It's official. This is my last week in Ireland. I'll be flying home to the States on December 14th. Yesterday was my last morning at the weekly Parents & Toddlers group. I told everyone that it was my last time. I received many sincere hugs and wonderful words from those ladies. One girl, Sonia, said she was going to really miss me. I think we have talked only 3 or 4 times, but apparently I made enough of an impact on her. That was amazing to me, actually. A couple of the women thought that I had decided to move to Ireland so they were genuinely surprised to hear that I am leaving.
Leaving is a mixed bag of emotions. On one hand, I am ready to go home, see my family, start decorating for Christmas and begin the next steps in my life. On the other, I am really sad to leave this country. I've made some great connections with several people and it will be hard to let them go now. But, I can and will pray for them from now on. God has the big picture in mind and He will continue whatever work He has begun.
Also, I just love Ireland. Killarney in particular. I've really begun to feel completely comfortable and familiar with this little town and it would be easy to make it home. But I have some inkling of what God is calling me to next and I think it at least begins back in the USA.
So, I say to Ireland and my Irish friends, thank you for the warm welcome, the millions of cups of tea, crackling fires, good conversations, beautiful views, hilarious sayings, a full season of The X-Factor (which I'm all for Olly Murs this weekend! Go Olly!!) and the countless other wonderful experiences.
I hope that I brought a little something to the table as well. It has been an incredible pleasure to be a part of New Life Church for the last 3 months. I have so enjoyed leading worship every other week and on Wednesday nights. Our times of worship, teaching and prayer have been encouraging. I know the Lord has great things in store for His Kingdom in Killarney.
A famous Irish saying is Cead Mile Failte. It means "One Hundred Thousand Welcomes". It's true, that is exactly how it feels here.
Love,
Katy
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Happily Ever After
I have to admit, I have never really been in love before. I have been in very, very serious "like" and I would have said that I loved a person or two, but "in love"....nope, not yet.
However, I could guess what it could feel like. I have a pretty good imagination.
So, it doesn't seem like a stretch to say that being in Ireland for this 3 month period is a bit like falling in love and getting married.
1) The Meeting: The first time I came here (14 years ago), it was as if Ireland and I shook hands, had a couple of heart-to-heart talks and considered our feelings for each other as being chock full of potential. Then, as we parted ways, a few tears were shed and a few promises were spoken to reunite one day.
2) The Commitment: Over a decade later, I bought that ticket, boarded that plane and crossed that big, blue ocean. Once my feet were on Irish soil, I knew it was a fantastic decision to return, one that I would never, ever regret.
3) The Honeymoon: The beauty, the mystery....too many sights, sounds, tastes, textures to all take in. I was surrounded by so much and wanted to see it all. What a gorgeous place! I am BLESSED beyond words. Thank you Lord!!! Wow! But, my head was also in a fog from running around and falling into bed each night with sheer exhaustion.
4) The Reality: It can be a bit awkward to move your stuff into an unfamiliar house and get used to being around people that you don't know very well. I wanted to get along and not offend anyone, managing that precarious balance of "just enough interaction". My feet hurt from walking too much, I started to miss some of the things I used to have back home. I wondered if I'd over-romanticized my memories and dreams of Ireland. I questioned my commitment.
5) The Glory: Then, suddenly, I felt myself settle into this completely comfortable state of mind that is almost blissful. I've begun to get to really know this town, where my favorite shops and cafes are. I know where the post office is and the bank. I can even explore with no fear of getting lost and I could even give directions to others in need of guidance (within reason, of course!). The real glory is in a deeper sense of familiarity, not in the initial honeymoon phase.
I could see the allure of moving here and setting down roots. Who knows? Maybe one day. I don't know if I feel called to that at this point, but the possibility is there.
I can also say that it seems to me that Killarney is a place where God is at work, in quiet ways. It's not a boisterous place, spiritually speaking, but He has not forgotten this southwestern county. He is here, alive and active and wants to do great things for the Kingdom.
Coincidentally, Kerry County is nicknamed "The Kingdom". I think it has great potential in God's plans for being a blessing to all of the Republic of Ireland. At least, I think so. But, I'm a bit partial. After all, I've fallen in love.
Love,
Katy
However, I could guess what it could feel like. I have a pretty good imagination.
So, it doesn't seem like a stretch to say that being in Ireland for this 3 month period is a bit like falling in love and getting married.
1) The Meeting: The first time I came here (14 years ago), it was as if Ireland and I shook hands, had a couple of heart-to-heart talks and considered our feelings for each other as being chock full of potential. Then, as we parted ways, a few tears were shed and a few promises were spoken to reunite one day.
2) The Commitment: Over a decade later, I bought that ticket, boarded that plane and crossed that big, blue ocean. Once my feet were on Irish soil, I knew it was a fantastic decision to return, one that I would never, ever regret.
3) The Honeymoon: The beauty, the mystery....too many sights, sounds, tastes, textures to all take in. I was surrounded by so much and wanted to see it all. What a gorgeous place! I am BLESSED beyond words. Thank you Lord!!! Wow! But, my head was also in a fog from running around and falling into bed each night with sheer exhaustion.
4) The Reality: It can be a bit awkward to move your stuff into an unfamiliar house and get used to being around people that you don't know very well. I wanted to get along and not offend anyone, managing that precarious balance of "just enough interaction". My feet hurt from walking too much, I started to miss some of the things I used to have back home. I wondered if I'd over-romanticized my memories and dreams of Ireland. I questioned my commitment.
5) The Glory: Then, suddenly, I felt myself settle into this completely comfortable state of mind that is almost blissful. I've begun to get to really know this town, where my favorite shops and cafes are. I know where the post office is and the bank. I can even explore with no fear of getting lost and I could even give directions to others in need of guidance (within reason, of course!). The real glory is in a deeper sense of familiarity, not in the initial honeymoon phase.
I could see the allure of moving here and setting down roots. Who knows? Maybe one day. I don't know if I feel called to that at this point, but the possibility is there.
I can also say that it seems to me that Killarney is a place where God is at work, in quiet ways. It's not a boisterous place, spiritually speaking, but He has not forgotten this southwestern county. He is here, alive and active and wants to do great things for the Kingdom.
Coincidentally, Kerry County is nicknamed "The Kingdom". I think it has great potential in God's plans for being a blessing to all of the Republic of Ireland. At least, I think so. But, I'm a bit partial. After all, I've fallen in love.
Love,
Katy
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Rain, rain, rain and a little more rain....
The first time I visited Ireland (14 years ago), the weather was unusually gorgeous for most of the thirteen days. As I recall, we had only one or two days of slight rain. People told us that we had brought the gorgeous, sunny skies with us from America.
As I write this, I am looking out the office window at the Dreher's house to a very foreboding sky of multi-hued grays. The wind is whipping through the neighbor's tree across the street. A few puddles in the driveway are rippling against push of the wind as well. It is currently not raining, but give it a minute.
Now, I actually love rain. I find it extremely cozy and kind of inspiring, for some reason. However, I've learned something about myself. I love rain only when I have a car that I can use to get me places in spite of it. Even the greatest rain-enthusiast can become downtrodden when trapped inside all day, nearly every day.
I am choosing to enjoy it though. Mostly, because this is the authentic Irish experience I was hoping for and also because I know that I'm headed for bitter temperatures and endless snow in Wisconsin upon my return.
Off to enjoy watching the rain....took too long to post this blog and now it's started up again. Ah, Ireland. :)
Love,
Katy
When I first arrived, and for pretty much the first 30 days I was here, it was beautiful again. The locals were absolutely loving it. This summer has been one of the worst in recorded history, as far as rainfall. They had a miserable June, July and most of August. So, to have September and the beginning of October bring some sunshine was an extremely appreciated blessing.
About mid-October though, I am finally getting to experience the true Ireland that we have all heard about. The kind where you go to sleep with the pleasant sound of raindrops hitting the windows and rooftop. The kind where you wake up to a soft pouring of rain. The kind where you look out the window and see the sun peek through the clouds for 3 minutes and then it starts raining again. The kind where you get an entire morning of sunshine, so you walk into town feeling upbeat and dillusionally hopeful that it will last all day and then, as you begin the journey home a couple of hours later, you quickly learn that your fabulous, hooded, brown TJ Maxx coat is only water resistant...not water proof.As I write this, I am looking out the office window at the Dreher's house to a very foreboding sky of multi-hued grays. The wind is whipping through the neighbor's tree across the street. A few puddles in the driveway are rippling against push of the wind as well. It is currently not raining, but give it a minute.
Now, I actually love rain. I find it extremely cozy and kind of inspiring, for some reason. However, I've learned something about myself. I love rain only when I have a car that I can use to get me places in spite of it. Even the greatest rain-enthusiast can become downtrodden when trapped inside all day, nearly every day.
I am choosing to enjoy it though. Mostly, because this is the authentic Irish experience I was hoping for and also because I know that I'm headed for bitter temperatures and endless snow in Wisconsin upon my return.
Off to enjoy watching the rain....took too long to post this blog and now it's started up again. Ah, Ireland. :)
Love,
Katy
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Every Tuesday morning
Christine hosts a weekly Parents & Toddlers group at the Methodist church in town. Caroline helps her as well. So, since I've been here, I've also been helping out. Typically, this is how it goes:
- Mothers (and sometimes fathers) and their little one(s) slowly start filtering in around 10:00AM. We have a big open room with chairs around the perimeter and toys galore in the middle.
- The little tykes hang out and play for about an hour. SO PRECIOUS!!!
- At approx 11:00AM, we have coffee/tea/snack time. Christine and Caroline provide healthy snacks for the kids and biscuits (cookies) for the adults.
- The parents and children sit together, eating and socializing for about a half an hour.
- At 11:30ish, the guests bring all the toys into the storage room and go back into the main meeting room for a sing along time.
- Caroline leads the group in universally known childrens songs - acapella. The Wheels on the Bus....etc.
- The fun ends around 12:00PM. Caroline, Christine and I wash up all the dishes and reorganize the toys and put them away in a closet.
The job I've enjoyed taking on is checking each parent into our log book as they arrive. This has given me a chance to talk to every person and (slowly) memorize their names to their faces. Today, I remembered nearly every one!! I couldn't believe it.....and being that there were 31 adults present, that wasn't too bad if I say so myself. They all laugh incredulously when I greet them by their names from memory. It's fun.
I decided to stay in town today after the group and hang out at the Killarney Outlet Centre. The centre has free wi-fi, so I grabbed a little lunch and I figured I'd take the opportunity to sit and write a new blog.
The great thing was that the woman in line ahead of me to buy a sandwich was one of the new moms today! Her name is Noreen and she was invited by her friend, a regular attendee named Shirley. They were eating together with their adorable kiddos at the same cafe I chose. I said hi to Noreen and she couldn't believe I remembered her name too (thank you, Lord) and Shirley waved to me from across the courtyard.
Anyway, I thought it was fun to run into them today outside of the group. I'm hoping that I can make enough of a connection with some of those women and see what God will do. At the minimum (which is major in a spiritual sense), I can just take this opportunity to pray for them and ask that God seriously blesses their lives and shows them just how much He loves them.
Love, Katy
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
What about Jesus?
I realized today that I hadn't mentioned much about what I'm doing here in Ireland, except for the brief mention of "a girl following Jesus to Ireland" in my blog title.
First...a little history lesson for anyone who is unaware of the basics about "faith" in Ireland. The island we all refer to as "Ireland" is split into two parts. The larger part is the Republic of Ireland and is not a part of the United Kingdom. Northern Ireland is the north east section of the island and is a part of the UK.
The Republic of Ireland is mostly Catholic, whereas Northern Ireland is the epicenter of the Protestant vs. Catholic discord. Typically, the Catholics there wish to see Ireland become a unified country again and the Protestants consider themselves British and are happy to be a part of the UK.
Of course, this explanation is an oversimplification of the issues and, as with most controversy, I am certain there are many sides to the argument.
Being in the Republic as a "Protestant" is not always the easiest road to travel. This is the fundamental reason why I don't mention that word. Personally, I have never associated my belief / love / commitment to Jesus with that term anyway, so this is not a problem for me. Also, I didn't come here to try to get people to stop being Catholic. There are plenty of Catholics who genuinely love the Lord and are serving Him faithfully.
My purpose in being here is simple. I recognize that everywhere, even in a "religious" place like Ireland, every person needs to know these truths:
1) God loves us immensely and His desire is not to punish / condemn / hurt us.
2) Good works are important, but God is not weighing our good works against our sins to see if we measure up and deserve His salvation. Because, let's be honest, we know and He knows that none of us will never be able to measure up.
3) So, instead, Jesus laid His life down in our place to balance out an otherwise unbalanceable scale.
4) Submitting our lives to Jesus is completely worth it. He is the most faithful and powerful friend we could ever find in this life.
What is true about Ireland and the Irish is true about pretty much every other country on the planet. People respond to relationship-based truth. That is why I chose to come here for 3 months, instead of 3 weeks. I have never been a fan of walking up and down the street, handing out a booklet on "how to get saved". Not that God hasn't used those things as conversation starters from time to time, but it's not my personality to do things that way. Jesus stepped into people's lives and struck a personal chord with them. Yes, He preached to thousands at times and did miraculous things as well, but mostly he invested in people. He had dinner with them, sat by a well and talked, cuddled a few kiddos, healed people....loved people. I love that about Him. He had the perfect balance of doing these amazing, huge things and also touching people's lives in very personal, practical ways.
While I'm here, I am blessed to not only help with church-related stuff (worship on Sundays, prayer/worship on Wednesdays), but I'm also helping with a n0t-overtly-evangelistic ministry to Parents & Toddlers on Tuesday mornings...a great place to connect to people.
Also, I love that I can just be myself and talk about life with the Lord with my hostesses. God has already done some cool stuff within those friendships. AND I have the freedom and time to walk into town whenever I want, praying and looking for a chance to meet people and just get to know them....and see what God will do!
In reality, now that I'm here, I see that 3 months is hardly any time at all. This is a place that takes a serious investment and so I hope that God will use me in whatever way He sees fit while I'm here, for this short time.
Al and Christine Dreher (the pastors I'm working with here) are truly invested. They've been in Ireland for about 15 years now and they're in it to win it. It can be discouraging at times to follow the Lord into a place that is tough, but they have been faithful to that calling and I am praying that God blesses them more than they could imagine.
So, pray for me while I'm here, but mostly, please pray for the Drehers. They are the committed and called believers that the Lord has planted in Killarney and they desire to see the Lord magnified on this island and help so many people discover the abundant life that comes from following Jesus!
Love,
Katy
First...a little history lesson for anyone who is unaware of the basics about "faith" in Ireland. The island we all refer to as "Ireland" is split into two parts. The larger part is the Republic of Ireland and is not a part of the United Kingdom. Northern Ireland is the north east section of the island and is a part of the UK.
The Republic of Ireland is mostly Catholic, whereas Northern Ireland is the epicenter of the Protestant vs. Catholic discord. Typically, the Catholics there wish to see Ireland become a unified country again and the Protestants consider themselves British and are happy to be a part of the UK.
Of course, this explanation is an oversimplification of the issues and, as with most controversy, I am certain there are many sides to the argument.
Being in the Republic as a "Protestant" is not always the easiest road to travel. This is the fundamental reason why I don't mention that word. Personally, I have never associated my belief / love / commitment to Jesus with that term anyway, so this is not a problem for me. Also, I didn't come here to try to get people to stop being Catholic. There are plenty of Catholics who genuinely love the Lord and are serving Him faithfully.
My purpose in being here is simple. I recognize that everywhere, even in a "religious" place like Ireland, every person needs to know these truths:
1) God loves us immensely and His desire is not to punish / condemn / hurt us.
2) Good works are important, but God is not weighing our good works against our sins to see if we measure up and deserve His salvation. Because, let's be honest, we know and He knows that none of us will never be able to measure up.
3) So, instead, Jesus laid His life down in our place to balance out an otherwise unbalanceable scale.
4) Submitting our lives to Jesus is completely worth it. He is the most faithful and powerful friend we could ever find in this life.
What is true about Ireland and the Irish is true about pretty much every other country on the planet. People respond to relationship-based truth. That is why I chose to come here for 3 months, instead of 3 weeks. I have never been a fan of walking up and down the street, handing out a booklet on "how to get saved". Not that God hasn't used those things as conversation starters from time to time, but it's not my personality to do things that way. Jesus stepped into people's lives and struck a personal chord with them. Yes, He preached to thousands at times and did miraculous things as well, but mostly he invested in people. He had dinner with them, sat by a well and talked, cuddled a few kiddos, healed people....loved people. I love that about Him. He had the perfect balance of doing these amazing, huge things and also touching people's lives in very personal, practical ways.
While I'm here, I am blessed to not only help with church-related stuff (worship on Sundays, prayer/worship on Wednesdays), but I'm also helping with a n0t-overtly-evangelistic ministry to Parents & Toddlers on Tuesday mornings...a great place to connect to people.
Also, I love that I can just be myself and talk about life with the Lord with my hostesses. God has already done some cool stuff within those friendships. AND I have the freedom and time to walk into town whenever I want, praying and looking for a chance to meet people and just get to know them....and see what God will do!
In reality, now that I'm here, I see that 3 months is hardly any time at all. This is a place that takes a serious investment and so I hope that God will use me in whatever way He sees fit while I'm here, for this short time.
Al and Christine Dreher (the pastors I'm working with here) are truly invested. They've been in Ireland for about 15 years now and they're in it to win it. It can be discouraging at times to follow the Lord into a place that is tough, but they have been faithful to that calling and I am praying that God blesses them more than they could imagine.
So, pray for me while I'm here, but mostly, please pray for the Drehers. They are the committed and called believers that the Lord has planted in Killarney and they desire to see the Lord magnified on this island and help so many people discover the abundant life that comes from following Jesus!
Love,
Katy
Monday, October 5, 2009
Finally, I have some pictures!
Well, I finally have some pictures to share so you can stop holding your breath! Hopefully I'll get the chance to take more scenic shots, but for now....enjoy!
I can't tell you what a pain in the butt it is to try to upload these darn things to this blog!! If I'm able to have better success with my Facebook account, I might add more photos there. Sorry if you don't have FB! :)
Love,
Katy
My Irish Homestead
I am staying in a house on Flesk Grove. They call this little neighborhood an "estate". It seems like a friendly, safe place and there are a bunch of kids that play together in a nearby "green".
Donkey
He's a quiet fella...except that one time I heard him braying loudly at the crack of dawn. This is on Ballycasheen Road, which is the first right I take out of Flesk Grove to get downtown.
Flesk Grove to Ballycasheen to Rookery Road to Countess Road and on into the heart of Killarney.
Town Centre
As the picture shows, take a left to get into the town center of Cill Airne (Killarney to you English-speakers). There are many roads that make up the downtown, but this is the main one.
The Cineplex
My new fav movie theater. :) Tickets are very expensive though. E8.50, which is about $12.50!!
Proof that I'm Really Here
I wish my camera was better. Those mountains in the background are amazing.
This is a lovely country!
I can't tell you what a pain in the butt it is to try to upload these darn things to this blog!! If I'm able to have better success with my Facebook account, I might add more photos there. Sorry if you don't have FB! :)
Love,
Katy
My Irish Homestead
I am staying in a house on Flesk Grove. They call this little neighborhood an "estate". It seems like a friendly, safe place and there are a bunch of kids that play together in a nearby "green".
Donkey
He's a quiet fella...except that one time I heard him braying loudly at the crack of dawn. This is on Ballycasheen Road, which is the first right I take out of Flesk Grove to get downtown.
Flesk Grove to Ballycasheen to Rookery Road to Countess Road and on into the heart of Killarney.
Town Centre
As the picture shows, take a left to get into the town center of Cill Airne (Killarney to you English-speakers). There are many roads that make up the downtown, but this is the main one.
The Cineplex
My new fav movie theater. :) Tickets are very expensive though. E8.50, which is about $12.50!!
Proof that I'm Really Here
I wish my camera was better. Those mountains in the background are amazing.
This is a lovely country!
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Feeling Irish like.....
We had lunch at McDonald's after church today. I feel compelled to mention that McDonald's is a rather recent addition to the city of Killarney (well, at least it wasn't here 14 years ago when I first came here). There was a part of me that hoped beyond hope that Mickey D's wouldn't make it to this corner of the world, but who was I kidding? It was just a matter of time. Their menu is limited, but tastes just the same. Well, except for the blessedly delicious Coke. Don't get me started on the Coca-Cola here!!!! Y-U-M!!!!
My meal today: The Big Tasty with bacon. Holy COW - literally - it was a HUGE hamburger. I was only able to eat half of it. I felt like the entire restaurant was staring at me with looks of disapproval and/or amazement. I'm now pretty sure the only people who order that meal are construction workers or some other hard labor types. I started to wonder if I was standing out more than ever as an American in that scenario....just like an American to order the oversized hamburger! Haha....oh well. Lesson learned.
Later on today, to work off some of those undoubtedly numerous calories, I took a walk. The afternoon was lovely. The temperature was quite nice and the clouds even cleared here and there to reveal patches of bright blue! I figured I should try walking into downtown Killarney by myself, for the first time! It was a surprisingly quick trip, which I will now happily repeat multiple times per week.
Once I was there, in true McDonald fashion (my family, not the restaurant this time!), I decided to see a movie. I was a few minutes late to Surrogates, but I was okay with it. The movie was pretty good, but mostly, I was just excited to see my 2nd film in Ireland. Yesterday, I saw Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs with my friends and their kids. (Cute movie, by the way.) Being a McDonald in my family basically means you love movies. So I knew that I couldn't live without them, even here in an interesting place like Ireland. Good thing they built a nice new, but smallish, cineplex right in Killarney! How fun!!
As soon as I left the building to head home, I popped in my earbuds to listen to some tunes from the new iPod. I was relaxed and happy. Feeling quite adjusted to life in Killarney and having just enjoyed a movie, I must have had a look of satisfaction and confidence on my face. A young man with an Irish accent (but not a Kerry accent, I'd say), came up to me and asked for directions to a local pub!!! (For Steve - "pub" is short for "public house", as you had guessed from seeing that place in DC.)
It was a great moment, erasing all my earlier angst from eating that enormous hamburger and feeling like I was waving an American flag over my head. Don't get me wrong. I love being an American and feel thankful to call it my home. And, mostly, Irish people love Americans. But, Killarney is literally crawling with tourists most of the year and I don't want to be perceived that way. I'm not here on vacation, I'm here for other reasons. So, needless to say, I really hated to disappoint this guy with my American accent which confirmed the accuracy of my response, which was "Sorry, I have no idea."
But, he just smiled and laughed when he realized I wasn't a local. I wanted to hug him for thinking I was, though. It made me feel right at home.
I have this feeling that it's going to be really difficult to leave in December.......
Love,
Katy
My meal today: The Big Tasty with bacon. Holy COW - literally - it was a HUGE hamburger. I was only able to eat half of it. I felt like the entire restaurant was staring at me with looks of disapproval and/or amazement. I'm now pretty sure the only people who order that meal are construction workers or some other hard labor types. I started to wonder if I was standing out more than ever as an American in that scenario....just like an American to order the oversized hamburger! Haha....oh well. Lesson learned.
Later on today, to work off some of those undoubtedly numerous calories, I took a walk. The afternoon was lovely. The temperature was quite nice and the clouds even cleared here and there to reveal patches of bright blue! I figured I should try walking into downtown Killarney by myself, for the first time! It was a surprisingly quick trip, which I will now happily repeat multiple times per week.
Once I was there, in true McDonald fashion (my family, not the restaurant this time!), I decided to see a movie. I was a few minutes late to Surrogates, but I was okay with it. The movie was pretty good, but mostly, I was just excited to see my 2nd film in Ireland. Yesterday, I saw Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs with my friends and their kids. (Cute movie, by the way.) Being a McDonald in my family basically means you love movies. So I knew that I couldn't live without them, even here in an interesting place like Ireland. Good thing they built a nice new, but smallish, cineplex right in Killarney! How fun!!
As soon as I left the building to head home, I popped in my earbuds to listen to some tunes from the new iPod. I was relaxed and happy. Feeling quite adjusted to life in Killarney and having just enjoyed a movie, I must have had a look of satisfaction and confidence on my face. A young man with an Irish accent (but not a Kerry accent, I'd say), came up to me and asked for directions to a local pub!!! (For Steve - "pub" is short for "public house", as you had guessed from seeing that place in DC.)
It was a great moment, erasing all my earlier angst from eating that enormous hamburger and feeling like I was waving an American flag over my head. Don't get me wrong. I love being an American and feel thankful to call it my home. And, mostly, Irish people love Americans. But, Killarney is literally crawling with tourists most of the year and I don't want to be perceived that way. I'm not here on vacation, I'm here for other reasons. So, needless to say, I really hated to disappoint this guy with my American accent which confirmed the accuracy of my response, which was "Sorry, I have no idea."
But, he just smiled and laughed when he realized I wasn't a local. I wanted to hug him for thinking I was, though. It made me feel right at home.
I have this feeling that it's going to be really difficult to leave in December.......
Love,
Katy
Saturday, September 26, 2009
The accents, I tell you!
If you know me at all, you know my obsession with the unique ways people talk. Not only am I fascinated by interesting accents, but I also focus in on the particular phrasings people use. Ireland is chock-full of fascinating tidbits of language-related intrigue!
Here's a few:
I went into downtown Killarney yesterday, just a mile's walk or so from where I am staying. My friends/pastors here walked with me to show me the way. We tried to find a little shop where I bought a claddagh ring 14 years ago, but we couldn't seem to spot it. The downtown has grown quite a bit and many shop signs have been updated. Mac's (my favorite little eatery) moved, but is still there! Yay!! Best chicken and chips (fries) ever!! I am definitely going back down there next week. I'm afraid I'll have to buy a second bag to bring back all the goodies I want to buy. Items on my wish list: new claddagh ring (nicer one this time!), a bodhran drum, t-shirt with Gaelic on it, secret gifts for my niece and nephew, a wool sweater, etc, etc, etc.....
Here are some things I've learned since I arrived:
Katy
Here's a few:
- Like: The Irish tend to add the word "like" to the end of some sentences. It is very similar to the way we American's use "like", except they finish their sentences with it. Not EVERY sentence ends this way. Just the ones where it would make sense and perhaps give the listener a better understanding of the method/attitude/feeling with which a situation or conversation occurred. Example: I stayed up all night. So now I'm wrecked like. But don't you worry about me, pet. I'll be alright.
- That is not on: I don't believe this is unique to the Irish, because my Scottish friends say it too. Using this saying is replacement for the all-American "that was not cool" or something like that. I love this one. I think I'll integrate it into my repertoire.
- Cup: Or Cuppa or Cuppie....all relates to having a cup of tea or coffee. I've been offered some version of this several times (daily) since I've been here. I'm in love with tea, especially with milk and two small teaspoons of sugar. Heaven on earth.
I went into downtown Killarney yesterday, just a mile's walk or so from where I am staying. My friends/pastors here walked with me to show me the way. We tried to find a little shop where I bought a claddagh ring 14 years ago, but we couldn't seem to spot it. The downtown has grown quite a bit and many shop signs have been updated. Mac's (my favorite little eatery) moved, but is still there! Yay!! Best chicken and chips (fries) ever!! I am definitely going back down there next week. I'm afraid I'll have to buy a second bag to bring back all the goodies I want to buy. Items on my wish list: new claddagh ring (nicer one this time!), a bodhran drum, t-shirt with Gaelic on it, secret gifts for my niece and nephew, a wool sweater, etc, etc, etc.....
Here are some things I've learned since I arrived:
- Killarney's downtown shoots Neenah's downtown out of the water. But, that's not saying much. Seriously though, Killarney is super great.
- If you walk slowly and look up at the shop signs, you're a tourist. (just like NYC or any other large city in the world, I suppose.)
- Irish bankers are so nice. And a $100 gets you only 67 Euros right now. Such is life!
- Coca-Cola in Ireland is AMAZINGLY better. It's made with real sugar, not corn syrup.
- I'm afraid I'm not going to be able to pay for anything myself, unless I'm alone or I force my money into their hands/purses! My hosts are being too generous and Ireland is very expensive. I'm going to have to be clever on how I repay some of this generosity!
- The houses don't have screens in the windows. No bugs. Well, there are a few, but not like Wisconsin. It's lovely!!!
- The people are so friendly. I haven't met a person that I didn't like. I haven't met a lot of folks yet, so I guess that could change, but I doubt it.
- I am praying that God will use me here. I feel like it has already happened some, but I know there's more I could do. So, I'm just asking, looking, waiting for opportunities. One thing I do know is that the Lord loves the Irish and so do I.
Katy
Monday, September 21, 2009
My Lovely Hostesses
I have the pleasure of staying in such a cute house right next door to Al and Christine Dreher (the pastors of the church I'm working with here). Their neighbor, Gillian, has offered me a nice, cozy little room of my own for the next three months. Her sister, Orla, is also staying here for now and she is a gas. (really funny) They call the backyard the "garden". And Gillian's garden is adorable. She's got a few flowering bushes and trees, surrounded by a high wall that encircles most of the house. So cozy.
Orla has already offered me a tour of the Ring of Kerry, which is the county that we are currently in. I believe we did that drive when our mission team was here 14 years ago, but I hardly paid attention back then and I also didn't have a camera. This time will be MUCH better.
I feel so thankful that the arrangements for my time here worked out so well. I even have wireless internet access at Gillian's house. She has the sweetest dog too - Pepsi - who is a small "lassie" collie. He's gorgeous and well-tempered. Cuddly little lad.
Okay - this is a short entry today! Don't want to see obsessed with being on my computer!! :)
Love,
Katy
Orla has already offered me a tour of the Ring of Kerry, which is the county that we are currently in. I believe we did that drive when our mission team was here 14 years ago, but I hardly paid attention back then and I also didn't have a camera. This time will be MUCH better.
I feel so thankful that the arrangements for my time here worked out so well. I even have wireless internet access at Gillian's house. She has the sweetest dog too - Pepsi - who is a small "lassie" collie. He's gorgeous and well-tempered. Cuddly little lad.
Okay - this is a short entry today! Don't want to see obsessed with being on my computer!! :)
Love,
Katy
Saturday, September 19, 2009
The Trip
My trip to Ireland went really well. My dad, brother and I arrived in Chicago FAR too early, but it worked out the best since I haven't been through O'Hare in years. First blessing was Starbucks. I furnished myself with an ice cold Vanilla Latte....venti. Next I found a back corner seat in the waiting area by my gate, which happened to be the very last gate in that corridor. Lastly, there was an electrical outlet right next to my chair. For the next few hours (I told you I was really early), I played around on my brand new iPod touch and watched a couple episodes of Friends on DVD. It didn't take long for me to start realizing what an amazing thing it was that I was about to do! Going back to Ireland felt like a dream coming true and I had to mentally pinch myself a few times. The flights were good and pretty much uneventful. Crossing over the North Atlantic can be a little bumpy at times, but mostly it was just LONG. I couldn't sleep at all. Partially due to cramped quarters and partially excitement, I just listed to my iPod. Man, that was a good investment!!
My only "nervous" moment during the travel was at Immigration in Dublin. My immigration officer was extremely serious and didn't crack a single smile. He shook his head and said "that's not enough" when I told him how much cash I had on me for my 3-month stay. Praise the Lord that I brought my most recent bank statement to show how my money I actually had access to. He was approving after seeing that paperwork. When he asked me what I do for a living, he wasn't too pleased to know that I'm unemployed mostly and just work as a temp (I didn't want to lie!). He looked at me suspiciously, wondering surely, if I was trying to find work here. He said, "What are you doing here for 3 months?", in not a very friendly tone. I assured him I am only visiting friends and helping their church for NO pay at all. I am supporting myself financially. I could tell he wasn't buying it. That's when I really thanked Jesus that the Drehers had sent a "welcome" letter from their church to prove I was coming over to volunteer. The officer read it over and grilled me about the Drehers.
Officer: "What does Allan do?"
Katy: "He's a pastor."
Officer: "Is Allan married?"
Katy: "Yes, to Christine."
Officer: "Do they have any children?"
Katy: "They have Dylan and Desmond. One is a foster child and the other they just adopted in June. I don't know which is which though." (Can you tell I was nervous? Now I remember that it is Dylan who is fostered and Desmond who is adopted - sweet boys by the way!!)
Officer: "Well, you certainly have your story straight."
I so wanted to say, "It's not a STORY....it's TRUE." But, I wisely kept my mouth shut and prayed like gang-busters in my mind.
Officer: "Do you have a return flight?"
Katy: "Yes, for December 14th. I wanted to make it for just shy of 3 months....to be safe."
Officer: "Show me."
I pulled out my receipt for my ticket. He examined it closely. Then he (begrudgingly, in my opinion) stamped my passport with a 3-month visitor's visa, for departure on December 14th.
WHEW.
Officer: "You are NOT allowed to work here."
Katy: "Yes, definitely."
Officer: "Welcome to Ireland."
Katy: "Thank you."
I walked calmly and confidently away from immigration and found my luggage and the Drehers. Hallelujah.
So much more to tell already, but I'll save that for the next blog!!
Love, Katy
My only "nervous" moment during the travel was at Immigration in Dublin. My immigration officer was extremely serious and didn't crack a single smile. He shook his head and said "that's not enough" when I told him how much cash I had on me for my 3-month stay. Praise the Lord that I brought my most recent bank statement to show how my money I actually had access to. He was approving after seeing that paperwork. When he asked me what I do for a living, he wasn't too pleased to know that I'm unemployed mostly and just work as a temp (I didn't want to lie!). He looked at me suspiciously, wondering surely, if I was trying to find work here. He said, "What are you doing here for 3 months?", in not a very friendly tone. I assured him I am only visiting friends and helping their church for NO pay at all. I am supporting myself financially. I could tell he wasn't buying it. That's when I really thanked Jesus that the Drehers had sent a "welcome" letter from their church to prove I was coming over to volunteer. The officer read it over and grilled me about the Drehers.
Officer: "What does Allan do?"
Katy: "He's a pastor."
Officer: "Is Allan married?"
Katy: "Yes, to Christine."
Officer: "Do they have any children?"
Katy: "They have Dylan and Desmond. One is a foster child and the other they just adopted in June. I don't know which is which though." (Can you tell I was nervous? Now I remember that it is Dylan who is fostered and Desmond who is adopted - sweet boys by the way!!)
Officer: "Well, you certainly have your story straight."
I so wanted to say, "It's not a STORY....it's TRUE." But, I wisely kept my mouth shut and prayed like gang-busters in my mind.
Officer: "Do you have a return flight?"
Katy: "Yes, for December 14th. I wanted to make it for just shy of 3 months....to be safe."
Officer: "Show me."
I pulled out my receipt for my ticket. He examined it closely. Then he (begrudgingly, in my opinion) stamped my passport with a 3-month visitor's visa, for departure on December 14th.
WHEW.
Officer: "You are NOT allowed to work here."
Katy: "Yes, definitely."
Officer: "Welcome to Ireland."
Katy: "Thank you."
I walked calmly and confidently away from immigration and found my luggage and the Drehers. Hallelujah.
So much more to tell already, but I'll save that for the next blog!!
Love, Katy
Monday, September 7, 2009
Irish Culture lesson # 1
In case you might have wondered, "Éireann go Brách" means "Ireland Forever" or "Ireland until the Judgement Day", depending on your perspective.
Originally, when I started this blog, I had written "Erin go Bragh" - which is the Anglecized version of the Gaelic saying. So, in honor of all the Irish friends I am about to make, I thought I should put the Gaelic version on my blog instead. :)
The first time I went to Ireland, back in 1995, I bought this cool t-shirt at a little gift shop in downtown Killarney (again, that's Anglecized - the city's name is really Cill Airne).
The t-shirt was black and it had a grouping of Irish instruments on the front and the words "Sin Sceal Eile" underneath the image. I asked the guy who sold it to me what the words meant. He said "That's Another Story" and I said, "Well, I've got time." Haha....kidding. Seriously though, that's what the words mean. I guess it's something people say sometimes when they get off on a tangent while telling a story. The Irish are known for being good storytellers, so I'd guess this could happen pretty often if you run into a person who uses Gaelic much in their every day life.
Originally, when I started this blog, I had written "Erin go Bragh" - which is the Anglecized version of the Gaelic saying. So, in honor of all the Irish friends I am about to make, I thought I should put the Gaelic version on my blog instead. :)
The first time I went to Ireland, back in 1995, I bought this cool t-shirt at a little gift shop in downtown Killarney (again, that's Anglecized - the city's name is really Cill Airne).
The t-shirt was black and it had a grouping of Irish instruments on the front and the words "Sin Sceal Eile" underneath the image. I asked the guy who sold it to me what the words meant. He said "That's Another Story" and I said, "Well, I've got time." Haha....kidding. Seriously though, that's what the words mean. I guess it's something people say sometimes when they get off on a tangent while telling a story. The Irish are known for being good storytellers, so I'd guess this could happen pretty often if you run into a person who uses Gaelic much in their every day life.
The shop guy went on to ask me how old I was. He looked to be around 23 or so. I said, "17". He said, "How long have you been 17?" (That's a joke for my fellow Twilight fans....) Again, seriously, his real response was, "Well, you should come out tonight. We'll have a good bit of crack."
I think my eyes widened to the size of silver dollars. Was this bloke offering me drugs?
He laughed at me, told this crazy American girl to relax, and finally explained that it just means to have fun.
I still passed on the offer. I was only 17 after all!
So, here's a recap of today's lesson:
- Éireann go Brách - pronounced "erin go bragh" (gutteral "gh") / Ireland Forever!!!
- Cill Airne - pronounced "Killarney" / the cool Irish city I'll be staying in or near
- Sin Sceal Eile - pronounced "shan scale aylee" / That's Another Story
- Good Bit of Crack - to have a good time or have fun
- Bloke - a common Irish/Scottish/English way of saying "Guy" or "Dude"
I cannot wait to learn loads of interesting facts about Irish culture! Be prepared for many lessons / postings down the road.
Love,
Katy
Saturday, September 5, 2009
A Dream...Delayed
Hello my friends and family!
I decided (with some prompting by good friends) to start a blog about my experiences during the three months I will be in Ireland.
You might be wondering why I would start writing now, since I'm still in Wisconsin at the moment. Well, it probably has something to do with the fact that I had a dream last night about going to the O'Hare airport (Chicago) in a couple of weeks.
My niece and nephew (Kate and Eli, respectively) were with me in the dream and I was scheduled to board my plane in about an hour. I suddenly realized that I had forgotten two very important things back in Neenah. My ticket and my passport. Oops.
Man, I was freaking out. I started crying because I knew that there was no possible way that I would be getting on that plane and I'd have to postpone my trip until I could get my passport and book a new ticket.
We returned to the car so I could just sit in the backseat and cry my eyes out. My brain was scrambled with "why did I forget those things!!" and "oh my gosh, I need to call the Drehers and tell them that I'm not arriving as planned." It was an awful feeling.
As I write this out, I think I know why I dreamed about having to push out my date of departure.
I went to Ireland in 1995 and for the past 14 years, I've wanted SO much to return. It has taken a LONG time to get to this point and I think part of me cannot yet believe it's really happening. I must secretly expect something to keep me from actually going. And there have been a few occurances that I have made me wonder if it would get put off....but NO! I refuse to let God's Enemy (and mine) convince me that it won't work out.
Let's see.....here's a few things that happened that threatened my the delay of my dream to return to the Emerald Isle:
1) A handful of family problems
2) Finances
3) Dental Work
4) My dad's motorcycle accident
Yeah, I refuse to let anything (except God) stop me from going on this trip.
This dream may have been delayed for 14 years, but it was for good reasons I think. I have matured and grown in peace, confidence and strength. So, it's okay that it has taken 14 years to get here, but it won't take me any longer now.
September 17th....Ireland or bust.
Love,
Katy
I decided (with some prompting by good friends) to start a blog about my experiences during the three months I will be in Ireland.
You might be wondering why I would start writing now, since I'm still in Wisconsin at the moment. Well, it probably has something to do with the fact that I had a dream last night about going to the O'Hare airport (Chicago) in a couple of weeks.
My niece and nephew (Kate and Eli, respectively) were with me in the dream and I was scheduled to board my plane in about an hour. I suddenly realized that I had forgotten two very important things back in Neenah. My ticket and my passport. Oops.
Man, I was freaking out. I started crying because I knew that there was no possible way that I would be getting on that plane and I'd have to postpone my trip until I could get my passport and book a new ticket.
We returned to the car so I could just sit in the backseat and cry my eyes out. My brain was scrambled with "why did I forget those things!!" and "oh my gosh, I need to call the Drehers and tell them that I'm not arriving as planned." It was an awful feeling.
As I write this out, I think I know why I dreamed about having to push out my date of departure.
I went to Ireland in 1995 and for the past 14 years, I've wanted SO much to return. It has taken a LONG time to get to this point and I think part of me cannot yet believe it's really happening. I must secretly expect something to keep me from actually going. And there have been a few occurances that I have made me wonder if it would get put off....but NO! I refuse to let God's Enemy (and mine) convince me that it won't work out.
Let's see.....here's a few things that happened that threatened my the delay of my dream to return to the Emerald Isle:
1) A handful of family problems
2) Finances
3) Dental Work
4) My dad's motorcycle accident
Yeah, I refuse to let anything (except God) stop me from going on this trip.
This dream may have been delayed for 14 years, but it was for good reasons I think. I have matured and grown in peace, confidence and strength. So, it's okay that it has taken 14 years to get here, but it won't take me any longer now.
September 17th....Ireland or bust.
Love,
Katy
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