Tropical Ireland

Yes, the rainfall in Ireland could probably create quite the tropical environment if the temperatures were right, but what I was actually referring to were the palm trees. I remember it being a point of surprise the first time I was in Ireland that there are palm trees everywhere. I was just looking through some old pics of mine and found this one of the big tree at my friend Darragh's house. There really are loads of them all over Ireland - people line their drives with them and hotels have them pouring our of the landscaping. Slightly surprising but kind of cool. It's a bit of a reminder that it's not always so dreary and rainy here. Sometimes - like today - you get those really warm and sunny days and the palm trees help it seem that much better!

Another nice-weather thing that isn't often associated with Ireland is the miles of long white sand beaches that stretch along the coasts here. You know the beach scenes from Private Ryan? They were actually filmed about 30 minutes from my house at a beach called Curracloe. This is the beach in not-so-sunny weather (June at mid-day, believe it or not) but it's actually really nice on summer days when it's warm enough to lay out. Most evenings you'll see families or couples at the beach- it's a big belief that walking along the ocean and getting some of that 'good, salty, Irish Sea air' into your lungs can do a world of good for your health. It may very well be true. I can say from personal experience it's a great way to end the day and destress a bit.

So as much as I wouldn't suggest leaving extra space in your luggage for beach towels if you ever make it over this way, don't completely rule out the beaches and 'tropical' aspects of Ireland.

It's Friday and it's getting late here and I'm looking forward to leaving and heading to soccer training. Did I mention I'm playing soccer now? Ireland is probably the only country outside the U.S. where you'll hear it widely referred to as 'soccer' - only because of 'Gaelic Football' and the confusion it causes. As a testament to the awesome work hours in Ireland - I can't imagine having time to play ONE sport, let alone TWO while working the hours I was at home. LOVE it! Have a good weekend. I'll be sure to have a great pint of Guinness for you! ;-)