Them Changes

It has been almost 2 months since my arrival here in Dublin (already?). When thinking back to when I arrived, I notice some changes for me personally and how I see the city itself. Let's break it down:

Language
When I first arrived, it was a bit of a challenge of understanding a person with an Irish accent. I could still understand them, but I would have to fill in gaps on what I thought they said. In recent weeks, I have become more accustom to the accent and can understand it no problem. I never thought that I would essentially have to learn a "new" language here in an English speaking nation. Also, some of the terminology takes a little getting used to. One of the big terms is "grand" which is used in a situation where Americans would say "great" (ex. "Grand idea" as opposed to "Great idea").

Getting Around
The whole driving on the other side of the road threw me off for about 2 weeks, especially if I am crossing the street. I went to London twice when I was younger, so I, in getting here, the concept of driving on the other side of the road was not a totally new idea to me. When I was on the Northern Ireland trip, I thought that I have gotten so used to the driving on the left side of the road that it will actually take a bit of getting used to when I get back, but I'm sure the adjustment period will not be as long as getting here. Having such an extensive bus and rail system is something that I really enjoy. When I was young, I loved trains (Thomas the Tank Engine was one of my favorite shows at the time). The concept of taking the train to where I need to go is great (or should I say grand?).

Money
I haven't really missed the dollar too much, but I could do without a bad exchange rate. It just makes things a bit more expensive in an already expensive city. Things here might be the about the same on the price tag, but then factor in the exchange rate and it just makes my wallet want to cry. When we were in Northern Ireland, I went out to a pub. Drinks were £2.50 (They use pounds, not Euro). You would be hard pressed to find a beer here in Dublin for €3. I have really become a fan of store brand instead of name brand items. When the store brand is significantly less expensive, it's hard to pass up. Also, I have noticed that the shelf where the sale items are is the first shelf I look at. I love the fact that 1 Euro and 2 Euro coins are popular. America has tried the concept of dollar coins a bunch of times, but each has failed. I would love if it did work.

Dublin and Ireland has really started to feel like home to me. When my dad was here, I noticed how much about the city I had learned. Mainly it was navigation, where stores are, and being able to talk about Dublin landmarks. I don't know if I will be ready to leave at the end of the semester or not, but I can tell that I will really miss Dublin when I am gone.

With Peace and Love,
Scott

"We are all born mad. Some remain so." -Samual Beckett