Well I have survived the first week of classes. They are pretty tough in comparison to classes in Dublin, but theyre very interesting. The people who I sit with in class are all very friendly and willing to get to know the Irish students. Clubs and societies stuff kicks off this week so Ill become increasingly busy as time goes on.

It is labor day weekend here and the sun is splitting the sky. This is the true end of summer for the Americans so we have been making the most of it. I took a walking tour of the sculptures in downtown Chicago on Friday afternoon and just spent a couple of hours wandering around the city enjoying some of the more colorful aspects of Chicago. In the evening the Art Institute was free for the evening so we took advantage and went and saw the paradise gates, which are truely amazing.

Saturday was similarly spectacular weather wise and so we took our books to the beach. The beach is a 5 minute walk from the main shopping area in Chicago, so right in the city centre and so easily accessible. It was lovely just to lie in the sun and relax and enjoy the sun while we have it! Sadly I did get just a little bit burnt!

Today I have so far been to church, one much bigger than last weeks and in an amazing auditorium with the most fabulous decor inside. It is a branch of a super church here in Chicago called Willow creek. It is full of students, lively and exciting to be involved in.

As for the rest of the weekend there are plans afoot to go to see a show this evening if we can get tickets, or there is a jazz festival a few minutes walk from out apartment which is free!! We also have tomorrow off classes so its a great opertunity just to chill out and relax and get some extra reading donE!