Travel thoughts

Yesterday I was reading a fellow Canadian's blog about his travels to Ireland. His latest post talked about the one year anniversary of his departure from Canada, to which he has returned, and the many changes he had experienced and the discoveries he had made. All of which had me wondering where I would be in one year, or even two once my Visa expired. I mean, one month ago I was in Dublin, thinking I would work at my office job for two years. So one year? There is no way I can predict that. As my wise cousin once said: "We think we know how things are going to go, when in fact we have no clue whatsoever. We have no control." One thing I do know, is that if change comes along, you're better off grabbing it with both hands than try to fight against it. Because whether you want it or not, it will force its way in.

I was discussing these changes with my parents earlier today and how one matures when travelling. From my experience, I have formed the opinion that everyone should, in their twenties, spend a considerable amount of time abroad. Two or three weeks will allow you to see the tourists attractions, sure, but it won't introduce you to the country's different way of life. I would also suggest doing some travelling alone. It is amazing how tough we realize we are when we have no one to count on but ourselves. It also shows you that in the end, you are your own best friend. It might sound tacky, but it's true. Trusting yourself is a lot more useful than having to rely on someone else's judgement to get you by. Something I learned was to take risks and not be afraid to make a mistake (which I learned by making mistakes, and then realizing it wasn't such a big deal). For example, I dyed my hair purple today. That's right, the whole hair population on my head is now bright purple. I also entered a singing competition. My point is that after you dare to do something a bit crazy, the little risks won't seem that frightening anymore.

Another example is the trip I just booked to Munich in Germany for Christmas. I will be spending Christmas in a hostel, in a country I have never been to, with people I have never met. Why? Because I'll be alone for Christmas anyways, so I might as well go play tourist. And because I heard that they have wicked markets that time of year. But I didn't research the whole country before booking my flight. I just know which city I'm going to. Now, six months ago, that would have been quite anxiety inducing. But now, I figure that if I managed to do it in Dublin a few months ago, I can do it again. Plus, it should be easier this time since I don't have to work hard to find a job and an apartment quickly. I can just sit back and be a tourist (something I still haven't done in Ireland yet). Needless to say, I am very excited for my trip. Know what I'm even more excited for? My dad coming over to visit me in a month. It'll be six months that I haven't seen him. It's also his first time in Europe, so I bet it's exciting for him also.

And to end this post on a good note, I present to you the monster I found at the market today:

I apologize in advance if you have nightmares about it tonight.

The Heineken Cup was this week, Ireland vs Germany (the irony). Germany won 3-0, which is probably why I didn't hear anything about it the following day. 

Third time is the charm

Evening folks!

I am writing to you from my third apartment, in the center of Galway city. Let's just say, moving was a great decision. I like this city a lot more than Dublin; it's less crowded, it's cleaner, less dusty, closer to the ocean and the people are nicer. Everything is less hurried than in Dublin. Another thing that I like is how small it is. Everyone told me that I would get bored because it's small, but not me. Since the city isn't that big, it means that living in the center of the city allows me to have everything nearby. They also have a market every Saturday where I get most of my groceries.

I have met some interesting people in my few weeks here, and so I have had a few interesting talks. I also found out they have an archery club in town with beginner classes, for which I am on the waiting list. Ah, the joys of shooting stuff. Speaking of socializing, the guys at work have made it their mission to teach me the Irish ways. And so, last Sunday, I had my first true hangover, meaning I stayed in bed all day feeling nauseated. Let's just say I was close to swearing off alcohol forever that day. But moving on.

I have finally found a salon that will do my crazy hair colors, and it happens to be next door to where I work, which means I will finally be able to dye my hair to the color I wanted in June without having to go to Dublin for it. Oh how things work out.

But enough chit chat, I was cleaning through my cellphone and now have new pictures to show:

First off, my new haircut! (Ok, it was like two months ago, but the point still holds)

Nice little street name with the address 0

My very first Guinness, which made me tipsy, but I finished the whole pint!

Found this genius little graffiti on a bridge

I went wondering around Dublin (and to be honest I really remember where that was) and found this on the street

A picture of what Grafton Street looked like back in the day

The Oyster Festival Parade in Galway 

Take that, you English people you!