Some might have noticed that I have been a bit scarce around these parts lately, but it's not because I don't care!  I have been planning a trip to Ireland for close to a year now, and the countdown has begun! 

In 10 days, my friend and I will be on a plane en route to the Emerald Isle.  This was our 30th Birthday prensent to ourselves.  Guys.....for a girl, 30 is a BAD year.  So, we decided to drown our sorrows in Pints of Guiness and the finest Irish Wiskey a euro can buy. The sounds of traditional music and the sites of history and beauty will be a nice distraction from the realization that we aren't in our 20's anymore.

Here is where I throw in some sports to make this relevant.  This is the time of year where Ireland is bustling with festivals, horse races and sporting events.  We are missing horse races by days in a few locations, but we are going to catch some Irish football.  This is a combo of Rugby and Soccer.  Talk about  brutal..... I can't wait!!!  Europeans love their sports, so we made an effort to see an event in a stadium so that we can feel the excitement. 

I will also be driving. According to other travelers, this is a sport all on it's own.  I have been told to expect to lose a mirror, and at least a hub cap.  I am going to take them all off before I leave the airport!!!  Only one in six people have a drivers license, so it will be a combat situation.  I will be on the opposite side of the road and on the opposite side of the car.  Two strikes against me already.  I also have this "Big Ben, Parliament" scenario running through my head.  However, I took a tutorial on roundabouts that could prove effective.

So wish me luck.  I will pop in from time to time, but I need to focus on final planning.  Ahhh I can't wait.  14 days of no work and all play!