huge anemones, lots of tropical fish, and uglier fish, saw a lizard fish snatch a smaller fish, and the coolest part was seeing an octopus. I should have touched it. It looked big, like at least 2 meters. I decided it might grab me, thereby ending my life, but it probably just would have inked and gone. Anyway, I swam down til I was within like 2 feet of it, and no one else did, so I guess I’m cool like that. We had a good bit of fun with a sea cucumber, and just kinda enjoyed the clear waters and the reef. It was cool passing over the reef into the deeper parts, and just laying on top of the water looking at the mountains, sandstorms, sun, and waves.

I already miss the place, the freshness, the people, the weather. Man, I could get used to that. How cool would it be to retire there and open up a restaurant or rent out a space just to supplement your income. Got me thinking. I’m finding that my time abroad, although really just this year in general (which has been a heck of a ride with plenty of new experiences), is most of all clarifying for me what I want to get out of life. I still feel pretty vague about some things, but goals are forming, which is nice because I have just been wandering aimlessly since getting to college and my outlook is changing too, and its more relaxed.

Go On Through

I wrote this blog before I left but forgot to post it. It’s the rest of the weekend before my final.

Made my first 8tracks mix online. already have a bunch of likes and followers. check it out.
http://8tracks.com/0will0/0will0-s-chill-cycle

Chillin, should be finishing studies for my final tomorrow. Gotta take a break though.
You’re A Fat Granny Shagger!!! Fat Granny Shaggerrrrrererrrr! Go on Liverpool! I cannot wait to see a game with Alan.

Moate is a really pleasant little strip of town. This time Enda’s family was there too. Everyone takes care and really tries to bring me in. Can’t say enough thanks guys (to all you Irish reading this). I don’t mind the unnecessary attention, and care, though it is unnecessary. Alan really made me feel better about my new guy situation, indirectly. Just talking with him made everything smoother I think, maybe it’s because he’s visiting, but I also think we’re a bit more alike.

Here’s what I’ll say about the obvious bonding issue. It’s partially me just having not hung out with them over the years. But I mean, I forget that they’re all individuals too. They all have just learned to mesh so much that I feel like they’re all one giant fun blob. And I don’t want to say this like I’m putting blame on myself, no blame goes to anyone. But without thinking about it I have put something extra on all of them individually that has an inspiration from the group, and is thus partially true, but isn’t fair and burdens the one on one relationships, the one on one conversations, and thereby, the bonding with the group.

It’s kind of strange too, because Darren, Paul, Steve these younger guys are just like my friends from home. And now that I think about it, we probably seem pretty prohibitive as a group back home. I mean, I really am this new guy that by blood they’re obligated to get to know and entertain. I got comfortable later on and called Darren a wank, and he laughed and said, no you’re the wank. He didn’t mean anything by it and it wasn’t weird, just part of the flow, but later on I thought about what a wank I must seem(if for no other reason, probably just for saying wank).

I had failed to communicate to Maureen that I wasn’t staying because of my test, so everyone thought I was staying the night, so when I left with Babs to grab my bag before I caught the bus, everyone thought I was having a drab time and making an emergency exit. Really I was coming back for a couple more hours. It was just the half time of the Ireland Macedonia match. I came back and I could tell some were wondering where I was, others upset I was upset. My bad guys. It feels cool to have people worry about you though. Well, looked like the real fun was just kicking off when I left. Anyway, that’s what I have to say about that for now, I’ll be back before you know it guys.

Sat next to Nan for the christening. Since she’s got to be the most Catholic, but doesn’t judge me, it’s a really great experience. The Priest again seemed unprofessional. No wonder the church is dying. I’ve seen accountants with more pep and hooligans be more professional. Take some pride in your work. I know you don’t have that much to do today. So memorize the three friggin names you have to know and if you’re going to read off a script, at least make it flow so we’ll believe you can read. OK, it wasn’t that bad. I’m just picky about presentation I guess.

Well, I messed up big time. I prepared all week for my final in Quantum Mechanics. I was ready to go. I got to the room 30 minutes early to chill and study and eat a bite. Well, people were inside testing, so I though, it’s a nice day, I’ll go outside and eat relax and hit the notes again. Well, went back in at 10:55(my time) and they were still testing. So I signaled the exam professor at the door. We quickly figured out I was in the right place, just an hour late!!! OMG I messed up bad. I didn’t know it was happening. Nan had texted me Sunday morning and said “don’t forget to put your clock on today.” Now I know what she meant….

Ok, it’s not the end of the world. I will get to retake the exam if I fail, which I would bet I did. Just a pain in the butt because I put a whole solid week into this. Maybe I will have done well enough to pass anyway (still hard to pass a test over here, it’s like getting a C+ or better I’d say).
Cheers!

It's disgraceful, really

I had my first soccer tournament today (yes, all in one day because I could only make it to one game). Well, let me tell you, they do things a little different here. Really adds to the definition of pregaming. Last night I got in, and coach quickly took me to a club at a party resort town for U. Ulster kids. Met all the lads, great stuff. We all know we have a game in the morning. I’m thinking, a few drinks won’t hurt, might help me sleep. Well, I get there and they are all obliterated. One of them didn’t even make it in the club, got kicked out by the coat check lady, passed out in the pub upstairs, a bouncer changed him and sent him on his way(he played Keeper today). These guys weren’t messing around. Shot, shot, shot, shot………..Thank God the captain was sober enough to make us drink water. And to be fair, the lads from Cork, who we would play, were out drinking as well, though not nearly as heavily. Pretty cool to friend up with the other team.

So guess where they put me for this game the next morning? Center Mid. Can’t think of the last time I played in there. My god. And one sub, which was used for another person when they got injured. Well, I got a goal, played great, but by the end I was dead and cramping, so when we went into overtime, it’s no wonder we ended up losing. It felt good to be back in a leadership type of position. I almost had one other goal. Missed a brilliant lefty by an inch.

Negatives include a swollen face and bloody nose from a bad elbow, and a really injured foot from a tackle. Walking sucks.

But, I have decided that this is the way soccer should be. This is ideal soccer. I love Irish soccer. And these guys were absolutely hilarious.

Also want to say, I’m an idiot for not bring warm relaxing or warm up pants of any sort. And I am a genius for not bringing an Ipod. I would miss out on so much.

One hell of a Week

Sorry the blogs have been less frequent, but I really didn’t sleep much for about eight days since caving led straight into St. Patrick’s Week. And that’s what it was, St. Patrick’s Week. I did my part to get green and crazy 4 out of 7 nights and would’ve gone for more, maybe, but unfortunately/luckily I got a pretty bad cold and a super sore throat. So this weekend I kicked it, studied (which means I watched March Madness), and rested. Here’s some tidbits from the Week.

Overall St. Paddy’s Eve was the night to remember, just so much happening and such an impressively good time, but St. Patrick’s Day was a great party in itself, and Friday was a nice night as well.

The club was poppin! The line was a quarter mile long everywhere, so we stuck with what we knew was good, the Purdy Kitchen, which has great drinks deals if you get on the cheaplist, which we’ve done by being regular attending students. We actually didn’t have to wait in line too long either. They cleared everyone out and said it was too full (there are like 5 floors at this place). Well, we stuck around and sure enough they started letting people in soon. By the time it was last call, I’d found my way into a really offbeat jig and group dance of sorts probably to Rihanna or Chris Brown. Lotta fun though. Then this Irish girl who was on another level mentally, just started getting thrown around to dudes. Literally like, hey catch, and then she wanted to be swung around. I was just praying that I wouldn’t be the one she puked on. Good times though, and great scene.

We got out after the club and wandered around Dublin for a few hours. Saw some fights, but had lots of fun. I thought we were going to be in a fight for a second. We had helped build a human pyramid with like 10 spanish guys so we could cut down this huge thing of balloons, green, white, and orange, 5 feet in diameter, like 30 yards long. Probably illegal. Anyway, once we got it down this tiny little Irish dude comes up beer in hand swinging and kicking like a mad man claiming we’ve stolen the Irish flag and drawing a lot of attention. It was half hilarious, but half, “OMG what if this whole place jumps us.” Eventually this little dude gets close enough and grabs the balloons and runs off down the street. He was still sprinting trailing the balloons a half mile down, knocking people over as he went. The devil.

My friend’s friend who’d come over started hitting on a large, much older lady and begging for a couch to sleep on (how ungrateful). Shelby and I heard from like 20 yards away a burst of laughter and in a lovely Irish accent, “if we were to fornicate, I’d break you!” How epicly gross is that!

Finally made it back at 5am, no after party, and we had to wake up at 7am for O’kegs and McEggs (a little American irish pregame). And we did, we woke up and starting going again. Decided to go down to the parade about 10am. I’ve never seen so many people in the same green hat. Whoever makes those crappy felt leprechaun hats made a fortune. It was awesome to see streets crowded as far as the eye could see with bobbing green hats. Anyway, after stumbling around trying to get a good look at the parade I wandered off to find my IES group at the bridge to go to Croke park. Well, I really had no idea what meet at the bridge meant. Which side, on the bridge? And I got there late anyway because of the crowds so I just had to trek over to Croke Park alone, and that was worth it. Saw some interesting people.

Oh, Croke Park had the GAA championships for Ireland, so there were some really devoted hometown crowds there for the hurling and Gaeilic football. That was awesome, though I got ripped off on the ticket price. That was a cool way to sober up in the afternoon. When it was all over, I went back to make dinner for the guests before they got back.

We got back and all had a nice dinner. Some more girls got in who were staying with me, which made 9 people staying in my small space including myself, 3 I hadn’t even met before. But they got in later than they were supposed to, and one of the girls took forever to get ready, like 2 hours, so she held us up til half eleven, and I really wanted to be down for the evening because I heard those are some magic hours in Dublin. Humph! We still had fun in my apartment, but nothing special, and by the time we got downtown, one of my friends was puking in a burger king bag, so I had to take her back since I knew my way and had the only key. That was the night. And it’s unfortunate, because then the rest weren’t quite sure what to do, so the guys having had fun the night before, went back to the same place and took the girls, but Wednesday is the good night there, so they should’ve gone elsewhere. Well, I did get to sleep on my bed, though with a damp towel for a cover. I was tired though, so it worked.

The girls all manned up and made their flights early the next morning. I slept in and let the guys loose on Dublin. They found some cool museums I’m going to have to visit. I met up with them in the afternoon and we all just explored some more. I realized how little of Dublin I’ve actually explored on foot, but I’m saving it for May when I have more free time and better weather. We came back and went to a Pub I hadn’t been to yet down the street. Man, that place is way cool, and the townies are legit. Nice, and fun. Niamh and Sheila, the girls who helped us out when we visited Kenmare were in Dublin for the night seeing Enrique Iglesias so they came and met up with us and we all had another good night, though I accidently passed out on a pillow which had puke on the backside from the night before, so throughout the night as I tossed and turned…yah. Gross. Probably contributed to getting sick. Had to pass up trips to Howth and Blarney Castle this weekend. Oh well, still time.

Ireland lived up to the hype you would think would come with St. Patrick’s Day. I feel better now.

I think this place is about to get super green super quick, and I am excited for what’s to come. First soccer tournament this week, and because I held out and they need people on Friday, my stay and transportation is covered. Then down to Will’s christening. I’m studying all week and taking it easy because I have a big test on Monday, but I’m pretty prepared, so I’m not stressin, but then again, I’m not sure what to expect either. After that, just a few days of school, and then the Canary Islands!!!!!!! April will get filled somehow, hopefully I’ll make it to Spain. But when classes end April 29th I am leaving for Scotland, then England, for a week. Then skipping a week ahead, I’m going to Switzerland (with some Australian ladies, oooo lala) to explore and while I’m there I’m going bungie jumping. But seriously, this jump is the one from Goldeneye and one of the biggest in the world off Verzasca Dam. 220m/750ft. Let’s Go!!!!!!!!!!.Also, capming gear is super cheap right because of the recession and the season ending. Picked up a sweet hiking bag, huge, lifetime warranty, for 30euro, 70% off, so I’m more prepared for the summer.

Also, David Fox, my fraternity brother, old roommate, teammate, and partner in crime in Europe is sharing a few columns with me in our school paper this week.

Dirty

I just got back from my first weekend caving. Finally (I’d been expecting it) we had some nasty weather this weekend. In fact, it snowed. Well, that didn’t stop us from rolling around in mud, and traversing underground waterways. I mean, it was Saturday night, sun down, when we put on our wetsuits to go for a swim in the freshly melted snow currents of a local cave. But you had to traverse it to get to the good stuff, so why not. My God, I’ve never been so cold in my life, and rarely have I felt like such a man. Caving is really cool. I remember cave trips as a kid, especially a muddyfield trip from the Nature Center when Mom has to find a bunch of plastic bags to cover the car so she could take me home. I loved it, and I loved the claustrophobic parts of my job last summer. It’s pretty cool to be 100 feet below the ground, pitch black, lean on a rock, and listen to the water flow. I know I will have to be one of like ten Americans who have gone caving in Ireland. I feel special and lucky I got into all this, however humble I should be.

I mean, this weekend was truly unique not just in activities but people too. Hanging out with 20 crazy Irish people in a scout post in the middle of nowhere was a real learning experience. This is a group of individuals the likes of which I suspect I’ve walked amongst and never gotten to know. Weird games, heavy drinking, all smiles, everyone happy to just have each other. Really adds weight to my Teletubby/James Bond observation from a prior post. This group of cavers was truly fun, if not incredibly awkward at some points, and definitely left me surprised and in some cases concerned that they might not be well in the head. I pretty much didn’t sleep all weekend because someone was up partying. But they’re all very methodical and adventurous types, so that lends well to caving

Ended up getting almost all the extra food the club bought. Good €20 worth, so props to me for the cheap weekend. Tried new kinds of beer, some Thai, Indian, Polish, and Dutch varieties, as well as some potent and awful Irish home distilled liquor. Apple Schnapps and peppermint tea is good too.

Sorry this is short, I feel like I’m forgetting stuff, but the weekend was exhausting, the week ahead is exhausting between guests and events, and I need to get some school work done. I feel like I’m forgetting stuff, oh well.

Squeakin by is more than enough

Last Friday I went to my first Rugby match, Home Leinster vs the Scarlets. Maybe I built it up in my head too much, but this was a disappointment. I expected drunk angry singing Irish fans and constant brutish play. What actually went down was much more like Golf in terms of civility and etiquette. I understand why no one was drinking. If you think NFL games are bad. Whoa. Also, a very kid friendly atmosphere, with little kids playing at half time. Anyway, discovered a great little pub afterwards, and walked the long way through the city, so got to see some new parts. I like getting lost. But I was ready to get home to bed because...

I randomly went to Belfast with friends. Good call.

Belfast was the BOMB. I was skeptical to say the least about this trip. Wasn’t sure why we were going, didn’t know what we’d do, but I always seem to have fun, and when else will I go to Belfast? Well, I wish I’d gone both nights because apparently Friday was just as good as Saturday, and Saturday was awesome!

Saturday morning, I woke up at 6:00am and hit the road in hopes of catching everyone before the day started. Bused my way to Belfast by 10:30. Called to say what’s up, and we all headed north to the Giant’s Causeway. We got up there for the early afternoon, and the weather was wonderful. We all recovered in The Nook, a little restaurant nearby, and started the hike. I’m finding a trend in my reactions to Irish landscapes: Whoa, elevates to Oh man, to Oh Wow!, to Oh my God this is incredible, to unfreaking believable, and the crescendo of amazement ends in silence and bright eyes staring off into the North Atlantic over a cliff. Please check out the photos-amazing geology. So the Cliffs of Moher are better? We shall see. Great afternoon walk finishing in the sunset. There was something most excellent about looking off north into nothingness. The sky was just different, and the sun continues to be uniquely mysterious and impressive. Highlights included the view of the amphitheater (which was closed off-but we dared), the actual causeway (Basalt columns-which I’m pretty sure I saw when Dad took us out west), and the view from the top of the cliff. Looking into Ireland there are pleasant looking sheep, fields, and villages. Turning around is a massive drop down to crashing blue waves, alien looking rock, and the unknown.

Oh, here’s the background-Legend has it that the Irish warrior Finn McCool built the causeway to walk to Scotland to fight his Scottish counterpart Benandonner. However, Fionn fell asleep before he got to Scotland, and when did not arrive, the much larger Benandonner crossed the bridge looking for him. To protect him, Fionn’s wife Oonagh laid a blanket over him so he could pretend that he was actually their baby son. When Benandonner saw the size of the 'infant', he assumed the father, Fionn, must be a massive giant, so he fled home in terror, ripping up the Causeway in case he was followed by Fionn.

Well, we made it back, and the night just took off from there. We did it big, real big, and went nuts almost til the sun rose, when we hit the chipper.

I can make a recommendation for touring Belfast nightlife. Friday go to the Queen’s University Union. Saturday go to Lavry’s in the city center, Sunday, maybe try Mynt.
Overall Belfast’s people are nicer than Dublin’s. But they can have a real mean streak to them. Three times we got intense with other dudes, and one of those times was real close. Also, on the bus tour, we had many more people wave and say hello with smiles. But there were also plenty of meaner looking people, and I guess the traditional Belfast hello must be two birds. The city is extremely interesting in that respect. Really, the tour of the town took us through rough parts but mostly really industrial looking middle class areas. The city had a real blue collar feel to it that just earns your respect. I felt admiration for the city’s people and its contribution over the years. A real powerhouse of the industrial revolution and wartimes.

Took a bus tour, and for £10 this has to be the best cheapest way to get a grip on the city. Good hour and a half of sites and history. Recommend that as one of the first things to do, Belfast is a big city and it's not all in the center.

This week I’ve been figuring out financial issues, trying to budget, and mostly fighting with two banks. I thought I had everything figured out before I got over here. I certainly did not. One, I simply forgot to bring a check book even though it was on the list to bring. This would have solved everything, even though the banks assured me I could do it all online for free. It has been a real pain in the butt this week.

Luckily, on Monday I managed to eat free all day. Free pancakes, the free pizza, then at night Guinness came to visit DCU. I came away from there with 5 free pints down, 2 meat pies down, a 30 minute conversation with the Worldwide MasterBrewer, and a ridiculously fun time with live traditional music, and lessons on pouring and drinking Guinness. DCU did a terrible job advertising for this. I almost didn’t go, and not many students did, hence I think one free pint turned into five. But I’m glad I did. Also got a free sick poster and a couple of Guinness glass glasses, though I’m not sure they meant to give those away.

Tuesday I got more free stuff. Free tickets to see the Godfather at the Irish Film institute downtown. They had a guy speak about the movie before it started. Had no idea the movie was so long, but hey, definitely one of a kind classic.

So today, Wednesday, I had to finally go find some food. Went to Tesco, used the credit card (FAIL), and stocked up. It’s a 15 minute walk, especially when you are burdened by 5 big bags of stuff (I went to Penney’s to get extra bedding for incoming guests). Whew, treated myself to cheap chicken wings. Good to go.

RAG Week=Rage Week

Wazzzaaaaa?!!!??!?!

It’s RAG week, so the campus is hitting another level. Last night was Toxic Tuesday at nuBar on campus. Normally you have to wait like 5 minutes in line to get in. Well, we got there later and people were walking away because the line was like a mile long. And Garda everywhere. Don’t worry, we just hopped the fence. And got caught. And then tried again, running into the maddening crowd before they could move to us. Bonus. And it was so worth it. Crack show. Today the fine ladies of Red Bull were here. Ten 6’2 model thin blondes dressed like stewardesses. My noon class had guys running in an out of the lecture hall stocking up on Red Bull. There was a redbull army too. Three hum-vees, like ten of those little redbull roadsters, and practically a mobile DJ tank. Mall was bumpin all day.

Best news of all though is the 100th Red Bull Flug Tag is in Dublin in May and you can enter the contest for free! If you don’t what this awesome day is, I’ll educate you. Flug Tag is a competition where all sorts of people build craft that cannot be powered and see how long using human strength the craft can fly after it’s pushed off into the harbor. But you also get scored on fun. So you get people doing artsy stuff like flying pigs, and you get time to do a pre-launch performance and this goes on all day along with hundreds of thousands of drunks from all over Europe coming in a partying. Cash prizes etc. too. You may have seen the commercials on ESPN. I’m thinking about building a flying banker and renting a tux with friends.

Tonight was the RAG Ball. Significantly harder to sneak into, expensive, and sold out. Bummer. Oh well, I guess I won’t get to hang out with the V.I.P. himself, Vanilla Ice. Haha. The campus was in an uproar that Vanilla Ice was the chosen special guest. Lots of complaining. I need to prepare for two tutorials tomorrow anyway.

I think I’m getting sick. There has been a strep like virus going around. About half my friends have gotten it so far. I should be next, and my throat feels scratchy and like it’s getting swollen. I hope not, because the plan is to go to Belfast this weekend.

Also, I’d heard lots about St. Patty’s day not being big here. But it sounds huge. Major plus and I get to share it with friends from home coming over.

weekend update

Today was beautiful (Thursday). Opened the doors and windows of the living room and read in the sunlight and fresh air. It was t-shirt weather today. I wish I would’ve known in advance as I would’ve skipped and done a walking trip somewhere. Oh well, Sean got a vortex nerf football so we threw that around all afternoon.

I have had freaky freaky dreams lately. I think its because of all the drunk people I hear in the night. Their thoughts enter my brain and remind me of random stuff. They aren’t scary dreams, just thrilling and kind of exhausting like battling muppet monsters on my old front porch like.

One of the reasons I’ve been anxious got solved today. This Jewish girl I live with has just been fuming for like the last few weeks. I get scowled at all the time. She just despises me. Well, my other roommates, all of whom had been here with her for awhile before I got here hang out with her, so I thought they might be mad at me too, just more polite. Well, she freaked out today. She woke up at 7 and made the most vicious cleaning noises ever. Such a racket and when I got back at noon there was a note demanding a house meeting on Sunday and mandatory house clean. I laughed and got pissed because I’m tired of being threatened, but decided to nap. Well, she came back, and I could hear her calling her mother talking trash and saying she can’t live like this on the verge of tears. I just didn’t get it. The apartment is in the same state as when I got here, and it’s in a very clean state. So I was rudely awoken and went out to write a note. I was extra polite when she walked in and started talking to me. I asked to talk later because I was clearing my head about all this and I thought the conversation would be better when we were calm. She kept talking, and I kept more or less ignoring her. She storms out, says I’m the worst person she’s ever met, and calls me a jackass.

Well, Luke, another roommate walks by her coming back. He comes in and says that girl is crazy and some other stuff, and Luke is a super nice guy. So now I know Amanda is the odd one out, not me, and he and Paige aren’t upset with me, at all, and thinks she’s nuts. So I feel safer now.
Last night we went to the palace and it was sick. Red Bull sponsored party. Everyone was nuts. First truly solid dance experience. Walked for so long and this Aussie girl kept wanting a piggy back ride, so all us guys got turned into mules for a half mile.

Today (Friday) was Ireland’s National Election
So I kind of got into this discussion with Grandmum, but here’s an interesting article to the effect. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703803904576152422920009948.html/ Looks like it’s going to get worse too. I haven’t met a single person with optimism, not the happy people in Kenmare, not the family in Offaly, not the people downtown in Dublin. They still don’t seem bothered by the future. My Internation Political Econ teacher, who just seems like a mental stud and is real into it all and generally a cheerful guy, said he voted randomly because it didn’t matter and almost didn’t vote at all. I guess Ireland had a good run....hope it gets back on top. I asked the soccer guys what was up with the election and they said who knows, we’re screwed anyway, and at least 5 or 6 said they were seriously leaving the country.

Speaking of soccer, we had our first game today!!! Except I didn’t get to play and it hailed on us. But wait, the story has a very sunny ending. First we were down 2-0 and came back in the last 30min to win 3-2 on my US friend Matt’s assist (he got in in the last 10). So that was awesome, but I left disappointed especially since some friends came. But I guess I didn’t play because I’ve shown well enough to play for the Sunday team which is the higher level cup team. So, Sunday morning, woke up early for an away game in far south Dublin. The field was god awful, top 5 worst I’ve ever played on, just a muddy bumpy pit. I subbed in with 25 left at winger. Man, I was winded by the end. We did so well while I was in. I didn’t lose the ball, had some good throughs, and had a great nutmeg. The best part of Irish muddy soccer is the slide tackling. Man I missed that. We got up 2-1. But…in the last 4 minutes, they got a fluke goal, and then there was a completely bull hand ball call, so they won 3-2. Slipped right through our fingers. There is only one ref for these games, and apparently their second goal had a man offside. I couldn’t tell. This is some tough stuff and I heard this level is just two below the Irish premier league. It didn’t look it today because the positions were so bad, but it makes me feel cool.

Had even freakier dreams last night. I can only blame it on passin out to the MATRIX and having spicy food earlier, but I woke up in a sweat several times and kept getting deathly ill and having inescapable hallucinations INSIDE of the dreams. Messed up. Hopefully no repeat tonight.
Finally, cool biology. Sitting down, rotate your right foot clockwise and while continuing the motion, draw the number 6 with your right hand. And HOOOORAY for the Missouri State Bears!!!

lil update

First soccer match this weekend at 2. Games are every weekend and I can choose when I'm available. So plans going forward.

OK going to Rugby matches on March 4th.

March 14th-ish Shelby, Dingleberry, Anna, and Katlyn come to visit

March 17th St. Pat's weekend begins

March 26th is Will's christening.

March 31st I leave for the canary islands with friends. When vacationing in Europe, vacation like the Europeans. Back April 5th.

April has caving trips..

Scotland with Shelby???

Morocco with ????? when?????

I wanted to also pass on a remark that Daniel made to me. The drunk driving laws in Ireland have killed rural pubs.

I have many day trips planned to historical sites that I will do whenever I want by myself. Good day tour of sites just north of Dublin including Monasterboice, Drogheda, New Grange, and Hill of Tara. Also probably hit Wicklow forests.

May holds out for biking around Phoenix park, St. Stephen's Green, and trips back out west to camp and see cliffs of Moher, Galway, Dingle, etc.

Cheers!

You hunter or dancer? Trip to Kenmare, Ring of Kerry, and Kilarney National Park

The day after. Wow, haven’t slept that long in awhile. Skipping the 9am was essential. Today’s weather says showers, tomorrow’s says rain, and Wednesday’s weather is drizzle. Well, I just walked to get some food and it is sprinkling, but I don’t know how! There is not a cloud in the sky, the sun is blindingly bright, but sure enough there is precipitation. I like it. It makes me feel like I’m running through a sprinkler in the summer. This was one of the most amazing weekends of my life. The only bad part was that it was so good I became paranoid something terrible was going to happen.

Sean, Preston, and I all hooped on a bus Friday at noon bound for Waterford. We were picked up by Daniel, a classic Irish dude who walks with his arms out like he’s jacked and cannot be understood, though apparently what he says is hilarious.

Waterford was…full of Water. Pouring rain. Got a bite and went bowling to pass the time until Niamh could get off work. Daniel loves the Big Lebowski. Then we hit the road for Kenmare, which is about three hours from Waterford. The drive down was just a sign the trip would be great. Sometimes you just get riled up and jam out and each song is perfect. This was a great roadtrip the whole way. We got there and we could not believe where we were staying. Old school cottage, hot food waiting. Thatched roof and all, hot showers, and the Sheep Dog named Mason, who was loads of fun and looked just like the dog from Peter Pan.

After a rest in front of the fire we hit the bars for some live music. Tasty jams. Beer is much cheaper in Kenmare than in Dublin, so we said phewwww, but then Niamh just started buying us drinks. I bet she dropped €200 on us this weekend. Unbelievably generous. The night was great and late and so small town Ireland. Probably 150 people at the bars, everyone knew each other and was friendly. And they were diverse. Musicians, metalheads, gamers, William the old banker who lost his mind and is clearly nuts, 14year olds, 74 year olds, bachelorette party group in devil suits, and guys with jokes. I’m kidding, but seriously. Just a fun night at the Square Pint in Kenmare. And some guys drew a map for us of where in Dublin we’d be most likely to get held up with a hypodermic needle, so I feel safer now…I think… Finished the night by fighting through the whole town at Estes (the only chip bar open that late run by a nice Turkish dude who you can tell can’t wait to close). Amazing garlic and cheddar chips. Best way to finish the night.

My breakfast plate the next morning was an overwhelming spread of bacon, ham, 3 kinds of sausage. Lunch was venison sandwiches and salmon salad sandwiches. Dinner later was chicken and mushrooms. The salmon here is becoming world famous apparently and rightly so. Saturday’s weather was weather was absolutely beautiful. If you can think of the most amazing spring day in your memory, that was it, so we eagerly grabbed hit the road. The drive through the ring of Kerry was full of incredible views. The terrain reminded me of stuff from the Lord of the Rings. It was so rugged looking. We were dropped off at a bridge leading down to the Lakes of Kilarney and took off down the Old Kenmare road (a trail) through Kilarney National Park. The hike was great, though muddy at times. We saw some foxes playing and some menacing vultures, but mostly sheep. Mason came with us and was very photogenic and loved to scare the sheep.

Half way through we stopped in an old building well on its way to being reclaimed by the hillside and took time for a drink and some clementines. Ireland has the prettiest moss in the world I’d bet, and it’s so soft. And there’s such variety and color. I climbed up to the top of the hill we were on and the view was spectacular, you could see the whole valley all the way to the lakes, and you could appreciate the full distance we’d hiked. But it was the hike to come that offered the best views. Even getting out of the park, there was something amazing that all of us had been looking for walking along the old stone lined country roads as the sun set.

When we got back we were exhausted from a long day and we all passed out to Toy Story 2 in front of the fire. We woke for dinner and then we got a surprise offer to go hunting.

So we went hunting! Put on the camo and all. The gun was huge, a 300 Weatherby with a huge silencer on the end. Thing was a cannon, though according to Preston it had very little recoil compared to other guns that size. So basically, we all loaded into a van with Niamh, her dad, and Pat and went out “lamping.” Basically drive somewhere, and then start roaming the hills shining the spotlight looking for those reflecting eyes. They eat a lot of venison, so it gets used. So, I’d never really seen the gruesome practice of killing a deer. Pretty difficult to watch, though afterwards, I didn’t feel affected. I just kinda thought the animal would be dead when we got to it. And if it wasn’t I thought there would be some kindness shown the animal when they do kill it. Way wrong. Looks like a very agonizing death. Rip it up from the belly? Tear its stuff out? Then break the sternum? Then stab its heart? OMG. Watching the heart explode on Pat’s face and them laugh about it felt messed up, and this did nothing more than churn my stomach for an instant, so I feel strange now. I remember being very upset cutting up a live fish at Red’s. This just didn’t bother me much and I wish it did. I can say I felt like I had an epiphany of some kind carrying that deer through the hills. I feel different and I wish I could put it in words.

But the truly unique experience of running through the hills of this rugged landscape at night is something I’ll never forget. I never thought I’d be hopping fences, sneaking up on sheep, and grabbing mud out here. The full moon was in and out of the clouds and we were out there for hours with the wind howling. Truly incredible. Completely unexpected.
The night didn’t end there. We went back to the Square Pint and hit it hard. There was photographic evidence of the shenanigans or I wouldn’t have believed it all. Niamh was just so generous again, and the purple haze shots really did me in. One of the best moments was when her brother came back with no pants on. Apparently some girl had puked on him, and he was hammered so he thought he’d pissed himself, but he was in a fit and I’m not sure he knew his pants were off.

Sunday we woke up late and had to leave by 4:30 to catch the bus in Waterford, but before we left we went down into some very rural spot to a place called the Blackwater Tavern (famous as the place where Big Bertha-the world’s oldest cow-used to have a pint with her owner). Niamh’s dad was teaching some very complicated dance routines to a group of people. It was really cool to be around traditional Irish music and dance. Not everyone in Ireland is like this. Daniel tells me he doesn’t like it and used to sneak out of school when they taught it. But it looked like fun and I wish we could’ve got in and learned a bit. Maybe next time.

The ride back was great, good tunes, several rainbows, and I got two comfy seats on the bus back. And we just made the last bus so we didn’t have to get a taxi from downtown to DCU. Being back in Dublin kinda sucks, but we’re going back down there in a few weeks and have planned a camping trip to the Cliffs of Moher.

Thank you so much to Niamh, Daniel, and the rest of Kenmare!

What's new? Not much...

So I started to go out tonight. I went and hung our for the pre-party, I was ready to go to Krash, which is a fun place, but you know? It's not that special. It's not that different from stuff I've done before, so no I'm not going to go drop an extra 15euro to do that. nuBar here is cheap, so I'll keep that up, but I have better plans. 1) save money for Kenmare this weekend. 2) save money for the canary islands at the end of March, 3) save money for the caving trips.

What are the caving trips? A just question. I joined the DCU Cavers Club. Why? Because it's only 2euro, the people are very odd and super interesting, I'm gettin professional caver training, rock climbing training etc, and I get to practice for free once a week and go on sweet cave diving trips in mid-March, early and late April. Yooo. Now i just need a pair of cheap nylon pants. Experiences on a budget and decent exercise.

I had been having trouble sleeping lately. All the partying I had been doing wasn't killing my budget, but was unsustainable and put a good enough dent that I just had to say stop to relieve stress. I don't know where everyone else gets their money, but I just don't have it. I've never felt so responsible and lame, but hey, I got other things I can do. Usually I can just put it on the credit card and work hard later, but not here.

Soccer on Tuesday was great for the most part. I don't think I've ever enjoyed or gotten so much out of fitness and playing. Good 9v9 games, 3 teams, team on sidelines does fitness for 11 minutes. So between that and playing winger I'm spent after a few games. First, i'm getting much more confident on the ball and just doing better things with it. A lot more "good Will!"s. Second, you beat the Irish by doing the dumbest thing you can think of with the ball. It's ballsy, I know, but they just aren't catching on. I remember this guy from Jewell who left just use to do these really casual 270degree turns and burn people because it looked so stupid. Well stuff like this works. Play a square ball right within three defenders reach, they'll go blind. Receive, turn around and then quickly finish the rotation. Maybe lazy thinking is a key ingredient in star powered spontaneous offense. Anyway...the thing I don't like is the fenced in fields. The fences hurt. I think my knee cap almost ripped off.

What else can I say of the Irish...? The kids here seem sooooo similar to American kids. Humor, dress. I'm really only noticing small things. One, for every modern song played here, there is a 90's remix of Venga Boys, or Bloodhound Gang, or a throw back to Summer of 69. Two, no one grinds here. Even the Australians think its weird and they're keen for everything! It's like they enforce the ruler rule here. It just makes for awkward eyes closed dancing if you ask me. They don't have style, and the guys aren't leading or anything. Lots of fist pumps from the guys and toe extension/hair flopping from the girls. Three, everyone has duffel bags...what's up with that?

Still excited for Kenmare. Might see Dingle, pops, but that's pretty touristy now too(it was featured in a recent romance movie call Love Actually). I guess the traditional Irish dance thing we're going to is like a hoedown, so ya....that should be interesting. Doing well in classes. Found a piano with a great touch. Planning on finding Nessie in Loch Ness with Shelby. Seeing when I can visit Fox in Spain. Not much else to say, just livin life in Dublin.

fade into green

Today was so chill. I am very pleased to see that everyone is starting to get comfortable enough with one another to be honest and say, I never party this much, it’s getting old. I have done well so far. Not too much over budget, and of course, I have found enough ways to be thrifty now that it should only get easier from here. Tonight we had a big crew dinner with everyone contributing different dishes and it’s the first time in a while we’ve pigged out. Also we’ve got leftovers now. It was so awesome to just chill to John Mayer afterwards (though Sini, the Finnish soft spoken sweetheart disliked it because she is a devil metal head-of all the people). And this week should be a little less crazy because there is a big trip this weekend to Kenmare (SW coast of Ireland) for me, Preston, and Sean.

Before I forget, just a few notes to myself and others trying to be thrifty in Dublin….
One, you do not actually have to pay the full bus fee. Just throw some coins in there. I’ll let you know if you can do American coins.

Two, when you’re downtown, you are going to have to pee on the walk back to the buses. But to do that, you will have to purchase something from the store. Don’t be afraid to ask for a slice of cheese for €0.20. It’s going to save you a lot of money over your stay.

Three, talk to Irish people, because they want tp make friends with you, and they have so much to give. For example, the trip this weekend is to Waterford and the ring of Kerry. The girls hooked it up with cheaper bus tickets, free stay at the B&B one of their parents owns, and they’re going to drive us around. So Friday we go and explore on our own, Saturday is ring of Kerry and whatever they want to do, and Sunday is like some traditional Irish festival. THIS is what we came here for, and it’ll be on the cheap.

Fourth, pay as you go cell plan for sure. I suggest Meteor, but O2 is good too. And you don’t need to do the €20 a month top up. It sounds good because you get unlimited free text, but you can make it through a month for less because meteor is always giving away €5 bonuses for taking surveys and most of all, everyone is on facebook chat. Really the only time you’ll use your phone is when you’re drunk and on the town.

Finally, and I got this tip from Jordan Cole (thanks), make friends with the small grocers. It’s all about being personable because they WILL hook you up. It’s way cheaper than TESCO. So tonight we had our crew feast where everyone contributes some food. Well, we got some dank chicken wings, like 30 AND 4 big legs AND 4big breasts in a combo all for €5 because Patty the butcher was trying to get rid of it and has to compete with TESCO next door. So sweet, leftovers and it fed the whole group. And my little €2 shortcake, whipped cream that didn’t whip and canned peaches dessert was sweet too.

So these are good things. Now, what’s bothering me. There is a dog in the house 20 yards from my room that barks on and off 24/7. I’m going to kill him. And the gulls are annoying in the morning too. But most of all, the roommates wake up at 7 everyday and make obnoxiously loud breakfast.

Oh well, I’m so excited for Kenmare this weekend. First real trip. Horseback riding, biking, hiking, nature, beaches, sunset. Hyoooo!