Our day started off earlier, as yesterday was considered by many in our group as a "rest day". As we gathered in the main room for breakfast, we were sadly informed of the USA's close defeat at the hands of Portugal at the World Cup, an event that has become a source of entertainment for our "poor tech-deprived group", even for non-Soccer enthusiasts. As the weekend draws to a close, I was happy to note that the last of the sketchier and rowdier crowd inhabiting our Hostel have finally departed, leaving the task of sharing the small kitchen and main room a much less stressful experience.
Also, much to everyone's delight, Charlie, who's services had not been required the day previous, showed up again in his familiar aquamarine van to tote us up to the City of Kildare, which is where most of our adventures took place today. After driving for about a half hour, we arrived at the Cathedral Church of St. Brigid, a church built on the grounds where Brigid's original church was. After saying our morning prayers there, we were escorted by Sister Phil, a local "Brigidine" Nun, to a few other sites around town, including a Roman Catholic Church also dedicated to Brigid and a holy well in a park. After Sister Phil imparted us with some of the knowledge and philosophies of Saint Brigid, we stayed in the park with the sacred well for a short reflection period in which we were free to walk around and observe for a little while. I myself took the time to birdwatch a bit- I ended up finally spotting a European Robin, which had been on my "wish list" to see. (look 'em up, folks! They're really pretty!)
We ended our stay in Kildare with a climb up the Round Tower at our starting point, a place where in ancient Ireland, the inhabitants of the Church would hole up in case of a Viking attack. For us, however, it granted us a long climb up several ladders and a wonderful 360 view of the surrounding countryside.
As much as I have been enjoying Ireland, I am also looking forward to coming home soon. I sort of miss my bed, my own bathroom, and my family. I hope to see everyone soon!
Update: As I am writing this in the lobby of the hostel, it would be interesting to note that there is a pack of Portuguese women wildly cheering for Brazil on the TV. They have flags, tambourines, hats, beer, everything. They've been here for a while. We heard them cheering for goal no. 3 from the third floor. They've already asked Blair to take their picture! You sure meet some interesting and fun people here!
From the streets of Dublin
-Julianna DeDominick