I leave Cork, Ireland in about two weeks, and it's a concept I can't wrap my head around. So often we're in a place in our life, looking from a distance at a time and place that we never think we'll get to. So when you get there, and it's almost over, it's a bit shocking. Somehow, I never thought abroad would end. Four months seems like a long time in your head, but when you're busy traveling, it feels like a lot less time.
Cork has given me the chance to explore another culture that I always thought I knew a lot about. But, Cork has given me the chance to rediscover my Irish roots, and truly experience the life of the Irish. I feel more at home here than i ever have. Whenever I travel somewhere else, I always find myself excited to return to cork. To return to the familiar. Which is such a strange concept, because four months ago it was as strange as all the other countries I've been visiting, but now it's like a home. I know the streets, the shops, the campus, how the bus works. These are all things that have made living Ireland wonderful.
Most importantly, Ireland has taught me to truly enjoy what I've been given, and to really take the time to enjoy those gifts. We are always taught to keep moving, and to move fast within America, and I know for a fact that after living in Cork for four months, I am changed. I don't move that fast anywhere, especially here. I take my time, observe things I would never take the time to see in America. The Irish celebrate life by truly living it, and I plan to take that aspect back to the states with me.
When I first arrived in Cork, I think I knew deep down that this place would change me. I wasn't sure how, but whenever I travel someplace new and stay for more than 2 months I tend to come back home as a bit of a different person. However, I've never been upset about the person I've become after leaving. I know that leaving Cork will be sad, but it's only helped shape me more into the person I want to be.
The first month of living in Cork was full of firsts. Learning how to get around, meeting new people, trying new foods, visiting new places. These were all good things, but now i've come from all of these firsts to calling Cork a home. I do all these things all the time. The people I wasn't sure I would be friends with here have become some of my closest friends. I've been able to have a wonderful experience abroad mainly because of the people i have met.
I'm a firm believe that the people make a place, and as exciting as Cork is, I know that I wouldn't have been as happy as I am now if I didn't get to experience cork and Europe with my new friends. Four months seems so short, but it's more than enough time to really get to know the people you're surrounded by. And thankfully, I did just that.
I can't bring Cork back with me, but I plan on bringing the Irish way of live back with me to America. I love the people of Ireland. They are kind, caring, and very very friendly. I wish that America was more like this, so when i go back not only will I try to slow down and observe, but I want to bring a bit more kindness into the world. Who knows, maybe someday it will affect someone the way it affected me.
Thursday, April 26, 2018
Sunday, April 1, 2018
Ireland is Healthy
Ireland is full of healthy food. Fresh produce. Bread made in front of your eyes. Jams and jellies produced within Ireland. Lots of food that you find in Ireland is made in Ireland. When you compare this to the U.S. it's a completely different story.
The U.S. has food shipped from all over there world. It's not to say that the U.S. doesn't make some of it's own food, but compared to Ireland I found that most of the food I find in store within the U.S. hold more foods and produce from outside of the U.S. than it does from inside. This doesn't necessarily mean it's unhealthy, but if you're shipping foods, especially produce, that typically means there needs to be preservatives and chemicals to keep the food fresh. However, the food isn't always actually fresh, like in Ireland. It's just saturated with chemicals that keep them 'fresh'
All of the chemicals and preservatives that the U.S. throws into it's own food isn't surprising either. Now only do we accept food containing chemicals from outside the U.S., but we'll also find that the produce that is grown in the U.S. typically is full of preservatives as well. This is the only kind of life I've known growing up, so when I arrived in Ireland and most produce went bad within a week, I was shocked.
I remember attending a meeting with past students who studied in Cork before I left, and most of them mentioned how food goes bad really quickly, so you'd have to go to the market basically every week. I honestly didn't take this to heart. I didn't think I'd actually have to do that, but in actuality, I do. I go to the market every week, and buy only what I need for the week or else it will go bad. And I've come to enjoy this because it mean's that I don't have to worry about eating food containing chemicals.
I also feel like the produce in Ireland tastes better. It's fresh, usually very flavorful, and I know it's chemical free. Not to say that produce in the U.S. tastes bad, but there have been times when I could taste the chemicals.
Ireland also doesn't have as many 'snack' foods as the U.S., which are really just foods packed with junk and fake flavors. The U.S. doesn't really care what it gives to its people, which sounds harsh, but after being in Ireland and seeing how much less they have for snacking, it makes me question why the U.S. even allows some of these snacks into out country. It's not helping us in any way, and it's not good for anyone.
Ireland has made me realize that the U.S. has a long way to go. We might want all these chemicals because it makes food last longer, and typically people doesn't want to go to the grocery store all the time so buying food that will last long makes sense. But in the long run, getting fresh food, and knowing that the food you're consuming is chemical free should be what we truly want.
The U.S. has food shipped from all over there world. It's not to say that the U.S. doesn't make some of it's own food, but compared to Ireland I found that most of the food I find in store within the U.S. hold more foods and produce from outside of the U.S. than it does from inside. This doesn't necessarily mean it's unhealthy, but if you're shipping foods, especially produce, that typically means there needs to be preservatives and chemicals to keep the food fresh. However, the food isn't always actually fresh, like in Ireland. It's just saturated with chemicals that keep them 'fresh'
All of the chemicals and preservatives that the U.S. throws into it's own food isn't surprising either. Now only do we accept food containing chemicals from outside the U.S., but we'll also find that the produce that is grown in the U.S. typically is full of preservatives as well. This is the only kind of life I've known growing up, so when I arrived in Ireland and most produce went bad within a week, I was shocked.
I remember attending a meeting with past students who studied in Cork before I left, and most of them mentioned how food goes bad really quickly, so you'd have to go to the market basically every week. I honestly didn't take this to heart. I didn't think I'd actually have to do that, but in actuality, I do. I go to the market every week, and buy only what I need for the week or else it will go bad. And I've come to enjoy this because it mean's that I don't have to worry about eating food containing chemicals.
I also feel like the produce in Ireland tastes better. It's fresh, usually very flavorful, and I know it's chemical free. Not to say that produce in the U.S. tastes bad, but there have been times when I could taste the chemicals.
Ireland also doesn't have as many 'snack' foods as the U.S., which are really just foods packed with junk and fake flavors. The U.S. doesn't really care what it gives to its people, which sounds harsh, but after being in Ireland and seeing how much less they have for snacking, it makes me question why the U.S. even allows some of these snacks into out country. It's not helping us in any way, and it's not good for anyone.
Ireland has made me realize that the U.S. has a long way to go. We might want all these chemicals because it makes food last longer, and typically people doesn't want to go to the grocery store all the time so buying food that will last long makes sense. But in the long run, getting fresh food, and knowing that the food you're consuming is chemical free should be what we truly want.
Sunday, March 25, 2018
English Breakfast
You know how Americans always complain about Canadian bacon? We're always saying, It's not "real" bacon. I'm pretty sure memes even exist about it. Well, apparently, we are the only ones who have bacon like that. Ireland had bacon that looks more like ham. And in no way does It look like the bacon I've grow used to, but it's not terrible. (American bacon is still better).
English breakfast exists in Ireland, and I honestly didn't expect Ireland to take so many concepts from England, but they do exist. English Breakfast was the very first thing I ate when I arrived in Ireland. We were tired out of our minds, and we stopped in this small hotel on the way to Cork, and were told we would have breakfast. Well, English breakfast is the only kind of breakfast that exists here. Similar to how we always have bacon, eggs, and toast out in America, the Irish always have over easy eggs, grilled tomatoes, hash browns, and ham (bacon).
It seems delicious, and tastes completely different from the food I was used to in America. The tomato combo really threw me off, but now I've grow used to It. There is also typically mushroom available or sausage. It's a wonderful combo, and something I would never think of.
I remember telling my friends, "I didn't even know you could grill tomatoes." Not that I'm an expert chief, but I thought I knew a thing or too.
Since the breakfast consists of a lot of different food, I tend to stick with the eggs, hash browns, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. The ham (bacon) tastes okay, but I always feel like i'm sitting down from dinner if i order It, so I tend to stay away from the bacon. It smells good, but even the taste isn't something i'm a fan off.
I like that vegetables are a part of the breakfast. It's definitely a healthier option, and something I plan on taking advantage of since I'm only here for so long. Plus, the state's don't typically serve vegetables during breakfast, which isn't surprising.
It's interesting to me to think that breakfast is different for countries around the world, and the English breakfast is just a staple here. All of my friends have becomes huge fans, and although I really like it I still prefer an American breakfast. I just wish we included the tomatoes and mushrooms more often.
English breakfast is an acquired taste. and sometimes I still feel like I'm acquiring a taste to certain parts of it.
English breakfast exists in Ireland, and I honestly didn't expect Ireland to take so many concepts from England, but they do exist. English Breakfast was the very first thing I ate when I arrived in Ireland. We were tired out of our minds, and we stopped in this small hotel on the way to Cork, and were told we would have breakfast. Well, English breakfast is the only kind of breakfast that exists here. Similar to how we always have bacon, eggs, and toast out in America, the Irish always have over easy eggs, grilled tomatoes, hash browns, and ham (bacon).
It seems delicious, and tastes completely different from the food I was used to in America. The tomato combo really threw me off, but now I've grow used to It. There is also typically mushroom available or sausage. It's a wonderful combo, and something I would never think of.
I remember telling my friends, "I didn't even know you could grill tomatoes." Not that I'm an expert chief, but I thought I knew a thing or too.
Since the breakfast consists of a lot of different food, I tend to stick with the eggs, hash browns, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. The ham (bacon) tastes okay, but I always feel like i'm sitting down from dinner if i order It, so I tend to stay away from the bacon. It smells good, but even the taste isn't something i'm a fan off.
I like that vegetables are a part of the breakfast. It's definitely a healthier option, and something I plan on taking advantage of since I'm only here for so long. Plus, the state's don't typically serve vegetables during breakfast, which isn't surprising.
It's interesting to me to think that breakfast is different for countries around the world, and the English breakfast is just a staple here. All of my friends have becomes huge fans, and although I really like it I still prefer an American breakfast. I just wish we included the tomatoes and mushrooms more often.
English breakfast is an acquired taste. and sometimes I still feel like I'm acquiring a taste to certain parts of it.
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
Fish N Chips
This might sound hypocritical, and we all know that fish n chips are more of a British food than an Irish food, but Ireland was under British rule for a long time so that's my reasoning for It being here. Fish N Chips is definitely my favorite meal in Ireland! It's everywhere, how could It not be my favorite?
It was actually the first day in Ireland, when we were all stuck on a bus from Dublin to Cork that our bus driver pointed out Jackie Lenox. He made sure to tell us that it's the best place to get fish n chips in town! And although half of us thought we were going to die if we didn't get sleep that very instant, I made sure to put a little star on the place in the back of my mind.
And thankfully, that little star came in handy. I was with a group of friends, and we were on a food hunt. It's only fair to state: Ireland isn't known for it's food. I mean, they have good food, but in no way is it a food capital of the world. Trying to find places to eat in Cork is harder than one might think, but we ended up going to Jackie Lenox that night and It was quite an experience.
Jackie Lenox was packed, and apparently our bus driver isn't the only person who knows that they have the best fish and chips in town. So we waited in line, and this place is so busy that you don't even wait to get to the counter to order. They just yell at you while you're in line and then you have to order. And like the bunch of Americans we are, we all just yell Fish N Chips. All 7 of us. We get our food and realize that there isn't anywhere to sit. It's so busy that most of the space is used to hold all the people in line. However, there is a small area for eating the food in the back, and we take up all the seat very quickly.
Now, I've never had fish n chips. It's basically fried cod, filled with more grease than french fries. They didn't offer much in terms of silver ware there, so we had to eat it with our hands. The chips were a larger versions of french friends. Everything was incredibly salted and greasy, and i knew the moment i told a bit out of my fried fish that i liked It. I mean, there was a reason this place had a line out the door. We all nodded our head in approval as we devoured our fish n chips.
Jackie Lenox gives more fish n chips than necessary if I'm being honest. So I always know that i'll have food for the next day. However, i always try to finish the chips when they're fresh and hot, because they just don't taste the same when you heat them up. Anyways, i did discover that fish n chips taste amazing with Mayo and Ketchup. That may seem like a strange combination, but now every time I eat fish N chips I make sure to smoother It in these sauces. It gives the fish more flavor!
Now, Jackie Lenox isn't the only place in town to serve fish N chips. But they're the only ones who serve It for a very cheap price, and is well known. I've gone to other restaurants to get this meal because It is a very popular meal in cork, but they aren't as flavor full, or as well salted or even greasy as Jackie Lenox. I look forward to stepping into the restaurant and smelling grilled fish and salt and vinegar every time. I look forward to eating it even more.
It was actually the first day in Ireland, when we were all stuck on a bus from Dublin to Cork that our bus driver pointed out Jackie Lenox. He made sure to tell us that it's the best place to get fish n chips in town! And although half of us thought we were going to die if we didn't get sleep that very instant, I made sure to put a little star on the place in the back of my mind.
And thankfully, that little star came in handy. I was with a group of friends, and we were on a food hunt. It's only fair to state: Ireland isn't known for it's food. I mean, they have good food, but in no way is it a food capital of the world. Trying to find places to eat in Cork is harder than one might think, but we ended up going to Jackie Lenox that night and It was quite an experience.
Jackie Lenox was packed, and apparently our bus driver isn't the only person who knows that they have the best fish and chips in town. So we waited in line, and this place is so busy that you don't even wait to get to the counter to order. They just yell at you while you're in line and then you have to order. And like the bunch of Americans we are, we all just yell Fish N Chips. All 7 of us. We get our food and realize that there isn't anywhere to sit. It's so busy that most of the space is used to hold all the people in line. However, there is a small area for eating the food in the back, and we take up all the seat very quickly.
Now, I've never had fish n chips. It's basically fried cod, filled with more grease than french fries. They didn't offer much in terms of silver ware there, so we had to eat it with our hands. The chips were a larger versions of french friends. Everything was incredibly salted and greasy, and i knew the moment i told a bit out of my fried fish that i liked It. I mean, there was a reason this place had a line out the door. We all nodded our head in approval as we devoured our fish n chips.
Jackie Lenox gives more fish n chips than necessary if I'm being honest. So I always know that i'll have food for the next day. However, i always try to finish the chips when they're fresh and hot, because they just don't taste the same when you heat them up. Anyways, i did discover that fish n chips taste amazing with Mayo and Ketchup. That may seem like a strange combination, but now every time I eat fish N chips I make sure to smoother It in these sauces. It gives the fish more flavor!
Now, Jackie Lenox isn't the only place in town to serve fish N chips. But they're the only ones who serve It for a very cheap price, and is well known. I've gone to other restaurants to get this meal because It is a very popular meal in cork, but they aren't as flavor full, or as well salted or even greasy as Jackie Lenox. I look forward to stepping into the restaurant and smelling grilled fish and salt and vinegar every time. I look forward to eating it even more.
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Slow down
I've always been a fast paced person. I walk fast, I drive fast (Don't worry, not too fast), I talk fast, I like to multitask so I get more done. Point is, I always feel like I'm in a constant rush. I mentioned this in my past blog, but Ireland is all about leisure. Cork is like the polar opposite of who I am.
Cork does what it want's when it want's. It rains whenever it pleases, and doesn't really take into account convenience of it's inhabitants. Speaking of it's inhabitants, these people don't seem to care what other's think either. They wear what they want, walk as slowly as they want, and most importantly, it's never a race. And because of being here, i've slowly started to pick up the motto: Slow and steady wins the race. I'm too competitive to cross out being in a race completely. However, I have started to adopt the leisure that Irish people seem to have since being here.
After being in Cork for a while now, I can't help but ask myself why I am the way I am? Why are these people the way that they are? And honestly, it's because of how different our societies are. America is about making it, and competing against everyone. Sometimes I wonder if that's what life should really be? The Irish seem to live life differently but not in a lesser way. Maybe Ireland got it right.
Although I will never be able to truly change who I am, and I really don't want too. I'm glad for these couple of months. They give me a time to live and look at life differently. If I tried to live this relaxed life in America, surely I would be judged. We see those who do things slower or don't seem as ambitious as lesser. And Cork has given me the chance to see how people live different lives. And no one is better than anyone else because they walk faster and get to where they need to be quicker. Irish people always get to where they need to be, but they do it without rushing and far less worrying.
Isn't that better though? As an American I feel like I could do with less stress. As I meet more people here and walk through these streets I find that stress isn't as much as a problem here. American could definitely learn from some things that Cork has taught me.
I hope that when I go back to America, I will be able to walk a bit slower. Maybe even try to stop viewing everything as a competition, which I know will be hard because I know it has been ingrained into me.
However, I think the time that I have been here will do me good, and just might be enough to truly help me change some aspects of my life. Even when I go back home.
Cork does what it want's when it want's. It rains whenever it pleases, and doesn't really take into account convenience of it's inhabitants. Speaking of it's inhabitants, these people don't seem to care what other's think either. They wear what they want, walk as slowly as they want, and most importantly, it's never a race. And because of being here, i've slowly started to pick up the motto: Slow and steady wins the race. I'm too competitive to cross out being in a race completely. However, I have started to adopt the leisure that Irish people seem to have since being here.
After being in Cork for a while now, I can't help but ask myself why I am the way I am? Why are these people the way that they are? And honestly, it's because of how different our societies are. America is about making it, and competing against everyone. Sometimes I wonder if that's what life should really be? The Irish seem to live life differently but not in a lesser way. Maybe Ireland got it right.
Although I will never be able to truly change who I am, and I really don't want too. I'm glad for these couple of months. They give me a time to live and look at life differently. If I tried to live this relaxed life in America, surely I would be judged. We see those who do things slower or don't seem as ambitious as lesser. And Cork has given me the chance to see how people live different lives. And no one is better than anyone else because they walk faster and get to where they need to be quicker. Irish people always get to where they need to be, but they do it without rushing and far less worrying.
Isn't that better though? As an American I feel like I could do with less stress. As I meet more people here and walk through these streets I find that stress isn't as much as a problem here. American could definitely learn from some things that Cork has taught me.
I hope that when I go back to America, I will be able to walk a bit slower. Maybe even try to stop viewing everything as a competition, which I know will be hard because I know it has been ingrained into me.
However, I think the time that I have been here will do me good, and just might be enough to truly help me change some aspects of my life. Even when I go back home.
Wednesday, February 28, 2018
Florida Vs. Cork
Florida and Ireland might be the most different places in comparison to each other. The people and atmosphere of both are completely different. However, I find the differences to be good things and I like them both more because they are so unlike each other.
It's always hot in Florida. Even in the dead of winter and you'd expect some snow. The morning might be a chilly 55, but by the time one in the afternoon comes around we are back to 75 or 80 degrees. Whereas, in Cork, it never changes. It's cold in the morning and it's cold in the afternoon. However, as much as it's fun to come home to Florida in the dead of winter and go to the beach, I also enjoy having snow during Christmas time. There are positives and draw backs to living in a state that doesn't have snow! However, I am getting enough of it in Cork.
Not only is Cork cold though, It also rains a lot more than where I grew up. Florida is a very fickle state when it comes to weather, but typically it's sunny! It is called the Sunshine state for a reason, however, it in no way rains half as much as it does in Cork. It rains in Cork at least 5 times a week, and it's randomly throughout the day. Cork could have rain on and off for five hours. Usually in Florida when it rains it just rains for a straight 2 hours and then is done.
Traffic here is very different from Florida. It's more small town, small lanes kind of driving. Where as back home their are 4 lane highways, and huge intersections with large amounts of traffic. Traffic doesn't exist in Cork. If the bus system say's you'll get there in 3 hours, it will take you three hours. However, back home, you always have to give yourself a good 30 minute cushion because traffic is a very real thing.
The city life in Cork is more appealing than my life in Naples, Florida. The people here are kind and very helpful! And although shops are busy, it's never too crowded. Whereas in Naples, it's always busy and people aren't always kind. Usually cities have a negative connotation next to them when I think of them. However, Cork is a great city and makes me rethink what a city really is and what it means.
Finally, living in Naples is extremely expensive.There is a reason we were named one of the happiest cities in America. It's because we have people come down here and spend all their money on beach houses and expensive restaurants The majority of the population is old people, of course they're happy. However, just because they can afford the high end life of Naples, doesn't mean everyone can. Some places you know just not to go. Cork is the complete opposite. When I first arrived here I thought everything would be expensive. It's the complete opposite, and I've never been happier. As a college student on a budget, living in a town that is affordable is perfect.
Naples and Cork are not only on complete opposite sides of the world form each other, but they are opposite in every other way too. Both places are homes though.
It's always hot in Florida. Even in the dead of winter and you'd expect some snow. The morning might be a chilly 55, but by the time one in the afternoon comes around we are back to 75 or 80 degrees. Whereas, in Cork, it never changes. It's cold in the morning and it's cold in the afternoon. However, as much as it's fun to come home to Florida in the dead of winter and go to the beach, I also enjoy having snow during Christmas time. There are positives and draw backs to living in a state that doesn't have snow! However, I am getting enough of it in Cork.
Not only is Cork cold though, It also rains a lot more than where I grew up. Florida is a very fickle state when it comes to weather, but typically it's sunny! It is called the Sunshine state for a reason, however, it in no way rains half as much as it does in Cork. It rains in Cork at least 5 times a week, and it's randomly throughout the day. Cork could have rain on and off for five hours. Usually in Florida when it rains it just rains for a straight 2 hours and then is done.
Traffic here is very different from Florida. It's more small town, small lanes kind of driving. Where as back home their are 4 lane highways, and huge intersections with large amounts of traffic. Traffic doesn't exist in Cork. If the bus system say's you'll get there in 3 hours, it will take you three hours. However, back home, you always have to give yourself a good 30 minute cushion because traffic is a very real thing.
The city life in Cork is more appealing than my life in Naples, Florida. The people here are kind and very helpful! And although shops are busy, it's never too crowded. Whereas in Naples, it's always busy and people aren't always kind. Usually cities have a negative connotation next to them when I think of them. However, Cork is a great city and makes me rethink what a city really is and what it means.
Finally, living in Naples is extremely expensive.There is a reason we were named one of the happiest cities in America. It's because we have people come down here and spend all their money on beach houses and expensive restaurants The majority of the population is old people, of course they're happy. However, just because they can afford the high end life of Naples, doesn't mean everyone can. Some places you know just not to go. Cork is the complete opposite. When I first arrived here I thought everything would be expensive. It's the complete opposite, and I've never been happier. As a college student on a budget, living in a town that is affordable is perfect.
Naples and Cork are not only on complete opposite sides of the world form each other, but they are opposite in every other way too. Both places are homes though.
Naple and
II
Traffic
Thursday, February 22, 2018
People Roll Their Windows Down Here
Everything in Ireland is about leisure. No one walks as fast as Americans do. I think when we walk through the streets of Cork, everyone know's we're from America because we do everything faster, and everything is a race. but I think the question that Cork has made me ask myself is: A race to where? and what's the prize?
As I walk through the city of Cork, and pass other people, I notice their contentment. An old lady, walking with her husband. A group of friends laughing loudly. A couple holding hands. No one rushing to work. No one honks. People in Cork enjoy the company of one another.
I walk into the bookstore to find a quiet that I seem to find in all book sanctuaries, but smiles are still passed between people. Whispered help is offered instantly by friendly faces. Somehow, kindness seems to be placed into every inch of this place. Even places where words aren't necessary.
The English Market is still one of my favorite places in Cork. The atmosphere of it is completely different from anything you'd expect in the states, and the people are even more different. The grocery store is a chore. One we hate doing in America. It's something that gets in the way of us doing something else or getting closer to that "finish line". But here people enjoy it. It's a social event. Families buy their produce together, and meet up with other families. People get food before getting their groceries for the week. It's time spent doing what's necessary but while feeling happy about it.
I'll stop to get bread while in the english market, and people will dig into there wallets and hope to find change for the $2.50 loaf of bread. It's freshly made, and it's a mess of people leaning against a counter like a bar hoping to get the attention of the seller first.
Life is lived differently here. People take the time to stop and talk to one another. It's not a race to the finish line, in fact, I don't believe a finish line exists here. Life isn't a competition, and its something that I've come to admire.Something I even want. We've always been pushed; push to do more, and be more that I haven't taken the time to stop and enjoy this life fully. While in Cork, I've been given an example of how life should be lived. The University is a 25 minute walk, and usually I can do it in less, but I've found myself slowing down. Looking around more. Hoping to live more like the Irish do.
As I walk through the city of Cork, and pass other people, I notice their contentment. An old lady, walking with her husband. A group of friends laughing loudly. A couple holding hands. No one rushing to work. No one honks. People in Cork enjoy the company of one another.
I walk into the bookstore to find a quiet that I seem to find in all book sanctuaries, but smiles are still passed between people. Whispered help is offered instantly by friendly faces. Somehow, kindness seems to be placed into every inch of this place. Even places where words aren't necessary.
The English Market is still one of my favorite places in Cork. The atmosphere of it is completely different from anything you'd expect in the states, and the people are even more different. The grocery store is a chore. One we hate doing in America. It's something that gets in the way of us doing something else or getting closer to that "finish line". But here people enjoy it. It's a social event. Families buy their produce together, and meet up with other families. People get food before getting their groceries for the week. It's time spent doing what's necessary but while feeling happy about it.
I'll stop to get bread while in the english market, and people will dig into there wallets and hope to find change for the $2.50 loaf of bread. It's freshly made, and it's a mess of people leaning against a counter like a bar hoping to get the attention of the seller first.
Life is lived differently here. People take the time to stop and talk to one another. It's not a race to the finish line, in fact, I don't believe a finish line exists here. Life isn't a competition, and its something that I've come to admire.Something I even want. We've always been pushed; push to do more, and be more that I haven't taken the time to stop and enjoy this life fully. While in Cork, I've been given an example of how life should be lived. The University is a 25 minute walk, and usually I can do it in less, but I've found myself slowing down. Looking around more. Hoping to live more like the Irish do.
Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Cork
Cork smell's like rain. Even when it's not raining, somehow the smell still lingers in the air. It's like the buildings and sidewalks have been coated so thoroughly with rain that it's impossible to wipe off. What rain even smells like is impossible to describe, but most of us have been outside after It rains, and It's a heavy scent. But it's a scent that brings about comfort. Rain is just what comes along with being in Ireland, and stepping out into the streets and smelling rain is something I associated with my new home.
The streets are always filled with people. Some are going to work, others grabbing food, students rushing to class. Cars break for pedestrians and buses maneuvering their way through the tiny streets. Cork is alive during the day, and when you walk into the center city you realize that people are always around. The city center during the day is filled with people, and the shops are all lines up next to each other ranging from cute shops in nooks, to large department stores that are packed with pushing people.
Walking the streets of Cork is refreshing. It's about a 30 minute walk into town from University College Cork, and my favorite place to go to within the city center is famous! There is a place called the English Market, it holds everything you could possibly need food wise. The name stems from the English Queen visiting It, and stating It was her place in Ireland. So after that, it was called the English Market.
The English Market is like any large market place, but it's all inside. Venders sell fresh produce, meats, bread, seafood, jams. Really anything you could want is available, and it's all fresh. Plus, as a college student since I'm on a budget I don't like to spend too much, but the English Market has wonderful products and I can get everything I need for the week for less than two euro. The shops are set up next to each other, and it's also a place where people socialize and meet up for a cup of coffee! It's directly in the center of town, so It makes a great meeting point.
Cork holds the Blarney castle, which holds the myth of if you kiss the blarney stone at the top of the Castle, you will get the gift of gab. This castle was one of the first places in Cork that we went to, and its surrounded by lush gardens of plants, waterfalls, and other herbs. It's legend is what makes it so popular to tourists, but really it's just something that they made up to get people to come. It definitely worked. I know I fell for it.
The University of College Cork also holds a lot of history. The main quad holds a large building that looks almost medieval. It's a busy place with students always walking around, but when it's empty, it's a fun place to explore.
Cork is a city filled with views and houses perched on hills of pure green. It's always busy, but its a safe town that holds adventures, and people who make the place even better.
The streets are always filled with people. Some are going to work, others grabbing food, students rushing to class. Cars break for pedestrians and buses maneuvering their way through the tiny streets. Cork is alive during the day, and when you walk into the center city you realize that people are always around. The city center during the day is filled with people, and the shops are all lines up next to each other ranging from cute shops in nooks, to large department stores that are packed with pushing people.
Walking the streets of Cork is refreshing. It's about a 30 minute walk into town from University College Cork, and my favorite place to go to within the city center is famous! There is a place called the English Market, it holds everything you could possibly need food wise. The name stems from the English Queen visiting It, and stating It was her place in Ireland. So after that, it was called the English Market.
The English Market is like any large market place, but it's all inside. Venders sell fresh produce, meats, bread, seafood, jams. Really anything you could want is available, and it's all fresh. Plus, as a college student since I'm on a budget I don't like to spend too much, but the English Market has wonderful products and I can get everything I need for the week for less than two euro. The shops are set up next to each other, and it's also a place where people socialize and meet up for a cup of coffee! It's directly in the center of town, so It makes a great meeting point.
Cork holds the Blarney castle, which holds the myth of if you kiss the blarney stone at the top of the Castle, you will get the gift of gab. This castle was one of the first places in Cork that we went to, and its surrounded by lush gardens of plants, waterfalls, and other herbs. It's legend is what makes it so popular to tourists, but really it's just something that they made up to get people to come. It definitely worked. I know I fell for it.
The University of College Cork also holds a lot of history. The main quad holds a large building that looks almost medieval. It's a busy place with students always walking around, but when it's empty, it's a fun place to explore.
Wednesday, February 7, 2018
Minor Differences
Caitlin and I are similar in all the ways that matter. We have a lots of things in common, and lots of them are what makes us such good friends. However, I also think it's the differences that also make us close! We have more in common than we do differences, but we still have plenty of things that make us individuals and set us apart.
First off, Caitlin loves coffee. I touched on this in my past blog post, but really, her love for coffee is unreal. I'd like to point out that it's probably an addiction. I'm not going to claim it's unhealthy, but. I don't drink coffee and I very much don't like it. The only time I force myself to drink coffee is if I only got 3 hours of sleep the night before. And I know for certain that if I don't drink caffeine I will pass out before I make it to class or work. These are very rare moments, whereas Caitlin looks for a coffee shop on instinct, because she's a bit obsessed. It's fine though, because even though I'm dragged along, I am a fan of tea and muffins so I'll just get one of those.
Secondly, Caitlin is from Boston, so she loves her Patriots like any other person from Boston. And like any other person from Boston, the patriots are "the best ever and Tom Brady is the GOAT."Clearly I don't agree with this. I hate Tom Brady, and because he's a part of the Patriots, my hatred has moved to hating the entire team. Sorry, guys. Anyways, Caitlin was more excited about this Superbowl than anyone, and I was never more excited for the patriots to lose. We didn't talk about it that much the next day because I know it was a hard hit in the pride for all those patriots fans, but I think they needed the punch to the ego personally. Caitlin wasn't too poor of a sport about it, but it's still a sore spot even now.
Thirdly, Caitlin refuses to own or compliment any Apple products. To her anything that isn't Apple is far superior. She has an Android, and always tells me, "Steph, you should get an Android" and I always say, "Caitlin, I had an android for the last five years, I just switched because Apple is better." Those aren't words that Caitlin believes, but I now own everything Apple. I have an Apple computer, Iphone, Ipad, watch. I'm very much a fan of Apple. Caitlin stands firm against Apple, and I know for a fact that there will be no changing her mind.
I'm loud, and I know this. I'm aware that I'm a very outgoing person. Caitlin is a people person, but she's in no way as loud as me, or as crazy. I'd have to say I'm aware that although I don't go out as much as her, I'm a bit more crazy. I also tell myself that she want's me to go out more because she know's I'm a crazy person.
Finally, the biggest difference between Caitlin and I is she love to take pictures and post them all over social media. See, I don't mind photo's if I know they aren't going to go anywhere, but with Caitlin I know she's going to post them everywhere. So when I'm around her I tend to hide when she takes photos, or I make sure I'm at least hiding my face. She is always snapping pictures with her phone, and asking for us to take pictures with her. I've said no plenty of times.
Caitlin and I are different, but as you can see it's all minor things. Nothing that make this friendship difficult, if anything these difference's make us closer.
First off, Caitlin loves coffee. I touched on this in my past blog post, but really, her love for coffee is unreal. I'd like to point out that it's probably an addiction. I'm not going to claim it's unhealthy, but. I don't drink coffee and I very much don't like it. The only time I force myself to drink coffee is if I only got 3 hours of sleep the night before. And I know for certain that if I don't drink caffeine I will pass out before I make it to class or work. These are very rare moments, whereas Caitlin looks for a coffee shop on instinct, because she's a bit obsessed. It's fine though, because even though I'm dragged along, I am a fan of tea and muffins so I'll just get one of those.
Secondly, Caitlin is from Boston, so she loves her Patriots like any other person from Boston. And like any other person from Boston, the patriots are "the best ever and Tom Brady is the GOAT."Clearly I don't agree with this. I hate Tom Brady, and because he's a part of the Patriots, my hatred has moved to hating the entire team. Sorry, guys. Anyways, Caitlin was more excited about this Superbowl than anyone, and I was never more excited for the patriots to lose. We didn't talk about it that much the next day because I know it was a hard hit in the pride for all those patriots fans, but I think they needed the punch to the ego personally. Caitlin wasn't too poor of a sport about it, but it's still a sore spot even now.
Thirdly, Caitlin refuses to own or compliment any Apple products. To her anything that isn't Apple is far superior. She has an Android, and always tells me, "Steph, you should get an Android" and I always say, "Caitlin, I had an android for the last five years, I just switched because Apple is better." Those aren't words that Caitlin believes, but I now own everything Apple. I have an Apple computer, Iphone, Ipad, watch. I'm very much a fan of Apple. Caitlin stands firm against Apple, and I know for a fact that there will be no changing her mind.
I'm loud, and I know this. I'm aware that I'm a very outgoing person. Caitlin is a people person, but she's in no way as loud as me, or as crazy. I'd have to say I'm aware that although I don't go out as much as her, I'm a bit more crazy. I also tell myself that she want's me to go out more because she know's I'm a crazy person.
Finally, the biggest difference between Caitlin and I is she love to take pictures and post them all over social media. See, I don't mind photo's if I know they aren't going to go anywhere, but with Caitlin I know she's going to post them everywhere. So when I'm around her I tend to hide when she takes photos, or I make sure I'm at least hiding my face. She is always snapping pictures with her phone, and asking for us to take pictures with her. I've said no plenty of times.
Caitlin and I are different, but as you can see it's all minor things. Nothing that make this friendship difficult, if anything these difference's make us closer.
Thursday, February 1, 2018
List of things Caitlin Cobau does
Every morning, Caitlin wakes up with the intent to do something.
She woke up this morning around 11 o'clock in the afternoon. Which she explained to me was pretty late for her, but she loves her sleep. This morning she went for a run to make up for her inability to wake up early this morning. She ran through the center of the city, passing the shops and bakeries and then came back to her apartment just barely missing the rain that comes down every other hour.
Coffee seems to be something that Caitlin looks for without even knowing It. Her nose just seems to follow the smell, and boom we're at a coffee shop. We could be at a super market, and then the next thing I know Caitlin is at another stale getting coffee. She told me that typically people pick between naps and coffee. She chose coffee. I've obviously picked wrong. (NAPS 4 LIFE).
Caitlin tells herself everyday that she'll watch the list of movies that she has on Netflix, but she hasn't yet. From what I've gathered, I don't think she'll get through more than 4 of them while here, but don't tell her I said that. Also, her sense for adventure has been such a powerful force here, that I don't think she will get to these movies because her need to travel and explore is so much more important to her. When in Ireland, Caitlin is going to travel.
After going on her run, Caitlin seems to want to hit the library. She loves libraries and surprise, on campus their is a coffee shop within the library. So she usually get's a coffee before she even sits down at the library. She just likes the atmosphere within libraries, so she's not even doing work for class every time she goes there. Sometimes it's just to read or play on her computer. Who know's maybe one day she will watch one of those movies on Netflix there.
After some semi-hard days of class or doing work, the end of the night usually ends with Caitlin going out or hanging out with a group of us. Caitlin's the advocate in our group for going out. She's always down for a night out, and usually she is able to convince me to go out. I usually find her in her room getting ready to leave for the night, and by the time everyone else arrives, we're ready to leave for the night.
The walk into the city with Caitlin, who's a little bit happier after consuming a good drink, is an enjoyable one. She's constantly talking and I know before we even arrive at the pub that she'll want to take a picture for Snapchat or her prized social media Instagram. I usually try to hide, but somehow she always get's me to take a picture with me. It's safe to say Caitlin has plenty videos and pictures of me looking like an idiot that I hope never go anywhere, but knowing how she works they will definitely see the light of social media at some point.
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
True Events
I'm sitting across from Caitlin Cobau, on this lovely Wednesday morning, and I pointed out the rainbow behind her. She turned around in her seat, looked out the window and called me a liar.
Exhibit A on how I'm not a liar:
I then called her blind. As you can see, she most definitely is blind. (Not really, but I mean, that's a pretty obvious rainbow).
Now, don't let these event's structure your opinion on this wonderful human, being semi-blind isn't something you should hold against Caitlin. She is one of the only people here in Cork who I've found I enjoy spending large portions of time with. However, that might be because I met Caitlin about a year ago. We took a writing class together last spring, and we also found out we would be going to Cork together! It was nice to know someone who would also be traveling across the country with me.
Now we've grown used to coming together every Wednesday afternoon to do travel writing. We sit across from each other and talk about what we're struggling to write about and Caitlin plays country music. Which is shocking, because I don't know a lot of people who enjoy country music so that's typically the music we jam too.
Caitlin has dark dark blond hair, and even then she will tell you you're wrong. She insists it's brown. And since I'm tired of proving her wrong with pictures, you'll just have to take my word for it. She has beautiful light blue eyes, and a happy smile that makes you smile right back. Even when half the time she's just calling me weird.
Caitlin loves taking photographs. I turn around. She's taking a picture for Snapchat. I look up, she's trying to capture the rainbow she can't 'see' for Instagram. Which is her social media platform of choice. Caitlin has a large love for Instagram. I am constantly trying to avoid being in any of these photo's, but it's hard to do with a friend like Caitlin. I take heart in knowing this trip will be properly documented though.
Caitlin is also obsessed with doing laundry. In fact, she just came back from doing laundry as I write this. Her reason for doing so much laundry though is "She didn't pack enough stuff, so she needs to clean it often." Which makes some sense, but laundry costs so much here that in reality it makes more sense to buy clothes. So Caitlin, just get another pair of jeans.
Now we've grown used to coming together every Wednesday afternoon to do travel writing. We sit across from each other and talk about what we're struggling to write about and Caitlin plays country music. Which is shocking, because I don't know a lot of people who enjoy country music so that's typically the music we jam too.
Caitlin has dark dark blond hair, and even then she will tell you you're wrong. She insists it's brown. And since I'm tired of proving her wrong with pictures, you'll just have to take my word for it. She has beautiful light blue eyes, and a happy smile that makes you smile right back. Even when half the time she's just calling me weird.
Caitlin loves taking photographs. I turn around. She's taking a picture for Snapchat. I look up, she's trying to capture the rainbow she can't 'see' for Instagram. Which is her social media platform of choice. Caitlin has a large love for Instagram. I am constantly trying to avoid being in any of these photo's, but it's hard to do with a friend like Caitlin. I take heart in knowing this trip will be properly documented though.
Caitlin is also obsessed with doing laundry. In fact, she just came back from doing laundry as I write this. Her reason for doing so much laundry though is "She didn't pack enough stuff, so she needs to clean it often." Which makes some sense, but laundry costs so much here that in reality it makes more sense to buy clothes. So Caitlin, just get another pair of jeans.
Friday, January 19, 2018
I'm actually losing money.
Hello everyone, this is Steph! I'm from Naples, Florida. I love mashed potatoes, books, and orange juice. I have moved from the sunshine state, to studying abroad in very rainy Cork, Ireland. However, it doesn't rain all the time here, only about 75% of the time. Which is still pretty awful, but I have gotten used to it, and it's only made me more clearly understand how Ireland is so green, all the time.
I can't sleep on planes, buses, or any kind of vehicle that moves, or that's at least what I thought when I started the journey to Cork. I did sleep on the plane. I also slept on the bus. So I've changed the conditions too: Unable to sleep on moving vehicles, unless extremely exhausted. And I was extremely exhausted. I had to travel from Naples to Newark during that afternoon, and then from Newark to Dublin. So I was very much done with planes by the time I was on the flight to Dublin. Once we arrived into Dublin, we had to get onto a bus to make it to Cork, and I would have given my left pinky for a bed, or a horizontal surface. Safe to say my left pinky is still in fact attached to my hand. (Not that that's a bad thing).
We didn't even have time to sleep though when we arrived in Cork. We got off the bus to move our stuff into our room, and then it was back onto the bus to go shopping and pick up essentials. I found some decent orange juice. By the time we got all of the things we needed to survive, I was pretty awake, and decided to stay awake till 9:30 that night. I wanted to try to adjust to the time, and that also gave me time to unpack all of my things and let my parents know I was only half zombie at that point.
The next day I woke up around 10. I definitely got enough sleep, but I was still very jet lagged. Every one was, but we were going to the Blarney Castle, and a lot of people wanted to kiss a stone that young boys snuck up to at night and peed on. I obviously didn't want to kiss the stone. The legend is that if you kiss it you will get the gift of gab, which is more luck. My mom told me I had enough gab. She just didn't want me to kiss the stone of pee. After we toured the castle, we just went running around the grounds of the garden and took a bunch of pictures. It was a massive place, and we could have spent at least another 2 hours there, but we already had plans to get food.
Thursday and Friday was Orientation. Which basically made me just feel like a freshman again, and we were told where to go and clubs and classes we could take. After those long, slightly uneventful days, Saturday came around and we went to the Jameson Distillery. My Grandfather is a Jack Daniels fan, so I made sure to apologize for fraternizing with the enemy. It was the first real, sunny, glorious day in Ireland and at that point I was in desperate need of a day without rain. There is only so long a girl from Florida can go without the sun.
We got drinks after our tour of the distillery, yes, they were free! We left the distillery feeling a bit better, and arrived at the Cork city center to a beautiful restaurant. Because the tab was covered by Loyola, I don't think we held back on the amount of food we ordered. Our table alone ordered 3 appetizers, we all got our own meal, and deserts. It was a good night, and I was happy about going back on a full stomach. That week was full of fun adventures, and after that we were preparing for the week of class to come.
You have all probably read my blog title thinking, "She's clearly unaware of how abroad works. You spend money, not gain it." However, I am very aware of that small detail, I've just decided to view this experience more as a positive one. Although I am losing money, I am also gaining knowledge on culture and seeing the world, and in my opinion, that means I'm gaining more than I'm losing.
I can't sleep on planes, buses, or any kind of vehicle that moves, or that's at least what I thought when I started the journey to Cork. I did sleep on the plane. I also slept on the bus. So I've changed the conditions too: Unable to sleep on moving vehicles, unless extremely exhausted. And I was extremely exhausted. I had to travel from Naples to Newark during that afternoon, and then from Newark to Dublin. So I was very much done with planes by the time I was on the flight to Dublin. Once we arrived into Dublin, we had to get onto a bus to make it to Cork, and I would have given my left pinky for a bed, or a horizontal surface. Safe to say my left pinky is still in fact attached to my hand. (Not that that's a bad thing).
We didn't even have time to sleep though when we arrived in Cork. We got off the bus to move our stuff into our room, and then it was back onto the bus to go shopping and pick up essentials. I found some decent orange juice. By the time we got all of the things we needed to survive, I was pretty awake, and decided to stay awake till 9:30 that night. I wanted to try to adjust to the time, and that also gave me time to unpack all of my things and let my parents know I was only half zombie at that point.
The next day I woke up around 10. I definitely got enough sleep, but I was still very jet lagged. Every one was, but we were going to the Blarney Castle, and a lot of people wanted to kiss a stone that young boys snuck up to at night and peed on. I obviously didn't want to kiss the stone. The legend is that if you kiss it you will get the gift of gab, which is more luck. My mom told me I had enough gab. She just didn't want me to kiss the stone of pee. After we toured the castle, we just went running around the grounds of the garden and took a bunch of pictures. It was a massive place, and we could have spent at least another 2 hours there, but we already had plans to get food.
Thursday and Friday was Orientation. Which basically made me just feel like a freshman again, and we were told where to go and clubs and classes we could take. After those long, slightly uneventful days, Saturday came around and we went to the Jameson Distillery. My Grandfather is a Jack Daniels fan, so I made sure to apologize for fraternizing with the enemy. It was the first real, sunny, glorious day in Ireland and at that point I was in desperate need of a day without rain. There is only so long a girl from Florida can go without the sun.
We got drinks after our tour of the distillery, yes, they were free! We left the distillery feeling a bit better, and arrived at the Cork city center to a beautiful restaurant. Because the tab was covered by Loyola, I don't think we held back on the amount of food we ordered. Our table alone ordered 3 appetizers, we all got our own meal, and deserts. It was a good night, and I was happy about going back on a full stomach. That week was full of fun adventures, and after that we were preparing for the week of class to come.
You have all probably read my blog title thinking, "She's clearly unaware of how abroad works. You spend money, not gain it." However, I am very aware of that small detail, I've just decided to view this experience more as a positive one. Although I am losing money, I am also gaining knowledge on culture and seeing the world, and in my opinion, that means I'm gaining more than I'm losing.
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