Bad Blogger

So I never really got anything together for Thanksgiving but that's ok because tomorrow I am going home for Christmas (!!!!) and I figure since I missed turkey day I can stuff my face twice as much, right? I am so looking forward to being in California and getting some sun. I am going to eat all the avocados and zip around in my yellow mini cooper. Like the crazy old lady from Pasadena. Only I'm not from there and I'm not old. Yet.

I am so excited for Christmas! Although it seems like it has been Christmas for weeks now since the decorations have been put up all over town since November. The Irishman and I went to a Christmas market last night and got German bite sized donuts covered in nutella. Delicious! Not healthy but I don't care. I went for a run today. That's how calories work, right? Last weekend we went to a hip, chic design Christmas market. Neat stuff but no donuts. Next time they need to combine the designed goods with the deliciously unhealthy edibles. But there was free mulled wine! Oh and going for Christmas drinks! Yay Christmas! I had too much coffee today can you tell?

I have seen two plays both were amazing and both were opportunities to see people I worked with in the last play I was in so doubly wonderful!

Two weeks ago (I know I have fallen behind again for the infinite time but at least I admit to it) I went to Cavan for a workshop the theatre company was doing. It was cold and in the middle of nowhere (which really was very beautiful) and most importantly was very successful. And there were fireplaces. Hurrah!

I am still running, still helping out in the cool bike cafe and next up I will be performing a piece that I am writing in a theatre festival! Exciting news and I will have more on that at a later date.

Ok that was a quick catch up! More after the break! I have to finish packing!

Merry Christmas/ Happy Chanukah/ Happy New Year etc!

This and That and Irish Politics

So I have recovered from my escapades in Paris and London.

I suppose the most important thing that has happened since my last post is that Obama won the election! Wahoo! I had to stay up till six in the morning here to watch the results coming in. It was worth it. I wouldn't have been able to sleep not knowing who was elected.

The Irishman's nephew was christened and afterwards there was a big party. The Irish seem to have a party for any and every occasion. Who's complaining? Not me.

 I have been busy with the theatre company, I was in Kilkenny last week for a workshop and am going to Cavan this weekend for a seminar. The company is expanding and next week we are moving to our new office across the hall. It's very exciting. We even get a little outdoor patio.

Last weekend the Irishman and I had friends over for dinner. It was our first time entertaining in our now not so new apartment. It was really nice. Once I got over the stress and the cut finger. I made this and it was delicious!

I am still running so far my best is 5k in twenty-four minutes. Last week the sea was beautiful and flat and while I know it's the middle of November I decided that I had to go for a dip. It was freezing! I could feel all the bones in my body and I'm pretty certain I could actually feel my blood flowing through my veins. While my die-hard attitude is impressive I think I will wait till spring before I can comfortably swim in the sea again.

I have started volunteering in a cafe so that I can add more work experience for when I am finally able to have a paid job here. The cafe is part of a shop that fixes bicycles, recycles old ones, and offers classes and biking advice. It's pretty cool. Plus I love coffee.

Ireland has made international news recently in a not so great way. An Indian woman, Savita, died from an infection in a hospital after suffering through a miscarriage for three days. She repeatedly asked for a termination since the baby was not going to make it but she was denied because "this is a Catholic country."It is a tragedy. Ireland has erupted in heated debate with demands for legislation to allow abortion. Last week there was a march through the city. I debated whether or not to go. On the one hand I felt that the issue of a right to choose is so important but on the other hand I am not Irish or an Irish citizen  so I wondered if it really was my place (or obligation) to protest. But then I realised that Savita was not Irish (I'm not sure if she had citizenship) and that as long as I live in Ireland its laws still affect me. So I went to the march along with at least 12,000 others. As I walked through the rain I thought about the protests I have previously been to and realised that this was the first pro-choice march I have ever been too. This surprised me for a moment but then of course Roe v. Wade was in 1973 long before I was even born. Up until the recent U.S. election, where a woman's right to choose was a major issue and causes massive separation between the Right and the Left, I had been guilty of taking my right to choose for granted. I had merely assumed that my rights were protected and would remain so. And while I have always been aware of Ireland's lack of legislation on abortion rights I never thought that it could affect me but I now see that, sadly, I am wrong. Ironically, Ireland has just been added to the U.N. Human Rights Council which, in retrospect, is alarming. If you are reading this and feel as strongly as I do spread the word and urge Ireland to legislate, regardless of whether or not you are Irish, it is an international issue and it's time for Ireland to step up to the plate.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving! They don't celebrate it in Ireland and somehow I got confused and thought it was next Thursday so I don't think I will be having any turkey tomorrow. Oh well. I suppose I can have a fashionably late celebration next week. For those of you celebrating tomorrow, enjoy! I know I have much to be thankful for!

Till next time!

London Calling!

So then we left Paris and took the train to London! We went through the Chunnel! I have learned to really like train journeys. It's far less hectic than airplanes and you usually get a nice view of the country side.

We arrived at the hotel which was also a helipad. Very James Bond. In fact the hotel had a whole aviation/James Bond theme throughout. The bed was giant which was nice after the tiny pull out sofa in Paris and the bathroom had a tv in it. Weird. Now, I have been to London before. But this was the first time I was here as an adult (whatever that means).

The next day I went to The Globe. To see Mark Rylance and Stephen Fry in Twelfth Night. You guys,  I booked the ticket way back in March. I know everyone loves Stephen Fry and he is great but the truth is that I went to see Mark Rylance because he is an incredible actor. The best thing is that a groundling ticket (that's for the people who stand near the stage, as peasants would have done in Shakespeare's time) is only 5 pounds! The play was amazing. It was not only witty and humorous but also poignant and beautiful. I was lucky and got to lean right against the stage. It was perfect! It rained during the last ten minutes but I was sheltered from the covering over the stage but my feet did get wet, I had been standing in a puddle which I didn't notice because I was at The Globe.

Afterwards I met the Irishman for a drink in The Swan, the bar/restaurant that is part of The Globe. It was lovely and cosy and a perfect way to end a day at The Globe. Then we wandered around London near the financial district. The Irishman took me to an old watering hole of his, back from his bachelor days of living in London. It's in an area that was an old outdoor covered market that had now been converted to pubs and shops. It is also where they film all the Diagon Alley scenes in Harry Potter for all you nerds out there.

After a while of strolling around I was getting hungry despite eating so much in Paris. The Irishman took me to Jamie Oliver's Italian restaurant. Fancy! It was delicious. I had ricotta and smoked mozzarella stuffed zucchini flower to start, veal with poached egg and black truffle, and a decadent chocolate pot for dessert. Yum!

The following day we went to Westminster Abbey. I walked over Charles Darwin's grave. Literally. Oops. It took us two hours to walk through the whole abbey. I did not realise it was that large a building. That, and I'm a dork and had to stop at every tomb of dead queens and kings.  It really is an amazing place both for it's architecture and historical features.

Afterwards we walked to Covent Garden and poked around the shops stopping for cookies from Ben's Cookies, which are the best cookies ever. Fresh from the oven and warm and gooey. Then we walked up to Picadilly Circus thus completing a good day of sightseeing.

Then we went to the Irishman's friend's house were we were going to stay for the next two nights. They were very wonderful and we went to a restaurant in their neighborhood for more amazing food. First I was told that I had to try one of the restaurant's signature cocktails called The Pornstar Martini made with pomegranate vodka, vermouth, champagne and fresh passion fruit. It was delicious. But more than one would put you on the floor. I had pork belly with scallop to start, venison with a sweet potato puree, and poached pear and chocolate sorbet for dessert. Delectable. Though at this point I was realising I would need to consider not eating for a while.

The next day we went to the Borough Market which for anyone who likes food or markets (by now I'm sure you know I like food and markets) is a feast for the eyes and the tummy. I bought some drunk cheese. Yes that's cheese that's matured in old wine casks. Cheese and wine happily together as one! Then the Irishman's friend insisted we try the skrumpy cider. Really alcoholic home made apple cider. I only had a small cup and I felt tipsy.

Later that evening I met more of the Irishman's friends. They were all a lot of fun and tried not to tell me too many embarrassing stories about the Irishman.

The next morning we took a train to Holyhead and then a ferry back to Dublin. But I know I will go back to London soon. Ah, the life I live. Yes I know I'm lucky.

Good Food, Good Wine, Good Friends=Good Life

Around this time last year I went to Valencia and swooned over how magnificent a place it is, but then I went to Paris. And London. Well Valencia (and Dublin) you're going to have to step up your game cause there is some serious competition.

I actually have to confess that I had been to Paris before, once, when I was seventeen. I was with my senior comparative government class in Brussels to observe the EU (yeah we had the best teacher ever) and we went to Paris for the day. It was a long day trying to see everything and it became much more complicated when we got terribly lost and almost missed our train back to Brussels. So I decided to start over with Paris, give it a clean slate. Oh Paris. Where to start? First of all I must have been a French aristocrat in a past life because it seems Paris has everything that I love: cheese, wine, pastries, cafe au lait and chocolate.

I met the Irishman in Paris (Cue romance novel). He was there for a men only trip to the horse races but I managed to sneak in after the racing was over and the other men had left. Clever, I know. We stayed in a lovely apartment near Place de la Republique which I found thanks to this website. It was so Parisian and wonderful.

We started on our ambitious task of seeing all the sights in two days by walking along the canal towards Notre Dame. After a tour of the amazing Cathedral we paused briefly for lunch I had a brie and ham baguette. Then we continued towards the Louvre only to discover that it was closed. Thankfully it was open the next day! We continued walking and took a slight detour to get some macaroons from the famous Laduree, I also had a palmier and a cafe au lait. Of course. This was Paris. I had too. I also had to take a quick look in Chanel, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton because, well I was in Paris. I also don't have a job and did not win the lottery so really it was a bit of material world torture.

We continued to walk up the Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe which we then went inside and climbed all 248 steps to the top. Though it was cloudy the views of the city were worth the trek. I'm sure on a clear day the view is incredible.

After a long day of walking we were tired and not sure what we were going to do about dinner. The woman who owned the apartment had recommended a few places nearby, one of which was also in my handy guidebook, so we decided to give it a try and I am so glad we did. The restaurant was very small, very much a whole in the wall type of place, which is usually a good thing. We walked in and in broken French asked for a table and if they had an English menu. We were sat in a corner and their version of an English menu was an adorable young waiter explaining the menu (which was written on large boards on the walls) in broken English.  We both ordered the fish not really knowing what type of fish it was or what it came with, aside from the fact it was with bok choi. This fish was delicious. Buttery melt in your mouth and fresh. And delicious. Along with the bok choi was potato and I think turnips. It didn't matter that we were not sure of what it was because we both concluded it was one of the best meals we've had. I also think they fish may have been sea bass. I of course had a glass of wine to go with my meal and then a very fancy dark chocolate mousse served with an unidentified, but very nice, fruit. Throughout the meal people kept trying to get into the restaurant but, alas, we had taken the last table. The restaurant was booked out for the night. I almost felt guilty. Almost. But the fish was to amazing and it was such a romantic, quaint perfect Parisian experience that clearly it was meant to be. Ce la vie.

Also I got these shoes. From this shop called Antione et Lili. See? Named after me. The shoes had my name on them. Literally.

The following day we had to leave. We also had to go to the Louvre and to the boulangerie which had the very best apple tart I have tasted. Obviously it was busy day.

After breakfast we went to the train station where we put our luggage in a locker. I think this is so European. It also reminds me of spy movies like the Bourne Identity so naturally I felt like I was someone on some covert operation. Perhaps to steal all the pastries. Then we went to the Louvre finally as I really have wanted to go there for a long time. It was certainly on my bucket-list. And now I can say that I have been to most of the major museums in the world. The Louvre is, of course, massive and we didn't get to see everything but I think we got to everything I really wanted to see. I was sad to see they were advertising an exhibition of late Raphael works opening the following day. I did get to see the works of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Delacroix in the French paintings section and Caravaggio and Da Vinci in the Italian section and the statue of Venus de Milo. And of course I saw the Mona Lisa. For a piece of such fame it really is quite unassuming. Of course there was a crowd of people pushing to get up close for a photo but I made my way to the front and just stood, looking at the painting appreciating it for what it was and appreciating the fact that I was standing in front of it which was really quite humbling. Before the digital age people didn't have cameras with them at all times and they went to museums to see the artwork, not take a photo to prove that they were there. I wonder if the people snapping photos actually stopped to take a moment and realise what was happening around them. There was a staff member of the Louvre in charge of maintaing crowd control and after people had snapped their photo she would push them along but she let me stay where I was right at the front. Maybe she didn't notice me or maybe it was because I was actually looking at what was in front of me so she let me stay.

After the Louvre we had a quick bite at a nearby brasserie. I love brasseries. I love there is a place where you can get food or coffee or wine or all of the above anytime of day. That you can sit there for as long as you like. It's perfect. There should be more brasseries in the world. Then it was off to the train station and au revoir to Paris. But hello to London (next post coming soon)!

Wow, Time Flies!

Oh my god! You guys, you guys! Has it really been almost two months since my last post?! How did that happen?! I'm sorry I am a bad blogger.

Here is how it has been almost two months I can sum it right up to two things: Dublin Fringe Festival and the Dublin Theatre Festival. Two festivals of theatre (you know that thing I do and love?) one right after the other.

The play I was in, All Hell Lay Beneath with Sugarglass Theatre Company was in the Fringe Festival. It went very well, was very succesfull. We received high praise and were nominated for Best Off-Site Venue and Spirit of the Fringe. It was an honor to be apart of this wonderful production. Then I assisted with another production, The Last Ten Years, a collaboration between Sean Millar and RADE in St. Patrick's Cathedral. It was also nominated for Spirit of the Fringe.  Then of course I had to see some productions myself so I saw: Dogs by Emma Martin Dance; FARM by WillFredd Theatre Company; and White Rabbit/Red Rabbit by Nassim Soleimanpour. All were amazing and totally unique productions.

Then came the Theatre Festival and I spent all my money and went to so many plays. I'm going to list them off: Dubliners by Corn Exchange; Boys of Foley Street by Anu Productions; The Select (The Sun Also Rises) by Elevator Repair Service; Bird with Boy by junk ensemble; Have I No Mouth by Brokentalkers; Hamlet by The Wooster Group; and Everyone is King Lear by Pan Pan Theatre Company. These performances have been enlightening, inspiring and so exciting!

So as you can see I have been very busy.

I am currently in the process of writing reviews for everything I have seen so once I have done that I will post them here. But if you are living in the New York area both Hamlet and The Select will be coming to a theatre near you and I would highly suggest you don't miss them!

In the meantime I have continued working with the theatre company, adjusting to life by the sea, running, and generally living in Ireland. And eating, breathing, sleeping. All that stuff too.

Sorry guys, I'm tired. And I'm getting on a plane tomorrow to go to Paris! And then to London! And then I'm seeing Mark Rylance and Stephen Fry in Twelfth Night at The Globe! So I'll give you a proper update and the lowdown on Paris/London when I get back!

Treatise on American Politics

There has been a lot going on in the USA and I need to get my feelings out. Hopefully I will remain as eloquent as the title.

Oh, where do I start?

Now I know I am a bit behind due to my hiatus but I will go back chronologically. First of all the shooting in Aurora, Co. and the subsequent shootings that followed in Wisconsin and Texas. My heart goes out to the victims and their families. Of course following these tragedies there was a cry for gun control and then those who opposed gun control cried out for their constitutional rights. Now, I am not a scholar on constitutional law but I think I have a fairly well reasoned understanding and what I don't understand is how the following "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." has been interpreted and accepted to mean anyone can have a gun. Now I'm going to have to bring out my nerd and my history books because I am simply too irate not to. The U.S. Constitution was written during a time of war where the future was uncertain and therefore a militia was necessary to keep. This would prove all to true as the War of 1812 came soon on the heels of the American War of Independence and the U.S. began expanding across the North American continent. Now it is 2012 the US has the strongest military, including a National Guard (which in a sense is a militia) ergo no one really needs to have a gun. That being said you are allowed to have guns, so lock 'em up, keep the safety on. Personally I think you should only be allowed to have a personal gun or rifle if you live in an area where there are bears or you have a lot of cattle. That's my inner New Mexican coming out. Also simply because you have the right to bear arms does not mean you have the right to kill people. Or bears. Really I think that as a society we need to look at all the violence that is happening and there needs to be a discourse to come up with an actual solution.

Now, unfortunately, this mis-intrepretation of the second amendment has spread to the first amendment which states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." Yes, you have the freedom to practice your religion, and yes you also have freedom of speech but that does not mean you can enforce your own moral beliefs because of your freedom to practice and preach. The Chick fil A situation was a bit terrifying to watch from overseas. Especially when you have to explain that yes, people are up in arms over a fast-food chicken chain because the chicken eating people do not support gay marriage but they think that their first amendment right allows them to discriminate against others. I was especially saddened when I saw a photo of African American Chick fil A supporters languishing in their anti-gay marriage stance when the Civil Rights movement was only fifty years ago.  As a nation we have come so far and yet we have so much further to go. Marriage is a right that should be granted regardless of sexual orientation, race or religious belief. 

Further, religious beliefs should not influence law. I think that really is what Jefferson meant by "separation of Church and State". If you're morally against birth control or abortion than that is your belief but do not make a law that will affect millions of women because of your beliefs. As a woman it is very frightening to think that a government could have more control over my own body than myself. There is certainly nothing constitutional or moral about that.

This brings me to my last point and that is that Barack Obama has to win this election. There is way too much to lose. I have been thinking about this a lot and some may wonder what I, a twenty-four-year old, knows about anything? Well I know that in my twenty four years of life there has been four Presidents; Bush Sr., Clinton, Bush Jr., and Obama. That's two Republicans and two Democrats. Of those presidencies I was only eligible to vote for the last and I voted for Obama. So perhaps some of my fears are simply because this is the first time I may lose the President I voted for. Except that growing up I was still aware and affected by the actions of my government regardless of whether or not I could vote, which has I think made me all the more an active citizen. The problem is that we are not all always active citizens (myself included) and we sometimes become apathetic and jaded. We haven't been given all that was promised but I think that Romney is going to do a lot worse. I am scared that after election day I may wake up to a potential world where health care will come at a cost, may not cover me under my parents' plan till I am twenty-six, or may be completely denied due to my own pre-existing conditions. I am afraid that I will lose the right to control what happens to my own body; that women will be made vulnerable to laws re-defining rape. I am afraid that my LGBT friends will not be able to know the happiness of marriage or be able to be with and take care of their loved ones in hospitals. I am afraid that the Romney tax plan is only going to benefit the very wealthy and the rest if us will be left struggling. I am afraid for the future of my generation and those to come if we cannot get past the hatred, hypocrisy and bigotry that seems to be more prominent than ever. If you share these fears than please take whatever action you can. In the very least vote. Talk to other people, write your own blog or share this one if you want, donate your time or some money to Obama's campaign. I feel anxiety every time I get an email from the campaign front but I think I will feel better knowing that I am trying to spread the word, that I care about my country and the outcome of its politics-and that hopefully others do to.

Good night, and good luck.

My New Sea Side Life

Oh yes I know it's been way too long. I have so much to say so I will break it into three posts. This will be the catch-up/news post.

The Irishman and I finally found an apartment and have moved in together! EEEKKK! We are now living outside Dublin in a small coastal town called Blackrock. It has a reputation for being very posh, but we certainly are not, really it's just close to his work and now I get to learn the joys of commuting. I am enjoying living by the sea after a life of living in the desert it is really nice to be able to take a stroll along the water. Yesterday I went and collected a large handful of sea glass. I am becoming one of those crazy women who collects everything she finds on the beach.Speaking of collecting there is also a market every weekend and last weekend I purchased three antique bottles (circa at least 1900), I'm not sure what I'm going to do with them yet but they are lovely.

I am in a play in the Absolut Dublin Fringe Festival! I am so excited! Can you tell? I have been very busy with rehearsals and am looking forward to the performances in September! The play is with Sugarglass Theatre Company and is called All Hell Lay Beneath. Unfortunately I cannot divulge too much information because the piece depends very much on the audience's participation and I don't want to give anything away in case there are people (other than my most wonderful family) reading this blog. If you are in Dublin please come to the Fringe!

I have officially completed the "couch to 5k programme" and am now regularly running approximately three miles or 5k a few days a week. It's really great and hard to believe that I only started running in May. I highly recommend it to anyone out there wanting to give running a try.

Things have been very exciting here during the Olympics. The pride of Ireland has been female boxer Katie Taylor who won the gold medal. I saw her fight on tv in a pub (naturally) and it was amazing and a real incredible atmosphere to be a part of. Who knew I would be cheering on a girl to beat up another girl?

This week Ireland finally got a bit of summer, you know, like about seventy degrees farenheit. It was great. The Irishman and I explored around our new coastal area and visited quaint little sea towns, walked along piers, and saw lighthouses. I really have to figure out a way to adjust to this rough lifestyle. It feels like I'm on holiday, I have to make sure my brain doesn't go on permanent vacation. Then today the forecast said "hurricane like weather". I'm not sure what that means, I didn't think Ireland really could get hurricanes. Apparaently it means raining all day with strong gusts of wind and then-oh wait-the sun is coming out now. Looks like I survived "the hurricane".

You may have heard of the "crazy cat lady" but I think I'm becoming a "crazy sea lady". I already mentioned that I  went beach combing and found an amazing assortment of sea glass, but yesterday after my three mile run I decided that I would take a quick dip into the Irish sea on account of the sun being out and the tide being in. It was glorious! There was also a group of old ladies, who I assume are regular swimmers, who talked to me about how nice the water was and they called me "lovey". They were also concerned that I only had on my wet clothes as I decided on a whim to go in with my running clothes on. Oops. Oh well, it's Europe. Next time I will bring my swimsuit.

Over the weekend we went to the Dublin Horse Show. We had gone last year and it is always a nice activity, although it can be a bit snooty. I saw a woman wearing Christian Louboutin shoes and while I guiltily coveted them, I really think it is ridiculous to wear shoes like that in a place where there is horse poop everywhere. She certainly would not have gotten away with it at a rodeo. Back to the horses though there was a man from France, Jean Francois Pignon, with his gray ponies which he trained to do routines without wearing harnesses or leads. It was very impressive and the ponies were adorable. They reminded me of my little gray donkey.

Photo Courtesy of jfpignon.com

Ok. I think that's a good re-cap you're all caught up! Sorry about the delay. Stay tuned for more!

Tiny Things, Famous People!

Ok. So I know, ridiculously late. Again. As usual. But this time I have a very legitimate excuse. My boyfriend, the famous Irishman, told me not to write yet because he wanted me to wait till I met his new nephew. Yeah, blame the boyfriend. I’ll probably be in trouble for that later. Oh well.

Admittedly I did meet the new nephew last week so I am still at fault, I suppose. The baby is adorable and tiny. So tiny. I have never seen a baby so young before and I couldn’t help but squeal over how tiny he was. And adorable. I held him which initially made me incredibly anxious because what do you do with such a tiny thing? I am sure all the mothers out there (especially mine) are laughing but really, they are so tiny! And adorable. I think I’ve made my point.

In my last post I was perhaps a bit morose, or bored, or depressed. This gray weather is really getting to me. But I’ve had an exciting week so that has made things better.

About two weeks ago, or whenever I last blogged, I saw a performance by junk ensemble called Five Ways to Drown. They are a modern dance company but their style incorporates singing, sign language, theatre and in this particular piece, spouting water from their mouths. It was amazing.

Then I went to the festival with the Irishman’s family in his hometown. It was quaint in that Irish hometown sort of way. I impressed his father by speaking the very little amount of Irish that I know and he regaled me with tales of rabbit hunting in his youth. Ah, the good old days.

On Wednesday a friend of mine asked if I could be an extra for a short film she was working on and the next thing I knew I found myself in the company of Aidan Gillen. You may recognize him from The Wire. He is in fact Irish, which I am embarrassed to admit that I didn’t know.

Ok now on to this week’s main event. Are you ready? I met the President of Ireland. Actually I went to his house. For a garden party. The theatre company was invited for a special event recognizing organizations that work to promote peace between the North and Ireland. So we got all dressed up and shuttled over to the President’s house which is called Aras an Uachtarain and apparently the White House is modeled after it. We were greeted by a soldier in full fancy uniform who said “Welcome to the President’s home” and then we went inside and hung up our coats and waited in line to meet the President and get our photo taken with him. I must admit I was quite awkward when it came to formal introductions. Nobody told us what we were supposed to do or say. Was I supposed to curtsy? No I didn’t actually do that, that would be silly.

Then we were led through the garden and into a large building for refreshments. There were many choices. Tea or coffee? (Coffee, obviously).Apple or pear juice? Mini éclairs, profiteroles, tea sandwiches, fancy chocolates with glitter and countless savory hor d’vours, though one worth mentioning was what looked like a tiny ice cream cone filled with creamed avocado. I know.

On the way we saw a tree, not just any tree, the tree planted by President Barack Obama when he visited Ireland last year!

Next there was the entertainment in an outdoor marquee in the gardens. Again, more choices, this time white or red wine or Guinness? I chose red wine. There was a great traditional Irish band, a mother and daughter duo playing harps, a Bob Dylan-esque man playing the guitar and harmonica whilst singing, and then a strange man who played the keyboard and was really into slamming the keys and shaking his head about. Then the President made a lovely, eloquent speech. As we were leaving we were presented with chocolate covered strawberries, tiny cupcakes covered in glitter and more of the glittery chocolates. And more wine. Oh, what is a girl to do?

Finally we were given a tour of the public wing of the house. It was built in the 18^th century and even has some furniture as a gift from Versailles. It is a very gorgeous house. What a lovely day, eh?

Also I have been volunteering in  an arts centre and there is a very incredible exhibit on. I really like it, anyways. It includes work by Turner prizewinner Susan Phillipsz and a stunningly beautiful peace by Sam Keogh that includes a giant mountain and “rocks” made artificially and exhibited as though they were excavated from the mountain. It’s super cool.

Well that about sums it up. Thanks for reading! And waiting patiently for my sporadic posts.

Week in Review

The weather has improved so for the moment I can't really complain. Also, I've heard there is a terrible forrest fire in Colorado reminding me to be very grateful for rain. Hopefully Colorado will get some rain soon. If I could send it there I would. It's been a quiet week here for me, but at least the sun has come out and I have enjoyed the feeling of a warm summer night. Have you ever noticed that everything smells different? More pungent maybe. It isn't necessary a good smell, especially if it's city aromas and not flowers, but I kind of like it which is a bit weird, I know.

Another thing I like about living in a European country is the laid back life style(unless you live in Germany or Switzerland, so I am told). Admittedly sometimes it's really frustrating when people or trains or buses run late but in the summer, like last Friday when I met a few friends for tapas and wine on a casual night that lasted for hours, it was quite lovely.

I had an audition on Saturday but it didn't pan out so let's not talk about that! In other news I will be writing for this art blog so that's exciting. I will let you know when I've actually written something. Stay tuned!

Remember when I said that I had donated to Obama's campaign? Well, of course, I'm glad I did but now I am on the campaigns mailing list and the emails I have been getting are causing serious anxiety. Romney is going to outspend him 10-1? That is disgusting. More importantly un-democratic. So if you have spare change give it to Obama and if you don't have any cash then volunteer some time for his campaign or at least spread the word. In the very least vote. Just not for Romney. OK thanks. Then maybe I won't be so anxious. Also, did you know that the Salvation Army stated that gay people should die? They will never be getting my money again. Too bad.

I am still running! I am five weeks in and coming down the home stretch. Friday is the big day I have to run for twenty minutes without stopping. Eeek! I hope I can make it, I think I can! I have noticed a lot of people running it seems to be the latest trend. Sometimes I get annoyed when big athletic men run passed me, but somehow screaming, "Oh yeah well you couldn't do this on your period!" is not good sportsmanship or classy. I like to keep it classy. Especially since I noticed a sign the other day that says the park has been in existence for 250 years. Another cool thing about Europe: shit is old. Who else can run in a 250-year-old park?

Friday I am going down to the home-place (an Irish colloquialism I've learned) with the Irishman. The town is having a festival and as his father is the Lord Mayor of the town (I know, right? Posh) there is sort of an obligation to go. I am excited, hopefully the weather will be nice!

Alright, I think that's a wrap. There is some apple-crumble ice cream that is calling my name...

Trying to be Prolific

The project launch was a success and I had a really great time at the All Ireland Arts Conference in Belfast on Friday. I even had my own name badge and felt very important. I learned a lot about social media and producing theatre and saw some very exciting work. Especially this:

This is one of the reasons that I really enjoy living in Ireland because of its close proximity to the rest of Europe. I can meet people from England or France and pop on over to London for a play (which I am doing in October!)

I spent Father's day with the Irishman and his family. It started out civilized with tea and scones and then ended in the local pub with Guinness and whiskey in what I now refer to as his family's initiation process where they see how much I can drink. Oh dear. I did, however, persevere in my running despite a hangover and for that I think I should be commended.

During my time with the Irishman's family I was introduced to an old Irish custom (I'm assuming it's Irish, maybe it is done elsewhere, I don't know). You see, the Irishman's sister in law is having a baby any day now and it's very exciting but nobody know if it's going to be a boy or a girl. So the Irishman's mother took a needle and tied it to some thread and held it over the pregnant belly and if it spins counter clock-wise it's going to be a girl and if it spins clock wise it's going to be a boy. I think. Or is it the other way around? I don't know. Anyways it was determined it will be a boy. We shall see!

I have also been having some thoughts about the future of this brave new world. (Bonus points if you caught that reference. Hint: Not Aldous Huxley) Anyways, while at the conference I attended a session on using social media and one of the media heads impressed upon us just how much of a role technology already has in our lives and how much it will have in the future. It's true, there's no denying it and sometimes it just makes me stop and think about the world and life and things (like being more eloquent). I am having a hard time putting what I am feeling into words, perhaps because I am not yet sure what it is I am feeling. Nostalgia, maybe? I was talking to the Irishman's mother the other day and she was telling me about when she was growing up they would go to the pictures (her words, not mine) for only 20 cent. It's at least 10 euro now. I remember my own mom telling me about getting a burger for a nickel. I paid 2.50 for an iced tea today (it was nice and it was sunny out!). I don't know what this means or what I'm trying to say but if I leave you with one thing for this week-live life and love life.

Oh yes, and in case anyone was waiting to know, I did decide to make chocolate chip banana muffins. And they were delicious. As was the pesto, goat cheese, prosciutto and caramelized onion pizza that I made. May the culinary adventures, and all adventures, continue! Oh, and sorry I don't post photos of food on here cause this isn't really a food blog and I usually end up eating food before I think to take a photo. Oh well.

Till next time!

Birthdays, Gray Days, Good Days

I had a birthday! I am now twenty-four. Celebrations kicked off last Saturday night and went into the wee hours of Sunday morning. Sunday (my actual birthday) was pretty quiet as I was tired (yes, already showing signs of getting old!) and it was gray and cold. All day it felt like something was off, like it wasn't really my birthday and I couldn't quite put my finger on it, and then suddenly it all become clear. It was June and freezing, which in sunny New Mexico would never happen. Birthdays of past were spent in swimming pools or picnics outside and here I was bundled up in a coat and scarf trying to keep out of the rain. So on Monday the sun came out and I declared to the Irishman that it was a do-over of my birthday as the weather was more appropriate and we had a lovely day starting with brunch and ending with an incredible dinner at Shanahan's on the Green. The restaurant's moniker is "an American steakhouse" and is very fancy and prestigious. We arrived early and went to the downstairs bar known as The Oval Office, adorned with photos of U.S. Presidents, large leather chairs, and carpet with the seal of the U.S. The atmosphere begged for a whiskey and that's just what I ordered. I saluted Kennedy, Clinton, and Lincoln and sipped away. Dinner was, of course, steak and it was hands down the most delicious steak I have ever had. I don't even really like steak. It was also the largest steak I have ever seen but I somehow managed to eat the whole thing along with a side of sweet creamed-corn and mashed potatoes. I ordered a pistachio-raspberry something-in-French for dessert. Then the waiter brought this over with some champagne. I really am spoiled, I know.

They even spelled my name right!

The Queen had her Diamond Jubilee over the weekend and all I can say is that off all 365 days in the year she chose my birthday, clearly a sign of how those born on June 3 are of royal prestige or something like that.

I am going to be volunteering in a gallery space over the summer and last week I gave my first tour. It's fun talking about art and meeting new people. Plus I was given two books on art and some bananas. Not too shabby.

We are still apartment/house/whatever we can get hunting. At this point I simply find the whole thing frustrating. Being an adult is so complicated! Why does no one ever tell you that? The weather has continued to be tempermental-cold and rainy one day and sunny and 60 degrees the next (or hot as the Irish call it). Now, I'm sure you're thinking why is this silly girl always complaining about the rain? Surely she must be used to it by now. Surely she knew what she was getting into when she up and decided to move to Ireland. Yes, I did know that it rains here but I was also tricked. The first two times I came to Ireland it was summer and was lovely! Not as warm as  New Mexico but not cold and raining either. So, I foolishly assumed it was like this every summer and the rain was mostly a winter thing. Oh, if only.

I am still running, I start week four of nine this week which means I'm almost have way there. My green monster smoothies now represent an appetizing shade of green as I have adjusted the spinach to non-spinach ratios.

Last night I went to a reading of work of one of my favourite authors, Jeanette Winterson. Her latest book is titled Why be Happy When You Could be Normal? I have read almost all of her work since I first stumbled across her books in college. You could say I have a literary crush on her. That and her love of organic farm-fresh food practically means we should be best friends. Of course all I could say to her as she signed my copy of her book was "You're amazing" or something to that degree of ridiculous, dumbfounded glee. I was too afraid to say anything else for fear of coming off as incredibly ineloquent, as she is someone for whom eloquence and wit seem to be second nature. Oh well, I'm still delighted that I was able to meet her and here her speak about her life and work. Maybe I will visit her organic food shop/cafe in London.

Tomorrow I am going to Dundalk with the theatre company and on Friday to Belfast for the International All Ireland Theatre Conference! Now, I must go on my run, while the weather is still amicable. By the way, running in the rain and puddle jumping should be the next Olympic sport. I am also pondering making banana bread with the several browning bananas I have.

Ramblings and Rants for the Week

It's been a long week.  Over the weekend I enjoyed the last few days of sun (it has since turned muggy and gray). I perused the food market and read a book in the park. I have also completed my second week of running, seven more to go! The other day while on my run I saw a herd of at least thirty deer, it was incredible, especially because for the past year and a half that I have been here I have always been told that there are tons of deer in the park but I had never seen them until now. I guess that makes me a true local.

Ireland has just voted on a referendum. To be honest I have no idea what the implications of the referendum are aside from the fact that it has to do with money and the EU. And Merkel. There are signs everywhere; half of them say vote yes and the other half say vote no. Hmm. I am not eligible to vote so I did not really have to worry about making sense of it all. The results are in and Ireland has voted yes. Is this a good thing? I honestly don't know. What I do know is that from the people I have spoken with it was very unclear to them as to what exactly the consequences of voting or not voting for the referendum were. Further, only a little over one million people turned out to vote, out of a population of over four million. That's terrible! I think part of the problem is that there are so many Irish living abroad (due to the recession) and Ireland does not have absentee voting, in fact they still count the ballots by hand. Putting that aside for a moment, however, I want to know why only a quarter of the population voted?! Were I actually a citizen here and truly affected by EU policies I would be infuriated that so little people bothered to take part in their civic duty. Instead I am mildly perplexed, although as I think on it further I am becoming more and more frustrated. I am especially irritated because I am constantly criticized over US policy and challenged to debates, and while I am not responsible for every action my country makes I can at least say that I vote and choose an active role as a citizen. Regardless of which country you are in, if you are not going to vote then I don't see how you can criticize policies you disagree with if you have not even attempted to exercise your rights and take a stand. Voting is a right and a priveledge. Ladies! Your grandmothers and great-grandmothers fought for you, don't let their fighting be in vain. Many people in many other countries are still not able to vote, you should not take the right to vote for granted. Humph! Alright, time to get off my soapbox again. P.S. I just donated to Obama's campaign, he needs our help!

I saw two plays; first The Chairs by Ionesco and then Pigeon, an original work performed en mask. The Chairs is an absurdist play and while I do like absurdism I have realised that it can be a bit like seeing a film in another language or a play in Elizabethan English, it takes a few moments to adjust and get into the different rhythm (side note: that has to be one of the most bizarrely spelled words in the English language). I also think that at times absurdist plays are no longer as affective as they used to be now that theatre has gone completely post-modern and contemporary, which is actually a bit sad. I'll take some good Beckett any day! Pigeon was done in the style of Lecoq using masks and gesture, the actors did not speak. I am always impressed when masks are used effectively as I know from my little experience with masks that it can be very challenging.

Tuesday was dramatic when one of the people in the community drama class fell and hit her head quite hard, there was blood. Thankfully my first aid classes that I took in ninth grade came in handy and I made sure a compress was applied with pressure. The paramedics were called and took over  and said she would be fine after a stitch or two. Oh and I didn't get squeamish or faint or anything! So if I ever decide to go into medicine I guess I can handle other people's blood, just not mine.

On Wednesday I had an experience that has made me realise I am slowly growing up (although I was singing I Won't Grow Up a la Peter Pan in the shower this morning. Yes, I know all the words). The Irishman and I are going to move in together (yikes!) and so I went to view a potential dwelling. I really liked it so now I have to view it again with the Irishman to see if he likes it. Fingers crossed!

My birthday is on Sunday, I will be twenty-four. That means this is the last time my ramblings will be that of a twenty-three year old. I think it will be a good year, I like even numbers. Today, as an early present to myself I got a manicure and pedicure. The woman complimented me on my natural tan (yes, I apparently managed to get a tan for probably the first time ever over this last week of sun). Then she asked me if I wanted my nails shaped square, oval, or squoval. What? Apparently this is a word meaning square and oval? I have not had a manicure in years, I guess the jargon has changed. Anyways, I now have pink squoval fingernails and taupe square toenails. They look very pretty I can't really get over how perfect my nails look. I should be a hand model, clearly.

Well, that's all for now! Be back with some twenty-four year old eloquence (whatever that means)!

Summertime (and the living is easy)

The play was terrific! Very unique and a strong message about people's relationships with drugs (both illegal and legal) and the affects the pharmaceutical industry has on the world socially and politically. It was performed in St. Patrick's Cathedral which made the performance all the more beautiful.

I have taken up jogging. Yes. I have just completed week one of my nine week intro program to running known as Couch to 5k. So far so good. I am now not only going to be an obnoxious blogger who blogs about living abroad and amazing culinary experiences, but also running. Also I now drink what many refer to as a "green monster" the oh-so healthy smoothie with the main ingredient of spinach. Mine is more of a sludgy mud colour but miraculously tastes delicious. I was skeptical at first but it truly is more than edible.

We are experiencing a heat wave. As in the temperature may at it's very highest reach 70 degrees fahrenheit (that's about 21 celsius). I have actually heard Irish complaining about how hot it is. I laugh because of course this is a lovely temperature and unless the forests are ablaze from wild fires due to dry climates, well this is nothing aside from beautiful.

I have been sunning myself and enjoying being outside as much as possible because although they say it's going to last till Wednesday you never know. What makes the sunny days especially nice is that the evenings are so long here, it doesn't get dark till at least 10.30!

The other night I went to see Moonrise Kingdom in the cinema that is literally across the street from me (one of the perks of city living). I went by myself which in my days of single-hood is something that I learned that i like doing. Hey, Carrie from Sex and the City did too! The Irishman is in South Africa for two weeks doing something he calls working. Whatever. I have been enjoying my alone time. Yesterday I went to five galleries. Yes five. I like going to galleries because, first of all, you get to see art which I like (obviously you will have gathered this by now) second of all, they are free and finally it's a good way if you ever need to kill time or get out of the weather be it rain or shine. Today after treating myself to some frozen yogurt and then read a book in the park. A tiny lady bug came over and landed on my flip-flops.

And I'll leave you with that. Happy Summer!

Ireland: Coming to a City Near You!

I'm back from two lovely weeks in the USA. My brother graduated from Lewis and Clark College with a BA in Philosophy. I am a very proud sister. Portland is a wonderful city and I had my fill of coffee and craft beers as well as some amazing Thai food, Spanish tapas, and Vietnamese sandwiches.  Yum!

Then I spent time in Long Beach, CA, where my darling parents are now living, basking in the sun and eating all the avocados. I actually managed to get sunburned within the first thirty minutes that I ventured out. Clearly I should apply for Irish citizenship based in that alone.

The Irishman came to visit! We went to Catalina Island for the day and a Dodgers baseball game so that he could have a true American experience. We went out with my dad on his boat and saw two dolphins, sea lions and pelicans. He also met my cousins which for some reason makes me feel really old. My parents have met a few Irish people in Long Beach and so, of course, they had a dinner party so that everyone could be well, Irish. This culminated in singing, telling dirty limericks, and of course the bottle of Middleton being empty. Did I mention they were Irish?

While on my travels I tried to think of comparing and contrasting (I remember this being a writing exercise in school that seemed so silly!) my life in Ireland to life in America. I think that the USA has better food, mostly because there is more diversity in type of food. In Portland we went to a breakfast place a la Southern style cooking where they served bacon and eggs with fried chicken and biscuits. (I opted out on the fried chicken). Biscuits, by the way, as in the bread like delight, not the cookie like things served with tea in Ireland. How American am I? Gushing on about food.

Side Note: Which reminds me, when I was talking to my brother's friends about life in Ireland they all asked me "what do you eat?" Now, I'm not sure if this is because a. they still believe Ireland to be in the perils of the Great Famine or b. that all the Irish consume is potatoes. Assuming it is the latter they are mostly correct. The potato remains a staple of the Irish diet along with butter and tea. The Irish, however, do eat other things and as there has been an influx of immigrants from far away exotic places they have brought their food with them and is has been incorporated into the Irish menu. For instance there is a lot of Indian food and so you can now put curry on your chips! Also, they have shops-or grocery stores-where one can buy most food products and prepare their own meals as they wish. Although I did have to go to three stores before I could find black beans.

Americans complain a lot when they are traveling. I have noticed this over the years, it's like some sort of bonding. "Oh, you're cranky and tired and didn't sleep on the flight?" "OMG me too! Let's bitch about it together." And speaking of bitching, JFK airport is terrible and the lines for security and hour wait for my luggage was ridiculous. Ok now I shall go back to my grateful self who is glad that I can travel and travel safely.

It's gray outside and my skin is peeling. Gross. Tonight I am going to a play in St. Patrick's Cathedral, I am looking forward to it. I'll be back with more soon, stay tuned!

Weekend Update

As promised I managed to sneak in another post! And check out the newish layout and title. I know, you're amazed. It rained all day, again. I am very much looking forward to getting some sun in the States these next two weeks.

The workshop went really well! Then I was whisked away to Westport (in Co. Mayo) with the Irishman and his family. We took the train and I saw more adorable leaping lambykins (or otherwise known as lambs, obviously). I like taking the train, it's very European and civilized. I eat cheese and drink wine as I look out the window and listen to some crazy lady ramble on about how trains in Europe are more efficient than in the US (which is true, of course).

Alright I will leave you with this lovely photo of Westport and I will be back with more soon upon my return. Now it's time to sleep before my early start!

The Evening Report

It has been raining all day. I know by now I should be used to this but I'm not. I hate it. I enjoy the rain as long as I don't have to go out. So today I have stayed inside finding things that I've been meaning/needing to do such as apply for an international drivers license, email various people, fill out my passenger information for my upcoming international flight, and oh yeah-write this blog. Never mind the other things I need to do like go to the bank or the shop, no because then I would get wet, and I am like a cat when it comes to that sort of thing(swimming, obviously, is excluded).

Lately I have been participating in a lot of theatre workshops. One of the projects my company is working on is using drama as a tool to help teach migrants to Ireland who are learning to speak English how to deal with financial matters. I have met women from Ukraine, Uzbekistan, South Africa and Eritrea. They are all here as refugees seeking asylum. Despite my own troubles with immigration and my jokes of seeking asylum working with these women have really given me a chance to reflect on my situation and have a better perspective. I am very fortunate to be able to travel freely all over the world. The women were very excited to meet an American. They told me that they went home and told their friends and family that they had meet a real American. To me this seems silly but I realise that Americans have a large presence in the world due to our power, military, money, and media. I could not help but wonder if these women meant it was a good thing to meet an American. I think they did but I know for others they may not have the same sentiment. This is why, when living or traveling abroad as an American, it can be intimidating representing a country whose reputation can either be positive or negative depending on who you meet.

The latest workshops I participated it was last Saturday, this one was based on the practices of Augusto Boal and is about developing an artistic piece for civic action. The second part of the workshop is this Saturday with a member of Combatants for Peace from Israel. I am really looking forward to it!

The community drama class I have been working with performed their piece for the second time last night. This time they were in a much larger theatre than before and had a bigger audience as a result. They have really come a long way since I fist met them almost a year and a half ago. (That's right, I've been here that long!)Their performance was part of a double bill and the second play was a comical adaptation of Macbeth performed by people with physical/mental disabilities. It was very inspiring to see them successfully tackle such a difficult play. It was also great to see that they were given access to the arts, as it is important that everyone who wants to experience art (more specifically theatre) should have every right to do so. Next week I am running the sound for a group of young adults with Down Syndrome who are performing a rendition of Moulin Rouge, I already saw the dress rehearsal and it's going to be spectacular, spectacular!

This evening I am going to be interviewed for a film that a woman I know is doing which includes some of the work that I have been doing in the acting ensemble workshop I have been doing (I have never done this before, I hope it goes well!) So many workshops to keep track of!

Alright, that's a pretty lengthy report. I will try and squeeze one more in before I head back to the US of A next week.

Galway Girl

Earlier in the week I saw A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen in Smock Alley Theatre, which is a very old theatre that has recently reopened. I am really happy that there was a theatre opening, as opposed to closing, in the tough economic times. The play was by Pan Pan theatre company, and while the acting and quality of the production was fantastic, I really did not agree with some of the artistic/directional choices. But that's just me. Still it was a free ticket and a nice evening at the theatre!

Easter is a big deal here so we had an long weekend and the Irishman and I escaped to Galway! I love the rugged west coast of Ireland, it's beautiful and so nice to get out of town for a few days. We took the train and on the way I saw all the little lambs frolicking in the fields. They are adorable! Unfortunately lamb is also a staple of the diet here.

Saturday, after a leisurely breakfast of crepes, we strolled through the Food Festival that was on for the weekend. I love going to food/farmer's markets, even if I don't buy anything, it is nice to see fresh food and flowers and sometimes even the occasional oddity like a whole roasted hog. Then we walked to the nearby town of Salthill, strolling along the seaside promenade. For lunch I took advantage of the seaside location and had oysters on the half shell. The evening was spent in (pub name) listening to Irish music with a pint of the black stuff.

Sunday was cold and rainy and after braving the rain for a while we headed inside to warm up and watch a gaelic football match on tv. Then, thanks to the recommendation of a friend, we went to La Cava, a Spanish tapas restaurant, where we had the most amazing food! I don't normally list everything I ate but this time I have to make an exception. A manchego cheese plate served with quince, hazlenuts, and bread; scallops with prosciutto and sweet potato puree; albodingas(Spanish style meatballs); pork belly with apple; roast duck breast with plums; finally churros (Spanish fried pastry) with hot chocolate sauce for dipping and chocolate chip ice cream. (I did share all of this with my date.) And of course a big class of Spanish wine. Sorry to make your mouths water. Needless to say I was stuffed and am still dreaming of the lovely meal, especially the pork belly(which I had never had before!) and the roast duck. If you find yourself in Galway I highly recommend. Galway has a lot of Spanish influence after some Spaniards settled in Galway while getting lost at sea in the Spanish Armada. (And there's your fact of the day! Brought to you by I'm a dork).

We strolled around Galway Monday morning after more crepes for breakfast (I know, I do not need to eat again for at least a week!) then hopped back on the train back to Dublin, where we had this lovely rainbow(sorry about the train blur)!

Guinness is Good for You

This time I actually have a legitimate excuse for my hiatus. My macbook crashed and had to get a new hard-drive. It was pretty scary thankfully it was free because I had applecare (even my computer has a better health care plan than me!) and because I am now becoming a more responsible adult I backed up all my important things before the crash.

In my last rant I somehow left out Rick Santorum. Argh! That's all I'm going to say about him, he is not worth wasting my time or energy.

Now, onto bigger and better Irish things!

I finally got my visa sorted out and renewed so I can stay here for another year! I have rekindled my love affair with Ireland now that this has finally been resolved, it's like a huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders. This great news came the day before St. Patrick's day which made for all the more reason to celebrate! I went to the parade again which has this old world, steam punk feel to it which I really like. Then because I have become a true ex-pat and I wanted to avoid the annoying, drunk tourists I went to a pub outside of the city where I could watch the rugby match in peace. Ireland played England. On St. Patrick's Day. They lost, badly. I was gutted.  There should be a rule that Ireland cannot lose on St. Patrick's Day, right? Then I did some Irish step dancing and poured my own pint of Guinness. A truly quintessentially Irish day that most people would have to shell out the big bucks for, but just a normal day for me!

I poured this pint!

The sun has been shining the past few days and it's gorgeous! I hope that this is not it for our whole summer!  Because the warm weather is a bit rare you can always spot who lives here and who's a tourist because the natives shed their sweaters to bask in the sun while those who are usually visiting from warmer climates are still bundled in their coats looking at the others as if they are crazy.

I'm keeping busy with the theatre company, a few auditions, lots of acting workshops (which are great but leave my body feeling like I've been hit by a truck!) and I'm going to be an extra in a film on Monday. I have been meeting up with some of the people I met during the film festival to talk about helping each other/collaborating on work and that has been exciting. Last night we had an official reunion which was fun but has left me very tired today. I think I'm getting old. This is how it starts, right?

I have been thinking about changing the title of my blog since I have been here for more than a year and I appreciate accuracy. I have a few ideas but anyone out there have any thoughts/suggestions?

Be back with more witticisms soon!

Poli-dicks

Ok. So I said I was avoiding discussing politics (or should I say poli-dicks?) and world events but I cannot hold it in any longer. America! What the fuck are you doing? I leave you for just over a  year on your own and you cannot keep your shit together, seriously! Ari-fuckin'-zona who do you think you are? So first you want to overturn Roe v. Wade and now you want to make it so I cannot use birth control  as a contraceptive? So basically, as a women, I have no choice regarding having children and my own body. A man, on the other hand, can have access to all the Viagra likes (but I bet he is taking that for non-sexual reasons).   I cannot comprehend how the U.S., a so called democracy based on principles of freedom and equality, has become a women-hating-gun-toting-god preaching-capitalistic-narcisstic society. Oh wait. Sorry that's  Republicans. But somehow they have been given the power to spin out of control. And that is everyone's fault (mine included) because we have grown apathetic and sat behind our laptops/ipad/whatevers (yes I realize I am currently utilizing  a laptop, the irony is not lost on me) and now it has come to this. As an American living abroad I am able to see what other people and countries think of the U.S. and it is not easy trying to defend my country (and try to point out the positive things) when every time I see the news Mitt Romney or Ron Paul is spouting some ridiculous agenda. To make things worse Europeans think it's funny, that there is no way these men could actually do anything or win the election. Sadly, there are people who would vote for these men and there are states like Arizona who will strip a citizen of their rights. That scares me and it infuriates me. What really bothers me is how little I have seen of what is being done to counter these outrageous bills. Ladies, speak up!  Men speak up for your ladies! Regardless of where you stand politically, the bottom line is people's basic human rights are at risk!

This brings me to the next topic in world news that has me in a tizzy. KONY 2012. I am sure by now you have re-tweeted, Facebook posted or re-pinned something on this topic. My question is why? Why now? Surely you cannot be so ignorant as to only be aware of this man and Uganda till now? Oh, wait that's right, I forgot you're trapped in your cyber world so of course you did not know. It's not like you have access to the news or you have ever read a history book. Kony is a terrible man and what he is doing is a travesty but simply re-tweeting is not going to change anything. That's talk but no action. The Congo, Darfur, Sudan and Rwanda are also countries in Africa that have suffered from years of civil war and genocide. But you're not tweeting about them or about the many other countries involved in war or human trafficking, just the one that is currently popular on all the social media sites. By next week you'll have forgotten and move on to the latest meme. Why is no one setting the internet abuzz over the latest bills being pushed in Arizona? Or the war in Syria? Some people believe that social media is the latest platform to promote change, I have yet to be convinced. Prove me wrong. Go!

Over and Out.

Saturday is St. Patrick's day! I will be back with you soon with humorous and more light-hearted insights on living in Ireland soon but this was important to get off my chest.

Artsy Fartsy

The Jameson Dublin International Film Festival is over. I am very sad. But it was great! I met some wonderful people and saw some beautiful films! Now I just have to wait till next year. The other films I was able to see were Chicken with Plums,  Your Sister's Sister and Death of a Superhero. All of which I highly recommend. Especially the last one. The big hit at the festival was The Raid so if you have a chance to see it, do.  Yes, I am a film buff now, and if I were Irish I would say "fillum" because they do not really know how to speak here (or what is often referred to as a charming accent). I met and spent the afternoon with Peter Bach, director of Flanagan's Wake, he was a lovely, very interesting and inspiring individual so if  his film comes to a cinema near you give it a go!

The theatre company has been busy, this week we were in Wexford doing some performances and workshops.  I had never been to Wexford before and on the way back I saw a dolphin swimming in the bay! I hope this is a good omen.

The sun has graced us with its presence, the tulips are out and all I want is to have a nice day outside eating lemon tarts. Sounds ridiculously quaint, huh? I also would really like some avocados but it is impossible to get ones that are actually ripe here.

Tomorrow I am going to an acting workshop, I am very excited as it has been a while since I have been able to, well, act!

In the world of rugby (far from the world of arts) Ireland beat Italy!

And I'm not going to dedicate anything to politics/world events in this post because it just makes me angry and upset (I'm looking at you Syria and Rick Santorum). Perhaps when I am feeling more irate I will purge my feelings.

Alright, that's all for now!

Glitz and Glamour

Thursday night was the launch party for the Jameson Dublin International Film Festival. I was on the guest list (cause you know I'm such a V.I.P.) It was great fun and a wonderful beginning to the festival.

One of the perks of volunteering for the  Festival is that I have been able to see some great films! Friday night I saw Unfinished Spaces, a documentary about the architects who built the School of National Arts in Cuba and how the buildings were influenced by the revolution, U.S. embargo and Cuba's relationship with the former Soviet Union. I thought it was a really great film that captured the story in a very unbiased manner.  Sunday afternoon I saw Orphee a classic by Jean Cocteau. I thought it was brilliant and loved how it intertwined Greek myth with the existential genre (in a very theatrical way) that was becoming prevalent when the film was made.

On Saturday night as part of my role in the festival I briefly, and by briefly I mean a mere all-too-short thirty seconds, met the artistic directors of Cheek by Jowl, a London theatre company. I had to try not to squeal when I realized the calibre and amount of work they have accomplished (like working with the Royal Shakespeare Company-squeal!)

One thing I have noticed while sitting in the dark cinema is interesting it is (well to me anyway) that while the film industry itself is often full of glamour and red carpet events when one goes to the cinema it is a very casual event. Whereas in the theatre it is customary (or at least it used to be) to dress to the nines as an audience member.  Hmm. Thoughts? I feel that I could go on a very long tangent and digress into cultural anthropology and social norms, etc. but I will spare you.

Today is Pancake Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, or whatever you want to call it. I am not religious but dammit I want me some pancakes. Now if only someone would make them for me...That's what boyfriends are for, right? A girl can dream.

Ta, ta for  now!