Day 112

Today I met a slightly crazed lady on the bus. She ran into me several times in her haste to get somewhere. Where? I had no idea given the way she was dressed. He wild bright red hair was pin-straight and hardly seemed real. Her makeup was about the same and she had a small Marilyn Monroe piercing, more appropriate for someone my age than her fifty years or so. She had on a white coat with a sort of fur vest/poncho thing over it and high heels. Her purse was gaudy, much like the Juicy Couture pieces of crap I see rich sixteen-year-old girls carrying around, and in her other hand was a fancy pink shopping bag. Out of pure curiosity and boredom, I peeked into her bags while I was standing behind her. Her purse contained a roll of toilet paper for certain and other trinkets I couldn't recognize. The shopping bag had nothing more than a few white ceramic cups rolling around. It was weird and by the looks of everyone else as she exited the bus, they thought so too.

Day 111

Today I met an adorable girl who found me my dream dress. It's my last day in Paris and I was off to go shopping but not without some serious reservations. I had heard horror stories of Americans not being helped in shops and the smartly decorated windows and fine clothes made me feel a bit out of place. But, I was determined to find something and told myself, it's like Pretty Woman, you've got the money. If they don't want to help, they just lost a sale. I walked in one store and found nothing. The second store I walked in a tiny sales associate with gorgeous bushbaby eyes greeted me and thankfully, spoke English. I told her what I wanted and she went around the store grabbing me pretty much anything that wasn't black. The second dress she grabbed was beautiful. I was in love with it the moment I saw it. I tried on three different dresses and each time I came out of the dressing room she greeted me and accessorised the dress appropriately. But, we both knew the dress I saw was the one. It was the second one I tried on in Paris and it was a done deal. Perfectly easy and an enjoyable experience rolled into one. What more could a shopping lover want on the last day in Paris?

Day 110

Today I met Audiele (totally guessing on the spelling). She was a perfect example of "don't judge a book by it's cover." I was sitting on the Metro when this lady jumped on with her husband. The man was sophisticated with his turtle neck, navy blazer and smart glasses and the woman seemed to enjoy being his arm candy. However, this piece of candy was a bit of a mess. He bleach-blonde hair was teased to the point of a rat's nest which was complimented by a bright turquoise sparkly eyeliner and hot pink lipstick that looked like a two-year-old had drawn on her face with no attempt to stay in the lines. I was appalled. She seemed to be completely in her own world and with the way she looked, I can't say I expected much intelligence out of her especially after she strangely smiled at us with gray coloured teeth. Of course, I had to make a comment to Shannon and not 30 seconds after, the woman asked where we were from with a sincere smile. For six or so more stops we talked about what we did and what they did and surprisingly enough, she was French and fluent in eight languages and was teaching Russian and French in the States. Her husband was American and owned a software company in California. Needless to say, I was shocked at this discovery and she even loved America. Like, really loved it. After they said goodbye over and over and disappeared off the Metro I felt the need to slap myself on the wrist. She ended up being one of the nicest ladies and I was about to write her off. Shame on me. However, if for some reason I did get to know her better, you can be sure I would be taking her on a trip to Sephora for some new makeup and serious lessons on application.

Day 109

Today I met Mark, and guess what? He's Australian. It's Christmas and what else is there to do but drink when you don't have family or guests to entertain? Well, I guess you drink then too. Point is, we spent the night at Shannon's hostel bar for a night of Australians and creeps. After a few glasses of champagne we met Mark, a 29 year old guy who was taking a break from managing his own company. He was a loud party animal and would surely be a frat guy with his muscles and tight t-shirt had he been American. It was hard to believe he was twenty nine but he seems to be a freak of nature anyways. He claims himself to get younger every year and I had to agree once I saw his passport picture from a few years ago. I'm telling you, this "Mark" in the picture looked like a dorky teacher I had in seventh grade with glasses, combed hair and looked to be in his late thirties. Craziest thing I've ever seen and now I wish I had a copy of it or something. In our drunken state we got to talking about my devastating fallout with my best friend after witnessing two "BFFs" make out in the corner. Nice. But he did protect me from the actual creepy, late thirties, dorky guys with bad teeth so I was happy.

Day 108

Today I met, well, again this is going to be rough one so I'll call him Bob. Not very original but it's early and that's all I could come up with on my tired mind. So I met Bob at breakfast, another Australian of course and after talking for a few I realised he was looking for something to do. He had just gotten in from Australia and was frankly too tired to plan anything himself. So, being the hospitable person that I am, I invited him along so that he didn't have to sit there until he passed out from exhaustion. After we had talked on the train we realised we had a lot in common. Both of us are a quarter Polish, have one younger sibling, other rather trivial things but he seemed to find the similarities fascinating. I started noticing things getting weird when he mentioned that he "loves" a polish girl and that I had all the typical features. I had to disagree considering my cheekbones are almost nonexistent under my baby fat cheeks. Anyways, Bob was very enthusiastic about travel and at 25 years old had traveled most of Europe and Asia. His curly hair peeking out of his obnoxious Russian fur hat and his need to take pictures of himself jumping in front of monuments (you know, like High School Musical or something?) proved him to be a tourist for the rest of his days. Despite this, he was a good companion for an afternoon, however I did not know that he must have saw that afternoon as something magical. The days following I have been chased, interrupted and tracked down in order for Bob to speak to me again. His puppy dog eyes make me feel bad for not spending every waking moment with him but, quite simply, I don't want to sit for another hour listening to his love for Poland and his other travels. I don't mean to be mean but I feel a bit sorry for him. Traveling is a wonderful thing and I envy him for all the places he has been but at what point do you isolate yourself completely? It was as if he hadn't seen another pretty girl in ages and to me, what's the point in traveling if you never are able to build a relationship with someone enough to share it with them? I wish him all the best but for right now I'm creeped out and hope I can sneak out today without another awkward encounter.

Day 107

Today I met Matt from Maryland. A relatively quiet guy but he decided to join our group on a trip to Versailles. He was a little reserved on the half hour train ride there but once he joined the conversation he was a cool guy to talk to. Nothing odd whatsoever. Boy, were we wrong. It all started to get weird when Matt wasn't sure if he wanted to pay for a ticket to the palace. Very strange considering we just spent a large chunk of the day and five euro getting out there. He ended up buying one after a few complaints and we continued on. After getting inside it was pee time before we embarked on our tour of room after room after room. When Shannon and I came back out of the bathroom, Matt was gone. I had just told him that we would meet him right back where we were in the courtyard but he was nowhere in sight. We waited. We waited some more. No Matt. I'm not sure if he didn't like us, if he was abducted by aliens momentarily or if he tried to refund his ticket but that kid was long gone. I'm really not a scary person. At least me and a few other people don't think so.

Day 106

Today I met Kat and Shayne, two of the many many Australians I would meet on, what else but a trip to Paris? Seriously. Anyways the girls and I spent most of the trip with the small hostel room to ourselves with which became strewn with clothes from the three of us. It was a great hostel experience probably because it felt like our own little flat. The girls are both nurses living in Oxford and have spent years traveling around the world to places I only wish I had the chance to see. They honestly spend all the money they earn on traveling and the experiences they have in each country. Shayne, god love her, lived in Galway for six months, a new dream of mine since I was there a few months ago. She even used to work at the club I ended up at the end of my one crazy night in Galway. Such a small world. Their easy morning routine and quick pace walking through the streets of Paris just goes to show how comfortable they are in a life of travel and waking up on another bottom bunk. I know my neck sure can't handle it.

Day 105

Today I met Boris and I will take him home with me if it is the last thing I do. He is a little on the pudgy side and his skin is spotted with gray and black spots. He doesn't have much hair to speak of but I found him handsome all the same when his big eyes looked up at me adoringly. The truth is, Boris is a sea cow, a sea lion, what have you and I am in love. I came up to the edge of the pier after lunch to peer down at the most adorable freakin thing I've ever seen in my life. Although he was in water, he seemed to sit up at the prospect of a fish being thrown his way. Of course, I didn't have any fish and I immediately felt terrible as he looked at me with the absolute epitome of puppy dog eyes. He lives in the water with six other of his friends and despite the fact that he may weigh as much as myself plus five others, I want him. Screw adopting a dog. I have found a sea cow that I have named Boris and he will be my everlasting love. I will warn you, I write this after half a bottle of wine but Shannon will vouch for me that my love is true and Boris may be one of the best people/animal/miscellaneous things I have ever met. Boris, I hope you don't hate me for leaving you fishless. I will be back for you.

Day 104

Today I met a lovely waitress who fed me some of the greatest fish I've had in a while. She worked at an adorable restaurant right off the pier in Howth. It didn't seat more than fifteen people. She was nice enough to give us a couple spots by the window that had previously been reserved and despite how cold it was in there, I enjoyed some amazing seafood for a close to impossible price of about nine euro (unheard of in Europe or anywhere near Dublin for that matter. Although it was too cold to walk around, the trip was worth the fantastic food, great service and well, my next entry.

Day 103

Today I met Roberta, a german girl I believe who was a friend of a friend. Nothing too special here though. She didn't seem to want to get to know many of us and kind of wandered off in her own little world after she threw me her coat, her friend's coat and her bag to stash. Sorry, not much to say about this one. She had brown hair.

Day 102

Today I met Francis, a ginger (yay). We started talking after a well-executed "Have you met..." by Elise. He was out DD for his brother and his friend having a drink before they went to...duh duh duh...Copper's. If I haven't mentioned Copper's before, or in case you smartly chose to forget, the saying goes, "If you can't score at Copper's, you can't score anywhere." The line is always packed two blocks long with horny guys and slutty girls freezing their you-know-whats off. I have been in Dublin for about 4 months now and have yet to go in. Somehow, maybe it was the Guinness running through my bloodstream, but Francis convinced me to go with them. They convinced me I wouldn't have to wait and they would watch out for me. So after a couple more drinks and a quick sing-a-long to "Fairytale of New York", off we went into the icy night as I cursed myself for ever agreeing to this. Low and behold, Francis's brother and his friend got in, but we were left out in the cold. Considering there were no other bars open, back to The Bleeding Horse we went and Francis and I had a great rest of the night. He was sweet and was apparently happy to have an "actual conversation" with someone. That's what you get for spending your nights at Copper's: a whole lot of leg but no brain.

Day 101

Today I met Timmy. I was a little nervous because my experience with "Timmy"s has not been a pleasant one. Case and point: roommate. Anyways, we were out for one of our last few hoorahs together and Elise had her camera. Of course, what happens when you mix a camera and a bar? Well, you get hundreds of random pictures with equally random strangers. Timmy was one of those strangers. I'm not sure what his deal was but he was dressed in a very undone tuxedo with suspenders but no tie and a pair of 3D glasses to top it off. Needless to say, I didn't really understand it. Some of the girls were taken by his staggering height, scruff and chin piercing (I guess you would call it?) but I wasn't. I just sat back and watched his sad attempt to be the suave Irishman us Americans are dying to sleep with. Not to worry though, we did get some great pictures out of the encounter, some of which involve licking I believe given that I remember hearing "Oh my god. My tongue totally touched his face."

Day 100

Can you believe it? Today I met Victoria, a freakin gorgeous girl that, not to my surprise, turned out to be a model. She was a friend of a friend and when she found out that I was thinking about going up north she graciously gave me her number in case I needed a local's help. I spent most of the bus ride we shared wishing I could rip her face off and put in on mine, you know, John Travolta and Nicholas Cage style. She had the most beautiful long dark hair, dark eyes and lips that made me want to stab myself. This all sounds very lesbian-esque but she was pretty. I guess that's all I can say. However, after I told a friend of mine about her, I found out she is not the sharpest tool in the shed. Can't be surprised I guess. You just can't have it all.

Day 99

Today I met Killian at yet another lock-in. How proud am I? Well, actually his name is John but Killian is more interesting so I don't blame him. Nevertheless, I see a trend of "Well my name's not really..." happening. Killian was a scrawny guy who kept a beanie on his head to warm his bald spot. He is a chef in Dublin and, not surprisingly, has created his own drink, the "Sour Killian." Of course, it's a whiskey sour with a crushed cherry and egg-white twist. What else would an Irishman drink? I tried it...it was definitely sour. Killian is also a former musician, reminded me of my days playing guitar in a rock band thinking I was real cool. He proved to be good company and brought along some more wannabe rocker chefs with him. Unfortunately, I didn't have much more to contribute to the conversation other than the fact that I like his name. Equally unfortunate, Killian is not a fan of Cillian Murphy. Not cool.

Day 98

Today I met a lovely couple from Norfolk and a couple from Southern Scotland over a mug of mulled wine that was simply to die for (not to mention, it included a hefty shot of amaretto as well). What a way to warm up. If I closed my eyes I could have sworn that Colin Firth was on speaking in one ear and Craig Ferguson was speaking in the other. They were nice, asked me about my travels, studying and whatnot, but to my surprise the English were actually wonderful people, nicer than the Scottish couple. Yes, this may be a statement based on stereotypes but after spending time in the three countries that loath the English more than any other, I was pleasantly surprised. It was one of those nights that was simple. There was no crazy party or an attractive guy or a life changing experience but I'll remember it forever. To me, there's nothing better than sharing stories over a hot mug of wine. surrounded by trees covered in lights for the Christmas season. I never got the couple's names but they left a fantastic impression, nonetheless.

Day 97

Today I met Graeme, the birthday boy. As I mentioned, I ran into him after the failure of the pub crawl, but I couldn't have asked for a better addition to our group. Graeme (or Graham for those non-gaelic speakers) works for the Scottish government and was the spitting image of a dashing Scottsman in his leather jacket, sweater and shirt and tie decorated with Christmas coloured Scottish plaid. Adorable, I must say. As my personal Tin Man, he led me down the cobbled brick road to The Scottsman Lounge where we listened to some traditional music as well as the random "Galway Girl" thrown in giving me a little sense of my Irish home. It turned out, that morning kicked of Graeme's 33rd birthday which I felt terrible for not knowing and being able to do something about it. However, he seemed happy to spend the night with me despite my thoughts of how boring I truly am. It's amazing. I love Ireland but I never thought I would find another place that felt so right as well. The Scottish were some of the greatest people I've met and, not to sound vain, but after all of these encounters and new relationships, I feel like I may be a little more interesting than I ever thought I was. Still not like, the absolute life of the party or anything, but I am proud to say...wait for it...I am becoming more like my mother every day. These stories I've gathered remind me of hers and I thank her profusely for helping me loosen the hell up and get myself out there.

Day 96

Today I met Pat and Kathy also known as the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion but I'll get to that. We were supposed to go on a Literary Pub Tour, one of the most raved about tours in the city, but guess what? It never happened. The tour guides never showed up and they had even already paid for it. Luckily, I hadn't but I was still incredibly surprised. I mean, how does that happen? But, like many of my other unexpected meetings and overall bunch of craic, it turned out to be a great night. The two women were co-workers for years and were celebrating a Christmas night out. So, since the tour was a no-go we decided to create our own and there I was partying it up with two middle-aged women. We had a great night and I even managed to convince them to stay later and catch another train. We talked about everything under the sun including their kids, their love lives, my love life, and advice on all of the above. It actually made me miss mom. At one of the pubs we picked up a third accomplice, Graeme/Hank, depending on what type of mood he was in I guess. And then walked in a dog. Suddenly, in our drunken stupor we had realised that we were the characters from The Wizard of Oz. Of course, it all started with me being from Kansas City. To them, that screams Dorothy and nothing else. And what would Dorothy be without her three companions and a seeing-eye dog named Toto?

Day 95

Today I met Alan, an incredibly enthusiastic tour guide who looks slightly like a pirate (talks like one too). It was a three and a half hour free walking tour through Edinburgh in an unfortunately cold and foggy morning. Well, cold is a bit of an understatement considering my extra-hot Starbucks only stayed hot for the first five minutes and it took me an hour to warm up when I finally got back. And if you would believe it, Alan was wearing nothing more than a pair of cargos, a t-shirt and a fleece zip-up. While his long stringy hair and bushy beard may have kept him slightly warmer, I still don't know how he did it and with such fervor at that. Alan was extremely knowledgeable and equally hilarious. His spastic re-enactments of millions of years of Scottish history not only kept us entertained but the other tourists riding by in their double-decker tour buses. I almost felt sorry for the driver as he continued on with his commentary which seemed to pass by everyone's ears. Alan had a ghost tour later on that night that I would have loved to go to but his creepy stories he had already told were enough to make me think twice about going home by myself at the end of the night. I only wish I had that kind of "spunk" all day everyday.

Day 94

Today I met my B&B keeper. Sadly, she was not the most pleasant woman I've ever met with her staunch, quiet accent and quick instructions before she left me to my room. I would guess she's in her early 50's and she owns an adorable house tucked away in a back alley on the south side of Edinburgh. She really has all the tools for a wonderful B&B but for some reason it felt incredibly un-homey. Since coming to Europe, I have a new dream of opening a bed and breakfast in the country complete with my kids, my dashing husband and of course the pig. But the ones I've visited haven't exactly lived up to my expectations (probably because I'm poor but what can I say?) Nevertheless, I still feel the need to not only do it now, but make it better than any other. Because, honestly, a thing like that can't be about money, it has to be because you love it and you love people and who loves people more than me? I will give her some credit though. She did save me this morning by being kind enough to give me some painkillers for my hangover. Blame it on the Scottish.

Day 93

Today I met the Canadians. Hooray for uniting North America at last. They were both from Ottawa, one with a thick Canadian accent I found myself missing and one with thick curly hair and a passion for Lord of the Rings. In fact, that's what they did their presentation on in our mythology class and, man, was it a wonderful break from boring stories being told in a butchered form of English. Of course, the rest of the time we bonded over how horrible the class was, how arrogant our teacher and "scarf boy" are, you know, the usual stuff. Actually we even decided to try to get our teacher to burn alive but slowly closing the windows in the back of the classroom. This may sound like we're mean, demented children burning ants with a magnifying glass but if you knew the professor and his utter rudeness, you would be climbing for a magnifying glass too. Overall, it was just wonderful to find a couple more guys who share an affinity for geeky fantasies and ragging on rude eastern europeans. All in all, a good night.

Day 92

Today I'm proud to say, I met the owner of Feile and Kate's Cottage as well as baby brother of my friend John. His name is Robert. After revamping Feile, Robert strolled into Kate's, said hello, poured a pint of Heineken, lit a cigarette and sat down to talk as the cash was being counted. He had sort of a Glen Hansard look to him with short curls on top of his head, a rough start a beard and light coloured eyes. Doesn't look a smidge like his brother though. Apparently the two oldest look alike and Robbie is left at the bottom. Really cool guy all around and I can see why all the guys get along so well. He kept my glass full for me and kept my money in my pocket even though I set up his tree a little crooked. Oh well, without Robbie my nights in Dublin wouldn't have been the same. It's definitely going to be a sad day when I have to leave my bar behind and attempt to find anything in America that can hold a candle to it.

Day 91

Today I met Barney. I'm sorry for another "How I Met Your Mother" reference but it has to be done. Barney was, well, an Irish pathetic version of Barney Stinson. Tall, suave, and an MMA fighter at that, he proclaimed himself as "never having trouble with women." On a Saturday night, all he thinks about is women no matter what. I swear, these are his words not mine. I was just surprised that he wasn't "suited up." He continued to tell me about his successful job, this absolutely gorgeous blonde girl he met, and his approaching three month trip to Brazil to learn fighting techniques. Oh, how impressed I was (that's written sarcasm by the way). And the strange thing is, even though he knew I was there on somewhat of a date, he never left. After saying he needed to go home a few times due to a seven a.m. start at work, he got dressed but never actually walked out the door. In fact, after closing I was supposed to put up the Christmas tree while the place was being cleaned up and before I knew it Barney and an old creepy man named John were next to me helping. Finally, after the tree and few lights were up Barney and John got ready to leave. Barney gave me an extremely awkward hug and walked out the door. Strangest self-proclaimed "ladies man" I've ever met. Better luck next time Barney.

Day 90

Today I met an extremely cheap Englishman. We were out for yet another birthday party celebration and were intent on playing the "have you met" game and hopefully, get some free drinks out of it. We came across a group of guys who had all met one year in Australia. There were a few English, a few Irish and a random very hobbit-like Scotsman. Shannon, Elise and I all managed to find someone to talk to. Mine, well I can't remember his name now, but he was rather cute and good to talk to. The problem came when my glass was low (that's where all problems begin over here). He asked me if I wanted a drink and of course I said said considering we were currently at a rather expensive bar. He asked what I was drinking and when I said "Bulmers" he asked, "Is that expensive?" I was a little shocked, I mean it's not like I asked for Don Perignon or something. He got me my drink anyways, we finished talking after watching a high school makeout session between a couple people I won't mention. Hilarious though, really. So, we were off to the Bleeding Horse and the chap said he would meet me there and that I would buy the next drink. Sorry, I don't know anyone who goes Dutch in this situation. I ended up not making it to the Bleeding Horse that night, but apparently they never showed. Guess the cheap idgit didn't want to pay for an extra beer.

Day 89

Today I met Gerben, the second time I've come across him in costume. This was no ordinary costume, it was the most incredible euro-mullet wig you have ever seen and you would swear it was real. Gerben is a friend of a friend from the Netherlands and a hilarious guy to talk to. He participated in our Dublin Thanksgiving and round 2 was the wig party. Honestly, I couldn't stop laughing at the sight of him all night but he rocked that wig to no end. He's an incredibly sweet guy and seems like he could easily fit in with any group he came across. I think I remember making him my party husband at one point because he smelled nice and was "suited up." Not to mention, once you take away the pilgrim hat, fake ginger beard, sunglasses, and mullet, he is completely striking. He's one of those people you love to hate with the most gorgeous ice blue eyes you've ever seen, you almost want to rip the nonexistent coloured contacts out. Like a short Cillian Murphy with a Netherlands twist. If only God worked that hard on my eye colour...

Day 88

Today I met Cathal, a pretty cheeky bastard for being engaged. So I was at friend's wig/accessory party (wonderful theme by the way) and was chatting with some locals. Of course, my approaching-tipsy friend was enamoured with one of them. Cathal was impressed we knew how to pronounce his name and seemed like a cool guy. He was handsomely dressed in jeans, a shirt and pinstriped fedora and could hand out the sarcasm as much as the next irishman. I'm telling you this though, he was definitely flirting with a few of us. Like, not just being nice, but flirting, and it turns out he's engaged. I wouldn't even expected it before he started talking. He's young and, well frankly, looks like he's broken a few girl's hearts or just egos. Later on more news breaks that apparently the fiance was there the whole time. They have been engaged for over a year, saving up for a house, the whole she-bang. They must be awfully comfortable with each other but the girls and I are in agreement, it we were her, after that night, the ring would probably be coming off.

Day 87

Today I met Tara, my tattoo artist. She looked the part of a chilled out artist with her skin decorated in ink and silver hoops and her hair tossed up into a hat. She seemed a bit "too cool" for me at first outnumbering me in tattoos and piercings by a long shot, but later she turned out to be a very nice person despite her jabbing a needle into my side continuously. The tattoo was far more painful than I expected as it cut into my rib cage, but Tara kept up the conversation and I was able to keep my mind off of the pain at least for a few moments at time. We talked about everything possibly in the 45 minutes we had on the table and I was ecstatic to hear that her sister lives in Edinburgh. Tara loves the city and gave me awesome recommendations for cafes and underground tours. Gotta love when you can get a tattoo, words of wisdom, and travel tips all in one sitting. I'll probably go back to have her check for a touch up and hopefully be able to share my stories from Scotland.

Day 86

Today I met Liam, a wonderful guy who saved me from having my name printed wrong in the paper again...at least I hope. It just went to print today and I haven't seen it yet. Who knows, it could say "Alice Wickens" for all I know. Nevertheless, he was kind enough to inform me that he fixed the spelling again. Liam also seems to be the only one willing to help anyone in the class. Poor Shaw was left to layout two pages by himself not having a clue of what to do. I felt horrible as I watched him aimlessly create boxes on the screen. Liam came to help a couple of times, but only between stops to the rest of the needy class. I guess we'll find out next week just how much of a lifesaver Liam is based on my name and Shaw's layout. Honestly, I'm the writer, not a random person in the paper. If they can spell Eimear and O'Cinnseala right, surely they can handle Alix...surely.

Day 85

Today I met Eimear (took me forever just to figure out how to spell it). A bit of a crazed girl with her hair in shambles and mascara and lip gloss tossed on her face everyday, but nice enough. She was my editor this time around, yet somehow I ended up editing her story. She constantly dashes around the newsroom and if she isn't, she's sitting at a computer seeming to be in her own little world. I can't ever really have a conversation with her. I always feel the need to look behind me to see if she's talking to someone else or to check my teeth in case there is something stuck between them. Maybe I should be more like that? More caught up in my work? I don't know. On second thought, no. I'm heading to Scotland next weekend despite the fact I have a test the following Monday and a paper due. But hey, I'm not here to get caught up in work. I'm here to have the time of my life and pass...just pass. That's all I have to do. Eimear on the other hand, well I guess she has to do more than just pass. Still I hope she can find a way to relax for just a few.

Day 84

Today I met Alex, yeah, first one I've met since I've been here. Alex is a very quiet girl and it didn't help that I was stuck at the other end of the table. I strained my ears as best I could for the other end's conversation but I couldn't gather much other than she was slightly awkward and plain but had a sweet smile at the same time. I feel horrible because I didn't even get to find out where she was from. Holland, maybe. I don't know. Oh well, I may run into her again at the next group get together which may either be a "Wig Party" or a pub crawl for yet another birthday.

Day 83

Today I met possibly the coolest Scottish waiter you could ever ask for. It was my friend Elise's birthday who has recently become a die-hard Scotland fan since her two trips to Glasgow and Edinburgh. So, needless to say, when she found out her birthday waiter was Edinburgh born and bread, she flipped and ordered a cocktail to celebrate. He was a burly man with a thick beard who loved meat and beer, Elise and my kinda guy to say the least. He was fun, made jokes, offered to take our picture (without making us feel like awkward tourists at all) and of course it helped that the food and drinks were great as well. It made for a great night, a sort of round 2 from our Thanksgiving get together. Nights like that: great food, great wine, great conversation with a table full of friends is exactly what I hoped to have when I got here. Although it may not seem like much now, I know I'll look back on these moments and wish I had them back.

Day 82

Today I met...I want to say his name was Andrew. Horrible of me, I know, but if that isn't his name that's what I'm calling him. We met at Doyle's after Shannon ran away during our test run of a "How I Met Your Mother" game...a.k.a the infamous "Have you met..." Even though the game was coming up with nothing or gay guys, "Andrew" was just as excited as we were about it. We talked for a while about his buddies, his brothers, his studies, my studies, Thanksgiving, America, Ireland, you know, the whole bit. Interesting guy but Shannon and I were about ready to leave. The place was crowded and our game wasn't turning out to be so much of a game anymore. I left to go to the bathroom before we left and when I came back Shannon was waiting for me...just in front of the "green shirt guy" she had been gawking at all night. Just then Andrew came over and, gotta love the guy, pulled "green shirt guy" and Shannon together and said to him "Haaaaave you met Shannon?"

Day 81

Today I met Diarmaid, not Dermot, Diarmaid. It's Irish of course. Diamaid was the one native who could make it to own Dublin Thanksgiving but he definitely made up for everyone missing. As one of the first Irish people some of them had met, he quickly became the life of the party, even for me who is used to long, drunken, sometimes annoying chit-chats with locals. Also known as "Google," Diarmaid supplied us with useful/useless information (depending on how you look at it) as well as token phrases in Irish all night long. I am now the proud owner of the phrase "Is sin a duirt si," more commonly known as "That's what she said." And I congratulate myself for that because despite the bottle of champagne, two bears and a few shots of vodka I had that night, I still remembered it. Quite legendary if I say so myself. Diarmaid was even nice enough to take us along to the pub with him to meet us with his "Canoe Club" buddies (although I think they kayaked). The guys were a little on the odd side, but then again, so were we in our traditional indian headdresses and pilgrim hats and beards. Now that I think about it, it was a true Thanksgiving: sharing food, drinks, conversation and acquaintances; the melding of two cultures to create one pretty awesome night.

Day 80

Today I met Malon. It's Thanksgiving so myself, some Americans, and a couple Dutch decided to get together to attempt our own Thanksgiving in Dublin city. Only problem is, Ireland is sufficiently lacking in the ingredient department. Many of us had to alter or change our dishes because the country doesn't have simple things like graham crackers or cranberries. Who would have thought? I mean they do eat cheesecake and I eat cranberries in my muffins here all the time. Maybe some secret club you have to be in. Anyways, the celebration was to go down at a friend of a friend's flat, Malon. After Shannon and I hauled all of our groceries across the city in a broken down bus, we were about to pop. But when we arrived the apartment was open, clean, and decorated and Malon was there to greet us at the door. She was a beautiful girl with dark brown hair, the occasional freckle and a Dutch accent I found myself missing since I left Holland. She was equipped with her feathered Indian headband as was the rest of the crew. The night turned out to be wonderful. Malon was so nice and literally offered every dish, pan, and spoon we needed to serve our meal, which, by the way, was pretty damn good for a bunch of college students. After we had stuffed ourselves to the max and drowned ourselves in wine, we headed out to the pub of course, feathered headbands, beards and pilgrim hats intact.

Day 79

Today I met a wonderful shoe repair man. My prized Frye boots apparently have an achilles heel and given the fact that I where them 75% of the time, something needed to be done. I made it all the way down to the shoe repair shop (come to find out later there was one much closer to home) with my two pairs of shoes and cash in my pocket to fix my babies. The man, probably in his mid-forties, was hunched over a paper on the counter. I showed him the damage and he said he could do them in an hour. I was amazed. So, he took my shoes and my bag and jovially handed me a pickup ticket and I went out shopping. When I came back an hour later we smiled as he handed me my bag of shoes, good as new. Great guy, I really wasn't expecting them back for a few days. It's nice to meet someone who wants to make your life easier.

Day 78

Today I met another man at the bus stop. I was sitting on the edge of the bench when he came by and stared with horror at a man sitting at the other end. He pointed to an elderly woman standing and asked him, "Did you offer her your seat? Did you?" The man obviously didn't which made him start to get angry. Suddenly, I was in the middle of an almost bus stop brawl. The couple that was seated turned out to be foreigners and the girl started screaming in Spanish. I could do nothing but hold on to my groceries and pretend to be invisible. Thank god the bus showed up and the crew left except for the man who started it all. He sat down next to me and started complaining about the couple and the fact that he just ate for the first time in four days. Not so sure about that given that he reeked of the drink and pulled a Druids Cider out of his pocket and sucked it down like a can of coke. I didn't want to disagree with anything the man said given that I was the only one left at the bus stop but he was actually very civil. He simply explained that ladies like that reminded him of his mother and everyone should help them. He finished by asking where I was from as I boarded the bus and slurred a "Nice to meet you" as the door closed behind me.

Day 77

Today I met a man at the bus stop. He offered me a seat after I had set my heavy groceries down with a sigh (possibly one of the things I hate most about living in Dublin. You have to pay for bags to carry stuff in...and then of course you have to carry it who knows how far). Anyways I took my seat and he asked if I got anything good. It was sadly just groceries and he smiled as he remembered that I was out of class because there was a strike today. "Seems like there's one all the time," he said. Of course, after a few sentences from me he realised I was American somewhat making a jab at my accent, but was still sweet nonetheless and smiled as he got onto his bus.

Day 76

Today I met Dave #3. He was a friend of James and much more drunk. He attempted to give me some more career advice through his slurred teeth that had become yellow and gray with age. I listened and nodded, sprinkling the conversation with 'oh really's, 'yeah's, and 'thank you's although I had absolutely no idea what he was saying 90% of the time. He told me a riddle about bellybuttons and another about buying toothpaste but it took half the night not to figure them out but to understand what was being said in the first place. One thing I know I heard right though was one of the oddest compliments I've ever received. In fact, to me, it's most likely an insult but to Dave #3, it could have been the most beautiful thing I had ever heard. As I was walking out the door, Dave grabbed my hand and said, "You know that Britney Spears...you know that Madonna?...You're more beautiful than both of them." Man, do I feel pretty.

Day 75

Today I met Dave #2. I received possibly my fourth proposal from Dave because I said I love County Clare. After hearing that he proceeded to get down on one knee and tell me he loved me. I said no...especially considering he had just put on a production singing to a "Christine" I believe. Oh well. By the time I ever actually am proposed to maybe I won't act like an idiot and bawl my eyes out so much that I can't even say yes or no. Or, maybe I'll be so good at saying no that if I ever really have to it won't be as bad. Thanks Dave #2 for giving me more practice and see you in Clare.

Day 74

Today I met Dave #1. Dave came to talk to me after asking a bartender what my name was and I guess if I was normal (I must have gotten the o.k.). Dave had somewhat of a John Cusack vibe to him with his long forehead leading back to a head full of dark brown hair matching his chocolate coloured eyes. His friends thought he looked like Matthew Broderick whose name took us ten people and an hour to figure out. He kept my Bulmers full and the time flew by after answering numerous questions about American girls and what they like. However, I wasn't too interested so the night ended and haven't heard from him since.

Day 73

Today I met James. My dad had left for the night and again I was sitting at my favorite bar alone. I was chit-chatting with Alan about the guys asking about me at the other end when a man next to me chimed in. "I'm sorry. I couldn't help but eavesdrop," he said. I didn't mind at all considering I needed someone to talk to while I finished up my Bulmers. James and I somehow got to talking about careers (as I've had some sudden realizations that the path I've been on is crumbling beneath me). He told me to keep my options open and as a small business owner himself, I should do the same. My current dream of opening a B&B in the irish countryside sounded like a brilliant idea to him but he demanded that I never stop writing. I don't think I ever will but I can't help but notice that the die-hard investigative journalism thing is not for me. As the glasses emptied and filled, emptied and filled, James became more enamored with me and introduced me to his friends. He was a sweet sweet guy, completely in love with his wife and happy with his career. Couldn't ask for anything better than that.

Day 72

Today I met Jeanie. I was watching the sad excuse for a fair football game when Alan came back to bring me closer to the bar. I pulled up a seat while simultaneously dodging around the screen and spectator's panicked eyes. In front of me was Jeanie. Alan introduced us and she reminded me so much of an old co-worker of mine. She was fairly quite as she nursed her rum and coke for the second half of the game and I couldn't help but wish I could be more like that. She was a gorgeous girl with dark brown hair, fair skin and bright eyes. It didn't surprise me that Alan had Kenny grabbing her anything she needed. The way Alan looked at her was something I had never seen. I'm not sure if they're together or not but for that night, Jeanie was it.

Day 71

Today I met Dennis, the better of the country tour guides I've had. Instead of an incessant monotone voice and plethora of historical facts and dates, he simply made everyone laugh, even at the cheesy jokes. I gathered that Dennis was from the Dun Laoghaire area considering every other person or car we passed he waved, honked and asked how they were. Dennis is a family man from a large Catholic family and loves the country will all his heart. Unlike other bus guides, nothing sounded like he had said it hundreds of times and once more may kill him. He was enthusiastic with every sentence and was determined to make our rainy day in County Wicklow a lovely one. Ok, I have to stop at this point and explain that "rainy" would not be the word. The day had started off like any other in Ireland: rain. We planned accordingly with our trench coats, rain jackets and wellies but that was nothing compared to the utter torrential downpour we experienced. Driving through the mountains our bus rocked back and forth with the surges of the wind and I could feel the bus's pain as it struggled up the hills against elements. So as you can imagine, Mr. and Mrs. Typical Middle-Aged Americans found every reason to complain about anything, especially the weather. While I asked, "Don't you know where the hell you are?" Dennis put on a brilliant face and refused to let a bunch of embarrassing Americans ruin the trip (the samples of Jameson helped too). So any road we couldn't drive down, we walked through and he sacrificed his umbrellas so we could at least keep our shirts dry if nothing else. I actually talked to Dennis for a while about everyday stuff. He was interested in how I was doing, what I was studying and I attempted to make up for everyone else's terrible portrayal of American. I have total respect for the guy for not giving up and he made it a great day despite the lack of luck we had.

Day 70

Today I met a kid at Mulligan's. He was working behind the bar but honestly didn't look older than fifteen with his Harry Potter-esque spectacles, acne spotted face and slightly pre-pubescent voice. However, he was laughing right along side the old men who had been pouring pints since before he was born. I could tell by the way he purposely walked through the bar and laughed at jokes only he knew, he was proud to be in the position he was. What more could a teenage kid want than to be helping at a bar late on a Tuesday? I thought one of the men was his dad and when we asked if that was the case, they simply turned to look at each other and burst into laughter. The kid walked away chuckling and shaking his head as if that was the dumbest question he had ever heard. It is Ireland, but how that kid was working there was beyond me. And to think that I can't get a job...

Day 69

Today I am back in the 21st century with a new laptop and can finally get back to this project before it runs away from me. So, while I've been away you've missed out on nothing more than me feeling like I'm on the prairie and going through books like they're magazines. Needless to say being a college student with no job, no computer, no pets, no boyfriend, and no television, things got pretty boring. But back to the important stuff. Today I met a bartender at Mulligan's. I've been there several times but frankly, there were far too many distractions to really get to talk to the guys who apparently pull the best pint in Dublin. We had already been "pub-hopping" (as my dad would say) for a little while and...well basically I don't know if I got his name or not. He was a tall, somewhat gangly man in his forties with dark hair and eyebrows that were as dark as his sense of humor. Usually I can keep up with the Irish sarcasm but this guy's face was so straight I think I did my awkward giggle most of the time. Nevertheless, he was funny and although quiet at times, he wanted to be around someone. He didn't remember me from before but I have the feeling the next time I go back, I'll be picked on for sure. Of course, only in the "because I like you" sort of way...hopefully.

Day 68

Today I met who I'm guessing is the manager at Market Bar after we had been there for the third or fourth time in a month. Bald, like many people I've met recently, and always sporting a smart black dress shirt and jeans, he's fits the part of a smart, social, helpful restaurant manager. He recognized us from another night even though the large dining room can seat hundreds in a day. Of course, my dad was here and being the tourist he is, he asked for him to take our picture and he was more than happy to do it for us. Great guy, one of those not too much not to little personalities that you can't really get sick of.

Day 67

Today I met...who knows who he is. I was walking down the street in my prized Frye boots that kept me warm and beautiful at the same time. Only problem is, they don't get along well with the cobblestone streets of Ireland. I was walking down the street from school and tripped, one of probably five times that day. As usual, I kept moving acting like nothing happened until I heard a voice behind me, "That was close." Oh great. He proceeded to tell me a story that involved him, rain, cowboy boots and O'Connell Street. Can't say I was paying attention much, I just laughed and walked along beside him and the next thing I knew he sped up and was gone. Very strange encounter.

Day 66

Today I met Bobby and Kaya. I was in The Liberties area working on the story, surprise surprise. After searching what seemed like ages for a mother and a school-age kid, I jumped when I saw the two and was even more ecstatic when they told me they lived in the area. My story is about the swine flu (yippy) and needed to ask Bobby, the mother, how she felt about the vaccinations and if she planned on getting one for her daughter. She swept back her frizzed hair and looked down at her daughter playing with her pigtails, "I probably will get her vaccinated, yeah." Her face was of concern especially after I told her that in a couple weeks time, Kaya would be able to get the vaccine. I got her information while the little girl shouted out, "Don't you want my name? Don't you want my name?" I bent down and asked her to which she replied "Kaya." I could't help but be reminded of myself as a kid shouting "Cheese, cheese!" any time a camera was near. She begged for the spotlight too, and she'll get it in the next issue.

Day 65

Today I met a Kevin St. librarian and I have to say, felt pretty stupid. I have been looking for the 200's section in the library for weeks but was never able to find it. The 160's seemed to always bleed into the 300's and there was no other section in sight. Now that I really needed one of these books I asked the librarian where the mysterious 200's section was. An older man peered over his spectacles with a confused look in his eyes but very politely told me that it was in between the 100's and 300's. Well duh. I told him I had trouble finding it the last time but that I would go check again. Of course, there it was. A set of maybe five or six books made up the 200's. No wonder I was never able to find it. Usually I was covered in rain, taking in deep breaths and wanting to get a move on. So, I got my books walked by him and thanked him for helping, especially for nicely helping. I may have felt stupid but at least he didn't make me feel that way.

Day 64

Today I met Luc, an extremely enthusiastic typical journalist, I guess you would say. As the editor for our last issue, he's been busy and under the gun but I don't think I've ever seen him without the slightest crack of a smile. A scrawny kid who probably weighs less than me, it's no surprise hearing he walks 45 minutes to class everyday, rain or shine, no less. Turns out, we don't have it that bad...or maybe we do considering he gets a workout in no matter what. He invited us to his house in Galway for his 21st birthday. Not sure if we'll make it all the way out there, but nonetheless we were excited to be talking to an Irish classmate let alone be invited to something.

Day 63

Today I met Brendan. I was off on another assignment for my embarrassment of a newspaper with Shannon. She was multi-tasking, of course, and talking to the elderly about being alone on Christmas (which was a bit awakward to ask) and if they would be attending Christmas Mass. Brendan was an instant target with his slight slouch, driver's cap, and a pair of kind eyes accented with deep crow's feet; a cute old man at his finest. We huddled together under a canopy hoping to get some shelter from the misty and raging cold wind. Brendan was probably the fifth person Shannon had talked to and I begun to realize even though these people weren't "alone on Christmas" like the subjects we were looking for, they were still alone. Once you got to talking, it was hard to leave. They skipped their buses, they stood in the freezing cold and they gave you trinkets just to have the chance to sit and talk to someone. I got the feeling Brendan didn't care who we were, why were talking to him or frankly, what we were even talking about. His eyes simply lit up with the chance to talk about his family and his wife who passed away over 30 years ago. Amazingly and sadly, I'm not sure if his heart ever mended after that. I could tell how much he missed her and it made me hope that someday when I'm old, I won't be alone: in any sense of the word. One elderly lady even said, " It's important not to be alone, the ones you care about are the ones that keep you going."

Day 62

Today I met a Belgian girl outside of a classroom and before I could even get her name she was kissing my cheek...and then the next. I've gotten used to the "french way" with my roommate and friends but I've never seen this girl in my life and I would never be prepared for it from a Belgian. Come to find out, her name was something I would never be able to pronounce so we call her Bebe. That's all I know about the strange girl but I guess I should enjoy getting kisses instead of snickers from the other international students. I should really stop dwelling on being hated so much but I can't help it when that damn French kid with the scarf laughs at me every week. I'll be heading to Paris for Christmas in a little over a month. Because of him, I pray people like me.

Day 61

Today I met Ina, possibly the cutest German girl I've come across. I met her outside of one of my Erasmus classes. She's a simple but beautiful girl dressed quite plainly compared to the Irish students decked out in what would normally be my going out attire. Most of the people I ignore. They often make their opinions on Americans known but Ina was happy to meet me. Turns out, she is in my newspaper class as well and was just as appalled by the recent issue as I was. She seems to be a quiet girl but I could tell she was a little more than dissapointed by the apparent "tabloid" paper we're writing for. It was a relief to find someone who shared my point of view and I'm happy to see her in class now knowing I'm not the only one dreading every minute of it.

Day 60

Today I met what I supposed to be a football coach and his obnoxious middle-school-age players. I was stuck on a bus with them...facing them, as the little boys continued to yell at their coach, a twenty-something who thought he was the cream of the crop. The coach always replied with a flip of his middle finger to which the kids laughed and started yelling again. I couldn't help but be reminded of a time when my pesky little brother and his friends were like the plague and the smells of sweat and god knows what other body odors filled the air. I and the poor guy across from me tried to distract ourselves with what stop we needed to get off at but it didn't help much. Thank god it was the bus and not a train. I could have smacked those little dweebs.

Day 59

Today I met a couple on a train. After coming out of the bathroom at the train station in Cork, I realized my train that wasn't supposed to leave for another hour was already boarding. I hopped on and within moments we were leaving. I turned to ask the guy next to me what the deal was and he said the train was late and I just happened to make it on. I was happy to be in a seat and not carrying around my luggage and would be getting into town an hour early. After getting settled I glanced over at him and his girlfriend, I suppose and the goldfish in between them. I couldn't help but let out a laugh and they just shrugged and laughed along. They both seemed pretty cool and relaxed. She had her brown hair thrown back in a bun on top of her head and slept most of the ride bundled up in a bright purple blanket. He, in his beat up sweats and runners, worked on a crossword puzzle and sang Maroon 5 louder than entirely necessary but he didn't seem to care. In fact, at first his voice sounded great but as he played with the notes and intervals, the tune went downhill. Have to admire him, I couldn't possibly sing out loud on a train especially without the fantasy of an iPod filling my ears and everyone else's around me. I only sing along.

Day 58

Today I met Allison. I was sitting alone at my two person table in the bed and breakfast, feeling incredibly awkward. I expected it to be a family-style seating but I guess singles aren't often catered to as well as couples. I walked over to fill up my coffee and asked the only other couple in the room where they were from. Allison was a student from Philedelphia who was studying for a year in Scotland where she met her boyfriend. Of course, they were spending the weekend in Cork celebrating their year anniversary. Great, the one place I went to escape overseas romances for a night, I find a happy cross-continental couple. It wasn't too awful though. They seemed to be more tired and sick than lovey-dovey and mushy (honestly I don't think they were those kind of people anyways). Allison was about my age and talked to me through glasses and a bush of hair that was begging to get out of its ponytail holder. I felt a bit odd in my blouse and boots with hair and makeup done compared to them in their sweats and comfy shoes but at the same time it made me relax. We shared traveling tips and I helped them with the Cork City map so they could find the tourist office. They were both appreciative and quite a lovely couple really. Jealousy just took over for a moment there...how can you blame me?

Day 57

Today I met Anne, the owner of a B&B in Cork. I spent the weekend in the city and Blarney after I realized some much needed R,R&R was in order (rest, RECOVERY, and relaxation). Needless to say I wasn't feeling the best after lugging my duffel around the city for six hours and hiking up to the hours in the pouring rain and a broken umbrella. However, I made it and Anne opened the front door for me with a pleasant smile on her face. Anne is in her mid-forties, I would say, and runs the bed and breakfast along with her husband. She looked like the typical mom and housewife, with her short bob and a constant hurry to her step. I wasn't surprised by this once I met her pre-teen daughter and heard a small dog bark in the background. She helped me as I shook the raindrops from, well, every inch of my body, and showed me my room. Although it wasn't the ideal B&B experience, it was cheap, the bed was incredible, I had my wine and chocolate, and I woke up to a hot breakfast. Thanks Anne for the hospitality and a chance to get a small part of my head back together. Now, back out in the rain.

Day 56

Today I met the real Marc, my professor. We finally all went out to a pub after class. He led us through the back streets showing us great places to eat that we ended up stopping by later on and we ended at Grogan's Castle Lounge, a run-down pub charmingly filled with artists and their work hanging on the walls. Marc wanted to have our drinks outside and despite the heat lamps above the patio, I froze my ass off on possibly the coldest night since I've been hear. I sat shivering trying to add to an intellectually stimulating conversation. Turns out Marc is a surprisingly liberal man for his age who has no problem with a joint every now and then and had just finished a class bashing Ireland's parliament. Though, he has a soft side as well which comes out when he references his girlfriend and their house in the country. Sounds like he lives a fantanstic life and I have to thank him for having so much enthusiasm and interest in his class and his students. Although he may be outspoken and throw his opinion in your face, it a nice change from stagnant, objective lectures back home.

Day 55

Today I met Barry.  He and his wingman were trying to tell me he was a professional tennis player who traveled the world.  He was an attractive Irish guy who stood at a very appealing 6 foot 5.  Maybe at one time in my life I would have just said "Screw it" and believed in the fantasy but tonight was not that night.  I wasn't going to believe a word they said in their grand scheme to pick me up.  I later googled him.  He really is a professional tennis player.  Hmm.

Day 54

Today I met Wolverine.  It's Halloween in Dublin and that means the freaks can be themselves and everyone else can be freaks.  After meandering through witches, trannies, sexy (fill in the blanks), and superheroes, we finally found a pub we could breathe in: Temple Bar strangely enough.  As I was sipping my Bulmers, Wolverine asked me for the umpteenth time that night if I was Michael Jackson.  No, I was a gangster without a gun.  We talked for a while about I don't know what as he annoying poked me with his blade...things.  I found out later he thought I was Irish the whole time, "snobby Irish" as he described it.  I don't know if actually being American is better or worse than that in his eye.

Day 53

Today I met the librarian who took all of my books away from me.  She was laughing and chatting with a cute co-worker when I approached the desk only to find out I couldn't renew my books I needed.  She pleasantly set them aside with names of my classmates attached to them and I walked away not so pleasantly.

Day 52

Today I met a Norwegian girl that knocked on my door.  Of course, she was looking for my third roommate who is never around especially when hoards of people need to see her.  This results in constant knocking on my doors and windows at all hours of the day and night.  Anyways, the girl was actually nice unlike the usual people who I answer to.  She was dressed in a flapper costume for a pre-Halloween party and believe it or not, it was completely flapper-esque, not slutty flapper at all.  She just needed to grab some speakers and by her accent I could have sworn she was American or Canadian.  Although, she did spend a year in Michigan, she's Norwegian.  Couldn't believe my ears.  Come to find out later, she's just as bad as the rest of them.

Day 51

Today I met John, a guy staying in our hostel.  I was talking to one of the staff members about stupid tattoos as a guy in a black T-shirt and horn-rimmed glasses passed by.  He stopped to comment on the conversation and never left.  John is a Canadian who is simply traveling through Europe for four months on college loans after graduating last year.  He's been to several countries so far and have a couple months left to go.  John sat and talked with us for a while and invited us out for drinks before he went to a live sex show.  Needless to say, it wasn't our cup of tea.  The next day I was kind of turned off by John and his uncensored antics.  After his night out he gave us a graphic description of the sex show including reenactments and sprinkled it with various curse words and exclamations of "Jesus Christ!"  Bear in mind, we are in the middle of a Christian Youth Hostel common area.  I admire people who don't give a shit what people think about them, but there is very often a fine line between that and being disrespectful.  John crossed that.  But oh well, to each his own I suppose.  

Day 50

Today I met Jeff a Californian who sat by us at a coffee shop in Amsterdam.  Him and his friend were typical American tourists I would say coming to Amsterdam to party all night and sleep all day.  Jeff had dark hair, blue eyes and the most incredible cheekbones you've ever seen.  I would have killed for them and was once again reminded that boys always get the best features, especially eyelashes.  Anyways, Jeff was quick to tell us he just broke up with his girlfriend and poured his soul out for a reason I'm still not sure.  His friend was a little quiet on the other hand and interrupting with strange whispers which led me to believe he wanted to get out and soon.  However, one minute they were asking to take a picture with us and then the next minute Jeff looked at us and said "I think we should part ways."  My only thought was uhh...ok.  And off they went leaving Shannon and I in utter confusion.

Day 49

Today I met the staff of the hostel we were staying at in Amsterdam.  When we first found out it was a Christian Youth Hostel, we were a bit worried.  We aren't exactly saints but we figured it would be a safe place to stay.  I never would have thought we could enjoy it so much.  Upon arrival, we were greeted by several smiling faces, brightly colored walls, and believe it or not, a free mexican dinner.  We sat around the table with the staff passing food, eating, and talking about our travels.  The members were from Holland, The US, and Canada and Seth seemed to stick out as the ring-leader.  He was tall and gangly with high pitched voice and the faintest hint of a North Carolina accent.  After dinner he gave a quick speech/sermon that was actually not as invasive as I thought it would be.  The whole staff was that way in fact.  Laurie was an adorable 4 foot 10 middle school teacher who was volunteering for six months.  She sat with us every day and although her demeanor would seem "fake nice" at first glance, I could tell very soon after that she was genuinely interested in us, our lives, and our adventures.  Each morning was a great start to every day.  The hostel gathered over a free breakfast of the most incredible pancakes, french toast and eggs you can imagine from a volunteer kitchen.  We got our coffee, conversation and a comfortable feeling that could only have come from a welcoming group like that.  I just wish every place based on religion could be that welcoming to anyone no matter what their beliefs.  To me, that's what it's all about after all.

Day 48

Today I met an older woman on the plane to Brussels.  It was strange to be back at the Dublin airport and boarding a plane that wasn't going to the US.  The woman reminded me of the long trip over here though.  She, like Dick, was going to visit her daughter who lived in Brussels.  Once she started talking she couldn't stop and it was lovely to have a conversation on a plane again.  She was so cute and as I saw a piece luggage pass by with a bold strap reading "I Love My Bag" and watched her pick it up, I had to love her even more.  

Day 47

Today I met Owen.  He was laying on the couch as I walked past in my pajamas.  I quickly said, "Uh hi," and ran out of the room but he was kind enough to say hello back without sounding too incredibly awkward.  Cool guy from what I gathered with his mop of blonde hair and scruffy look.  I just hope our next encounter is a little more...expected.

Day 42

Today I met a shop lady.  We were planning our evening of pumpkin carving and of course, needed pumpkins.  We stopped at the only shop we knew had them even though they were quite small in size.  An extremely pleasant woman greeted us and tried to help us find the perfect pumpkins despite her pregnant belly that looked like she was about to pop at any moment.  Her light brown hair was whisked back and a sweater was pulled tightly over her stomach.  She was one of those pregnant women I hope to look like: beautiful no matter what.  She took the time between stocking to explain to us why the pumpkins were small and expensive but frankly, carving tonight was not something we were willing to compromise.  She was a delightful woman and I wish I could afford to go back and buy veggies from her every day, but unfortunately the unpleasant, but cheap, Lidl has to do.

Day 41

Today I met another cab driver and once again he was as nice as could be despite the fact he had been working until 3 am the night before.  We got to talking about the usual: school, work, and relationships.  Before I left, he warned me, "Don't give away your heart too soon...I would know."  I wish the ride had gone on a little longer but I was home.  He took fifty cents off of my fair even when I tried to tip him.  He knew I was a student on a budget and I guess that goes to show what being nice and having a conversation with someone can do for you.  It wasn't much but it made an already beautiful morning that much more enjoyable.

Day 40

Today I met Michael, a cab driver.  Can't get any better than a Michael O'Brien.  He was an older man who I practically had to track down forever to get a ride from.  He was jolly and talked to me on the way there.  I love cab drivers here.  You would think with the amount of cabs in the city (far more than there should be) that they would be pissy foreigners hurrying to get as many customers as they can, but in fact, they're great.  I haven't met a single one who doesn't great me with a smile and ask how I am.  Wish more things than a cab ride were like that.

Day 39

Today I met Helen, one of my friend's roommates.  She's a quiet girl of Asian decent but lives in Norway.  It was a relief to finally meet a Norwegian who didn't make me want to die my hair blonde, lose 20 pounds and giggle at everything.  We all went to get coffee, stop and an art fair and grab some fruits and veggies on the way back.  I tried my darndest to really get to know her but she was extremely shy, adorable, but shy.  She seems like an awesome girl and I know why my friends are fond of her.  She wears minimal makeup, flannel shirts, colorful scarfs and cool ankle boots.  I'm sure I would love her, the only problem is...she doesn't drink coffee.  What a horrific discovery.  Given that my student life revolves around several cups of coffee a week, I'm not sure if I could ever get on that well with a non-drinker.  I'm not ashamed to say it's my drug of choice and I should really admire people like Helen who don't give into the divine but evil quality of coffee.  Kudos Helen.

Day 38

Today I met a man who broke my heart.  I went back to visit Harry Clarke's illustrations, needing something to lift my spirits and keep my mind off life.  I walked all the way to the museum and set off toward the exhibit as soon as I set my foot in the door.  There was a barricade by the steps that led up to the print gallery so I went around the back side to see if the other side was opened.  I peered through the glass and all I could see was a metal door.  I went back downstairs and walked up to a security guard.  He smiled as I approached to his chair and his eyes were expectant.  I asked if the print gallery was closed today.  He said, "It's always closed."  I didn't understand and he explained that they took the exhibit out.  He then said, "Harry Clarke right?"  I nodded.  "You're about six or seven weeks too late I'm afraid," he said apologetically.  I told him I had been before and just wanted to see it again.  I walked out, into a bathroom stall and cried.  I should be glad that I got to see it in the first place, but I couldn't help but feel a sense of loss.  Suddenly, my conversation with the security guard had turned into one of the worst I've had since I've been.  The art is gone, he's gone.  I know it's not the man's fault but he broke my heart today.

Day 37

Today I met a couple who sat next to me at the park.  The man, probably eighty or so, came over dressed in khaki pants, a button-up shirt, blazer and herringbone cap.  Adorable.  He set his backpack down, unzipped it and pulled out two seat cushions, one for himself and one for the lady.  Initially, I thought the woman was his wife but after eavesdropping between bites of muffin, I realized she was visiting and he was taking her around the city.  I'm not sure what their relationship was but I tried to help them find a couple places to go.  Eventually, they decided on the National Museum and a cup of tea.  Not too exciting of a meeting but I couldn't help but love the seat cushions stuffed into the man's backpack for a possible afternoon in the park.

Day 36

Today I met an older man and his wife at one of the oldest pubs in Dublin.  My date and I were on our own mini pub crawl and frankly, frequent trips to the toilet were in order.  The man came by trying to take one of the stools and I had to chase him down so that my date could sit with me.  The man was entirely approachable and understandable with his feathered gray hair, glasses dress shirt and a powder blue sweater tied around his shoulders.  Later on, same thing happened.  The man came to get another Guinness for himself and my date was gone.  "Does this guy even exist?" he asked.  And the moment I gave my retort he came back to take his seat.  They started talking about Gaelic football and although I couldn't keep up it was great to see two men laughing and getting on like old friends.

Day 35

Today I met a very enthusiastic salesman at Lush, a natural cosmetics store.  Shannon and I went to stock up on some much needed pampering tools and were greeted by one of the most flaming men I've met since I've been in Dublin.  He took us around the store so that we could pick out our products with an insane spring in his step and flailing arms as they grasped for the next piece.  I couldn't tell if the racing speed of his speech was due to pure excitement or the fact that he wanted to get a move on.  Honestly, we didn't understand much of what he said the first time around but after a few questions here and there, we managed to fill up our bags with all his favorite products.  Thanks to him, we got a complete arsenal in no time flat.

Day 34

Today I met Ryan, someone who would turn a initially short night into another wonderful fun-filled night.  We were on an assignment at Mulligan's pub...I'm serious, we had to write a paragraph on a pub for our Irish Cultural class.  Anyways, it was going to be a one or two drink night until two locals came and sat next to us.  Ryan and his friend, Ben, were friends from work, one a chef and one a bartender.  Between the two of them, you would have one hell of a meal, which I must say is music to our student-living-on-a-budget ears.  Ryan is a well-traveled and educated guy from Northern Ireland whose accent was wonderful to hear after having to interpret the slurred southern accent for so long.  Amazingly enough, I knew it would be a longer night than we expected after he told me he lived in Pittsburgh and was an avid Penguins fan.  The night continued onto another pub where the guys kept our glasses full, sang in our ears, and danced with us in the streets.  The unexpected nights are always the best.

Day 33

Today I met Susie after being harassed by a man in a chipper for guess what?-being American.  She started talking to us appalled by the fact that this is a normal thing.  After we finished our incredible chips they asked us if we wanted to follow them to a bar they thought we would like.  It was hidden down a side alley and we would have never found it if we didn't meet locals like them.  The place was great with lots a big tables to sit and talk.  Susie ended up having to leave so that she could catch a plane in the morning but she gave us a hug and the most enthusiastic "it was so good to meet you."  She was literally the sweetest thing ever and she made me feel like we had known each other a long time.  It's people like Susie that give me hope and make me forget about the people who choose to judge us before they know us, whether they're drunk in a chipper or not.

Day 32

Today I met Colm. He was sitting next to us at the bar with his childhood friend.  They had just reunited over what was meant to be one pint after class.  They were still there chatting away when we came in at 10:30.  It reminded me of the summers I spent with my old friends and every time we met again it felt like we were never apart.  They then proceeded to tell us that we would not enjoy the trip we just booked to Brussels.  They said its basically like the D.C. of Europe and I hate politics.  So we have now decided to only spend a couple days in Brussels and take the train to Amsterdam.  I don't think there a single person in this country who doesn't love the city.  One of them may meet us in Amsterdam and Shannon and I are even more excited for the trip now.  The guys were great, they bought us a couple drinks and saved us from a possibly boring week.   What more can I ask for from a very average Thursday night?

Day 31

Today I met Stewart a resident from The Liberties area.  I was working on a story and failing time and time again to find someone from the area with an opinion on dublinbikes.  I finally found Stewart standing next to his bike on a quaint street in The Liberties.  He looked at me with a freckled face and stubby yellow teeth but was extremely nice compared to the other people I had approached.  I honestly couldn't understand much of what he was saying but what I did understand helped my story immensely.  All I needed was his point of view.  He even directed me to the closest station which ended up being a hotspot for finding interviews.  I thanked him profusely as he rode off trailing with a friendly, "Cheers."

Day 30

Today I met someone I did not like.  I couldn't tell you his name, in fact, I don't care to know his name at the moment.  He was sitting in the corner of the class with his faux-hawk, man-scarf, and a smug look on his face.  We were discussing archetypes and the example of "Rambo" came up somehow.  The class went around exchanging adjectives like "strong...brave...unintelligent..." until we got to "arrogant."  That is when he replied "American" with a look of pure pride in his snide comment.  I've done so well up until this point with the present hatred for Americans and I don't know why this got to me so much.  He must have known that, although it was a class for language, there might possibly be some Americans present.  Guess I'll never know but I will forever give him the stink-eye and be as "American" as I possibly can, because after all, Rambo is so the definition of America.  

Day 29

Today I met Will.  He's a head figure in a campaign for making cycling safe in Dublin.  I was meeting him at a local delicatessen and amazingly enough I knew it was him when he came rolling up despite the hoards of Dubliners on their lunch break as well.  He was an older man but well aged, undoubtedly from years of cycling around the city.  He had scruffy hair, blown awry from the wind and a thick gray sweater on to fight the chilly irish air.  I wasn't surprised after talking to him for a few that he was extremely passionate about healthy living and cycling.  Honestly, I wish I could do it too but I'm completely terrified of riding on the busy streets, especially after he finished telling me about how people get killed so easily.  Not my cup of tea, but admirable nonetheless.

Day 28

Today I met THE "Bald Barista."  He owns his self-titled cafe and has as much character as the building does, situated on a corner and stocked with comfy chairs, colorful paintings and people who enjoy a great cup of coffee.  The second I walked up to the counter, he exclaimed, "Geez you're tall."  Big surprise there.  However, he was patient as we mulled over the menu and convinced us into getting their new iced coffee.  It was incredible.  As for the "bald barista,"  he was bald.  The lack of hair certainly didn't mean a lack in personality, especially given the fact that he was wearing an extremely vibrant Hawaiian-eque shirt.  His hearty laugh filled the cafe and he often stopped at tables to talk to customers which is something I appreciate.  I've been lucky to find these types of places already and it surely will keep me from spending my entire bank account at Starbucks.

Day 27

Today I met Anne, a local secondhand bike shop owner.  I barely found the bike shop, its tucked away in an alley and is not much more than a garage and several bike rakes (not what I was expecting).  Anne offered me a cup of tea with oil-stained hands and to tell the truth, it what much needed after wandering around the north side of the city for 45 minutes.  I could tell she led a simple life with her hair cut short tucked under a cap and nothing more than Chapstick on her lips.  She's quite admirable actually, running a small establishment, mostly supported by neighborhood kids and volunteers, in such hard times.  Blockbuster can't even stay open but this hole in the wall shop opened in April and is plugging along.  Anne is passionate about her shop.  She would love to expand but insists that it stay as local as possible.  In her words, "It would kill the spirit of it."  I couldn't have agreed more as she ran around helping customers from the age of 7 to 40 with their prized possessions.  It truly was one of those things not many people get to see, even if they could find it.

Day 26

Today I met Darren, a man who, to put it plainly, creeped me out the first few minutes.  Darren was an older man with crows feet and leather skin, but dressed like he was twenty.  He stopped to talk, with the faintest of slurring in his speech and the smell of Guinness on his breath.  We were about to leave until his less intoxicated friend came over as well as another American.  The guys turned out to be hilarious.  I couldn't tell you half of what they were saying but they were extremely adamant about recruiting us to their new political party: The "Maybe" Party.  I have to admit, the idea was appealing considering the thing I hate about voting is having to choose "yes" or "no" or "this idiot" or "that idiot."  Darren and his secretary are all about the "maybe."  I was cracking up as they took a wide stance, looked us dead in the eye and said, "Maybe yes...maybe no" with a pause in between that took centuries.  Although the guys had a few too many to drink, we had a fun conversation and were asked if we would take on the position of heads of the American branch to which I replied, "...maybe."

Day 25

Today I met the laundryman.  Yes, it wasn't a very exciting day here but nevertheless, he's an important man.  I was switching all of my laundry over as he was taking money from the washers and dryers.  He said hello and frankly, a hoard of other phrases I couldn't understand.  His voice was raspy and muffled from years of telling stories.  However, turns out, he paid for my dryer and set it up for as much time as I wanted.  Not a huge deal but it saved me a euro and now I know to make friends with the laundryman if I want to buy an extra pint one night.

Day 24

Today I met Megan.  She knocked on my door and as I opened it she had that look on her face as if to say, "Oh God, don't think I'm an idiot for asking this."  She decided at the last minute she wanted to attend a party that required a costume so she was going around asking for pieces.  She was adorable irish girl with wavy brown hair and a smile that made me turn around and look for anything to help.  Although all I could offer was a pair of knee-high socks, she was extremely grateful and swore over and over that she would bring them back (which is a good thing because I really like those socks).  I couldn't help but remember the days when the leaves were falling and the air was crisp and I would go out on a pre-Halloween scavenger hunt, going door to door and asking for random things on a list my mom made.  After Megan's knock on the door, I realized that's the thing I miss most about home right now: the fall.  It's my mom's and my favorite time year: the trips to the pumpkin farm, apple orchard and corn maze, making caramel apples, planning halloween costumes, and drinking pumpkin spice lattes when we've had a bad day.  I can't do much of that here, especially living in the city, but I can't complain.  That's what happens when you go on a mission to find yourself, you often end up alone.