We're sitting at the Dublin departure lounge waiting for our very delayed flight, so this seems like a good time to get caught up. Once again I'm finding it odd how little they notice who comes in and out of this airport. The woman at the Air Canada check-in actually seemed so confused by our passports that she asked if we were twins!

We spent four nights here and had a fantastic time. We did a lot of the big tourist things- a day wandering aimlessly, the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, Temple Bar. The history of this country is far more tumultuous than I had realized. We took a day-trip to Wicklow and Gledalough which was beautiful with glances into mountains and an old ruined monastery.

Probably the highlight of Dublin was the social activity. Peter, an Irish bloke I had met online, Sara, a good friend from university, Bryan and Lisa whom we met in the pub, all made the experience better. Throw in lots of live music and beers in the pub, and it's all great!!

Some general observations we made sort of back up the stereotypes. They really do eat potatoes with their potatoes. I do love potatoes, but it was actually quite shocking the extent to which it went. They really love drinking shoulder to shoulder and the more crowded the pub, the happier everyone seems. This included squishing into intimidatingly busy places and fighting our way to the bar while everyone danced and sang and made merry. On weekends they fill up by 2:00 which meant there was no avoiding the rush, but it wasn't hard to get into the swing of the fun. There were buskers on every corner, and people always happy to stop and chat and offer suggestions. I think the fact that we were there in the days leading up to St Patrick's Day probably added to the general air of celebration. It took a little time for my Canadian sensibilities to get used to the lack of personal space that people here are very comfortable with, but once that hurdle was crossed, all was great.

I'm sad to be leaving, but reality is calling, and our plane is finally on the ground and almost ready to receive us. Overall, Ireland is seriously good Craic!!