Guess Who's Back (Back Again)

HELLLLOOOO EVERYONEE,

(Back again...Meghan's back, tell your friends) 

HOLY COW I'M ACTUALLY HERE!

I'M BACK ON THE BLOG!
If this were a musical, there would be an entire number dedicated to this very moment. However, life is hardly that exciting (or is it just too exciting to need any more excitement--like people running around singing organized songs and dancing to perfectly timed choreography?) so we'll have to make do.


First and foremost: HAPPY NEW YEAR!! 2015 shows promise, I think. Hopefully it's good to us all.


Now, down to business (or pleasure, I suppose?) So I've been gone for....well, shall we just say: for a long long while, yes?

OK, I know, I knoooowww! I left for winter break and left no note, the car was gone, and since I haven't provided any updates (even my facebook is being neglected) but I swear, there is a cover-all really fantastic reason why I've been away: ....I've been really busy.... Yea, that's it. My life got really crazy as soon as I stepped my fuzzy-sock-clad foot back on Irish soil, and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't carve the time out to dedicate to writing a new blog post. 

Plus, I mean, think of it this way: technically I was only supposed to stay one semester, so I wouldn't have kept the blog going come January... but, instead, here I am back in Galway for round 2, and I just have fallen a little behind... a lot behind.... But, it's grand now! I'm back, and I've got loads to tell y'all (well, those of you who want to read a synopsis of what I've been up to.) 

Let's start with a little disclaimer: There is no video at the end of this post. In fact, it may be a while until there will be any videos at the bottom of any posts... 

Well, simply because as I have been busy these past few weeks, I will continue to be busy for many more weeks to come. Much too busy to sit on my computer and edit a video (which is quite the arduous process when using a temperamental Imovie program, I assure you.) 

Have no fear, though! I will try and write up short little posts here and there (on all of the pages), until such a time as I can return to this blog world I created. I know: 

(Replace "city" with blog...or not, either way works for me, really.)

Now, back to this post....What I am going to do is this: I will proceed to write out (as briefly and precisely as possible) all that has happened since I got back to this wonderful city in this magnificent country. I will, of course, try and accentuate certain points with gifs--because, really, what is this blog without the gifs? If you wish to continue reading, please keep going! If not...well, then. Goodbye? But mark my words, I'm gonna have the craic with this...

Let's get started!

ONE: I moved into a new house!

It's cozy, a little chilly, about a 10 minute walk from town/ 25 from campus, and I live there with three other people I really quite adore (no one tell them that, please.) All in all it's a great living situation and I'm glad I got a spot there.

TWO: I'm taking 4 classes again! I was supposed to take 5, but it would have been pointless taking an extra class that has nothing to do with my major or minor and would have added unnecessary work and stress. As it stands, I once again have two psych courses and two non-psych courses--and I'm actually enjoying them a lot more this semester (mainly because the psych courses are more discussion-based, how I like it, and all the material I'm learning is fairly interesting.) 

THREE: I got my results from last semester! Sure, it's not my usual Dean's list GPA, but I managed to get 3 B's and an A, which (for being abroad, travelling, barely focussing on class), I will certainly take. 

FOUR: I'm in a one act!

It goes up in a week, with four showings during NUIG's Theater Week (shameless plug: check out the facebook page!) It's a student-written piece called Head Cut, with a marvelous director and cast of two (me being one)--here is the synopsis in case you're interested: 

FIVE: I am now the events officer on the Dramsoc Committee! Hooray!! 

Sure, I was a bit peer-pressured into it, but hey, I'm enjoying myself and love working with the people I work with! It really is so cool to be a part of it.

Another shameless plug, check out our awesome website: http://dramsoc.nuigalway.ie/

SIX: I was assistant stage manager/props for the show "On Raftery's Hill" (which ended last week--hey, look at that, the poster!)

then I did stagehand on one night of the musical "Cabaret" (on Saturday--hey, look, another poster!) Haven't been able to get the songs out of my head since...

and now I will be stage managing for the upcoming show "Glengarry Glen Ross" (which will show in mid-March--hey, look...oh, it doesn't have a poster yet...) 

SEVEN: I still do Improv with Staged and Confused every Wednesday, and have gotten to see a couple of improv shows my friends have put on as well! It's all great craic with great people. 

EIGHT: I feel like most of what I've said thus far has been about theater stuff...not surprising. Can you tell I've missed doing it? Anyway--no travels to report yet, but my family is coming at the end of March (yay!) and meanwhile I am plotting and scheming to go to many magical places as soon as I can...I've got the travel bug, after all. 

(Soooooonnnn.....)

NINE: It hasn't been all work and no play, I assure you. I've kept up my quota of nights out, that's for sure. The latest ones that pop into my head are three wrap parties, two birthdays, a movie night and a hypnotist, a couple of silent discos, a couple of plays, and many many pubs. Let's just say I have no sleep pattern anymore... my body is in a constant state of revolution and fatigue, and I can't help but think that it's totally worth it. 

TEN: I...I think that's about it, actually. Other than everything I've put, I've just been running, reading, watching occasional netflix (because I need me time)... It's a neat summarization, to be sure, and a lot of details are left out, of course...but it does the trick I think! Any questions? Oh good. 

Well, I think it's about time I wrapped this yoke up! It's been fun, everyone, thanks for sticking it out (if you did, that is), and I apologize again for the lengthy absence...I also apologize for the future absence that is likely to occur, despite my best efforts. Anyway, I've enjoyed recounting everything, and now it is time for me to go forth and do all those other things I need to be doing! 

Hope you enjoyed yourself and this really wordy post, and hope to see you all again soon! 

Sidenote: Happy RAG Week to everyone in Galway/Ireland,

And Also: (for tomorrow):

Stay safe and party on, friends! 

Much love, 

Meghan  

Far and Away

Well everyone, I am home for the holidays--stateside again!

It has been an INCREDIBLE semester--and I absolutely can't wait to get back in January (although, I am glad to be home for now.) 

ISA: 

To all my ISA friends: I will be making a few last videos for all of you that went on this crazy ISA semester-long journey. I still have London, Rome/Florence and Lucerne, and I may perhaps do a thrown-together video of everything we've done this semester--depending on my motivation (I am only human after all.) 

Also, here's a message to all of you (in the form of many many gifs, because...obviously): 

This semester has truly been a HUGE 

And 

So 

And...yup...

It was fantastic getting to know all of you--we had such a great group and such great times, so thanks a million for everything! Have a wonderful next semester, I'll miss you all!!

Keep in touch--goodbye, and goodluck!

Ok, now that that's out of the way...Below I am posting our thank you video to our ISA director, Dermott, who helped us make the most of our semester in Galway. 

Remember, all the videos I have made are available on my youtube, and on their respective blog posts--so you can watch them whenever you like!

Thanks again for everything, everyone--and wishing you the happiest of holidays! I'll see you soon! 

Much Love,

Meghan 

Hello, Ciao, Hallo, Hi

Hello, Ciao, Hallo, Hi Everyone!

Cause, boy, have I missed you! 

If you hadn't gathered, I have been gone for quite some time....and once again, I didn't post anything in that time-between-times because--well, to be honest it was because I was too busy and didn't feel I had anything of consequence to post. 

As you may have also gathered, I don't like to write too many long-winded posts, especially as the bulk of my time on these posts is spent creating the videos and finding gifs (heh....) But this time around I am actually going to write a few paragraphs for you to pour over while having your morning coffee, or afternoon tea, or nightcap...whatever you prefer! 

I am doing this because 1: I have time, and 2: This semester is quickly drawing to a close, and I feel there is a lot left unsaid. So, I guess I'll start talking. 

First: ANNOUNCEMENT! I have been cast in a one act for next semester! YAY! I'm very excited about it, it was a part I really really wanted, and I can't wait to start working on it. Man, how I have missed being in theater.  

Second: I'VE BEEN ABROAD! Not sure why I put that in all caps. But, it is true! In the past few weeks I have visited 3 other countries! First was London, England (with 4 other ISA friends), then for study week (not much studying was done, if I'm being honest) three of us went to Rome, Italy for 5 days, and I took of on my own for the first time and headed to Florence, Italy, and then Lucerne, Switzerland. It has been a fantastic month of travel, and I know I am incredibly lucky to be having all of these experiences while here. Not taking anything for granted, don't you worry. 

I will have full, long, descriptions (and pictures) up on the Adventure is Out There tab soon, I promise, and will make videos for each trip ASAP! 

Third: SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR MY BROTHER! This may seem a bit odd to put on my study abroad blog, but it is just too exciting not to announce: My little brother has been accepted to Flagler College!!! HOORAY

I'm pretty excited. We're gonna have an apartment with the dog and the cats, and I'll be such a ba-- great--great influence on him. Adventures await. Can't wait. Congrats, bro. 

Fourth: EXAMS! That word should never be in all caps. Might cause someone anxiety. Anyway, these two weeks here in December are infact exam weeks at NUIG! I have had one already (the day after I returned from Switzerland, no less) and have two more coming up on the last two days before I leave (boo.) 

For anyone curious about the format of the classes/ exams here, know this: They are completely different than my school in America. And slightly intimidating. They put you in a huge room full of desks and people from various classes (think the exams halls in Harry Potter), with a big table at the front of the room where examiners sit. Then other examiners walk up and down the aisles as you work...the entire time...looking at what you're doing, being scary and stressing you out. They make you leave your belongings outside, and you are not allowed to leave the room or go to the bathroom apart from during certain times during the exam, (and even then you are accompanied.) I'm not a fan to say the least.  

Fifth: CHRISTMAS! The Holidays are coming up, and I am PSYCHED to go home! There's so much Christmas cheer everywhere, and I am ready to be done with school and be merry with friends and family! 

However, I would be a lot less psyched if I weren't coming back next semester...and I am also not psyched that my ISA friends are not coming back... but none of that now--we'll talk of these sad things later. 

Sixth: TIPS! No, this isn't me asking for money (although, tips about life from people are always welcome.) I have a few little tips about travelling, I figured I'd write them down here (at least the ones I can think of right now.) 

Tip 1: Travel. This one is simple--if you have the opportunities, seize them. I can't make it any clearer than that. Money is usually the biggest issue, but if it is not too much of a problem for you--spend on travelling. It is the gift that will give so much back--so explore as much and as often and as far as you can, whenever you can. 

Tip 2: It's not always easy. Travelling can be frustrating at times and it can be very daunting and scary as well. People can be mean, weather can be bad, things can be expensive and hard to find, internet may be impossible to find...But don't let a few bad moments put you off of a place or off of travelling.

Tip 3: Try and learn some of the language. This applies to all places you visit--even if everyone seems to speak English (or whatever your native tongue may be.) I learned my lesson on this. I knew quite a few words in Italian and felt comfortable using them--which made Italy easier to enjoy, especially when I was by myself. However, in Switzerland, there were a lot of places without translations for things, and I don't have a lick of German (or a translator app that works without internet)--it made me more self-conscious when speaking to people, and made my interactions more difficult and less enjoyable over all (even when everyone could speak English.) Even just learning a few basic phrases (like hello/ good morning/ evening, yes, thank you, please, no, you're welcome, how are you, I don't speak__ very well, sorry, good, etc.) will make things go smoother, I think (plus it's fun to know things in multiple languages.)  

Tip 4: Do your research. Get in the habit of researching places before visiting them. Get your maps, know your attractions, know what's around you and just be aware of where you are. Knowing some history is a big plus, and makes the things you see seem a lot more interesting.

Tip 5: Planning is good, but not always needed. While I am a very laid back person, I am also typically a planner--I like to have an idea of what I'm doing and when, so I can fit it all in. But sometimes, when travelling, you just have to go with the flow. Accept that you may not be able to see every single thing on the list, or that the weather may not cooperate, or that other people in your group may want to do something different, etc. And that's ok! It's not the end of the world if everything doesn't fit the plan. You are still in a new, exciting place, and it will be great regardless of whether you follow the perfect plan or not.   

Tip 6: Stop complaining. I think most of us are guilty of complaining about things a bit, but when you are travelling, do yourself--and any travelling companions with you--a favor, and try and forgo the bellyaching as much as possible. Just enjoy what you've got, where you are, let out a curse from time to time, and move on--and just try and find the silver linings to the rough stuff. Mistakes will likely be made, some bad stuff may ensue, but you just gotta let it go and learn to laugh it off and keep on keepin on. And remember how luck you are to get to travel in the first place.

Tip 7: Remember that you are not in your home country. So don't expect everything to be the same. It won't be, I assure you. The people will be different, the food will be different, the style, the transportation, the culture, so many things will likely be very different. That's part of travelling: You adjust. *The winds blows differently on different oceans--and it is up to you to adjust your sails, or end up on the rocks.  

Tip 8: Own it, or not--you are where you're from. People in that country may not like your country, and may have many preconceived ideas on what you are all like, and may treat you different because of that. Is it cool? No. Will they do it anyway? Absolutely. Do you change your identity and lie about where you're from, fake an accent, maybe throw on some shades and a mustache so they might like you better? That's completely up to you. 

I ran a little experiment when I was on my own (because, why not?) In each of my interactions with strangers, I told some people I was from America, and some that I was from Ireland (yea, I put on a bit of an accent, just for the craic.) The reactions I got from telling people I was Irish were typically a lot more positive than when I said I was American. This won't be true everywhere, but it was interesting to observe that in the short time I had to test it out. And it's just something to keep in mind when you're travelling. You can own where you're from--and try and prove that not everyone is the same there, or you can try out a new identity; it's entirely up to you. That's the thing about going to a new place where no one knows you: you can create a whole new self.

Tip 9: Be cautious, follow your gut. I'm sure many of you have seen the movie Taken--my mother and a few friends told me to watch it another few times before I ventured out on my own. Hopefully nothing that extreme ever happens, and--I think--if you are careful and aware and don't do anything stupid like give your hotel key to a stranger, or announce to the world that you are by yourself, you should be alright on that front. However, there are other, less extreme things to watch for. Remember a few things: Don't indulge pushy vendors or any people on the street. If they make you uncomfortable, there's probably something to that feeling. Follow your instincts, and walk away. If people are crowding you--trying to get you to sign something, or watch a performance, or buy something, keep your bag right in front of you, hands on it. Pickpockets are common in many places--and they have many distraction tactics to try and get to your belongings easier. Don't fall for anything, stay vigilant at all times. 

Tip 10: Have fun! I know it may sound cheesy, and it's been said a thousand times in a thousand ways, but sometimes it really is the key. Remember that travelling is about the experience as a whole--the journey, the destination--everything. Learning new things, seeing amazing sights, eating good food, meeting new people, speaking new languages, trying new transportations systems: it's all very exciting, and can be so incredible if you let it be! Just remember to be awesome, stay positive, keep calm, and allow yourself to enjoy every little moment.

That's all the tips I have for now--I know there's a lot more to be had, but I'll just have to think em up later! Hope you enjoyed this little session! Moving on now...

Seventh (and last): MORE POSTS! I will be posting at least three more times in the next few days (exams, what exams?), because this is nearing the end of the semester and of my ISA program, so I'm gonna stuff as much in as I can. As I mentioned, I've a lot to say, and--more importantly--many many video clips to put together! Stay tuned this weekend, kids. It's gonna be good (I hope). 

And that brings us to the conclusion of this post! Sorry, no videos yet! But there will hopefully be one tomorrow...and the next day....and perhaps the next day... who knows! It's all quite exciting. Hope to see you all then! 

Slán go foill, 

Meghan

Last Excursion Video and Some Exciting News

Hello, hello, hello everyone!

Do I seem happier than usual? Well, perhaps that is because I am, as I have recently gotten some VERY exciting news!

Want to know what it was?? (That was rhetorical, of course you do.)

As much as I would like to prolong the suspense, let the drums roll and--oh, sod it:

I am proud to announce that...

I AM OFFICIALLY STAYING IN IRELAND ANOTHER SEMESTER!

Yes, all of the above gifs explain how completely overjoyed I am! Thanks so much to everyone for all the advice and support, I am extremely excited and quite happy with my decision. Can't wait to extend this incredible adventure and keep the good times rollin!


Alright, now that that is over with--let's move on to the blog post of the week (Oh, did I miss a week again..? Awkward...) I do have another video for y'all this week! If you want, you can go ahead and skip on down to the bottom where the video and its description await you. If, however, you are also interested in just what I've generally been up to, keep on reading (there's not much to read this time, really.)

So, this past week (or so) has been...well, a bit less exciting than the two weeks previous. However, I have not been idle. I went to a wonderful Dramsoc play (Bouncers, with its sister play Shakers on this week), did some Improv, hung out with some people, had a relaxing weekend in Galway--enjoying the Farmer's market and a delicious breakfast at Griffin's, and spending a lot of time in Apartment 99 cooking, listening to Christmas music, and doing assignments with my ISA friends (and our lovely adoptive family, who I am sitting with as I write this--shoutout to James and Jenny. Yup, I actually did it. You're welcome.) I also booked tickets to London for a long weekend trip (including tickets to see Phantom of the Opera--SQUEEE), and a one-way ticket to Rome for study week! All very exciting.

So, that's been my life recently--nicely summed up, I think!

Now, on to what you're likely here for: Video number 6! 

This video is focused around our over-night, last, excursion to Cork and Blarney Castle. It was a great last ISA trip, and the weather even cleared up for us on Sunday! For more info on the trip--check out my Adventure is Out There Tab.

Otherwise, the video is just below! It is set to the music "Sky Full of Stars" (Coldplay) done by the group Lurgan in Irish Gaelic (Gaeilge). They are the same group that performed the song I used in my second video--and if you want to check them out there is a link to their pages on that post (post number 3).

Sidenote: Just because our ISA excursions are ending does NOT mean the videos will end just yet--there's still much to be done and much fun to be had in our last month here (well, last month before Christmas break), so keep a look out!

As always, thank you so much for watching and for your feedback--I really enjoy doing these and am so glad you are enjoying them as well!

Another, completely unrelated, sidenote: HAPPY VETERANS DAY. Thanks to all who have served, are serving, or plan on serving in the defense of their countries. Your sacrifices deserve the greatest honors and praise--so thank you for all you do.

Thanks a million everyone!

Here it is:





Grá i bhfad,
Meghan

I'M BACK

Well hello everyone!

Before anything, let me just say:

I know it has been an obnoxiously long time...with no note, or video, or anything, and I am so sorry!

Alright, alright, Thor. Listen, I know It's been a while, but I'm back now, and with very good reasons behind my extended absence (and a video as well!)

So, that good reason I have for being gone: I HAVE BEEN SO BUSY. It's been truly an unbelievable few weeks full of a lot of fantastic stuff that I cannot even begin to scratch the surface on here. But I will try--just for you!

So, as I mentioned in my last post--a couple of weeks ago was the week the play that I was in ("Time Stands Still") went up! Plus, we went to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren on the Saturday before production week...So all that had me quite busy, and I enjoyed many (very fun) late nights out after each show. They all went wonderfully by the way, and I adore everyone that worked on it and came to see it. I had a fantastic overall experience and am so glad I could be a part of it while here!

I was going to work on a video then, buuut the next week (last week) was Halloween week! So, of course, I was doing many things (partying. I was partying. And I went to the Macnas parade. That's really it.) --Sidenote: I know I've probably said it before, but I really do love the people here and always have a fantastic time going out and just enjoying their company in whatever setting.--  

So then I had the video done earlier but no time to complete a blog post before we went on our Excursion to Cork this weekend, and I figured I wanted to give it my all as opposed to doing it at 4 in the morning on Halloween...so here we are! Sunday night--2 AM--with a complete post (hooray!)

Anyway! Regardless of my terribly busy schedule, I did do this video and post to the best of my ability, and hope you enjoy it! It is missing stuff from Halloween (mostly because I didn't take many videos--and finished the editing process before actual Halloween night) but it includes our excursion to the Cliffs and the Burren, the Macnas parade, and (as always) other fun in between!

This one is set to the song "Beautiful Day" by (you know it) the flawless Irish band (can you tell they are my favorite?) U2.

I hope you all enjoy, and thank you so much for putting up with my lateness and for watching and reading! I will see you again soon, I promise!





Slán go fóill,
Meghan

New Video!

Hello everyone!

I'm back after a short (one week) hiatus!

Oh, thanks Frank, good to be back (even though I never actually left...nor do I ever intend to...) Anyway, gonna keep it short and sweet this time--seeing as it is late and I have class in the morning!

Before I put the video on, though, I want to use this space to quickly and shamelessly plug the play I'm in that is on NEXT WEEK! Here's the poster:

It's a fantastic piece that I am so proud to be a part of, and it has been such a wonderful whirlwind experience to have while here. If you are around this area--please come see and support it! Thanks!

Now that we're through with that, let's get to the video, shall we? 

So, this week's video covers two weekend trips (and the shenanigans that took place between them) to Killarney and the Aran Islands! It was really gorgeous in both places, and I am kicking myself for not getting enough good videos (at least in my eyes) but here is the completed works and hopefully you enjoy it! 

It is set to the song "Hail Rain or Sunshine" by The Script, as I'm sticking to Irish artists (and it did in fact hail last week, rain on us on both trips, and get very sunny on both trips!) Always a good time. 

Anyway, enjoy, and thanks so so much for watching! You're the BEST!

Grá i bhfad (Much Love),

Meghan