The closest thing to a drunk night in Galway (for me)

Wed, 21st July

I did not want to wake up this morning. I was so tired.....and I made good use of the snooze button for sure.

I had to wear my new shoes to class because my TOMS are currently incapacitated. This means I had to suffer through aggravation to the already existing blisters that I have from them. It wasn't too bad though.

Class was good again today- I was a little spacey because I was so tired. After class I stayed and had a chat with Professor Haines about options for internships, programs, jobs, ect working in the area of international women's issues. She suggested transferring school- which isn't really an option, but Im going to look into being a guest student for a semester at UC Hastings or another school that has more course options in my area of interest.

After my chat, I headed back to the apartment and had lunch. I chilled out for a bit and watched TV with Monica and then headed to do some laundry- it couldn't be put off any longer. (WOO-HOO Last time I have to do laundry here)

When I finished my laundry and headed back to the apartment, I then got ready for my last night out with my roommates. (Tomorrow Ill be working on my final and Kimberly leaves Friday) Its so weird that the end is finally here. [Monica is sick, so she wasn't able to go :( ]

We headed into town early to run some errands. (We had originally planned on doing a tour, but it was raining in that special Irish way- sidewaysish)

On the way to town I ran into the Irish Center for Human Rights to get a fleece, but the office hours were just passed. We then went on to the train/bus station to find out how much tickets were for Colleen and Kimberly’s trips (to the airport and Dublin) We then hit Shop Street to find some gifts/ souvenirs and grab dinner. I was on an epic hunt for a specific item for Holly’s birthday present.

For dinner, we hit Fast Eddies and I had some pretty tasty Stromboli and started the evening of drinking sharing a bottle of wine with the others.

When we had finished eating, most of the shops were closing (everything in Ireland closes super early) We then headed to An Pucan because we heard that there would be Irish dancing and music.

We spent most of the rest of the night there. It was quite an interesting night as well. We met a woman from the states who was traveling. She recently got divorced and sold her house, so she’s on a trip before she figures out where she’s headed next. I thought it was kind of cool to do.-have a little fun after a shit situation (he husband of 17 years had been cheating on her) So with her alimony she decided to tour Ireland.

After a bit of a wait, the Irish Dancers finally hit the floor. I think the protocol was dance one song, have a beer or two, dance another song.... and so on. So- the dancing was sporadic, but it was really cool. I had a great spot too at the bar (even when a few women decided they were going to come and stand right in front of my stool)

Kimberly met some guys from the states, so we spent much of the rest of the night talking with them. The group was from San Jose and told us that one of the guys in the group actually played for the NHL team there (we later found out that it wasn't true, but w/e, we had a good time getting free drinks and talking to a few of the guys)

Towards the end of the evening, me being slightly more open due to my level of intoxication, talked with Colleen about the miscommunication that had been taking place during our time in Galway. It was great that we talked and cleared everything up before the trip ended. Being me, I of course ended up crying... in the bar.... but it was good.

An Pucan was closing, so we agreed to meet up with the guys across the street at Coyote. When we headed over, we did a few laps around the club and were unable to find the guys, so we decided to head out and maybe check out a few places to see if we could find them. On the way out, Colleen tripped on the step and we think she sprained her foot.

Nothing really seemed open, so we hit Supermac’s and I had my first french fry experience there. I must admit- they weren't that great. I was a bit disappointed.

We then grabbed a cab and headed back to the apartment. We filled monica in on our adventures and tried to find Colleen some ice for her foot. We didn't have anything in our apartment, so Colleen ended up calling Carlo. The conversation was way longer than asking for ice, but being slightly drunk, I really didn't care.

After hanging out, I finally went to bed.

Im done, but not yet.

Apologies for the lack of updates... I do have some more posts coming for my last days in Galway, however, so much has been happening with finals and packing,ect.. I havent had time to properly write blogs posts from Wednesday. I intend to have them up by mid week after I return to the states. :D

Two Nights out

Class the past two days has been pretty good. We’ve been talking about trafficking, which is an area that Im interested in working it, so its been nice to shift from domestic DV to a more global discussion.

After class yesterday, I headed to town to pick up a ticket for Kimberly for the show we were going to and hit the grocery store. While I was killing some time, I did some gift shopping and got rid of some of the pounds I had left over from my trip to the North this past weekend. I had a chat with the shopkeeper for a bit. It was really amusing to hear his thoughts on Italian students (Alas, the annoying Italians saga continues) Apparently, they are known for epic shoplifting and generally being rude. As much as I hate stereotypes, I have yet to meet and Italian student to prove contrary to these views.

When I got back from my shopping trip, I had lunch and then hit the gym for a bit.

Then, it was time to get ready for what I deemed my “splurge night out.” My roommates, Kristen and I all had a really nice dinner at McSwiggens in town and then we had tickets to see Adrian Crowley who was playing as part of the Galway Arts Festival.

Dinner was awesome. It was more than I would usually spend on a dinner out, but it was well worth it and I went all out- dinner, drinks and dessert (something thats quite rare for me to do- which is going to continue to be so, because I ate way too much and was hating myself later because there was a lot of sugar in the pie I had making me feel a little sick)

After we finished dinner we headed to the Roisin Dubh for the concert. The venue was kind of cool- it was a room in the back of the bar with a stage. My main complains were that there wasn't much room to move around (issue when you are trying to get to the bathroom/get drinks) and the stools we sat on were not the most comfortable.- But we were RIGHT in from of the stage.

The “opening” act was Anna Scott. I actually really liked her- her voice was awesome. (I wanted to grab one of her cds but I didn't see where they were selling them :[ ) Then Adrian Crowley came on. I’ve never heard his music, so I didn’t really know what to expect, but it defiantly wasn't the kind of music I would expect for a bar scene. (At a few points I looked over at my roommates and they were cracking up, so I couldn't help but laugh as well- being close to the stage though, I attempted to control myself as much as possible) It started out a little too “artsy” for my taste, but then as the night went on and he added instruments, the music was a little better. (The Cello was AWESOME)

When the concert finished, Kristen and I grabbed a taxi back to the apartments and the others stopped into another bar that was playing music.

After I got back, I worked on reading for class and got ready for bed. Carlo stopped by to return my charger which he had borrowed earlier and we made plans to go to a play on campus.

After class today I hit the gym and then headed back to the apartment. I had originally planned to get some laundry done, but I ran out of time, so I just did some work and hung out. I ended up baking some Orange Cranberry bread- it didn't bake right- so it looks a little funny, but its tastes good. (And thats what matters right?)

At 530 I headed towards campus to meet up with Carlo for the play. Unfortunately they were sold out (and we found out it was 3x more than we originally thought) so we stopped at the computer lab so he could finish up some work and then we walked to town.

There was a group playing music on shop street so we stopped and listened for a bit. It was actually really good :D The band took a break when, in proper Galway form, it started raining. We kept walking and eventually stopped in a shop to grab some ice cream and get out of the rain. (I tried the honeycomb- it was super tasty.)

After we finished our ice cream, we continued our walk and eventually made our way to a Turkish place and grabbed some burgers. (Which were tasty as well) We kind of hung out and ate until a group walked in with a girl that was drunk and perpetuating certain stereotypes about American’s- specifically Californians. Mind you, it was hilarious- so that was pretty much our entertainment for the night. We talked a bit with some of the others in the group- there were two girls from Vancouver as well.

When the group left and we were finished eating, we walked back to campus (in the rain- I like the rain, so this wasn't much of an issue for me- just enjoying more Irish weather :P). I kind of bit it on the walk back and ended up with mud all over my jeans. (I know- Im so graceful) Also, my poor TOMS were completely soaked.

When we got back I spent the rest of the evening just hanging out. (After I grabbed some dry clothes)

General Disclaimer and some thoughts

Ok... so, before I continue, I guess my blog needs a few disclaimers. I didn’t think it was necessary, but apparently it is. Im also including some other thoughts.

In case anyone missed the memo: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/blog

Main Entry: blog
Pronunciation: \ˈblȯg, ˈbläg\
Function: noun
Etymology: short for Weblog
Date: 1999

: a Web site that contains an online personal journal with reflections, comments, and often hyperlinks provided by the writer; also : the contents of such a site

— blog·ger noun

— blog·ging noun







1. I write my opinions, thoughts, observations and experiences. I don't purport myself to be unbiased. I long ago accepted the fact that Im a bitch. I don't pretend to be something which I am not.
2. I don’t and will not apologize for who I am, my thoughts, views, beliefs, ect. If you have issue with this, find someone who cares, because I don’t. I stand strong by who I am and what I believe it. There are a select few people who have EARNED the right to call me on my shit.
3. There is something to be said about water and bridges. It may be beneficial to put it into practice in one’s life.
4. Dont think that I OWE you anything, when you haven't bothered to even afford me basic common courtesies over these weeks.
5. I have removed names from my blog upon request, but I will not amend my thoughts or the general content. This blog was created for my friends and family- thusly I have been very generous with descriptions of events and my views on people. I could have included a lot more and been MUCH more descriptive, but I didn't see the need to share much of the shit show that has taken place here with my family. -And just because I haven't been more inclusive of my views/experience, doesn’t mean I wont feel inclined to do so in the future.
6. On that note, I really don't get a rats ass who reads my blog. Read it or don’t, like it or not, Im not writing for you anyway. BUT don't complain when you’ve been sharing the link with people without my knowledge or consent and discover I’ve made commentary about your unbecoming actions. Its called KARMA.
7. If you take issue with people commenting on your actions, you may want to reconsider the profession you are pursuing. This program is not a vacation, but a professional educational experience. Lawyers are under constant watch for missteps, character flaws, ect. so tailor your conduct accordingly.
8. I learned a long time ago to take responsibility for myself and my actions and to build genuine relationships. Its become apparent that this is not a universal life lesson. Feel free to build your relationships on shaky grounds. Eventually, they will fracture and fall, because nothing stays secret forever. People will find things out. And no matter how many people you point your finger at, come the end of the day, you better have a mirror, because the only person you have to blame is the one staring back at you when the shit you’ve been putting out there hits the fan.
9. Finally, I don't have much sympathy for your back wounds when you’ve put the knives in the hands of the people who have discovered who you really are. Sometimes you wont get stabbed in the back if you don't give people the means to do so.

Black Taxi's in Belfast and concluding my trip to the North

This morning the 6 day tour left and us three-dayers stayed in Belfast. At 930 I went on a Black Taxi tour around Belfast. Our driver took us to both the Protestant and the Catholic side of Belfast and showed us various places where different events took place. We also stopped at the Peace Wall (which is kind of ironic because its not very peaceful at all- over a hundred people have died on either side of the wall in a relatively close proximity) The Peace Wall is something a kin the to wall in Berlin. (Visitors leave messages on the wall- our driver gave us a marker, so I left a message as well)- The major difference between the Berlin Wall and the Peace Wall is that people are afraid/don't want the wall to come down. Despite the peace agreements they want to remain separated. We also saw various murals on either side of the divide. Our guide also talk us about the history of the conflict, current issues and various other bits of information. Despite the “peace agreement” it is interesting (and sad) to hear about some of the things still taking place. Also, the fact that they are people who want to reconcile, but groups on either side are something mafia-esque which makes people fear being seen as sympathetic to the other side. (Our driver told us that currently Protestants aren’t really killing catholics and vice versa, its now Protestants killing Protestants and Catholics killing Catholics)

After our tour finished, our driver dropped us back at the hostel. I had about an hour and a half before the Paddywagon Bus would be around to pick us up. I decided to have a bit of a walk in search of a restaurant that was open. (Being Sunday and only 11am, it was going to be a bit of work) I ended up finding a place called Spuds. I had peppered chicken over chips. It looked disgusting, but was super tasty.

After lunch I headed back to the hostel to hang out for a bit and wait for my next tour.

What I thought would be a tour of the city really wasn't. our driver took us to the Titanic Quarter and we had about a half an hour to wander around and check out the place where the Titanic first sailed from. (It was built in Belfast for those of you who don't know.)

Then, our driver dropped us off by City Hall and we had an hour to wander the city. I decided to hit Victoria Square, which is a huge shopping complex that has a bog glass dome which you can take an elevator to the top and see the city. Cheap thrills, I took a ride up and checked it out despite the clouds from all the rain. The view of what I could see what quite nice.

I then just wandered a bit. There was a craft show in the mall and I ended up buying a piece of art. Its a cartoon little girl hugging a cupcake. It was only £20 and I thought it was super cute. (plus I like supporting local artists)

Continuing my wandering, I went in search of this old school candy shop, but to no avail. It wasn't where the brochure said it was... bummer.. I kind of was craving something sweet. Thus, I ran across the street to Cafe Nero and grabbed a carmel latte and a muffin. I had a bit of a chat with the barista. He was super friendly :D

I then power walked back to the meeting point to get in the van and head back to Dublin.

We actually got back to the city WAY early, but unfortunately I missed the 5pm bus by a few minutes and the next bus from the city wasn't until 645 (but still better than waiting around until 8)

I chilled in the hostel trying to figure out if there was another bus service that I could take back to Galway, but they were either booked or too expensive.

At about quarter to 6 I decided to walk towards where the bus stop was and try to find something to eat. When I got there, to my relief, there was a bus, so I was able to leave another hour earlier :D Not only that, it was the express bus back to Galway, so it was 30 minutes faster than the usual bus.

When I got on board I asked if I could use the ticket that I had booked for the later bus or if Id have to buy another one. (I didn't really mind buying another because the later one I had booked using an online special for only a euro so no real loss there) The driver asked if it would make me happy if I could use my ticket to which I replied yeah. He then said, well if it’ll make you happy, you can use the ticket you already have. SCORE!

On the bus I worked on reading for class. When I was putting my laptop away at one point I noticed the corner is bent. When the tour guide was loading my backpack on the bus he must have smashed my bag somehow, damaging my laptop. (It would have had to be pretty hard too, because I have a hard shell on my laptop which is supposed to protect it from damage) So, needless to say, Im pretty pissed, because its not something covered by my warranty so Im going to have to pay to have it fixed when Im back in the states. >.<>

When I got back into Galway, I hit a Centra, which is a sort of convenience store but bigger (not quite the size of a grocery store though) and grabbed some soup and a bagel for dinner. I then grabbed a cab back to the apartment because my legs are super sore from all the epic walking I did yesterday. It was actually cool, because I ended up talking with the driver about my trip, my stay in Galway, ect.

Back at the apartment, I had dinner, unpacked my stuff, talked a bit with my flatmates, had a normal hot shower (anyone who has ever stayed in a hostel knows what I mean by this) and worked on reading for class.

Irish Coffee, loads of Irish Weather, bridge crossing and a jog along the Causeway

This morning I packed up my stuff and waited downstairs in the hostel for a bit for the tour to start. I surfed the net, posted yesterdays blog and finished uploading the pictures that I had taken.

At about 830 we all piled onto the bus and were off (with the exception of having to run back to the B&B and hostel for forgotten things, but after That we were off) Our first stop this morning was a quick photo stop to take a picture of Dunluce Castle. Apparently its the most photographed castle in Ireland. It was windy and rainy so I just jumped off the bus for a few quick shots and then I was back in my seat.

Next we headed towards Carrick-A-Rede and Larrybane. On the way there Eric pointed out “Irelands Mt. Rushmore” There is one spot in the side of the cliffs that looks like a face- it was actually pretty cool. From there we stopped for pictures to try to kill some time before heading to the rope-bridge. (Eric was waiting for some of the rain to blow over a bit so we wouldn't be walking out to the bridge in the rain)

The rain finally stopped and we headed to the parking lot by the bridge. I bought a ticket to cross the bridge and then started my 1km walk out to it. (You don't have to buy a ticket to walk out to it, but you have to have one to cross the bridge onto the little island. Its a bit steep at £5, but I got one for the hell of it, Im here so I might as well cross the damn bridge) The walk out to the bridge is very scenic along the cliffs. However, I kind of though it might be a flat walk, but I was sorely mistaken. It ended up being quite the hike with inclines and rock steps both up and down. It also started raining again when I reached the bridge.

I gave the guy my ticket and began to cross. Despite the height (and the hype) the bridge isn't too bad. Its super safe and the view is actually pretty cool. I did have a bit of a jolt because I was only using one hand to hold on so I could take some pictures as I crossed, but when I reached the middle the wind started blowing a bit and the bridge swayed a little more than I had anticipated. Its a short bridge though, so I made it to the other side without issue.

Once on the other side, I made my way over a rocky path and kind of checked out the view from the little island. It was amazing. Had I had the time I could have taken a seat and just enjoyed the atmosphere for a bit. When I looked down into the water there was a dolphin or shark with its baby swimming around. The water was crystal clear. Despite the rain, it was quite enjoyable.

I then started making my way back to the bus. When I was crossing the bridge in the other direction I met two girls from Norway when I asked them to take a picture of me. We chatted on the walk back, which was kind of cool.

After we all loaded back onto the bus, Eric took us to a little gift shop to kill some more time. I was hoping it’d be a little more original than it was but I was pretty disappointed with the generic tourist stuff.

After that we headed to a pub in town for lunch. I FINALLY had an Irish Coffee. Though I must say, it would have been a lot more enjoyable if the coffee they had used wasn't so bad. It was super strong and super bitter in a bad way. Ill have to have a redo when I get back to Galway. I had chicken strips for lunch which were quite tasty.

I sat with Denise, Melinda and another Aussie (who I keep talking to but for the life of me I cant remember her name). During lunch we talked about a bunch of different things. It was a good time.

After our time for lunch finished we then headed towards Giant’s Causeway. The Causeway is one of two world heritage sites in Ireland (the other being the Cliffs of Moher). We were only given an hour and a half to walk around, so I had a pretty quick hike to see the entire trail. I went past the rocks of the causeway itself and saw other things along the path. Much like the path to the rope bridge, it wasn't a flat hike whatsoever. I can officially say that one need not get a gym membership, all they have to do is tour Ireland. My calves were killing me from hiking up and down steep hills and then 162 really steep rock steps.

Although Carlo told me that the Causeway was anti climatic, I found the entire site beautiful. I could have done with fewer tourists, but I enjoyed the views and the hike despite being pressed for time and having to exert more energy than a usual leisurely walk. I really wished I had a lot more time to really enjoy the site and maybe have a set on the rocks and soak up the atmosphere.

Following my quick jog around the coast line path at Giant Causeway, I got back on the bus and we headed for Belfast. On the way Eric gave us a bit more history of the troubles and the City of Belfast. When we arrived, we checked into out hostel. THe 6 dayers then went on to do their black taxi tour and I was free fro the rest of the evening. Ill be taking my tour in the morning. After I checked my email, ect, I decided to explore the city for a bit. I went for a walk for a few hours. On the way I saw City Hall (Which is amazing), I went over to the river, and walked by the court house. Belfast is a beautiful city- the architecture of some of the buildings is amazing. I really enjoyed just having a wander around. (I wish I had more time to just roam the streets. Hopefully during my two tours tomorrow Ill see a lot more) I then swung by the Crown Bar which apparently is a tourist destination. It was pretty full so I decided not to have dinner there. I then walked back towards the hostel and stopped in at the Globe Bar which Eric said had cheap food. Unfortunately, they stop serving food at 6, so I had a pint of Harp (which is made in Belfast) and went on my way. I stopped into a takeaway place and got a kebab to take back to the hostel with me. The kebab wasn't that great, (pretty bad actually) but after a pint it was much needed sustenance.

Im spending the rest of the evening just chilling out in the hostel. Im currently attempting to upload my pics with the connection downstairs. Later Ill probably have a shower and work on my reading for monday’s class.

Day 1 in the Paddywagon

Today I started my tour to Northern Ireland (Im traveling with Paddywagon Tours) I woke up early to wait for my tour to begin. There were a bunch of people packed into reception. Apparently there was a bunch of tours leaving today from Dublin. I sat on the couch and waited patiently as the other impatient people kept bothering the poor guy at the desk.

My tour was supposed to leave at 8, but our guide was caught in traffic and came late. Then he had to get some logistics figured out to make sure everyone was in the proper place and we had everyone that we were supposed to. (There are three tours that were together for the first part of the journey, a 6 day all ireland, my 3 day northern, and a two day) (And for the record, epic clusterfuck...just sayin’)

After everything was sorted and we found everyone that was supposed to, the tour was on its way. Our guide gave us a bit of a tour around Dublin before heading out. It was kind of cool because he took us to Phoenix park, which I’ve never seen. (OMG Reindeer!) So I saw the house of the President and the American Ambassador. He also gave us some bits of history and culture which were quite nice.

Our guide, Eric, is hilarious. His sense of humor may offend some, but its quite Irish (Copious use of the “f” word). I think he’s friggen brilliant really. He’s originally from Dublin and told us a bit about accents as well. Eric provided us commentary randomly throughout our trip.

Today our tour was headed for Derry (or Londonderry).

During our rest stop, I grabbed a bite to eat at BK (breaking my rule of not eating at American fast food stops, but I didn't have a choice- well I could have not eaten) I wasn’t sure what time wed be having lunch, so I ate when I had the chance. During our stop, I started chatting with a woman named Miranda from Holland and another woman named Denise from Australia.

On our way we stopped for a quick photo at a castle and at a monastic site to check out the grave yard and a round tower. (Round towers were used by monks to keep their valuables) In the grave yard were some massive Celtic crosses (I think the guide said some of the largest in existence- one weighs several tons)

During our stop at the monastic site, Eric had everyone in the van/bus introduced themselves. There are about 30 people on the trip together today. Shit ton of Aussies, some Germans, French, Spaniards, ect from the continent. Im pretty much the only American, with the exception of a Chinese couple from Florida (transplants)

Then we headed to Drogheda for lunch. We were given an hour to wander and find food. Drogheda is home to the Catholic Cathedral which has Oliver Plunkett’s head (per usual, interesting story, but I’ve been drinking and Im lazy, so you can google it) After I saw the head, which is less gruesome than it sounds, I wandered down the street in search of a place to eat.

I ended up finding a cafe called The Copper Kettle. I wasn't super hungry because I had eaten at the rest stop, but I had a bowl of vegetable soup with brown bread and a cup of tea. I got a huge bowl of soup for pretty cheap and it was super tasty, so I was stoked.

After I finished my lunch and paid, I had a bit of time left to explore. As I was walking back down the street to head back in the direction I had come, I noticed a brick structure in the other direction. I had time, so I decided to go check it out. I couldn't really tell what exactly it was but my tour guide later told me it was probably part of the old city wall. (At one point, most of the cities were surrounded by walls, most have all been either partially or entirely destroyed. The only full one left standing is in Derry)

After we finished our stop in Drogheda we continued our trek to Derry. While in the bus/van I took a bit of a nap. (No matter when I travel, I seem to always be sleepy when I do) Our drive was straight through to Derry. (we didn't make anymore stops) It took a few hours to get there and on the way, we had an anticlimactic boarder crossing. There are no sort of formal crossings or anything. Much like crossing the state line in the US, you just keep driving and you’re there. There’s free movement across the boarder so you don’t need a passport or anything.

When we finally arrived in Derry (or Londonderry) we were dropped at the tourist office to check it out, run across the street for coffee, ect for about an hour before our walking tour guide would arrive.

I went into the tourist office and had a look around. I asked about where to find the closest ATM because NI is on the pound, so I needed to get some cash for the weekend.

Miranda and I walked across the street to the mall to hit the ATM and grab some coffee. We chatted a bit more while we were there. We then headed back to buy a few things from the tourist office and wait for our tour guide.

Our tour around Derry was really interesting. Unfortunately we didn't go to the statute that I kind of wanted to see and it was difficult to stop and take pictures of some things, but I really enjoyed our tour guide. He’s actually from the catholic part of Derry. At the end of the tour he told us about growing up in the occupied city and various situations with the british soldiers. It was kind of shocking the things that happened during the occupation. (Also, it was really interesting that his view was that it was misclassified as a catholic/protestant conflict and it was more of a loyalist/nationalist conflict having nothing really to do with religion, it was blow out of proportion by politicians and the news media as young people don't really even go to church or consider themselves religious)

I did get to see and take some pictures of the murals in “free” Derry that I wanted to see, so I was happy about that.

After the tour we walked to our hostel and got situated. There was a cookout at 730 so before then I ran to Tesco to grab something to drink while I hung out. (PS Derry is super cheap- partially as a consequence of the troubles, which is sad, but I wasn't complaining about paying 3 pound for a four pack of strongbow)

When I got back, I checked my email for a bit and then headed out back to hang out with the group. Unfortunately, the only option to eat for the cookout was burgers. Usually, this wouldn't be a problem- I would just eat the salad (which was the only side option besides chips) but I had planned on going to the pub, so I wasn't about to drink on a practically empty stomach, so, after 5 years of not eating beef- I had a cheeseburger- which Im sure Ill be sick as hell tomorrow, but whatever.

It was a lot of fun just hanging out with the group and talking. Unfortunately, we were outside and the Irish weather decided to grace us with its presence. There was a tarp over the grilling and garden area, but the shed roof started to leak after a while and the tarp, well, does what tarps do after its been raining for a while.

Feeling kind of tired, and mindful of the early morning, I decided to skip out on the trip to the pub to listen to music. (the music wasn't starting until 11) Plus, I wasn't really in the mood to be walking in the rain, especially because I already have blisters on the back of my feet from my new shoes.

I headed upstairs to my room, grabbed a shower and surfed the net a bit before bed. My room wasn't the most spacious place for 6 people, but it worked.