Since my last article, I’ve been thinking about things I miss about home. I talked about some of the differences I’ve seen so far, which got me thinking about the things that are at home but not here in Ireland. There ar the obvious like my family, pets, and friends, but there are a few things I didn’t think I would miss. I miss the familiarity of the laws and history of America. I miss the convenience of walking five to ten minutes and being in class. I miss real Ramen and non-spray deodorant. And of course, I miss Grey’s Anatomy which I can’t watch here in Ireland because I don’t have a television. That last one has been harder to deal with than I’d like to admit. Seriously, I think I’m going through withdraw.

Still, as I list the things I miss, I am okay without them. I can live without those things. I Facetime my family and friends, I eat other amazing foods, and there’s plenty to watch on Netflix. Also, and those of you who know me would most likely agree, I could probably use a break from Grey’s Anatomy. Dublin has been treating me very well so far and I am so grateful for this opportunity. As much as I miss some of the things at home that are convenient and familiar, I love being able to explore new things. As much as I miss some of the things at home that are convenient and familiar, I have no complaints about this experience. I could not be more blessed to be here in Dublin and to take the trips I have and will.

I’ve been very fortunate with all I have been able to see. This weekend I visited the Dublin Zoo and planned trips to three other countries. Now, I know some of you may have problems with zoos, but I honestly found the Dublin Zoo to be refreshing. Located in Phoenix Park, another must see attraction of Dublin, the Dublin Zoo houses over 400 animals. Also, it’s much cheaper than American zoos. I saw giraffes, seal-lions, lions, orangutans, and much more. Unfortunately, the penguins and flamingos had been removed due to the presence of the bird flu in Ireland. I’ve been at Arcadia a little under three years now, right outside Philadelphia, and I still haven’t made it to the zoo. Not even a month into my stay, and I have been able to do so much so far.

I was also able to book some trips this weekend. In case you didn’t know, flights within Europe are extremely cheap. This weekend I booked flights and hostels to Spain, Germany, and Scotland all for very cheap. I don’t miss the price of airfare in the State’s that’s for sure. The convenience of travel helps me overlook some of the conveniences I miss at home.

I know that my time here is short and I want to make the best of it. Of course, there are things I miss at home and things that I wish were here in Ireland, but I couldn’t be happier here. I feel comfortable here and I have found ways around the things I miss. Staying busy, keeping positive, and having an open mind have helped me adjust to my new environment. There will always be things we miss in life, but we can’t let those things stop us from exploring.

Updates: I’ve taken the bus three more times since my first, horrible experience and it been much more pleasant than the first time around.