Monday, March 31, 2014
Luas
If you've been reading this blog, remember that lady who asked me for help with the Luas last week? Well, I was on my way home on the Luas today, and she and I sat in the same tram car. WOAH. We made eye contact, and I came soooo close to asking her how she's been getting on with the commute to work, but I held back. I should've made conversation. Maybe I'll see her again though! It's a small world.
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Chinese Food
I ordered Chinese food at 7pm with Greg from the sports center, and I still have not finished it yet. I felt privileged and all because I got to sit behind the sports center desk with all the people who work there, as I ate my Chinese food.
I was going to take the Luas to get off at a random stop and just explore today, but I worked on my final paper for European Cinema for a little bit, got lazy, did not get anything done, and then did not make it to the Luas. Maybe next weekend I'll travel.
I was going to take the Luas to get off at a random stop and just explore today, but I worked on my final paper for European Cinema for a little bit, got lazy, did not get anything done, and then did not make it to the Luas. Maybe next weekend I'll travel.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Saturday: Making New Friends and Going to the Cinema
I've been planning on traveling outside of Ireland, but have had no idea where to go / am not capable of going somewhere myself. When a girl named Brynn posted to the abroad facebook group asking if anyone wanted to make travel plans for Easter weekend, an immediate "YES!" was my response. I met up with her today to discuss travel plans! She's also from the US, and we're hoping to go to Spain or Portugal in April. It was really exciting and comforting to meet someone new, and I look forward to traveling with her!
I was planning on going to Tesco to grab some groceries. I texted a friend from my group, Laura, asking if she wanted to go, and she invited me to come with her, Hannah, and John to the cinema to see "The Grand Budapest Hotel." I did that instead of going grocery shopping, and it was TOTALLY worth it! I'm not gonna post a review of the movie because I'm not a film critic, but I absolutely loved it! Go see it if you get the chance!
I was planning on going to Tesco to grab some groceries. I texted a friend from my group, Laura, asking if she wanted to go, and she invited me to come with her, Hannah, and John to the cinema to see "The Grand Budapest Hotel." I did that instead of going grocery shopping, and it was TOTALLY worth it! I'm not gonna post a review of the movie because I'm not a film critic, but I absolutely loved it! Go see it if you get the chance!
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Making Friends on Public Transportation
As a kid, my parents drilled "don't talk to strangers" in my brain over and over again. However, when you're in a city as friendly as Dublin, talking to strangers is okay, ESPECIALLY when you're riding public transportation with the world's friendliest commuters.
I got on the bus to go to my internship, and realized the stop I went to last time was not on this particular bus route, so I politely asked a man near me where I should hop off to walk to the Luas. He told me where, and when I got off, I must have had the most confused look on my face, because he appeared in front of me a few seconds later asking me if I needed help. He walked with me for 10+ minutes to get to the Luas - you learn a lot about someone on a walk! His name is Jerry and he's an architect that occasionally travels to the US. Hmm...what are the odds I'll see him again?
In the duration of time I was waiting for the Luas, a lady approached me asking about the Luas and which one she should take, how to use her tram card, etc, and I was able to help her through it all. I guess when you look like you're age 14-16 (I mean I still get kids' menus at some places), and you're riding public transportation by yourself, people think you know what you're doing.
On my way home, I got a nutella crepe from Gino's on Grafton Street. It was AMAZING. If you're ever in Dublin, go here. Get a crepe. Don't let the gelato tempt you.
I got on the bus to go to my internship, and realized the stop I went to last time was not on this particular bus route, so I politely asked a man near me where I should hop off to walk to the Luas. He told me where, and when I got off, I must have had the most confused look on my face, because he appeared in front of me a few seconds later asking me if I needed help. He walked with me for 10+ minutes to get to the Luas - you learn a lot about someone on a walk! His name is Jerry and he's an architect that occasionally travels to the US. Hmm...what are the odds I'll see him again?
In the duration of time I was waiting for the Luas, a lady approached me asking about the Luas and which one she should take, how to use her tram card, etc, and I was able to help her through it all. I guess when you look like you're age 14-16 (I mean I still get kids' menus at some places), and you're riding public transportation by yourself, people think you know what you're doing.
On my way home, I got a nutella crepe from Gino's on Grafton Street. It was AMAZING. If you're ever in Dublin, go here. Get a crepe. Don't let the gelato tempt you.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Feeling Glee-ful
Yeah I AM feeling Glee-ful, because Rickey and I went to see the DCU glee club perform today. Some guy in our media art class was handing out free tickets, which usually cost 5-10 euro, so of course we took advantage of this opportunity.
We went in to the theatre at 1:55 and there were like 7 people in the audience, so our expectations were immediately lowered, but I do have to say that the group surprised me, and some of the singers were actually pretty good! One of them looked like Zac Efron, so I kind of swooned over him, hahaha.
Antoine told me he is making crepes for our apartment tonight, so it's officially my favorite day of the week! Also, we're hoping to have a roommate night at the nubar, but I can't overdo it obviously because I have my internship and need to wake up at 7am. Ahhhh the life of working.
UPDATE:
We didn't end up going to the nubar, but Antoine made crepes (the healthy kind with eggs and ham) and they were DELICIOUS. Also, we're quite the sassy suite. I love us. Here are some quotes:
Katie: One day, I'M gonna cook for all of us.
Paul: I look forward to that day.
Katie: Hey Brendan, can you pass me one of the cellophane noodle things?
Brendan: not until you call it by the correct name.
Katie: uhhhhh...
Brendan: crackers.
Laura: I have to go for a swim.
Paul: You have to wait 45 minutes after eating!
Laura: thanks for the pancakes!
Antoine: never say that again. Crepes.
We went in to the theatre at 1:55 and there were like 7 people in the audience, so our expectations were immediately lowered, but I do have to say that the group surprised me, and some of the singers were actually pretty good! One of them looked like Zac Efron, so I kind of swooned over him, hahaha.
Antoine told me he is making crepes for our apartment tonight, so it's officially my favorite day of the week! Also, we're hoping to have a roommate night at the nubar, but I can't overdo it obviously because I have my internship and need to wake up at 7am. Ahhhh the life of working.
UPDATE:
We didn't end up going to the nubar, but Antoine made crepes (the healthy kind with eggs and ham) and they were DELICIOUS. Also, we're quite the sassy suite. I love us. Here are some quotes:
Katie: One day, I'M gonna cook for all of us.
Paul: I look forward to that day.
Katie: Hey Brendan, can you pass me one of the cellophane noodle things?
Brendan: not until you call it by the correct name.
Katie: uhhhhh...
Brendan: crackers.
Laura: I have to go for a swim.
Paul: You have to wait 45 minutes after eating!
Laura: thanks for the pancakes!
Antoine: never say that again. Crepes.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
First Day at My Internship
It was my first day interning at Mediateam today! I woke up at 7am, got on the bus at 8:15, got on the luas (train),and arrived at 9:50am. My day lasted from 10am-5pm: I got to meet a few of the staff members, and went right to work on editing an hour video down to a 15 minute segment. It took all day, not even kidding. Using iMovie can be tough sometimes, and I have not used iMovie since freshmen year of college. Also, importing the video into iMovie took a little over an hour.
What I learned on my first day:
-retaught myself video editing
-I should probably pack a lunch. There is a cafe (with wifi!) nearby, but it's about a 10 minute walk away. A 20 minute walk, plus the time I would take to eat, is kind of a waste.
-I successfully navigated the bus and luas system on the way there. On the way back, I was on the wrong side of the road for the bus, so I had to cross the street and wait for another bus. I ALWAYS do this, and really need to work on it.
What I learned on my first day:
-retaught myself video editing
-I should probably pack a lunch. There is a cafe (with wifi!) nearby, but it's about a 10 minute walk away. A 20 minute walk, plus the time I would take to eat, is kind of a waste.
-I successfully navigated the bus and luas system on the way there. On the way back, I was on the wrong side of the road for the bus, so I had to cross the street and wait for another bus. I ALWAYS do this, and really need to work on it.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
London Adventures
Hey readers!
I'm back from London! I left the day after St. Patrick's Day and rarely updated this blog because there was minimal wifi. I shall use this post to do a full recap of my time spent in London.
Day 1: 3/18
Not much happened. We arrived in London mid-afternoon after a flight that lasted a little over one hour. When we got to the hotel we freaked out over the wifi cost: 5 pounds for an hour, 10 for a day, or 45 pounds for five days. Yeah...I was not willing to spend 70-80 dollars on wifi. Me and my group members found out the password to the hotel's restaurant, and we frequently huddled around the couches right outside. According to Rickey, "the wifi is like crack here. Where can I get a good connection?"
Day 2: 3/19
We woke up bright and early: 6:15am to arrive at breakfast at 7. Then we used the Tube to get to the Tower of London, and toured around for a bit. We were supposed to go on this hilarious tour, but Ashlee, Nic, Laura and I were walking around before the tour, and we lost track of our group, so we did our own tour, saw the crown jewels, and many other cool things. Oh, and I saw a lady get yelled at for trying to take a picture of the crown jewels.
Later, we went to Bloomberg Magazine, which I mostly enjoyed (the free food was great!), but our tour guide was a finance major, and did not know how to relate to us.
After that, John, Hannah, Rickey, Hannah, and I went to the National Portrait Gallery and the National Art Museum. Both were spectacular. In the National Portrait Gallery, there was this exhibit called "Bailey's Stardust" which showcased Bailey's photographs of many famous people, so it was cool to walk around recognizing so many different faces.
Day 3: 3/20
Around 10am, we arrived at Bell Pottinger PR. It was more informational than Bloomberg, but we did not get to tour the facility. We basically sat at a table as if we were at a conference; we were even served sparkling water. WOAH.
Later on, went to some outdoor shopping center in Soho, and although I did not buy anything, I had a nice batch of pancakes for lunch.
I also went out that night with John, Hannah and this kid from another school, Bret. We went to a couple pubs and had some fun.
Day 4: 3/21
I was on my way down on the elevator to meet my group in the lobby, and suddenly, the elevator came to a jolt. We were stuck. Being stuck in an elevator is one of my worst fears (which the 7 strangers in the elevator now know about me), so I panicked. We got out safely and i made it to meet my group in time, but I was a tad shaken up.
We went to Westminster Abbey. It was highly educational. We also saw Big Ben (which I've seen previously as I've been to London before, yet it was still incredible to see it.).
Around 3:45, we arrived at the BBC! I could not have been more thrilled to be there, as I want to be a radio presenter after college. We saw both the TV and radio side, and in the end, five of us were selected to perform a radio drama, which I happily starred in, of course.
Around 7, I met up with one of my co-counselors from sleep-away camp, Jess. We went to grab drinks and dinner at Jamie's Italian Restaurant, and I cannot even tell you how amazing it was to see her! I had not seen her since the summer of 2011 and I definitely hope to keep in touch.
Day 5: 3/22
Rickey, Hannah, Laura and I tried to get tickets for Matilda at the West End, in the morning, but it was sold out, and the line for day of tickets was way too long. It was disappointing, but hopefully I'll see it on Broadway eventually.
After that, we went on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of London. Some of us got off the bus at a market and got the most amazing pad thai, however, after I ate, I was not feeling too well, so I took a taxi back to the hotel. When I was sitting on the couch using the wifi, my professor walked in and asked me why I was back so early (he had gone on the tour with us, and got off early as well), and I told him I hadn't felt too well but was feeling a bit better now. He asked if I wanted to come to a nearby mall with him to help pick out a present for his wife, so I did.
That night, Hannah texted me, and asked if I wanted to join her and Nic for an ice cream crawl. My answer was an immediate "YES!" We were aiming to go to 5 ice cream places, but one was closed, and we couldn't find the fifth, so we went to three ice cream places, and got brownie sundaes from a diner. It was pretty successful.
Day 6: 3/23
We had some time in the morning before our flight, so some people went to a museum, but I walked around for a bit, bought a couple presents for people, and then got on the flight back home. I loved London, but I'm happy to be back, and am waiting for all my roommates to return.
Some Pictures:
I'm back from London! I left the day after St. Patrick's Day and rarely updated this blog because there was minimal wifi. I shall use this post to do a full recap of my time spent in London.
Day 1: 3/18
Not much happened. We arrived in London mid-afternoon after a flight that lasted a little over one hour. When we got to the hotel we freaked out over the wifi cost: 5 pounds for an hour, 10 for a day, or 45 pounds for five days. Yeah...I was not willing to spend 70-80 dollars on wifi. Me and my group members found out the password to the hotel's restaurant, and we frequently huddled around the couches right outside. According to Rickey, "the wifi is like crack here. Where can I get a good connection?"
Day 2: 3/19
We woke up bright and early: 6:15am to arrive at breakfast at 7. Then we used the Tube to get to the Tower of London, and toured around for a bit. We were supposed to go on this hilarious tour, but Ashlee, Nic, Laura and I were walking around before the tour, and we lost track of our group, so we did our own tour, saw the crown jewels, and many other cool things. Oh, and I saw a lady get yelled at for trying to take a picture of the crown jewels.
Later, we went to Bloomberg Magazine, which I mostly enjoyed (the free food was great!), but our tour guide was a finance major, and did not know how to relate to us.
After that, John, Hannah, Rickey, Hannah, and I went to the National Portrait Gallery and the National Art Museum. Both were spectacular. In the National Portrait Gallery, there was this exhibit called "Bailey's Stardust" which showcased Bailey's photographs of many famous people, so it was cool to walk around recognizing so many different faces.
Day 3: 3/20
Around 10am, we arrived at Bell Pottinger PR. It was more informational than Bloomberg, but we did not get to tour the facility. We basically sat at a table as if we were at a conference; we were even served sparkling water. WOAH.
Later on, went to some outdoor shopping center in Soho, and although I did not buy anything, I had a nice batch of pancakes for lunch.
I also went out that night with John, Hannah and this kid from another school, Bret. We went to a couple pubs and had some fun.
Day 4: 3/21
I was on my way down on the elevator to meet my group in the lobby, and suddenly, the elevator came to a jolt. We were stuck. Being stuck in an elevator is one of my worst fears (which the 7 strangers in the elevator now know about me), so I panicked. We got out safely and i made it to meet my group in time, but I was a tad shaken up.
We went to Westminster Abbey. It was highly educational. We also saw Big Ben (which I've seen previously as I've been to London before, yet it was still incredible to see it.).
Around 3:45, we arrived at the BBC! I could not have been more thrilled to be there, as I want to be a radio presenter after college. We saw both the TV and radio side, and in the end, five of us were selected to perform a radio drama, which I happily starred in, of course.
Around 7, I met up with one of my co-counselors from sleep-away camp, Jess. We went to grab drinks and dinner at Jamie's Italian Restaurant, and I cannot even tell you how amazing it was to see her! I had not seen her since the summer of 2011 and I definitely hope to keep in touch.
Day 5: 3/22
Rickey, Hannah, Laura and I tried to get tickets for Matilda at the West End, in the morning, but it was sold out, and the line for day of tickets was way too long. It was disappointing, but hopefully I'll see it on Broadway eventually.
After that, we went on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of London. Some of us got off the bus at a market and got the most amazing pad thai, however, after I ate, I was not feeling too well, so I took a taxi back to the hotel. When I was sitting on the couch using the wifi, my professor walked in and asked me why I was back so early (he had gone on the tour with us, and got off early as well), and I told him I hadn't felt too well but was feeling a bit better now. He asked if I wanted to come to a nearby mall with him to help pick out a present for his wife, so I did.
That night, Hannah texted me, and asked if I wanted to join her and Nic for an ice cream crawl. My answer was an immediate "YES!" We were aiming to go to 5 ice cream places, but one was closed, and we couldn't find the fifth, so we went to three ice cream places, and got brownie sundaes from a diner. It was pretty successful.
Day 6: 3/23
We had some time in the morning before our flight, so some people went to a museum, but I walked around for a bit, bought a couple presents for people, and then got on the flight back home. I loved London, but I'm happy to be back, and am waiting for all my roommates to return.
Some Pictures:
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| Tower of London |
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| Westminster Abbey |
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| Big Ben |
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| BBC: Touring there was a dream come true! |
Monday, March 17, 2014
St. Paddy's MONDAY!!
St. Patrick's Day was absolutely crazy! Oh my goodness! I woke up at 7:00am to leave for the parade with my friends at 9:15 and all the roads were blocked off so we got let off the bus a little ways away and had to walk. We got spots very close to the front, so we had a nice clear view of the parade, but everyone was pushing and shoving. I'm not gonna go into the details about drinking, but I had an amazing time!
I left my friends from my group around 2pm to meet my friend, Carina, (from K-8th grade) by the spire. Meeting up with her was difficult because her phone only works when she has wifi, and I have an Irish phone that doesn't have apps (like whatsapp and stuff), but we managed to find each other and did a bit of bar hopping and walking. I made it back to campus around 6:30pm (I think), because I leave for England tomorrow morning and need to pack.
I left my friends from my group around 2pm to meet my friend, Carina, (from K-8th grade) by the spire. Meeting up with her was difficult because her phone only works when she has wifi, and I have an Irish phone that doesn't have apps (like whatsapp and stuff), but we managed to find each other and did a bit of bar hopping and walking. I made it back to campus around 6:30pm (I think), because I leave for England tomorrow morning and need to pack.
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| Light up flashing glasses are fun |
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| Parade People |
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| Carina and Me |
Sunday, March 16, 2014
St. Paddy's Sunday
Mossy (the Irish counselor from my sleep-away camp) and I hung out today, but we didn't go to Wicklow as originally planned. Instead, we went to the city centre, strolled around a bit, grabbed McDonald's for dinner (it was my second time eating there this weekend/second time eating there in like 4 years), strolled around a bit more, and went looking for a good pub to grab a drink at. We ended up at Doyle's Pub and it was quite cozy! Afterwards, we walked around a bit more. I kept calling him "Mossy my friendly neighborhood tour guide", because we would stop somewhere and he would point out a very important landmark and start reciting all the history about it.
Also this picture was taken tonight. We walked into an alleyway and he was like "oh I love the dubliners!" so naturally, I decided to pose in front of the big sign. There I am, hehe.
I'm off to the St. Paddy's day parade tomorrow morning! I cannot wait to wear all my green stuff! (Green hair extensions for the win!)
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Behold! Bailey's Chocolate Chip Cheesecake from Queen of Tarts! I might have posted this before (or I at least posted the Queen of Tarts sign), but posting it a second time delineates just how delicious it is. Rickey, Hannah, John, Laura (all people from my school group), and I went to Queen of Tarts, walked around for a bit to take in the scenery near St. Patrick's Cathedral, and then went to Bobo's Burgers for dinner. The four of them saw a play and I had to meet them by the Spire in City Centre - which I managed successfully. Hold the applause please, ladies and gents.
I did not do anything Paddy's Weekend related today, and I might be traveling to Wicklow tomorrow (waiting for my friend to let me know in the morning), but I'm meeting up with one of my childhood friends who is in Dublin for the week, on Monday! So psyched!
Friday, March 14, 2014
Kickin' Off St. Patrick's Weekend!
I'm not too sure what I'm doing for the rest of the weekend, but it will all be St. Patrick's Day related of course. One of my friends who I went to school with for 9 years is in Dublin for the weekend, and we're supposed to meet up! Also, I might be going to Wicklow on Sunday with my camp friend, Mossy.
I'm really looking forward to this weekend. It's most peoples' dream to be in Dublin for St. Patrick's Day (or weekend hahaha), and here I am! I'm gonna make the most of it!!
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Just Chillin' in the Galaxy
Petrol, Fish & Fries
Last weekend while I was exploring Howth, I started making a list of American terms and their Irish counterpart. I've been meaning to do this ever since Shane asked me, "do you call fish & chips, fish and fries in America?" When I arrive home, I shall use all of these terms! Special thanks to Paul, Laura, Lauren, Shane, Thomas, and Rory, to name a few.
USA: Ireland:
Fries Chips
Pantry Press
Gas Petrol
Vacuum Hoover
What's good? What's the craic/any craic?
Bellhop Porter
12 pt. font Size 12 font
Sneakers Runners
Highway Motorway
Laundry Wash
11:30 Half 11
Cool Deadly
Cell Phone Mobile
Major Concentration/study/course
House Gaff
Paper-cutter Guillotine
to-go food take-away food
to-go food take-away food
I often refer to my roommates as my "suitemates", and my housing as my "suite". This morning, I grabbed coffee with Lauren and found out that they never call our dorms suites because to them, a suite is a really fancy and expensive room. These rooms aren't so fancy.
I hope to update this list once a week!
I went to Carrolls today with two people from my group, and we got St. Paddy's day accessories. I now own a pair of light-up green shamrock glasses. Life is good.
OH! I almost forgot...I had bubble tea for my first time ever, and it was AMAZING!!! I've been wanting to try it ever since a place near my house opened business.
OH! I almost forgot...I had bubble tea for my first time ever, and it was AMAZING!!! I've been wanting to try it ever since a place near my house opened business.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Last European Cinema Course Tomorrow
Contemporary European Cinema
Tomorrow is my last day of my course, Contemporary European Cinema. I cannot believe how quick the course went by, and the fact that I've watched 16 movies in 5 and a half weeks is well beyond me. I think that amount is more than I've seen in the past year!
My professor gave us all an extension for our film papers, so we now have until Friday. THANK GOD...because I was on page 8 last weekend, and now after lots of editing, I'm back to page 6 out of 8-11.
Looking back on this course, it has definitely been a challenge, but a worthy challenge. I've had to watch movies that I would never in a million years have chosen to watch on my own. I'm more of a family-comedy type of movie watcher. The "Pink Panther" series is my favorite.
Pesticide Removal Day:
The exterminators came around 10am, and I had booked it out of my room well before then to go work on my paper. When I arrived back in my room around 12pm, my mattress was off my bed, the window was open, and now my room is free of pesticides, same as it was before the procedure. I still have to unpack my suitcase and put everything back in my closet...so it's like I'm moving in again. Honestly, I don't know why I went through all the effort to pack up my suitcase, when according to my roommate Paul, I only had to take my sheets and blanket off my bed. I guess I'm a little OCD about chemicals getting on my clothes.
Tomorrow is my last day of my course, Contemporary European Cinema. I cannot believe how quick the course went by, and the fact that I've watched 16 movies in 5 and a half weeks is well beyond me. I think that amount is more than I've seen in the past year!
My professor gave us all an extension for our film papers, so we now have until Friday. THANK GOD...because I was on page 8 last weekend, and now after lots of editing, I'm back to page 6 out of 8-11.
Looking back on this course, it has definitely been a challenge, but a worthy challenge. I've had to watch movies that I would never in a million years have chosen to watch on my own. I'm more of a family-comedy type of movie watcher. The "Pink Panther" series is my favorite.
Pesticide Removal Day:
The exterminators came around 10am, and I had booked it out of my room well before then to go work on my paper. When I arrived back in my room around 12pm, my mattress was off my bed, the window was open, and now my room is free of pesticides, same as it was before the procedure. I still have to unpack my suitcase and put everything back in my closet...so it's like I'm moving in again. Honestly, I don't know why I went through all the effort to pack up my suitcase, when according to my roommate Paul, I only had to take my sheets and blanket off my bed. I guess I'm a little OCD about chemicals getting on my clothes.
Monday, March 10, 2014
Pesticide Prevention and Visa
I've been in Ireland for a little over a month, and now I'm all packed up...for pesticide prevention day.
As ambiguous of a photo that this is, it's my suitcase, fully packed. My closet is empty and my desk is mostly cleaned off. Some people are coming to spray our rooms tomorrow - this procedure is done once a semester. It's mostly just the bed, window, and desk being sprayed (I think), but I don't want any chemicals to get on my clothes since I did laundry today.
Earlier we took a bus down to the GNIB and got our visas! Woohoo!! We went straight from class, arrived at 4:45pm, and sat there waiting for our names to be called until about 9:00pm. The wait was tedious, so thank goodness I had my headphones with me, and was able to pass the time listening to music. I was SO HUNGRY and me and my friend Rickey quickly stopped in a tiny bakery, where we ate a wonderful "dinner" of snickers bars. We ate a real dinner around 9:15ish. Regardless, it's all over and now I can remain in the country until June. Now it's really time to start exploring Europe.
Earlier we took a bus down to the GNIB and got our visas! Woohoo!! We went straight from class, arrived at 4:45pm, and sat there waiting for our names to be called until about 9:00pm. The wait was tedious, so thank goodness I had my headphones with me, and was able to pass the time listening to music. I was SO HUNGRY and me and my friend Rickey quickly stopped in a tiny bakery, where we ate a wonderful "dinner" of snickers bars. We ate a real dinner around 9:15ish. Regardless, it's all over and now I can remain in the country until June. Now it's really time to start exploring Europe.
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Howth!
Oh my goodness I have been looking forward to blogging about this day for the entire week! Me and some friends - Lauren and Thomas - went to Howth!! I have been looking forward to traveling here since Lauren and I talked about it last week, and it was ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!!!
Lauren has a car, so she picked me and Thomas up from DCU, and we drove 20 minutes to our destination. Some people from my group went to Howth a couple weeks ago and they had to take a train, so I was lucky that Lauren drove since it took less time. Also - I learned from Lauren, "car gas" is called "petrol" here.
We did one of the cliff walks and it was a little windy and rocky, but I had the most amazing time exploring. I'm definitely gonna go back!!
Lauren has a car, so she picked me and Thomas up from DCU, and we drove 20 minutes to our destination. Some people from my group went to Howth a couple weeks ago and they had to take a train, so I was lucky that Lauren drove since it took less time. Also - I learned from Lauren, "car gas" is called "petrol" here.
We did one of the cliff walks and it was a little windy and rocky, but I had the most amazing time exploring. I'm definitely gonna go back!!
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| Ireland's Eye |
Friday, March 7, 2014
Skype Sessions
It's Friday...which means my three Irish suitemates are home, and my French suitemate is on a weekend retreat with the hiking club. I'm alone and writing my European Cinema paper that's due Wednesday. I'm on page 4 out of 8-10, so I'm basically halfway done!!
I skyped with my best friend from college at home, Tayla, whom I lived with for two years. She is studying abroad in Florence and when we got on skype, I teared up. She's basically my other half and I miss her SO MUCH!! I also skyped with my guy best friend from college, Jason. I don't miss home, but I miss Tayla and Jason dearly and cannot wait to be reunited with them in the Fall.
I'm going to Howthe on either Saturday or Sunday with Lauren, and I think her friend Thomas is supposed to come with us too! I won't know until tomorrow morning when we're gonna go, because Lauren has a flying lesson on one day depending on the rain (she's an aviation major!). Regardless, I'm excited to see this part of Ireland!
UPDATE: It's 12:15am and I just finished my 3rd skype session of the day with my friend, Tara. I miss her as well! I think Skype Friday is starting to become a thing.
UPDATE: It's 12:15am and I just finished my 3rd skype session of the day with my friend, Tara. I miss her as well! I think Skype Friday is starting to become a thing.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Pancake Tuesday!!
I have class at 9am tomorrow, and it's about 12:30am as I'm writing this, but I absolutely have to blog about my day before I forget.
Pancake Tuesday (Fat Tuesday??) was today!! Probably one of my favorite days of bonding with my suitemates so far! We made pancakes for dinner, and they were SO GOOD!! Here is a picture of our wonderfully crafted (and uneaten) pancake suite mascot: Paul the Pancake Polar Bear! Named after my suitemate, Paul, of course.
We finished off Pancake Tuesday by going to the Nubar and having a couple drinks. It's Shite Nite (every Tuesday), so the Nubar was absolutely packed, but we had a good time. Every time I go out with my suitemates I have an absolutely wonderful time, and I'm so thankful that they are in my life.
Pancake Tuesday (Fat Tuesday??) was today!! Probably one of my favorite days of bonding with my suitemates so far! We made pancakes for dinner, and they were SO GOOD!! Here is a picture of our wonderfully crafted (and uneaten) pancake suite mascot: Paul the Pancake Polar Bear! Named after my suitemate, Paul, of course.
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| Our masterpiece |
And more pictures from Pancake Tuesday:
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| Paul flips a pancake |
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| Eat up! |
Monday, March 3, 2014
Not gonna lie, I was having a pretty rough day until one of my roommates, Paul, texted me telling me he and two of his friends that I know were at the nubar and that I should come join them. It's the little things like that that matter to me and I'm so lucky to have amazing roommates and to have made some wonderful friends here! Lauren told me about this horse racing event in April that people dress really fancy for, and I would love to experience that!
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Weekend Plans
I was sitting at my desk working on a paper, as well as my presentation on the films Rosetta and Holy Motors that's for tomorrow, but I decided to take a break to blog for a bit and update you all on my weekend.
Friday (February 28th)
I skyped with my friend Lily who is currently studying abroad in China. Had not seen her since we both visited school in January, so it was very nice to hear from her.
Saturday (March 1st)
Well, my whole building complex had to go outside for a fire alarm at 10am. Great start to the morning! I'd been awake since 7, but being forced to go out into the cold and stand there for 20+ minutes was not fun. It was a REAL fire alarm too! Someone probably overcooked their breakfast.
I also began my European Cinema film analysis essay. I'm writing about Billy Elliot, which believe it or not, I had never seen until a week ago.
Around 11pm, me and a bunch of people from my school from home went out to The Hairy Lemon (a bar) and Coppers. I've blogged about Coppers before. It's a night club and it's SO MUCH BETTER than the ones near my college at home. It's still kinda dirty and crowded, but I actually have a lot of fun going out there and dancing like a fool :).
We must have left the club around 2:30am and went to a nearby diner. The diner was crowded as well and we had to wait a few minutes to be seated. The citizens of Dublin go out until like 5 in the morning, so restaurants are crowded even at 2-3am. It's CRAZY. After ordering milkshakes that unfortunately did not live up to our expectations, we took a taxi home and got back at approximately 4am.
Sunday (March 2nd)
After going to bed at 4am, I thought I was going to have my first late wake-up. I woke up to the birds chirping, and to a bright blue sky! -...at 7:30am. While I appreciate waking up early as I want to prepare for my future career as a radio personality or journalist (hopefully I'll have a morning show some day!), I'm absolutely bewildered that my body clock is doing this to me.
I met up with my friend Liz around 1 and we went to the OmniPlex mall for lunch. Finally, my first good meal of the week (because I didn't cook it)! Liz is really nice, and it's nice to have a friend that isn't from my school group or my suitemates (because they go home on weekends :( ).
Oh! I've been wanting to travel for a while, but people from my school group already booked a lot of places and I mostly want to explore around Ireland (with the exception of Prague - I'm going in April!). I finally decided to ask my suitemate's friend who is really nice (and also loves "Despicable Me" just like myself) if she'll travel with me next weekend, and we're gonna try and go to Howthe! hopefully I'll get my film analysis paper out of the way by then!
Friday (February 28th)
I skyped with my friend Lily who is currently studying abroad in China. Had not seen her since we both visited school in January, so it was very nice to hear from her.
Saturday (March 1st)
Well, my whole building complex had to go outside for a fire alarm at 10am. Great start to the morning! I'd been awake since 7, but being forced to go out into the cold and stand there for 20+ minutes was not fun. It was a REAL fire alarm too! Someone probably overcooked their breakfast.
I also began my European Cinema film analysis essay. I'm writing about Billy Elliot, which believe it or not, I had never seen until a week ago.
Around 11pm, me and a bunch of people from my school from home went out to The Hairy Lemon (a bar) and Coppers. I've blogged about Coppers before. It's a night club and it's SO MUCH BETTER than the ones near my college at home. It's still kinda dirty and crowded, but I actually have a lot of fun going out there and dancing like a fool :).
We must have left the club around 2:30am and went to a nearby diner. The diner was crowded as well and we had to wait a few minutes to be seated. The citizens of Dublin go out until like 5 in the morning, so restaurants are crowded even at 2-3am. It's CRAZY. After ordering milkshakes that unfortunately did not live up to our expectations, we took a taxi home and got back at approximately 4am.
Sunday (March 2nd)
After going to bed at 4am, I thought I was going to have my first late wake-up. I woke up to the birds chirping, and to a bright blue sky! -...at 7:30am. While I appreciate waking up early as I want to prepare for my future career as a radio personality or journalist (hopefully I'll have a morning show some day!), I'm absolutely bewildered that my body clock is doing this to me.
I met up with my friend Liz around 1 and we went to the OmniPlex mall for lunch. Finally, my first good meal of the week (because I didn't cook it)! Liz is really nice, and it's nice to have a friend that isn't from my school group or my suitemates (because they go home on weekends :( ).
Oh! I've been wanting to travel for a while, but people from my school group already booked a lot of places and I mostly want to explore around Ireland (with the exception of Prague - I'm going in April!). I finally decided to ask my suitemate's friend who is really nice (and also loves "Despicable Me" just like myself) if she'll travel with me next weekend, and we're gonna try and go to Howthe! hopefully I'll get my film analysis paper out of the way by then!
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Pictures
Hey blog readers!
I have not been exploring the city too much recently because I'm at the halfway point for my accelerated home college course, and the work is piling up. Instead of informing you about what I did today (I mean...I highly doubt you want to hear about my studying and preparation for a film presentation), I am going to post some pictures!
I have not been exploring the city too much recently because I'm at the halfway point for my accelerated home college course, and the work is piling up. Instead of informing you about what I did today (I mean...I highly doubt you want to hear about my studying and preparation for a film presentation), I am going to post some pictures!
Sweater trees in Cork:
Blarney Castle: (I was really tired)
Blarney Castle bench
Key West Band in City Centre
I don't take a ton of photos as I've never owned a real camera. My iPhone functions just fine for picture taking, though it doesn't provide the best quality. I really should take more photos, but you know what some people say, "the mind is the best camera."
Enjoy!
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