As many of you know, both my birthday and my mom's are coming up, and in what is becoming a fabulous tradition, my mom and I are hitting the road. This year's destination is the Emerald Isle, and we are going to spend eight fabulous days rocking the Irish countryside. Last year was Costa Rica, next year may be the moon, but this year's birthday trip will find my rather substantial self firmly planted on a (hopefully padded) stool with a pint of Harp clutched in my hand, listening to the skirling at a ceilidh somewhere and making new friends.
It's been a good while since I've been this excited - I truly only feel really alive when I'm traveling off to unknown places and facing unknown situations - I'm one of those people that defines myself externally, by the things I do, the people I meet, and the places I go, and I need constant mental stimulation to grow. I love to be in environments that require my best, where my mind is almost overwhelmed with sensory input.
I've done a bit of research on Ireland, and I'll freely admit I'm having a hard time deciding what to see and do. I want to see IT ALL, but have time to stand for a pint. I want to cram as much living as possible in the eight days I'm there, but I don't want to rush. (If anyone has a fairy godmother for rent, text me immediately, please.) It's going to be heartwrenching to cut my 25 page list of things into a more manageable 8 day itinerary, but it's got to be done.
I'll also freely admit to preconceptions. I've got this picture of Ireland in my mind, a land of misty green hills and soft morning light, of friendly innkeepers and farm wives baking soda bread. I'm sure that the reality is closer to downtown Detroit with a large bit of country in between, since the unemployment rate in Ireland is astronomical, but I can't wait to experience it firsthand.
On the other hand, here's something I DON'T want to experience firsthand, but is apparently common enough over there as to have its own sign:
Um, yeah. I won't be driving into the sea, thanks.
It's been a long day at the fire department, but I've gathered a ton of information and picked the fine minds of the Irish around me, and I think I've got a good start to planning a truly fabulous trip. I'll keep you all posted as it develops, and you know I'm good for a photo or two!
Cheers, and Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Comments