This week has just zoomed by—I can hardly believe it’s already been three weeks since I arrived! Time is really flying.
Earlier in the week, my friends and I had the incredible opportunity to be front-row at a Mt. Joy concert. The energy was electric, and being so close to the stage made it an unforgettable experience. Afterwards, I texted one of the band members, and he invited us to come meet the band! It felt surreal and left me buzzing with excitement. It’s definitely a night I’ll be talking about for a long time, and it’s got me eagerly anticipating future concerts here.
Over the weekend, I embarked on a three-day trip to Galway, and I couldn’t have asked for better weather. The Irish countryside was a vibrant tapestry of green as we drove across the country, each turn revealing more stunning scenery. There were so many mountains, brooks, and wildflowers to enjoy that I didn’t mind the long bus ride. We also made stops along the way, such as at Rock Dunamase!
The Cliffs of Moher were a highlight, towering majestically over the Atlantic Ocean. While I didn’t spot as many puffins as I’d hoped, the sheer cliffs plunging into the sea and the crashing waves below created a dramatic and beautiful scene. Exploring both sides of the cliffs offered different perspectives, each more breathtaking than the last.
The following day, I visited Kylemore Abbey, which had expansive grounds and picturesque walled gardens. I wandered through the castle and chapel, soaking in centuries of stories. I met the resident animals, from elegant horses to curious pigs, which added a delightful touch of charm to the visit. Many were making fun of the pigs, but I thought they were cute in their own way. During lunch, I enjoyed traditional Irish stew and brown bread which was so incredibly delicious.
One of the most enchanting experiences was visiting a local sheep farm. Watching the skilled herding dog effortlessly corral the sheep across the sprawling fields was mesmerizing. The herder had such control over his dog. I wish he could train my dog! He demonstrated how he sheared the sheep, sharing insights into their care and the daily rhythms of farm life. We then had the opportunity to feed and cuddle the playful lambs. I felt bad bothering them, but I couldn’t resist them with their soft wool and mellow manner.
A trip to the Aran Islands was another unforgettable adventure. Despite the choppy ferry ride, the rugged beauty of the island landscape was simply breathtaking. Biking along winding paths, we passed by stone walls and verdant pastures dotted with grazing cows and sheep. One particularly friendly and majestic horse galloped up to greet us. I dipped my feet in the water, which was chilly but refreshing. I also found a large shell that was in perfect condition. It looked fake!
Galway itself charmed me with its laid-back vibe and intimate streets, a refreshing change from the bustling pace of Dublin. I wish I had more time to explore the city’s historic sites and quirky shops. I ate dinner at Dough Bros Pizza—a local favorite that boasted top rankings in Ireland and Europe. It was absolutely delicious and definitely lived up to my expectations.
On Monday, a visit to the Jeanie Johnston museum offered a glimpse into the history of the famine. The stories of those who embarked on the perilous journey to seek a better life were inspiring. Margaret Reilly’s narrative, in particular, left a lasting impression with her bravery and strength to cross the Atlantic for six weeks with a newborn.
Even getting pooped on by a bird after the museum visit couldn’t dampen my spirits. I was assured by locals that it’s considered good luck—a quirky anecdote I’d prefer not to have experienced but was funny nonetheless.
The weekend may have flown by in a whirlwind of exploration and discovery, but every moment was cherished. This week has been nothing short of amazing, and I find myself marveling at how quickly it’s come to an end. I am looking forward to what the coming weeks hold, and hope they are just as eventful and memorable!