brief note on germany

i will get back to italy and germany, but just wanted to mention how much i loved seeing iris and vera and jan in germany. i felt like the two and half years just faded away or the past nine months went by in no time. vera and i sat at a fountain and talked for such a long time which made us really happy. my mother's visa card almost was eaten and we had an interesting time with a tree and a train...but more to come later.

Catharsis: Italian Dream Part One

VENICE
We arrived in the outskirts of Venice at night. We went to a local resteraunt for dinner and sat with a family from Bahrain, Shu Yen, Ruth, Kam and Li. I was a bit outraged that the family from Bahrain did not recieve any food while the rest of us gobbled out foods and slurped our drinks. It took a long time before they were finally given two small bowls of salad to share between four people and a plate of carrots and green vegetables. I know they requested some pasta, but do not think they recieved anything. Riccardo came by to our table to ask us to get ready for the evening and I asked him what part of Sicily he came from. I think he said Catalina or Campina, but I am going to have to refer to a map later on to get the actual name. I will recognize it once I see it. I mentioned that my family was from Palermo or more specifically Termini Immerse. He smiled and squeezed my shoulder.

The computer says there is only five minuites left so I am going to jump around for a bit here.

Bless me reader for it has been 10 days since my last confession...

Seamus told me an Irish man would sweep me off my feet during my trip and so begins my tale.

ROMA
My mother and I awoke from a pleasant slumber only to realize that we had no way of getting from one hotel to another. The taxi's were still on strike so our hotel called a friend who tossed our luggage into her car and drove us to our new place. We strolled through the main lobby. There were a few men dressed in navy blue pin strip suits with white iron shirts and neat ties working on our left side. There was another man slumped on a leather sofa on our right side. He had a nice black polo shirt with fitting jeans and was carrying a bright red Trafalgar clipboard. My mother naturally thought he was part of the hotel staff and addressed him as such. She babbled about how the taxi driver's are on strike and the man kept joking about how it would be funny if the tour director also went on strike. It didn't matter how many times the man used I in the sentences, my mother continued to believe that the man she was speaking to was no more than a hotel porter. I didn't think much of the man, because I was so happy that he didn't ask for any offical proof that I belonged on the tour. I would probably just start crying about how my tickets were stolen a few days ago and I don't have any proof.

We met my Vice Principal from my Grade 2 year and other Canadians. The ones we got along with best were Peter and Lucy from Woodbridge and Shu yen and Ruth from Scarbrough. We had a lovely evening (which I think may have mentioned earlier) and then time for bed.

VERONA
My mother has this obsession with water bottles and toilets. She often thinks we need more and more water bottles. We lug around these 1-2 litres of water with us, but only take a few sips when she feels that we must buy more bottles. She also thinks (or perhaps really does) need to use the washroom all the time. We were strolling through the city when we all paused in front of a stor window. I saw some people window shopping while others just mulled around. After a long while, someone asked what we were doing and Riccardo said that a lady needed to use the toilet. I stood in horror and exclaimed, "It's my mother! Only my mother!" The crowd giggled while I stared at the ground hoping it would swallow me whole.

The day became much brighter when Kam invited me to join her in the Guiletta museum. We wandered through the museum in such delight looking at different artificats and celebrating the fact that we were in the same bedroom where they shot Zefferelli's movie. How cool, eh?! After feeling like a couple of geeks getting rather excited over museums and literature, we went for some gelatto. I should mention that my mother was with us and she raced around the entire place taking photos and was a little hesitant about the gelatto. We were all pleasantly surprised when the delicious ice cream came in these cute little green leaf cups. I am still obsessed with Gelatto, but the best one so far has been on the first night with Riccardo.

venice

rome was intriguing to say the least and now i am in venice. it is getting increasingly more difficult to find time to write the blog or to answer emails as we are always in a rush from one place to the next. i miss everyone and think of them often. venice was beautiful last night. i was gliding across the gentle tides under the starry night with my tour guide and my mom, ruth and lee. it truly was an italian dream. ricardo, our tour guide, poured us some champagne as we listened to a gondolier singing traditional italian music and some dean martin songs (where i thought of my father). i really wished adrian was with me to experience the romantic nature of venice at night. once upon shore, ricardo got lost and we strolled through the alleyways until we finally found san marcos square. it was breathtaking and was reassured that i was right to say that i trusted he would guide us to the proper place. he explained a few things before we got onto a ferry to the mainland.

now i understand italian transportation systems

Hello everyone,

Italy has been interesting to say the least. All the trains and busses run on time and the taxi drivers are very friendly. Everyone makes an attempt to speak English and when in doubt, there is always the useful point-at-my-italian-phrase book- and hope-to-god- we understand each other technique.

Pompeii's stirring images still haunt me and linger in my mind after two days, because you can still see the folds of their robes smeared with ash. It is their tangled bodies and anguished cries for help in their last moments that seem the most disturbing, yet oddly beautiful.

Here is the rum. My mother has been robbed twice since we arrived in Rome. The first time the gyspy kids took £40 and the second time they ran off with my wallet that had a picture of Adrian and I. Luckily, I went completely broke and they are lucky if they are able to get one euro off of me. We have met several friendly people along the way including one father, Rod, and his son, hunter. We walked with them last night and that helped keep us safe for the most part. The bus driver made sure we arrived home safely as well by following us through the night.

The weird part is that one of the train lines is under construction while the taxi driver's are on strike. Although my mom and I finished eating dinner at the Spanish steps at 9:15pm, we did not get home until 11:30pm. The ride should have only taken about an hour with bad connections. So here we are ready to check out and I have to find us a way to transport all our stuff from one hotel to the next with a broken down transportation system.

We have seen many remarkable things along our way and are still glad that we were able to do as much as we have. I shall tell you more soon.

I also liked visiting the castle, but unlike my mother i believe it was worth flying to see. I enjoyed the history of the place and walking amongst the sheep and cows. I really do like these green pastures. It was quite funny to see my mom get lost on a straight road too. She seems to have a problem with straight roads, since she was also confused when we got to Flourence.

My mother and I had dinner at a cafe in Flourence. We sat on the patio with flickering candles in ancient lanterns and had a scrumptious dinner. We also enjoyed a complimentary glass of wine. oh i think this is going to stop since the light is flashing so tell you mroe soon.

part one of my trip with my mom

Bunoserra!
It's quite amusing to see me trying to speak Italian as I was only able to learn "bonjourno", "scusi", "grazie" and "mia madre Selina Serio" "mi chiamo Amanda Serio" and "stationzione". lol. i tend to use a mixture of italian and english when trying to communicate with others, but luckily most people speak English here and those that don't do the universal sign language that everyone understands. lol.

I had forgotten about the major differences between how my mother and I like to travel. She always has the bottom line (money) on her mind, whereas I focus on health, saftey and convience. Money is not an issue for me. Needless to say, we have been trying to compromise with each other. Sometimes she will take a taxi rather than trying to figure out the train and bus system and I will just not eat and continue walking in order to save some money. We can also get snappy with each other, because we are not too comfortable with how the other likes to travel.

Our opinion on Scotland (or more specifically New County Hotel and Glamis Castle) is different. She enjoyed the castle, but not the hotel. There were herds of teenagers and youths running around the street from 11pm-2am and several busses and cars racing down the street making it difficult to sleep. My mom has a huge suitcase filled with 17 kilos of stuff so when there is no lift...well let us say trying to heave that thing up two flights of spirling stairs is not fun. On the other hand, i just walk up and down stairs more easily because of my backpack and I like the fact that the room was extremely comfortable and my boys won the world cup!!! Viva Italia!!! We finally won since 1982!

checking in briefly

hello,
just wanted to check in to say that scotland was a blast, flourence was great and now i am in rome. still trying to figure things out, but do not want to keep my mom waiting in the hotel anymore. i have been out for about 45 mins trying to get info on how to resolve my tour and flight problem. miss you all and love you to pieces. talk more later.
amanda

just when you thought it couldn't get any worse....

Hello everyone,

The most ironic thing happened today. I was thinking about how I asked my mother to bring my travel documents and flight tickets, but she was scared she would loose them and told me to hold onto them. Well now it seems that someone has stolen my Trafalgar tour tickets, Globus Tour tickets and Luftansa/ Alitalia tickets. The only thing I have left is my etickets, which can take me to Scotland today.

I of course freaked out. I started balling and crying non stop. I kept mumbling "No! No! I can't take this anymore! Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo." between my great sobs and my body slumped over my backpack. Then I thought to myself, "Well at least you still have your passport, wallet and clothes." I then went over to the vistor accomodation at Trinity College and began weeping about the whole thing and asked if i could have more time to check out. They agreed.

So here I am now. I am happy that Iris wrote to me and I have printed out her emails. I also printed Vera's too. I am trying to hang in there and even bought myself a little friend. It's a tiny lamb, because I think I am going to need to hold onto something soon.

Talk to you soon.

cheers for now

I heaved my bags onto my shoulders and walked 15 minuites to the bus stop. I was so weak from not eating enough that I had asked the hostel across the street if I may use their washroom. The man in charge said no.

I looked in my bag to discover that I had bought one bag of 12 cookies in ballyvaughn and this would be my only food for the next six hours. I decided to ration the cookies by eating two for every 30 minuites. This only lasted for about 4 hours when the bus stopped for a wee break and I ran to a gas station to buy four bannanas and something to drink. I gulped down the first three banannas and drank the energy drink. I still have some in my room at the moment.

I was able to arrive in Dublin okay enough. I had a bit of a misearable time in the rain, but was able to visit the Dublin Writer's Museum and The Book of Kells exhibition where i got to see original editions of books by Swift, Wilde, Shaw, Joyce and others. I was excited about that as well. I bought some things I can use in my English classroom and mailed them out.

It was still raining when I decided to join others in the movie theatre to see P of C. Now that i feel much better, i should go home. I wanted to be home relatively early, but also thought I needed to debrief. It is now 10:37pm and pitch black so Idon't want to wait much longer. Cheers for now.

all saints

I was able to eat my dinner last night. I was also happy when the hotel did my laundry and I could stop carrying wet clothes and laundry with me. I relaxed for most of the night and caught a wonderful episode of All Saints. It is one of those medical dramas and the head nurse was on trial for negligence. The show revolved around two cases. One was a man who was pronounced dead, because he did not have a pulse yet whenever you tried CPR he would open his eyes and gaze at you. The doctors could not distinguish if the man was concious or if the opening and closing eyes was an involuntary movement caused by the pressure of CPR. It was not until the end of the show did we discover that the man was indeed concious and his medical file requested no resitation. They mentioned a few rare cases where this had happened. The doctors apologized and let the man pass.

The second case was based on a diabetic man who waited for 90 minuites for treatment, but the head nurse was too busy dealing with all the patients in the e.r. and there was not enough staff to help all the people, because most of the staff was dealing with the first case. We discover that the nurse will not be charged and the diabetic man's health is up in the air when the episode closes.

ironic song and the personal odyseey continues

This is a very strange song. There is a woman repeatedly saying "I am so horny. so horny. so horny. so horny tonight." Weird.

Anyways, I came back to the vistor centre only to see my bus departing. I guess I could have skipped the bathroom and raced out the bus leaving, but I thought another one would be around in a half hour or so. I went to the washroom and the gift shop. I sat down on the curb waiting for the bus only to realize a few minuties later that no bus would show up for another three hours.

The visitors were gradually making their way out and even the shops outside the main visitor centre were driving away. It seemed like I might be alone on this mountain top waiting for a bus that may or may not come. You can never really trust these busses, because they rarely show up on a time and once not at all. I looked at the endless pastures and the ocean..and tried to call a taxi. Stupid enough, my phone was for emergency only and it seemed that I would have to be around people before I could call for a taxi. I thought to myself I can try walking back to my hotel or at least some place to use my phone.

Now mind you it would be a14 km walk to my hotel and I wasn't truly sure how to get there. I began walking down the road trying to get my bearings. I had already walked up and down hills and on rocks for three hours while on the cliffs. Although my trip down the mountain is down a mountain, but it still walking. After a while my feet were screaming out in pain for each step they had to take.

I walked for a hour and half before I gave up and just called the taxi. The driver remembered me from always leaping into a ditch every single time a car came towards me that he offered to drive me home for free just for giving him a laugh. Once he took me to my hotel, I gave him five euros because I discovered that would have been the rate if he was not so amused. It was majority of my change and I had less than a euro left with me, but still had to make my way to Dublin. (Ironically, "I will survive" has been playing as I write about my journey)

walking on the edge of the olde world part two

The booklet for the cliffs mention that part of the cliff's stark beauty is their loneliness. I could not agree more. I found it quite lonesome on my quest to the tower, but at the same time my curiousity of what I would discover there compelled me to keep going further. I was not disapointed when I arrived at my final destination and could see the different cliffs stretched out.
At this point, I was already becoming a bit more daring and on my journey back to the car park I wandered along the thin trail. I found the wind must have died down or perhaps I was just getting so use to the cliffs that it no longer bothered me.

I also thought about how some parts of us are just innate. I think someone can be innately Catholic as it seems that no matter how hard I may try to mask my faith, it peeps out in everything I say, do and wear. I think the same may be true with the Irish and Newfies. The Newfies were probably not scared to climb the tall construction sites to build the Empire State Building, because they had faced similar feats while tending sheep and cattle on these majestic cliffs.

Although I originally wanted to use the cliffs as an opportunity to meditate on my life, I was to consumed with a fear that it would either rain on my way back or I would need to use the bathroom but was to far removed from civilization to get to one in time so I scurried back, but still made time to take more photos. lol.

walking on the edge of the olde world part one

The juggler told me that what the lady had said was true, but not true as well. He could sense my deep disapointment that I would travel across the nation only to discover what I had most wanted to see was not really there at all. He told me I would see a sign that says do not go any further, but most people travel along the path and you could spend hours there exploring the cliffs.

You can imagine my surprise (and yet I expected it all along) when I saw most of the cliffs were baricaded, because they were constructing a vistor centre for 2007 and shut every thing down except for a small lookout. Yes there was that sign that said not to go any further. I actually turned around to walk back to the parking lot with a strong sadness when I turned around for one last look and saw several people on the forbidden path. So I said, what the heck and went anyways.

Since most of the 'forbidden path' is private property, there is only a thin trail that crawls along the cliff's edge. The brave people boldly strided along this path as they headed towards an abandonded tower on the most westernly point. The scaredy cats like myself decided to walk with the cows on the private property away from the thin trail. There were moments when the 'two paths' would merge and by this time I had my took on. I believed that if I kept my took on it would block out the rough winds and I could maintain my balance because the wind would not reach my ears. I also thought that if I sat down when it became windy I could wait until there was a break and then continue with my journey towards the tower. This proved to be quite successful. It was at this time that I concluded that no one under 130 pounds could journey so far towards the tower due to the wind. You needed to be a bit stocky so that the wind doesn't bother you at all.

I was always amazed to see people discover the Cliff's motto "walking on the edge of the olde world" on their own and would take pictures of it.

aran view and jugglers

I checked into the Aran View and immediately wandered outside to take pictures. I believe I have taken close to an additional 600 photos ontop of what you have already seen since I last posted pictures up. The staff was friendly and I tried to eat dinner. I ordered a scrumptious pasta with white wine sauce and vegetables, but I could only eat a few bites. I was sorry to waste so much money on a delicious dinner and yet could not eat a thing. The games were not playing on the telly so I devoted my time to trying to learn some italian and read more Vasari. I was very happy to hear from my father during this whole ordeal and that he has taken an interest in reading Frank's books. I just wished I could share Italian shoes as my mum and I are not at home to disturb him from his reading, but I told him to read Black Blood instead.

Doolin is a sleepy town filled with hostels, bed and breakfasts and other resteraunts that do not open until the evening. Actually to be honest, I would retire in the evening and go to sleep before the town actually wakes up. They open around 9:30pm to play traditional music and drink till the wee hours in the morning. I would then walk around deserted streets in the morning taking pictures and feel a cold shiver down my spine as the biting wind took hold of my bones.

On the second day, I would buy a scarf, potpourri and other tidbits in preperation of going to the cliffs of moher. I even bought a sweater with a hood and a took at the Cliffs visitor centre. I had learned to rely mostly on my hotel and gift shops for my 'survival' since other people usually take just cash. I was surprised when the lady in Doolin that morning had told me there was nothing to see at the Cliffs but one very short lookout that would take only five minuites to see.

It was only when I was waiting for the bus that I came across a young man from Hamburg (God, I am not spelling this properly) Germany who was on his way to a juggling festival.

hailing busses and beloved sheep

I rang the first place and asked if there was room for me to just put my bags down and lay down. I would be willing to pay any price for that opportunity, but the girl at the door looked at me trying to breathe and told me there was no vacancy. I wanted to cry out, but just hung my head as I tried the second place. I felt like Joseph and Mary searching for a place and I found my manger in the second place. The woman took one look at me and took pity on my soul. She gave me the keys and told me to relax. I could lay there for as long as needed. I kept telling her I would pay for the room. I dropped my bags onto the floor and crawled into bed. I waited until my body stopped shaking and settled a bit before I decided to search for some food. I was able to find a local pub where I had fish and chips. I noticed the American flag outside and inside there was a picture of Boston. I was so happy to find somewhere to eat, but was concerned that I only had 20 euros in my wallet and I had to spend three days where the nearest bank machine was a 20 minuite drive away. I then looked for an internet cafe where I could reach Vera to get her number (which I unfortunatley lost on my way to Doolin) and to see if Iris had written about Vera, my mom and I staying with her in Germany. I mustered enough energy to return to my hotel where I rested more.

I was so anxious about missing a second bus to Doolin that I decided to wait in the rain for the bus to come. This is when I discovered that you hail busses in Clare. I know it must sound odd since most people hail cabs, but here you see a bus and then stretch your arm out as if the whole world will stop upon your command. The bus driver swerves to a part of the road and you ask him if he can take you to your destination. Sometimes they say yes while other times they tell you what to do next. I did this a few times before I caught a kindered soul who drove me to straight to my hotel doorstep.

On my way there, I noticed these neolithic stone placements. They were formed in a circle while others were clearly ruins of an ancient home. I found these quite intriguing and yet again I did not have enough time or a camera to capture these true wonders. Despite my disappointment in failing to catch all the delightful parts of my trip, I was happy to see the heavens open up to shine down on a beautiful pasture with grazing sheep in front of my hotel. There was a pinic table so that people can look out to the ocean, aran islands, ancient stones and yes my beloved sheep.

The prodigal daughter returns part one

There is only so long a person can wander this earth feeling alone. I had such a yearning to be with a community and with others that I went to see Pirates of the Caribbean. Although I gave up a chance to stroll the streets of Dublin on the literary tour, I prefer being dry and laughing with other people. It is great to hear them gasp in delight and surprise and there were a few moments when I jumped in my seat as well.

So what is new with me? I came to Ireland searching for answers and discovering a part of myself, instead I found myself at wit's end trying to survive through all the obstacles. It all began when the bus terminal told me I could catch the bus to Doolin. It sounded simple enough. You get on a bus in point A and land in point B. This was not a case as I had landed in Galway where I befriended two Canadians - one from Streetsville! I then boarded another bus right away and it would take an additional two hours for me to reach my destination. At this point, I had not ate or used the washroom so I began to tremble, convulse and finally start hyperventaling which is when I decided to get off at Ballyvaughn. I heaved my two heavy bags onto my shaking body and went into Spar across the street. I asked to use the washroom and when I had went around the corner of the store I was already on verge of collapsing. I could not keep my hands steady and legs kept wabbling as if someone was poking me with an electric buzzer. I was able to relieve myself and gather enough energy to make it to the tourist information area where they pointed me in the direction of the bed and breakfasts.

another mishap

Hi everyone,
I may not be able to write for a while since I only have 10 euros left (not counting my emergency funds) to last me the next three days. I am currently in ballyvaughn instead of doolin, because I thought I was on a direct 2 hour route from sligo to doolin. Unfortunately, I was on a bus to Galway and then another too Doolin. After four hours of not being able to use the washroom or eat, my body start convulsing and trembling badly and I had to get off the bus. I am in a b and b at the moment...and hope to get on a second bus to doolin tonight. you can always call me if you want. i have ate but must go now.

I want to put my head through a wall!

This morning began wonderfully as I was able to fully immerse myself under water for a relaxing bath. I've never been in a tub where I could stretch out and completely go underwater so it was rejuvenating start to a long journey to Sligo. I first had to go to Coleraine where I waited 45 minuites for a bus to Derry (as the Catholics call it. Londonderry if you are Protestant). This is the first time I truly noticed how heavy my bags truly are. In a battle between my 30 kilos of luggage and a toilet seat, my baggage won. I am usually stuck in the stalls and battling to try one piece of luggage out at a time so I can leave the stall. I got so frustrated travelling alone with this brick house on my shoulders that I swung the larger bag and a part of it nicked the toilet seat. Surprisingly, that was strong enough to unhinge the poor thing and the toilet seat came off.

I travelled to Derry where I had a 1.5 hr stop over there before my new bus. I had time to stroll through the lovely city was surprised when I saw how posh McDonalds is there. I even took pictures of the leather chairs and sofas, fancy trays and other eating areas. I also spent a lovely time in the Tower Museum where the guide told me about flickr.com where you can make comments about photographs and have other comment about yours. He also told me about pisa2 or pizza2.com where it gives you free software to improve your photos. He also gave me a lovely overview of the city's history.

I then spent three hours on a bus to Sligo when I had an alarming discovery. My money belt was gone! I am not sure whether it was stolen or lost in Belfast where I may have placed it in the drawer with the hair dryer. Every prolonged minuited seemed like an eternity as I waited to enter the city so I could contact the hotel to enquire about my money belt. They said no one reported anything, which means it must have been stolen. Despite my terrible fear of someone running around with my credit card (which I just cancelled) and the horror of having my pounds and euros stolend as well, the part that made me most sad was the card given to me by Ross, Kim, John and Paul was there. I wanted to keep them close to me, becuase it meant so much that they made a card and wrote kind words in it. Now it is gone! *huge sigh, want to cry*

I thought I could take relief in finally being able to do my laundry now that my late arrival means I cannot see anything in the city (so travelled about 6 hours to see my hotel), but they don't have self service laundry places here. I think it has to do with the Irish mentality of not renting and therefore why would you need to go out of your own home to do laundry? so I am now hoping I can order the laundry to be done while in Doolin and to take a few outdoor pics of Sligo. Now I truly must go and see if I can track down Vera and Iris' number so we can confirm details of when I land in Germany. Cheers.

deja vu

I will share one more amusing observation and then off to click click I go! I gazed out the window as the bus weaved through emerald green rolling hills, mountains, grazing sheep and ocean tides crashing against a jagged shoreline. The natural beauty captivated me and then a curious sensation washed over me. I felt at home. Despite the mishaps earlier in the morning, I felt at complete ease and peace. It is the same sensation someone experiences when they return home from a long journey. Although everything may seem new and you are discovering fascinating elements along the way, there is always something familiar that draws you in and makes you feel at home.

I am not sure whether my unconcious remembers fragments of childhood dreams and the escapades I took in my mind, but it honestly felt like I was returning home. An elderly lady greeted me when I arrived in Bushmills and walked me to my hotel. Once I had dropped off all my belongings at the hotel and wandered Bushmills looking for socks and an umbrella, I strolled along the riverside to see when the next steam/coal train would depart to the Giant's Causeway. I noticed a interesting sign along the roadside that mentions the history of Scots-Irish and how Bushmills is an ancient city with these origins. It made me laugh as I thought perhaps that is why I feel at home here.

No matter what the cause of this strange phenmona may be, it is still quite comforting when at times I do feel so utterly alone. I really do wish my little hun was here along with the rest of you and that I could share this whole thing with you.

Mishaps and adventures

Someone stole my Eddie Bauer coat and umbrella while I was sitting in the bus depot. They were quite clever, because they waited until I lifted my Italian book up (to prevent further neck strain) and was engrossed in trying to learn a new language. I bought a new jumper while in Dublin and it has been with me since my second day. It has pockets for me to store my wallets, which is why the thief was not able to get that information. I also don't have all my flight info in my binder for some reason and some socks are missing.

I bought new socks and an umbrella, although I am disppointed I don't have my old one. It was really good! I had a lovely time taking the Antrim Coaster and even had my camera ready to take pictures. I became so captivated and mesmerized by Ireland's beauty and kept thinkng I could buy postcards that I never did take any pictures. I slightly regret it now, because even when I did buy a book on the Glens of the Atrim..it never captured the magic and spectacle which I saw this morning and afternoon. I even met an old couple who gave me some intriguing antedotes along the way. They were so surprised when I gave up my seat so they could sit together, which is when they began talking to me.

The Giant's Causeway was spectacular. Every single time I thought I had seen the highlight during my trail, another majestic view would come along and leave me stunned with joy. Most people were taking pictures of loved ones and since I had no one, I would take pictures in a 360 degree axis so that I could remember where I was at each moment with certain reference points. lol.

Ellen and Mom, please keep in mind that Ireland has all four seasons in one day and I assume so will England and Scotland. I find it best to wear a tanktop with my jumper/cardigan so that when it boils to a steaming haze you can wear your tanktop and then when the cold wind gusts by and chills you to your bone, you can wear your cardigan. Well I am off to take my final picures of this quaint hotel.

Cheers!

happy trails

I took several photos of the city and my time at its entertainment complex - the Odyssey. Although my thighs quivered a few times from the strain of constant walking, I still felt rejuvenated enough to walk through five stories of the Whowhatwherewhy exhibit. I even particpated in different activities that assess your stamina in sports activities and/or upper body strength. I made sure not to overdo it as I will be needing my energy tomorrow for the Giant's Causeway. I truly feel happy basking in the warm sunlight and I feel a new sense of energy rushing through me. I really cannot articulate how happy I am to be in Belfast.

And if you are wondering, I never did end up meeting Seamus. I would have been happy too, but I called him twice last night and did not want to disturb him today. It is just about time for me to eat dinner and then take another relaxing bath. I should also retire for the evening as my neck is acting up again from the computer use.

Well cheers for now and I look forward to talking to all of you soon.

Sweet redemption for Belfast

Although the tour is a hop on and hop off set up, the tour guide will continue to speak and the driver will whiz by the sites until someone raises their hand and says they want to get off. I really like our tour guide, because he was informative, objective and entertaining with a wild sense of humour. He pointed out that Belfast has a hockey team made entirely of Canadians. lol. He also mentioned several facts about Belfast history and culture, which I have made brief notes next to my list of pictures. The one intriguing fact is that Belfast is the second safest place in the world next to Stockholm and that it only started to develop its tourist industry five years ago. The guide made a quip about how there are Titanic permanent collections around the world and burial sites in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, but there is virtually nothing in Belfast. Despite the ship's tragic end, it is something that the Belfast people celebrate. He also pointed out how the cty is trying to rejuvenate and reinvent itself. They are creating new sculptures, bridges and other things to celebrate the peace process between the two political riffs and how they can unite together as one city. I tip my hat off to Belfast and give it a standing oviation for achieving full redemption. This magnificent city has welcomed its tourists and citizens with open arms. Despite getting lost as I travelled by myself and wandered through deserted alleyways and graffiti streets trying to get my bearings, I never once felt scared. I felt completely at home.

Mickey D's and other notes

There was a man standing outside my hotel about information on the hop on and hop off tours. I remembered that if you purchase a ticket with citysightseeing, they give you a 10% discount on the next tour you take. The man thought I was a student and gave me a discount of £8 sterling. The sterling threw me off, because I didn't expect Northern Ireland to feel like an entirely new place. He gave me simple directions on where I could find the start of the tour and was happy when I found the place without a problem.

I strolled across the street to get a bite at McDonalds. It appears they say "main" instead of combos and it took a while for me to understand what they were asking of me. lol. I was also surpised how much cheaper it was in Belfast than Dublin. A whopper combo in Dublin is $7.45 and a Big Mac combo in Belfast is £3.49. Crazy, eh? I also felt much more at home in Belfast, because of their ties to the U.K and I could easily recognize different bands and places. I hopped onto my bus and began an intriguing tour.

entering belfast

Despite the potential threat of our bus heating up and all passengers moving onto a new bus, we all arrived safely in Belfast. I heaved my bags onto my shoulders and waddled over to the information desk. I double checked my hotel confirmaton and it said check in was at 2pm. I asked the clerk where the nearest luggage storage was and she gave me an easy map where I could follow and walk 10 mins to deposit my baggage. I thanked her in between heavy pants and waddled out the doors.

I was surpised to discover that my hotel was just two buildings away and therefore dragged myself into the hotel lobby to check in. I was lucky twice, because no one was in my room and I could lug all my stuff in there at 10:40am. I was also suprised about how nice the room. I dropped everything onto the floors and rested on the bed for a few moments before I began my adventure in Belfast.

funny paranoia

I remember crossing the border and seeing a huge sign for Sinn Fienn along the roadside. In a moment of irrational paranoia, I quickly removed my Italian braclet and lanyard thinking the Irish would think that I was Catholic, because I am Italian and therefore hurt me. Doesn't make much sense does it?

conjuring fantasies and dreams

My mind starts to conjure a slew of fantastical stories. One dream was about an ancient Irish man who fled to Scotland before the nations had formed. While in Scotland, he fell in love with a English woman and therefore my passion for the U.K and Ireland was a lingering feeling from these ancient times. I must admit the dreams were quite intriguing, despite their unrealistic tendencies. I also thought of how we carry parts of everyone around us throughout life. I once fell in love with an Italian who deeply enjoyed soccer. I took it upon myself to learn as much as I could about soccer so that I may understand his passions. It was only through this process and research that I too grew an appreciation for the game. I still celebrate my Italian heritage and these fond memories by wearing an Italian soccer jersey and bracelet. I find this celebration not common in Ireland and people often become confused if I wear dual nationality items such as a Germany t-shirt and Ireland jumper. I even had somene ask me what language I speak.

the meaning of old souls

As the bus weaved through rollling emerald green hills and rustic stone homes, I felt myself meditating over the meaning of old souls. I felt that once a soul passes onto the afterlife, it has an opportunity to cleanse itself from all earthly matters. The old souls never complete this process and therefore enter a new body with all of its life experiences. A new soul emerges in this body and the old one co-habits with the new one. In essence, you have two souls living and breathing as one. Unfortunately for the person with these two souls, there are parts of them that they cannot explain. I think it is because their unconcious is still living in the past, but their concious is living in the present and so you have someone like myself who has always been drawn to Ireland and the U.K. since I was three years old. I use to justify it as a means of escape from my dreary and dismal childhood living with a mother too burnt out to manage her stress well enough. Now that I look out the window and see other towns such as Dongeagal, Newry and such...I begin to wonder what life may have been.

a new dawn, a new day

I awoke from an uneasy slumber and filled the tub with warm water. The body wash seems to do wonders for my body and soul as I feel tiny ripples spring from my pelvis and rush up through my spine and into my neck. After my calming bath, I changed into my clothes and heaved my heavy backpack onto my shoulders. I plopped it onto the hotel lobby and asked the clerk to watch over my luggage as I fetched the remaining pieces. Fortunately, the concierge and taxi driver helped me take the luggage to the taxi and I arrived on time to catch my bus to Belfast.

let's try this again

I wrote a beautiful narrative of my accounts of today only to discover the computer I am on discarded everything and said I was not using the computer properly. It says I have about 50 mins left, but doesn't say anything about being able to wander from the terminal and return so I will try my best to retell the story and publish it by paragraphs.

going to church with jonathan swift and other tales

Hi Everyone,

No pictures this time, I promise. I am actually feeling a bit dizzy now. Today was slightly disapointing and breath taking all at the same time. I discovered that I do have a wee problem. Sometimes I find myself completely lost and without an idea of what to do next. I usually sit there or stand in one position hoping I will be enlightened, but end up relying on the kindness of the Irish folk. I have become well acquainted with the taxi's here, because I always seem so confused about where I am and how to get back home. I have three maps, but never seem to know how to get from one destination to the other. I also feel like I am weaving in and out of time. For example, I sat down for breakfast this morning and seemed quite aware of what I was doing until I got up for some black pudding and hash browns. I sat down and poof! I felt nauseaus and just out of it.

I really am happy that I am in this hotel. The room is spectacular and the service is excellent. I am aware that I have spent waaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyy more than expected while in Dublin and that I have lost money along the way. I am not too pleased about that, but I am trying to look on the bright side.

I went to church with Jonathan Swift this morning at St. Patrick's Cathedral. He was the dean there and is buried there as well. I sat in the first pew with great wonder and tried to be respectful as I could. I read along with all the responses and knelt down for the eucharist and wine. There are some differences between the Anglican and Catholic church, but not enough to make me feel alientated. I enjoy listening to the choir, preacher and minister and watching all the candles lit up like stars in the sky. Ironically, I spent most of the day in churches, because I wasn't sure where I was headed and somehow always landed in a church.

I also saw original texts of the bible and other books at the Chester Beatty Library. Their collection is impressive and awe inspiring. You honestly feel like your are being transported to 200AD and reading fragements of these sacred texts.

I had a bit of a mishap yesterday when trying to wash my clothes. The chemicals from the detergent were so strong that I ended up pouring half a bottle of body wash (don't ask. I don't even understand myself sometimes) hoping to neutralize the smell...which it did to a certain extent. My clothes are not yet dry and I will try to blow dry them I guess. I swear I feel like the undomestic goddess. Watch out Sophie Kinsella!

The weather here is kinda crazy. It starts off with thunderstorms and then comes the gusting wind and rain...and then all of a sudden you are in the boiling heat..and the cycle continues. I keep sweating and not taking in enough liquids, because I am so caught up in being lost and trying to gain my senses..that sometimes I forget to eat. It is only when I give up and hop onto some tour bus that things slowly get better. Well anyways, I wanted to wash my clothes again because I felt so sick. This time I washed and rinsed them and now hoping they will hang dry. God knows what is next. I will have to repack everything tonight and then tomorrow hopefully meet Seamus.

If I don't get a chance, I will just get on all the hop on and hop off buses as much as possible and try to take it more easy. I am hoping it is just a bad case of jet lag and things will pass soon.

outwit and outlast

Welcome to an intriguing version of Survivor. Who do you think will outwit and outlast the other? A group of joyful and drunken wedding guests or the solo girl trying to upload the last five photos..who?! who?! Well so far the solo girl is winning. wahoo!!! Anyways, I wish everyday could be a stroll through the park and seeing life in a different perspective.

It is ironic that today is the anniversary of the battle of boyne and Canada day. I noticed several Portugese celebrating their win over England. The Irish are happy about that too. They really didn't want England to take the cup. The Irish also are aware that today is the day two kings fought over the throne to England and that the political riffs can still be felt since 1690. On the other hand, the Canadians are trying to celebrate our 139 years of indepdence.

Well it seems that the five photos are done and i really should retire for the evening.

hopefully last musings...

Hopefully this will be one of the last posts for the evening/ morning. It is now 12:50am here in Dublin. I originally thought downloading the pics would only take a few mins, because that it only took 1-2 mins download the first set of 25 pics. I told the program to erase all the pics off my device so that I could make more room for the other locations. I am seriously doubting whether I made the right choice there. I have now decided to go back to downloading 10 photos at a time, because I think it took me about 45 mins just to do the last 10 or so...but not sure. Then luckily there will only be about 17 more photos.

I really wanted a head start tomorrow and attend a Catholic mass, but now think it might be wiser to sleep in and get some rest. I will need to repack tomorrow evening and don't want to ware myself too think early in my trip. I also thought it would be good to check out all those sites, but I guess I should now count on loosing more of my money and just see most of it when I return to Dublin next week.

I would go to bed now, but I am scared that if I log off I may also loose my pictures. I am not too sure why that would happen, but nothing makes much sense to me now. I am having a great time in Dublin. It is so relaxing here. The weather was quite hot today and I was sweating in my tank top and skirt. It only gets breezy when I go up north. I am glad I packed different types of clothing.

I no longer walk in the ghetto area, which reminds me the saying is "stillhetto in the ghetto." okay that is it... I am just going to publish this...I can't think anymore. Just wanted you to know I truly am having fun. I have a great hotel room. It was truly worth the money to stay here instead of some of the dives in town. Although I am spending more money in Dublin than expected, I am also taking care of myself which is what I truly need.

now if I can just get myself to learn Italian...

Excuse me, can you check your computer for my room?

Okay, now I truly know I must be sitting here for a while. The same two people approached me twice about checking the computer for where their hotel room is located. Despite the fact that I am sitting here in my Sheridan scrubs and Bridges Volunteer t-shirt while rubbing my neck every few minuites, I must still appear as somone who works here. Perhaps there is way too much alcohol at these weddings? lol. It could also be that I am sitting in a slightly enclosed area with a lamp and very brief rail.

renting and buying in Ireland

I thought of another intriguing fact about the Irish culture. They really don't like renting. They would rather beg, steal or kill than rent. They call it "dead money" and only students rent while at school. Now the average person makes £28 000, but property in Dublin is over £100 000. No one can truly afford a place of their own by themselves, but they do it anyways. Now buying property outside of the Dublin area is way cheaper, so most first time owners buy in the surrounding area.

Now if you compare that to our culture where renting is just another option to buying...it just shows you how different we can be.. I've already spent close to three hours trying to upload 60 photos and now have opened a new album for the other photos. I am hoping it will go faster now.

Our Timmy's makes an international debut

You know how Walmart and other gas stations sell Krispy Kreme donuts? Well I have a similar story coming up...

Do you remember how I bought my Toronto Maple Leafs jacket in Sydney, Australia and how they had pictures of the leafs in their skating rink? It was an odd feeling, but a good one too. It was strange that Australia would know the leafs, but at the same time it was comforting to see something familiar.

Do you remember when the Americans bought out Tim Hortons? We thought it was kinda funny to see Timmy's in buffalo. Well I think the two concepts are coming together. The Americans want to launch an international chain of Tim Hortons and sell the donuts in local grocery stores...I think. I saw a sign advertising Tim Horton donuts in Dublin, Ireland. Now I think I have seen it all. lol.

madonna

I shall live in this little chair in front of the computer. I shall become a permanent fixture in this hotel. I tried not blogging, but it takes just as long. I am not even writing about the photos at this point. I thought I will just do that once I have my notes in front of me. Thankfully, the wedding is playing a great mixture of music. Anyways, I thought of this Madonna story I wanted to share with you.

Every year (except for the last two years) the Slane castle hosts a rock concert. The owner experienced a fire in the eighties and he thought it would be great way to raise funds to restore his place. The concerts have been going on for the past twenty years. Eminem was suppose to play last year, but cancelled and there has been no mention of a concert this year. The last performer was Madonna in 2004.

Madonna is really into Kabalah and therefore she demanded the castle to break its tradition of holding concerts on Saturday and place her concert on Sunday, because she doesn't work on Saturday's. Now Slane is a small town of maily four Georgian houses and a couple of stores so the local residents were scared they would not be able to attend church with 80 000 people coming to watch Madonna play. Despite the controversy, Madonna walked onto stage and greeted the crowd with warm "Good Evening Dublin!" The residents were not happy that she couldn't even remember she was in Slane.

Now in order to defend Madonna slightly, Slane is 50 km away from Dublin...which is super huge in Ireland's terms but relatively small in American/ Canadian terms. It would be similar to a star saying "Hello Toronto" instead of "Hello Barrie". I feel like the photos are uploading faster, because I have been able to do 6 in the last 3-6 mins? hmmm.....

my neck is killing me

Yay! it has finished downloading, but I feel bad that I have yet another 50 odd photos to go...which means I am either slowing things down by typing on this blog or it is just a lower connection. Anyways, my neck is really killing me. The counter on which I am typing is a bit higher than usual and I have been online for about an hour and a half. I am going to take a wee break from typing and see if that helps any.

catholics

Nope, it was interesting to discover more about Catholic history. Most Irish talk about the oppression of the Protestant rule and how Daniel O'Connell emancipated the Catholics in the 1800's. The Catholics were not allowed to attend third year univerisity or school for that matter. They could not vote and were badly mistreated to state it mildly. I am never too sure whether I feel sympathetic and empathic as a Catholic or try to put everything into perspective. The Catholic church ran things with an iron fist for a long time before they were mistreated so are we getting our just desserts or were we punished for simply believing in a certain part of our faith? I know overall that it feels better to be on Catholic grounds rather than Protestant, because I felt quite alienated in England. hmm I am going to try again.

Canadian Idol, lines, taxi's and tips

Yay! One more set down...

I was wearing my Canadian Idol hat today, which made a few heads turn. I think it took people a while to understand that the Idol was refering to the singing competition and then they wondered whether I was a participant in the singing competition...and if I was in the competition, then why am I acting so humble and not bringing my entire posse. I say this because a sales clerk actually asked me if I was part of the singing competition and had this awkard expression on her face. I may try it again tomorrow.

Oh I forgot about the queues. My mother and I were shocked when we arrived at the airport only to see at least a thousand people waiting in line to get on air transat. There was a backlog of flights departing, because the weather delayed a few flights and the 8 crew members were trying to process everyone on an international flight. My mother and I waited about 3 hours before I went through security and that was after being dragged out of line. I also had the same type of problem when I arrived in Dublin and the Tourism board told me to line up at stop 5 for my free airport transfer. I did as instructed, but the lady would not let me on the coach because my hotel is in Clontarf. I waited in a new line for the taxi. I seem to be having trouble with the bus system here so I keep ordering taxi's to take me in and out of the city. It is adding up, but at the same time I have no idea how to get in and out of town! I also tend to overtip, because I am not really sure how much I am suppose to give so I think it better to give a few pence more or one euro more than expected, because at least I don't seem ungrateful.

I also noticed the ATM's here have instructions in at least four languages, which is interesting. The only thing that compares is the TD ATM on creditview which is in English, French, Chinese and Italian. These ATM's are in English, French, German and at least one or two other languages. I am going to check again.

first thoukhts on ruins

Nope, it still going. I was also impressed with the ability to touch all the stones, lean against them, sit on them and do whatever you want to do. The monastary was the same and we were all standing on burial sites as if they were just stepping stones. just going to download new msn

building newgrange

Nope, it is still going. The history behind Newgrange is actually quite fascinating. It was built prior to the pyramids, Great Wall of China, Mayan/ Aztec buildings and the invention of the wheel! The stones were brought from the 'surrounding areas', which means the men moved tons of stone up and down hills for 85 km. That is not an easy feat so the academics hypothesize that the men would cut down trees in their way and use the logs to roll the stones up and down the hills. They also speculate that it took 85 men just to move one stone and that it may have taken 40 years just to build these ancient tombs. I was impressed, but an English couple from Cornwall told me that England has several smaller versions of Newgrange and Stonehenge so they were only impressed with the size rather than the invention. Time to check again...

surrounding area and domestic life

Yay! I was able to upload the first set and no one is waiting for the computer anymore. phew! It is funny how you can travel around the world, yet certain parts remind you of home. I took some pictures of the yaught club here in Clontarf, but right across from the palm trees and boats is a huge factory. It reminds me of a blend of Hamilton and Sault St Marie. lol. You may be surprised to know that I did some laundry by hand. I filled my sink with warm water (even though I later realized I have cold water detergent lol) and then placed some latex gloves on my hands. I didn't think I was suppose to dunk my bare hands into detergent water, but I think I may be the only one with this fear. lol. I began washing the clothes and hanging them to dry..and then wait for the zinger...I closed the door and began ironing my clothes! I was watching the Brazil vs France game while doing it.

I noticed I am often under dressed compared to the other guests in the hotel, because (a) it is a castle and (b) there are constant weddings and receptions going on in the hotel so people are naturally dressed up. They have a wonderful tavern here where I ate dinner last night. hmmm...I think I will check up on those photos.

facts about ireland

Man this is taking a while just to upload ten photos. I have 117 in total. I deleted them off my memory card so I am going to have to upload them all so I can purchase them later. Anyways, I learned a few interesting things about local Ireland. The licence plates here are organized by the last two digits of the year you purchased it followed by one or two letters of where the car is from and then followed by how many makes of the car are in your reigion. For example, let us pretend you bought you car in 2001, Dublin and there are 3235 other cars in Dublin made in 2001. Your licence plate would be 01 D 3235. Some places have more than one alphabet, since there are 26 counties. Let us us the same information, but change the location to Limerick. It would read 01 LK 3235.

I also learned that Dublin (of Dvblin) is 1000 years old, but 41% of the population is under 25 making it the youngest city in the E.U. Well time to check those photos again.

Nope, it is still going. I never did mention that I am no longer going to drive through the Scottish highlands, because my mother was able to get the travel agent to give me an eariler flight. I also did not mention that I truly love the Superman Returns film. I was impressed with the several 'bang it over your head' allusions to ancient Roman and Greek mythology, Jeudo Christian mythology, Alex Ross mythology and references to superman lore (such as Alex Ross' Peace on Earth). I think it would make a great 3D film. I am not sure if there is a girl waiting to use the computer. hmmm...should check to see if the photos are finished uploading and then see if she wants to go on for a while...hmmmm

O glorious day, Brazil is out!

Hi guys,
I am so delighted to announce Brazil is out! Viva la France! O glorious day that the reigning monarchy in world cup soccer is completely out. I had an exciting day visiting ancient tombs, monastaries and a stroll through downtown Dublin. I am a bit disapointed that I have failed to use my Dublin pass, except for the one time when I went out to eat dinner. I shall try to make a tiny marathon for myself where I race through most of the attractions on the dublin pass while going on my literary tour just so I don't feel as guilty that I didn't use as much on the pass. I am going to publish this just in case when I check webshots I loose everything.