I’m back.
Leaving Ireland as well as going to Ireland feels more like a dream I have only just awaken from.
The number one question I am asked about my time abroad is, “Could you imagine yourself living there?” And my answer is always, despite my deep affection for this tiny island, no. This reality is one that surprises even me. Everything about my trip to Ireland is all that I could have ever imagined, and more. Even so, when I think of Ireland I think of a picture-perfect fairy-tale, and honestly, that is exactly the way I want it to stay.
The best way I can describe Irish people is kindness that can only be matched by the volume of their voices. They are genuine by nature and are willing to give anybody and everybody a hug if need be. Regardless of the immense amount of beautiful sights, the people that made up Ireland were and are my favorite part of the entire country.
Trips worth mentioning:
Paris.
Paris is exactly what every poet has ever written it to be and every artist has drawn it out to be. Stepping into Paris is, quite literally, like stepping into a black and white movie. Shuffling feet, various noses dug into various books, and the distant but distinct smell of urine. Parisians are rumored to be ill-mannered and arrogant. I would have to refute this, but I understand the argument. The truth is truly that they just don’t care about the same things westerners care about. They aren’t concerned about what time you said to meet them for dinner, they aren’t aware of just how close they’re standing next you (or if they put deodorant on that morning), or whether or not you were waiting to get on the train first. They don’t care about these things because they care about so much more–they care about every second of every day and how important it is to write down what they’re thinking, profess what they feel, and create what they’re passionate about. The point is that every single little detail matters and because of that manuals and penciled-in appointments don’t. I think we should all live a little more like the Parisians.
Barcelona.
I went to Barcelona for my birthday and it was a dream and a half. I danced to merengue and salsa with Spaniards, ate churros in spanish restaurants, ogled (+ drooled over) Picasso’s artwork, and drank lots of free sangria (people really knew how to treat a girl on her birthday!!!) all the while being accompanied by my best friend. I could not have imagined a more ideal twenty-first birthday.
My heart leaps for joy when I think of my trip of a lifetime!! And yet, not even a part of me is sad to be back. I am so thankful for this opportunity and so excited for my trips ahead. This past one has taught me how to live into my wandering ways and desires while also teaching me to be grateful for the Florida sun.
Until next time,
Adrienne