This Non-American Life

I have been in Dublin for the past 2 days. Not long. But it feels much longer than that.

Time does feel like it moves much more slowly here. It took me a while to realize (or should I type realise?) that I am half-way across the world. I am not really homesick. I have been talking to my family quite frequently using Skype. I have settled in and I just need to organise a few things before I take pics of my room. However I have a few pics of what little I have done thus far. I met two ladies that attend DCU and we have got on swimmingly! Until Sunday, I will be the only on in my apartment and I think even my building. I have been spending plenty of time in my room making friends with my pillows (ie. recovering from jet lag).

These photos are my last view of Phoenix. This pic is of Glendale arena and Cardinal stadium.

I'm not sure how I feel about missing the sun and the heat. It is getting cooler here by the day and I chuckle to see people walking around in "Phoenix attire" (shorts and a t-shirt) when it's 45 degrees out.


The plane ride was long, as expected, but nothing I couldn't handle. I was almost left in JFK because I couldn't find my way around fast enough to get my Aer Lingus boarding pass. But the inflight meal was decent and they had movies and TV shows to choose from including Family Guy. The flight did get a bit long, and the seats weren't as comfortable as I thought they would be, but none-the-less I'm happy to be here.


It was very cloudy as we flew over Ireland. But soon enough I saw lovely farms! I am trying to make my way to the grocery store. And I'm having slight issues with formatting. But don't worry, I will have more to blog about when I return!

Bye bye Miss.American Pie...

It's eight hours before I have to be at the airport and 10 hours before my flight departs to New York. It still hasn't sunk in that I'm leaving. I haven't thought about the fact that I won't see my family for a good portion of the year, or my bed, or the familiarity of my grandmother's house. Well, I mean I have thought about it, I did just now. But it doesn't hit me in the sentimental way. I guess that is good. Like ignorance being blissful. I bet if I had traveled to Ireland prior to applying to this school I probably would have talked myself out of doing so. Telling myself that I wouldn't like the weather or the distance of the university to the city centre. The thing that has been worrying me the most is getting through security at the airport. I don't want them throwing out my items, losing my luggage or stealing it. I need to think positive thoughts, such as, "Everything will turn out fine. I will have an easy and wonderful trip."

I packed two 60 lb. bags, a duffel carry-on and a "purse." I am checking my two 60 lb. bags all the way through to Dublin with Aer Lingus. They allow up to 70 lbs. for each bag and the first checked bag is free, the second checked bag is $50. Not too bad considering what other airlines charge.

I still have things strewn across my bed and I don't think I'll make it to sleep anytime soon. I'm supposed to be up at 6:30 a.m. because my family wants to take me out to breakfast before I have to arrive at the airport.

I'm going to go put more things in order and fix my hair. My work here is never done.

One Week Until Departure

I have most things taken care of, but I'm still lacking items in need of packing. I'm looking for my ipod cord, a pair of winter boots and a white bra from Victoria's Secret. The new Body by Victoria bras are so comfortable. I have been trying to find a way to discount the bra through buying discounted gift cards or finding online coupon codes. So far no success.

I have one suitcase only half-packed, but I think that it has already exceeded the 50 lb. limit.
I need to weigh it.

I have been experiencing emotions of sadness and depression with my departure date so close. I know that it's natural to experience nervousness, but I think the sadness has been stemming from me thinking that no one will miss me while I'm away. I think my family has been too distant even though I am leaving in a week. My own mother hasn't seen me in person since last week!

I was so happy to have time to spend with those important to me either on the phone, at lunch or at my going away gathering. I have shared laughs and advice with everyone and their motivation has inspired me.

I can't wait to get out of this sauna. Which reminds me, I have to call and confirm my room and arrival arrangement. I sent money, and since then haven't heard from them. Is this how it always is? No response once the money is out?

I still haven't heard let alone received my laptop from Best Buy. Really guys? What's up? The corporation has had it for over a month! I'm leaving in a week! SEND MY COMPUTER HOME!

Well, I think I'm going to call Ireland and find out about the room and then go to sleep. I have to do more packing and hopefully family time tomorrow.