sacredness & storytelling: Only boys who wear their wellies have a chance with me!

The sun was shining in Galway today, a sight I have seldom seen since my arrival five days ago. The air was crisp, and I am excited for a long autumn, as my favorite season is too often cut short back home in the Midwest. I have been here for a little less than a week, but I am slowly beginning to worry that I will never want to leave. The people are friendlier, the city more beautiful, the coffee more delicious, and I have yet to eat a meal that conforms to the stereotype of Irish food being bad. Everything here is fresh and local, and I find myself eating less because I am more satisfied with what I have eaten. My sole complaint: I have not met nearly as many Irish people since Mike left for Rome! Apparently, the Irish students are not yet on campus so I have only been meeting other international students. I have met wonderful people from France, Germany, Belgium, Italy… but I have yet to meet someone my age from Ireland! I am looking forward to classes starting simply so I can hear a nice, strong brogue. I am looking forward to tomorrow, when Amy, Allie, and I will go to mass at the Galway Cathedral and then head into town to watch the hurling finals in a pub. Hurling is the biggest sport in Ireland, and each county has a team. I hope it’s not too confusing, but I am excited to learn about a new sport and, as Amy said, have an excuse to drink in the afternoon. I’m peacin’ out, but here are some pictures for you to enjoy!