A Poem about a Young Girl.

PAINTED PETALS

Enslaved by the minute, white flower with petals abound,

            With only one petal lost, significance is absent.

Sights, sounds, life, all fly by, whisk by for all,

            But not for me, not my life.

Oh, that wretched color, white how I despise you;

            Such novice embellishes me as a chain around my neck.

Youth, vibrant, hopeful youth, nay,

            Wisdom of the years, respect, oh, how I yearn.

Across the way, a flower of red shines ever so bright;

            A man carries this symbol of bold, vibrant passion.

A color for the bull, the fierce, powerful beast,

            Courage seeps through the few petals that remain.

Upon the street corner, a woman with chin high,

            Poise and elegance glisten upon each pink petal.

Sophistication accompanies each fine step,

            For a mere drop of pink, my petals cry out.

A flower, brown and weary, lies in the hand of the broken;

            Broken and battered, how dare you mope.

Upon your bloom, life, though dark, paints your petals;

            Rewarded with color, yea be blessed.

Why must I lack color, beautiful charismatic color?

            A tear drops onto your countless petals.

Sun, glimmering sun upon this drop,

            Only you can make this dull flower shine.

Shackled by mere youth, freedom I seek.

            But wait, could my eye be teasing my soul?

There, before me, a woman wrinkled with time,

            In her hand, a stem flaunting one white petal.

Upon this delicate flower, the lonely petal stands strong,

            Oh, how could I have been so blind?

For what on this earth could be more beautiful?

            Than a hungry mind, a budding spirit, a heart of a child.

Final Weeks in Beautiful Ireland.

Well, I am finally home from this amazing adventure, but I thought I would write a little something about the last two weeks I had on that beautiful Isle as schoolwork and building relationships dominated all my spare moments.

After we returned from Liverpool, we had a few school days and then a new, exciting adventure! Our entire team took a two-day vacation (vacation while in Ireland, weird huh?) to Dublin, Ireland. We had the days to explore, shop for a few souvenirs, eat local food, and enjoy each other’s company. By this point, I felt like a true traveler. I did not have to ask for directions, and reading the bus schedule was as easy as reading a children’s pop-up book.

While in Dublin, we took a James Joyce tour that proved to be quite interesting as I slowly discovered the genius in his writings. He writes in such a way, that the reader is able to create his or her own story within the backbone story his provides. It is a beautiful thing that can prove to be encouraging as well as comforting or even disturbing; the best part is it’s your choice! Later that night, stargazing and wonderful conversation about God and His impact in our lives proved to be exactly what I needed to end the day.
The next day, we took a tour of this beautiful town while riding on the top of an open double-decker bus. Talk about exciting! That is until it began to rain steadily and no room was in the inn. I sat with a great person, rain pouring down, and spoke of life, and it was nothing shy of wonderful. After the tour ended, two other girls and I took off to mozie around town for the afternoon. With a few souveniors for loved ones in our hands and a smile on our faces, I would have to say this day was a good day indeed.

The following days were packed with schoolwork. Schoolwork is frustrating when you are in such a beautiful country, but with the constant reminder that we “are here to study” and that we “are not on vacation” par say, completion of these grueling assignments was finally reached.
But, amidst these monsters, we spent a day in the North Coast of Ireland that was not only much needed, but a blast and an inspiration as well. As we were about to head out the door, our leader spoke of a tradition, or more so a challenge, that takes place in the North Coast. If up for the challenge, we were to bring clothes to get wet. I readily accepted the challenge due to my competitive nature and grabbed my clothes quickly before scampering out the door.
Upon arriving, the first stop we made was at a restaurant that served up more than smiles. With our stomachs not only talking, but yelling as well, we ate up while watching the cold, damp weather flee from our presence. After finishing up, we made way for the rope bridge. Though the bridge was not quite as intense as expected, it still made my heart leap, but not quite for joy! We wandered through fields and tracked up a hill to get a view, and a view would be an understatement. Pure beauty of God’s breathtaking creation stood before us, wind pushing and shoving its way through the crowd. This was a sight to take in and never let out.
The next stop we made was at Giant’s Causeway. Legend has it that two giants, one in Scotland and one in Northern Ireland, were quarreling day and night. In order that they may fight face to face, the Irish giant created a path to Scotland. Being weak by all the path building, he dressed up as a baby so that when the Scot came he would see how large the Irish giant’s baby was and cower at how large the giant himself must be. So, the Scottish giant comes, and low and behold, his plan works perfectly, with the path being readily destroyed by the Scot on his flee home. And so, the Giant’s Causeway was created. This stretch of land was so incredible it looked as if man (or giant) must have created it. The rock was formed in such a way that thousands of columns all in perfect hexagonal shape covered the shore. After running around in awe and venturing on a coastal path, our next stop just ahead was the great challenge.
The challenge was simple: jump in the “Perky Pool” which was an area in the rocky shore of the North Atlantic Sea and remain in there for four minutes. Easy right? Wrong. Not only was the air around us around 52 degrees, but the water we were to hop in was a mere 40 degrees. I contemplated the odds of me making it out alive without loosing an arm or leg, or a life for that matter, and decided it would be worth the plunge for the glory. So I, along with 5 guys and 5 girls (the girls being the first girls from our university to ever make the plunge), all jumped into the ice box. Cold ventured throughout my body, first making stops at my lungs and heart which both fought hard to rid of her existence. Next, the cold made its way to my appendages, which still fought hard, but weren’t quite as victorious as the inner force of my lungs and heart. After four minutes was up, I hastily climbed out of the freezing water, and attempted to put a towel on, but due to my lack of feeling I could neither put it on by myself nor feel it once it covered me. As I walked back to my belongings, tiny needles pricked me all over as if I had been wrestling a cactus and had lost drastically. I thought I would never be warm again, but despite it taking a solid two days, my body finally regained its vigor, and I was warm once again.

The last week flew by. With homework hanging on like a burden, we still managed to make the most of our time.  One evening, a night out turned into quite the adventure which was composed of a spectacular view upon a mountaintop of the entire city of Belfast, a glorious time spent in a cloud, an unexpected visit in an Irish home while seeking a cab, unforeseen participation in a breast cancer awareness walk, and a concluding Asian dinner with more than a few good stories! Night after night, we watched movies, mainly Lord of the Rings and Pixar. We soaked up every last moment building relationships with those who became family. I miss my family.

The plane might have left early that Friday morning, but the old me did not join. I left Ireland as a new person. 

When I began this trip I jokingly told everyone that I was going to gain all knowledge and find myself, but I would have never guessed that I would attain both of these goals in such a short time. Going through the Cost of Discipleship challenged me in so many ways, it would take days to write it all out, but one thing I learned was that “True knowledge is to not know where you are going.” When I first read this, I thought it paradoxical. If I do not know where I am going, then I would be unknowing, right? But then the beauty shined through the passage as I realized that I will never gain all knowledge, but what I can gain is true knowledge in knowing that God is leading me every step of the way. What else do I need to know? If I fix my gaze on Him, nothing can cause me to stumble from His perfect path. If I let Him lead me, what more do I need to know? I serve an awesome God, a perfect, personal, magnificent God. He is all I need; His words are all I need to know. In knowing Him, I have all knowledge. In trusting Him in each step that I take, I hold dear to the true knowledge He has given me.
I found myself by first discovering who I was. With many wonderful conversations about life, the past, present, and the God-directed future, with some of the most amazing people, I discovered more of who I was each day. I am a child of God. I am a fallen, broken, healing, mending, joyful, prideful, wonderfully-made child of God. 

A Venture Across the Irish Sea.

A weekend in England was an experience for sure! We embarked for Liverpool at 5:30 in the morning and just a few short hours later, we had successfully made it to a town filled with music and culture. Unable to check-in for several hours, we marched through the city as if to be backpacking through Europe, the American dream of course! We stopped by a tiny fish and chips shop that lacked chairs as well as patience for the confused. While sitting on a wall amidst the hustle and bustle, a Polish man spoke to us in a less than understandable accent about life. After a swift pigeon attack, we ventured on to explore the life of the Beatles. While searching for the “Beatles’ Story,” we stumbled upon a modern art museum. This art was interesting to say the least, but a dance floor with provided headphones playing Oldies was definitely a great feature! We proceeded to discover the “Beatles’ Story” by attending the Beatles Museum, a building with a big story to tell as well as a fun children’s section. After taking a trip to the hotel, we ate dinner at a nice family restaurant that was very pleasant after a long day exploring the town as treacherous backpackers.

Day two of this trip was the best day I have had here in Europe. After riding a taxi, a train, a bus, and another taxi, we had finally made it to Peak District, a beautiful stretch of land outside of Manchester. Stepping foot on this land, I never felt smaller. Nothing but gorgeous land and the road we came from could be seen. We started off on a path heading towards who knows where when we decided to have our sack-lunch on the top of a peak a few miles ahead of us. Obviously, a path didn’t lead to this path, so we ventured off into the open fields. As we were walking, the strangest thing happened—it began to hail on us. Hail! It was so random as the temperatures outside were anything but warm. After we trekked down a long downhill stream, the uphill climb began. Miles and miles, we walked. Apart from heavy breathing, brisk steps, and the occasional chirping bird, not a sound could be heard. Bliss, complete bliss.
We finally reached the final stretch, the peak a mere stones throw away. The vertical was sharp, and the rain made each step a grueling task. The blades of grass were used as handholds. The thick weeds were used as footholds.
We finally made it to the top, and it was worth every step. Miles of land could be seen in every direction. It was the most beautiful picture I’ve ever witnessed. The wind captured my every pure breathe. The view captured my heart, my tiny heart in this massive land.
Our venture down was just as amazing as the walk up, as I had the opportunity to talk to an incredible person about life. Life in general. Our lovely talk was accented with the scenery of the most wonderful shade of green, and nothing could have been more perfect in those moments.
After we returned to the little town, we grabbed a bite to eat and ventured home by means of taxi, bus, train, bus, and then taxi yet again, but every minute of travel was worth it to share such a moment of pure awestricken wonder of God’s mighty hand.

The final day we spent in Liverpool, relaxing and soaking in the culture of this music hub. After a trip to see Anfield and a random bus ride with no destination, we got off at the docks and spent time walking and enjoying life. We spent the afternoon just enjoying each others company while enjoying some good food as well. A quick ride on the Yellow Duckmarine and we were back to the hotel to get some good rest before departing 4:30 am.

God was definitely taking care of us this trip. The number of times we were lost, in need of a taxi, or just plain confused was uncountable, but so many people went well out of their way to help us in any way they could. Also, when people in the group would get separated, we would happen to stumble upon them admist this big city. Crazy. God is so good.

Recap.

Well this week has been full of studying. We leave in the morning for  Liverpool, England, and we had several assignments to get done before we leave! But, no worries...Life has still been wonderful despite the work load. 

Saturday was C.S. Lewis day. Amazing, inventive, life-impacting writer. We visited his home, his place of birth, a statue erected in his name, and his honeymoon site, a wonderful little beach on the coast that had some great ice cream cones! We learned of his life, his impact, his love, his struggles. We concluded this day full of inspiring learning with a trip to one of the highest points of Northern Ireland, a place that provided Lewis with inspiration and calm. We stood at this memorial for a fallen soldier of the Great War and could see for miles. All of Belfast was before me, fields upon fields, houses and cathedrals, sites of history and sites of worship. Just when I thought I had seen it all, I'm placed on top of the world once again. A nice fog brushed the town, and a light mist cleansed my soul. The air was so pure and freeing. 

Sunday was a day of rest. Due to a van break-down, we had church in the humble library. We worshiped together, prayed together, and were silent before the Lord as a body. We are a family, a beautiful, diverse family. 

Monday was class, class, class! Literally all day. But, it was rather enjoyable. We learned about the Sermon on the Mount in great depth. Christ's impact on our life is so powerful, I hope to never take that fact for granted again. 

Tuesday was Dublin day! We went to the library and an art gallery with exhibits on the ever-so talented brothers, William Butler Yeats and Jack Butler Yeats. These men made a real name for Ireland in their paintings and poems. After we did a little learning, we were allowed the day to explore the city. Walking down the streets, we heard various music and singing. A local park proved to me a great place of relaxation and peace. Hundreds of people filled this place with smiles and laughter with a few mischievous characters mixed in of course. Simply pleasant. Near the end of our adventure, we came across a homeless man who had written out a great poem of his misfortune that displayed not only his need but his heart and passion. He made me look at those who are homeless in a completely new light. He saw himself as a man who messed up, a man who lost everything when he lost his job, a very good job at that. He was shaken but not broken. Pride filled his eyes like no other person I had ever seen in his situation. Whether or not he made enough money that day, whether or not he found a job today, he has made a real and powerful impact on people. God can use anyone, absolutely anyone. Though the impact may not be seen, by no means does it mean that it isn't there. 

I thought I would give a little recap of my adventure so far since it has been so long since I've updated:

Ireland...AMAZING. It's so much more than I was expecting. I've seen places that have taken my breath away, I've learned things about myself and God that I've needed to learn for so long, I've developed relationships with wonderful people that I probably would have never been able to know if it werent for this trip. I've made one friend in particular that might just last a lifetime, no lie, she is incredible and we've both gained so much from each others challenges...so good. I've never felt more relaxed, more free. I love not having a phone. I love exploring. I love experiencing life as the minority. The food is incredible and so pure and fresh. Classes have been very challenging but so good at the same time. They've really taught me to think outside the box and have a passion for what I am learning. The Christian life class I'm taking is a life-changer...I'm not sure if I'll ever be the same.

On fire for life? Check. 

Lovely.

Well it seems to have been awhile since I’ve updated, so here is a brief synopsis of the last four days. Three of the days were consumed with classes, studying, and silence, which were quite enjoyable. My mind has been stretch in many ways this trip already, and I definitely can’t wait to see what else I have to discover.

On of these days, a few of us went out to a large green field and took some time to sit in silence and just be still before God. I sat quietly under a grand tree in the middle of the field, wind brushing with the grass, warmth embracing my soul. The idea of wisdom was on my mind, stirring. Oh, how I desire to have the wisdom of God. The wisdom of God is one of the greatest gifts He has for His people. I felt as if I was pleading for this pleasure, when I realized exactly what I must do. God calls us to not lean on our own understanding. The moment I place my trust in Him and not in myself will be the moment I acquire His divine wisdom. Steps on this path will not be easy, rocks will cause stumbling, holes will cause faltering…but this path will always be worth taking.

Today, we went to this wonderful stretch of land that was more than pleasant to the eye. Fields upon fields, beauty was abounding. This land was what I had always pictured Ireland to look like...green pastures accented with yellow and pink flowers, cows and sheep living in peace, long tunnels formed by draping trees…oh, so brilliant.

This island defines lovely.

When Time Stands Still.

Yesterday we toured the Castle of Carrickferfergus. We explored dungeons. We played dress up with the medieval war clothes and pretended to fiercely attack each other. We learned of the men, women, and children who dwelled in this immense but dirty place.

To conclude our trip we all huddled up in the van to stay warm and dry and ate some “chips” from a dinner across the street. The weather was miserable. We hadn’t seen sunshine in days, and it wasn’t looking like we would anytime soon. As the rain poured down, our leaders asked us whether we would like to go to the Whitehead lighthouse. It would be a three-mile walk, and the weather was still fighting against us. Reluctantly, we ventured on.
Though the walk was by the sea, it was actually warmer outside due to the massive shield that lay at our side—a brilliant cliff that stood as high as you could see. The rain stopped, and jackets were slowly becoming a furnace. Walking alone the coastline, each breath was enriched with vitamins. The pure air with a slight hint of ocean breathe could heal any soul. Only a stone’s throw away was the spot, and then IT happened. Yes, the sun came out. We reached our beautiful lookout and sat in awe while being battered by the sun. This spot was breathtaking. The ocean stole my view for as far as I could see.  

Time stopped.

Indescribable beauty surrounded me. I wish I could have that feeling every moment of my life, feeling as if God was only an arm’s length away. Time was gracious. Creation was flaunting. Air was rich. Life was pure. Unfortunately, we had to leave this magnificent spot, but its brilliance will never be forgotten or taken for granted.

The next day we attended a Catholic church. As it was my first time to attend such a service, I was guilty in a constant curiosity. Incense surrounding me, bells going off, various people walking with hands folded. All so new.
I never thought I could really hear and feel God in such an atmosphere as I have always been a skeptic of all these practices. But then, a heard a song that will ring through my soul forever. A boys choir (ages 8-17) sang behind us to the sounds of the powerful organ. It was as if angels were present. Never in my life have I heard man sound so lovely. I could have listened to these young boys sing forever. Absolutely astounding.
After the service, one of our leaders explained all the symbolism in the church, and I couldn’t have been more impressed by the humility of the people and their practices. They had a respect for Christ and His death that I had never witnessed before. Tradition was used to be truly reverent to the One who gave His life for us. Christ gave His life for us, have you given Him your life in return? He is indescribably, undeniably good. He is so good.

Warmth Within.

Blustery. Cold. Rainy.
All such words could be used to describe what seems like forever on this island. I feel wet constantly and the cold just enhances the coarse feeling. I ask myself how anyone could feel warm in this place.

We were told that the saints were filled with warmth, but how? The saints were warmed by the Spirit within them—the Holy Spirit. Day and night, harsh cold and wet air, every moment, they were warm.

We visited the first church of Ireland’s history, a church began by Saint Patrick himself in the fifth century. Sitting in this old, small chapel constructed by aged, gray stones, I felt warm. The air was desperately cold, but warmth seeped through the hearts of the people and the history poured out through each stone. The winds outside the building sounded like thunder beating the sides of the building without mercy, but upon passing through the doors into this place of great significance, stillness was ever-present. We learned of the life of Saint Patrick, a man whose life is one of true sacrifice and strength. Songs of praise echoed through the chapel, as we sang two beautiful hymns (Be Thou My Vision and Amazing Grace) in admiration of the grace that Christ has given to us by His death on the cross.
We also visited the Inch Abbey, a place for women of faith to live out their lives devoted to Christ. This building remained in ruins, but ruins are nothing shy of magnificent. As I stood in the middle of this once beautiful structure, I couldn’t help but think of the large quantities of people, especially women of faith, who have stood on the same ground. I serve the same God that they committed their lives to. The gap between us is insignificant.
To finish the day we ventured back to the playground in the Rose Garden. In the pouring rain, we again played on all the wonderful equipment the playground had to offer. I love being 5 again. Nothing better.

Today we had the day off. In the morning, my housemates and I relaxed and worked on homework for our upcoming week. We concluded the day with a trip to the city of Belfast where we had a dinner and did a little shopping. I had the tastiest Irish dish—boiled ham and cabbage. Sounds gross at first, but my taste buds were definitely pleased.  Just by looking at the contents, I believe I could concoct such a dish when I get home, so watch out mom and dad! 

Folklore at its Finest.

Yesterday was wonderful. Woke up late, had some tea, had my first day of classes, and spent the evening having fun with the group. The class I attended was on Christian formation. I can tell this class is going to be extremely impactful to my life. We will be doing a deep study on the book The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. I've been reading this book all year with a Bible study, and it's already changed my life. I can't wait to go deeper into it and gain new insights. We completed the night with a competitive Spades tournament in which my partner and I did our best (we are trying to stay positive despite losing...we struggle with our competitive natures). To further encourage our competitive natures, we proceeded to play several rounds of Wii Mario Kart and Wii bowling, and ended the day with watching Beauty and the Geek.

Today was an awe-inspiring day. We spent the day in Armagh, a place full of history and beauty. The first stop we made was at the Navan Fort. Here we stood on top of a drumlin (a natural hill) and gazed across the beautiful countryside of Ireland. Strong winds employed a feeling of being truly on top of the world. As we walked across this gorgeous landscape, our guide spoke of legends and Irish tales that were full of triumph, endurance, and darkness. We learned of this history of the ancient years of Ireland while participating in a role play scenario. Needless to say, this was an entertaining experience. We left this locale and viewed the two Cathedrals, both dedicated to Saint Patrick: St. Patrick's Church of Ireland Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. The St. Patrick's Church of Ireland Cathedral was a charming work of art with history covering every wall and floor tile. Flags from the Great War, statues and busts, ancient pieces of art, memory plaques, family crests, stained glass. Gorgeous. The most beautiful building I have ever seen is definitely the St. Patrick's Cathedral. The details were astonishing. This sacred space alluded to Christ in more ways than I could ever conceive. No words could truly describe this place. God felt so close and alive.

Ah, the Weekend.

I wasn't able to update the other day due to team facials and watching Britain's Got Talent, but now on this beautiful morning I have a wee bit of time.

Saturday, we were taught some street smarts of Belfast by two local sisters. Walking in the cold, pouring ran all day was not the greatest of times, but yet there is just something wonderful about rain. For a moment the rain took a break to relax, and in that time, hood down, I was able to truly take in the smells, sounds, and sights of the town. Noise never seised. The buildings and streets never felt familiar. But the most wonderful was the smell. I love the smell  of fresh rain on the blacktop. Clean, fresh, smooth. It smells like that almost everyday here, one thing I could definitely get use to.
We went to stores, the mall, and the elaborate but aged City Hall. The hustle and bustle of the town was overwhelming at times, because for the first time I was in the minority.

Sunday was a wonderful day. We went to a church that honestly made me feel like I was home. The message and worship were both a familiar experience. How wonderful it was to see that despite where we are in this world, there is still only ONE God. The strangest thing about the service was a guy who spoke on mission teams who were traveling to Africa, Canada, and AMERICA. I never realized that other countries send mission teams to the U.S. It was odd to think that we need God's word spread here just as much as anywhere else.
That afternoon we rode down to the rose gardens yet again, but this time with the intent to explore. We did a little off-roading on those street bikes, but luckily no injuries :) We came upon a playground that was full of wonder and excitement. Children swarmed the place, and I quickly found out why. American playgrounds are leagues behind Ireland's thrilling, magnificent children's utopia. The teeter-totter not only went up and down, but in circles as well...an experience everyone must have. Zip-lines sent children flying, the swings were of something I've never seen. This place was magical. We were tired of waiting to play on all these wonderful creations, when a nice rain welcomed the crazy Americans while shooing off the little Irish children to a dry place. We played in the rain like we were in the South on a warm, wet day with a smile as wide as the ocean blue.
We completed the day by watching our own school's Cathedral Choir perform a concert that could been mistaken as coming from angels. Absolutely breathtaking.

To end this post, I must take the time to brag on my developing Irish gatch. I was mistaken not once, but TWICE as being a local this weekend.
The first time I was in the mall when a women walked up to me and asked for directions to City Hall as she was "not from here." With a huge grin, I informed her with my American accent that I had no idea.
The second time was last night at the concert. A woman about my age asked me where the bathroom was. I told her I had no idea, and she responded with, "Oh sorry, I thought you went to church here."
Yes, I did remember her exact words...it was that exciting :)

History is Alive.

Today was filled with exposure to the culture and history of recent Ireland. We took a trip down to the city of Belfast, but not the part of Belfast most tourists would visit. One of our leaders was raised in the terrorist area of Belfast. This area was divided between the Catholics and the Protestants, with a peace wall built between the two divisions to minimize the attacks on one another. Elaborate murals covered several buildings, each holding a story or remembering a fallen terrorist who posed as heros to their many followers. People walked around carrying baggage of their past, brokenness for their futures, and strength for their present to just survive this war that continues today even though the height of the movement was over thirty years ago.

Walking down these alleys and seeing these murals first hand sent chills down my spine. History has never felt more alive than it did in those moments. We walked by two large churches that have been disregarded as mere pigeon homes and graffiti canvases within the past ten years. Upon this horrid site, our leader asked us to consider Christianity in America today...would our churches someday soon become nothing but empty buildings holding nothing but fading memories?

We remained on this side of town for awhile, soaking in the culture of the Protestant side, namely Shankill Road. Located on this road was a tiny dinner where I had my first fish and chips experience. For a pound of grease and a little cod and taters, not too shabby.

Later that afternoon, a few of us went on another bike ride to a rose garden that holds several world titles for their extravagance. Though the roses are yet to be in bloom, the view was indescribable. Flowing fields were embellished with magnificent flowers, trees, and bushes alike. Life could never be more at peace and rest than in a place like this. Standing in the middle of one of the fields stretched as far as one can see is like being on top of the world with time standing as still as mouse. Rain accompanied by bright sunshine illuminated each flower to perfection. True, beautiful calm in the storm.

An Irish Gatch.

Today was a beautiful day. In the early morning the sun was beaming across the backyard as if to smile at God's wonderful creation. We took a trip south to view some spectacular sceneries and the visit a small, but lively town of Newcastle.

A picnic by the Dundrum Castle began this delightful adventure. Upon exploring this ancient architecture, I discovered that ruins of a structure might actually be more beautiful than its most lively state. History seeped through each brick, and the forestry surrounding only enhanced its magnificence. After venturing away, we spoke with an old Irish man who spoke with an interesting sort of wisdom and elegance. He spoke of the King...aka Elvis Presley...and his fondness of the beauteous Dolly Parton. Also, apparently "American country and western" is a hit over here. Oh, and eighties music.

The next stop was trip to Newcastle. This quick strip of shops and cafes was accompanied by an ocean view to the east side. We gazed across the ocean while standing in the sand with the cold wind dashing by. We continued down the boardwalk and then ventured back on the strip where we drank a pot of tea in a small cafe. As of right now the cups of hot tea count is at 5. I've been working for months now on liking the dirty water {sorry} and I must say I officially now enjoy it.

The last, and most magnificent, stop was at the Tulleymore forest. I could have sat in the grace of these lands forever. The stern trees were embellished with the most beautiful flowers I have ever seen. Streams of trickling water accompanied the paths, and stone structures hid throughout the forestry. No words could fully describe the beauty of this place, and I desperately hope for another opportunity to return.

A little Irish slang.
A gatch is the way someone walks. I'm hoping to develop an Irish form of a gatch before I leave, this American one just isn't as cool over here ;)

Travel Day/First Day Combo.

My travel day and first day were literally a combo. After a mere 18 hours traveling, we landed in Ireland with nightfall somehow slipping through the cracks of time zones and vanishing completely. Days without night are not quite as appealing as when accompanied by this dark visitor. When arriving in the bright early morn on this beautiful island, we were forced to dismiss sleep's temptations in order that the presence of jet-lag might be sent away trembling. In order to keep this exhausted body functioning without "resting my eyes," a little play and adventure were undoubtedly necessary.

Upon arrival, we were treated to some homemade scones and tea. My first real tea party :) Following, we went on a walk down beautiful trails that stroked the edge of a flowing creek. We continued to defeat the enemy of sleep by tossing the football and frisbee too and fro until a new idea struck us. We proceeded to go on a 2 hour bike ride, seeing the town and trails in a rapid, but new light.

It is now 9 o'clock. The sun continues to shine its brightest through our trying curtains. But despite the elements, it is time to finally lay this head to rest :)

Pre-Travel Jitters.

Well TOMORROW I leave the country. Ireland bound and couldn't be more excited!

I'm hoping to find myself and gain all wisdom while away, though I realize my expectations are a little high.
But for real, I hope to learn more about God each day and grow in my relationship with Him (as well as have countless adventures!). This past year I have learned to wholeheartedly put my trust in Him, and needless to say, He has provided above and beyond. Now, it's time to learn more about WHO God is.

Though the flight leaves tomorrow, the sojourn has already begun. We were told to read Faith on the Edge and discuss the challenges we faced while reading. The book's focus is to encourage believers to live a daring life for Christ...to put an undoubted trust in Him...to show His light in you every step in life...to let your heart break for what breaks His...to forgive because He forgave us...to love because He first loved us...to uncomfortably follow Christ everyday.

This is only the beginning of one crazy journey.