Today we had quite the adventurous day of shooting, hiking, and kayaking in Wicklow county- which our taxi driver just taught us is a word of Viking origin. Low=alow=meadow, and Wick=Vick=Viking. So Viking meadow is the meaning of the county's name. That was our educational piece of the day.
All in all, it was a greaaat day! The weather was spectacular- we got some good sun and a great breeze. We started the day off with the clay pigeon shooting. It was hilarious- my idea of course. It was hardcore...they gave us a ridiculously heavvy shotgun, ear muffs, and after abt a 10 minute tutorial we were yelling "pull" and shooting away at these clay dishes. It was hilariously random. We learned from the experience that Sahar is secretly a professional gunman- I think she may have hit about 20/25 shots. Not normal. I was decent- I hit more than 5 so that was enough kudos for me. I felt accomplished just hitting 1 of those crazy saucers. And the hike was more of a brisk 45 min jog on a coastal trail. Really fun and greaaaat views. They told us it was where PS I Love You and Braveheart were shot. So that was cool.
And then Sahar and I went kayaking by ourselves in a beautiful lake surrounded by gorgeous mountains and blue skies. Really romantic bonding time for me and Sahar. And it was such a great work-out...We were really into it. My abs and shoulders are nearly broken now- great feeling. Also- on our way back to the shore, it started pouring heavily, which was a really cool experience- being completely surrounded by water. It was an amazing feeling to be paddling through the waves with the rain pouring down on us and the water splashing in our faces. We felt like such rustic nature girls- 2 pts for Team Florida. K great adventure day.
We're heading back to Dublin now- going to shul at the Chabbad tonite and then having our meals by the rabbi. Very excited for our international Chabbad experience- should be wild!
cheers
mimi
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
The last leg...
Yesterday was the Dublin day. We did a tour of dublin called "hop on hop off"- the bus takes you around and u hop off to see the sites then hop back on to the next. Problem was it was great tanning weather and the top deck was open so we hopped on and never really hopped off...until we got to the guiness storehouse museum. Arthur Guiness is pretty much more revered than the Irish president (if there is one). At the end you're rewarded with a free pint. Only one of us took advantage of the free perk. Take a wild guess.
It ended up being that we didn't do much else in our educational tour of the city- but let's be honest- we pretty much hit all the main points in Irish culture right there. After that tour we enjoyed the city and ate dinner on Stephens Green.
It ended up being that we didn't do much else in our educational tour of the city- but let's be honest- we pretty much hit all the main points in Irish culture right there. After that tour we enjoyed the city and ate dinner on Stephens Green.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Galway!?!?
Today I woke up at a normal hour since I ignored Sahar's first two wake up calls. When I finally got up from my king size bed (I got to bless team hotel) I immediately asked myself what are we doing here in Galway? What were we thinking coming here? While I davened I was disturbed by the ridiculous plans my friends were thinking of doing for today's activity. These ideas included cliff diving, clay pigeon shooting and more life threatening activities. After I expressed my thoughts on not dying we decided collectively that we were going to go on a bus tour to the Cliffs of Moher. For those interested- the cliff of moher is Ireland's most visited natural attraction with a magical vista that captures the hearts of up to one million visitors every year. The cliffs rise to 214m per 700 ft at the highest point and range for 8 km or 5 miles over the Atlantic Ocean on the western seaboard of Co. Clare. Now you might think I learned these facts from listening to the tour but actually I had to do my research from the brochure since I was sleeping for most of the tour. Tour guides MUST cater to those with attention deficit disorders! You got to grab your audience with the first minute otherwise its all downhill from there! Now who would interest you more? An Irish man talking about god knows what or Dee singing broadway tunes at the top of her lungs with complete disregard to the fact that she was in public! I believe you can all guess that I went with the latter. I have to tell you all that the cliffs were fabulous and breath taking. If you want to see them for yourself you can google them, watch a documentary or watch Harry Potter and other famous movies such as Leap Year. When we arrived at the cliffs we were granted one hour from our tour guide. We decided to stop at the cafe first to wake us up from the educational bus ride. 45 minutes later we realized that we had about 5 minutes to take in the cliffs that we just travelled on a deathly boring 3 hour bus ride for. The tour guide/bus driver warned us that if we were not back on time he would leave us stranded. Knowing me and Mimi and how we like to live on the edge... we almost missed that bus! He actually left 2 minutes early- we may have even left a few behind. Surprisingly we made it tho. The tour continued with lunch at a pub and some castles but I can't really tell you all that much about it since once again the tour guide had put me to sleep. Was this day a total bust? That's debatable among the group! All I know is that I had a blast making fun of today! - Designated Driver- RoCKo ( beer is gluten and I don't drink)
the not so fast fast day
Hello fellow readers. I apologize on behalf of myself and my trip-mates for slacking in our blogging duties. Yesterday wasn't such an eventful day because of the fast and by the time it was over we were too exhausted to relate whatever details were even worth sharing. Essentially we sat on a bus for the bulk of our day. We woke up at around 830 and were ushered into our cab to the bus stop about an hour later by Jimmy- the everso friendly owner of the charming bed and breakfast we slept at that night- who was wearing a chef's outfit for reasons unclear. We probably missed out on a very serious breakfast...If only it weren't a fast day. O well.
From 10:15 to 5:30 we watched the open fields of lush greenery within its mountainous frame as we made our way from Dingle to Galway- another county on the western coast, north of Dingle. We then checked into our lovely suite in the Carlton Hotel--a well deserved concession to team Hotel after Sundays hike. There, we passed the time with some chatting, reading and nap time. Before we knew it it was 11:30- time to break the fast! We broke it on gourmet peanut butter sandwiches, fruit, and way too much chocolate.
Whoever thinks we may be losing weight on this trip due to lack of food and sahar's boot-camp-itinerary are mistaken. We've been compensating for lack of food with Rocko' never-ending supply of Caramel Cadbery and then justifying it by pretending that we're still burning calories from our 8 hour hike on Sunday. And just in case we're not doing enough damage here, Deena has already declared that the team goal in Israel is to eat our way through the country. So we're in a negative situation.
So that was our day yesterday. It's unclear what the heck we're doing here in Galway and why we trekked for 7 hrs to get here. This place is super random but I'm glad we're here. I'm too tired and lazy to describe our wild day of fun from today. Someone else will have to take the reigns for that one. Stay tuned though!
Cheers
~Mimi
DEE- I've been getting some personal gchats/ bbms/ emails etc that people miss my posts. And I think that's also clear from the amount of votes I've been getting so I will put in some input on the fast day. After getting off the first bus and arriving at the station we were informed our next bus wud not be showing up for another hour. What we do for an hour? Mimi is in the process of converting to chait so she listened to his shiurim on the essence of man??, sahar said some tehilim, rocko stared out into space, and I read my ever so intense book "19 minutes" which ia giving me nightmeres! We all didn't do much talking to eachother yestrday in fear of being snappy due to our hunger/ exhaustion. It was more of a day to ourselevs w some major introspection (and random people who went to mmy that we forgot abt who kept popping up in our heads) I left my white nike headband that I work out w on every single bus and had to go bak on every single bus to retrieve it so that was eventful and finally we got to the magnificent carlton hotel! We intended to wake up before 9 to get some grocery shopping for after the fast done but since mimi and I can't wake up, and our fearless leader sahar overlsept we were left w nothing but peanutbutter. (And mimi dedicated abt 20 lines to chocolate which I don't even eat...or cheese...or tuna...but that's a whole different story. Do I plan to eat my way through israel like mimi said? No, that's so 4 years ago. Do I plan to be fleishichs once in a while especially before the 9 days? Heck freakin yes!! And what a better acitivry for after the fast than to watch white chicks on an ipad??---well we were pretty zonked and all drifted off pretty soon after breakfast. Ok I gotta go to sleep, we're hitting up guiness tmrw and I needa be on my a game!
"Cheers"
Dk
From 10:15 to 5:30 we watched the open fields of lush greenery within its mountainous frame as we made our way from Dingle to Galway- another county on the western coast, north of Dingle. We then checked into our lovely suite in the Carlton Hotel--a well deserved concession to team Hotel after Sundays hike. There, we passed the time with some chatting, reading and nap time. Before we knew it it was 11:30- time to break the fast! We broke it on gourmet peanut butter sandwiches, fruit, and way too much chocolate.
Whoever thinks we may be losing weight on this trip due to lack of food and sahar's boot-camp-itinerary are mistaken. We've been compensating for lack of food with Rocko' never-ending supply of Caramel Cadbery and then justifying it by pretending that we're still burning calories from our 8 hour hike on Sunday. And just in case we're not doing enough damage here, Deena has already declared that the team goal in Israel is to eat our way through the country. So we're in a negative situation.
So that was our day yesterday. It's unclear what the heck we're doing here in Galway and why we trekked for 7 hrs to get here. This place is super random but I'm glad we're here. I'm too tired and lazy to describe our wild day of fun from today. Someone else will have to take the reigns for that one. Stay tuned though!
Cheers
~Mimi
DEE- I've been getting some personal gchats/ bbms/ emails etc that people miss my posts. And I think that's also clear from the amount of votes I've been getting so I will put in some input on the fast day. After getting off the first bus and arriving at the station we were informed our next bus wud not be showing up for another hour. What we do for an hour? Mimi is in the process of converting to chait so she listened to his shiurim on the essence of man??, sahar said some tehilim, rocko stared out into space, and I read my ever so intense book "19 minutes" which ia giving me nightmeres! We all didn't do much talking to eachother yestrday in fear of being snappy due to our hunger/ exhaustion. It was more of a day to ourselevs w some major introspection (and random people who went to mmy that we forgot abt who kept popping up in our heads) I left my white nike headband that I work out w on every single bus and had to go bak on every single bus to retrieve it so that was eventful and finally we got to the magnificent carlton hotel! We intended to wake up before 9 to get some grocery shopping for after the fast done but since mimi and I can't wake up, and our fearless leader sahar overlsept we were left w nothing but peanutbutter. (And mimi dedicated abt 20 lines to chocolate which I don't even eat...or cheese...or tuna...but that's a whole different story. Do I plan to eat my way through israel like mimi said? No, that's so 4 years ago. Do I plan to be fleishichs once in a while especially before the 9 days? Heck freakin yes!! And what a better acitivry for after the fast than to watch white chicks on an ipad??---well we were pretty zonked and all drifted off pretty soon after breakfast. Ok I gotta go to sleep, we're hitting up guiness tmrw and I needa be on my a game!
"Cheers"
Dk
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
FINALLY! - the hike!
After waking up early and saying bye to Killarney we set off to Dingle with 6 days worth of clothing and food on our backs. 2 hrs later we got off the bus at Dingle and took in the unique smell which characterizes the Irish country: a mix of fresh mountain air, cow maneur and beer. We cabbed to Veentry to begin the hike since we were told that from dingle to veentry it was 5 km of road walking. We were all on the same page about not doing any extra walking than necessary. Our hike began with about 3 km on the beach. This part seemed to never end, and our hopes of what the hike would be dimmed a bit as we trudged along with our heavy bags, feet sinking in the sand and the sky grey. For 3 of us, the time passed quicker with a "let's see if we can name everyone in MMY" game, for the other one of us, tiime was never slower.
The guide book read that we would cross a few streams on the way and so when we spotted the yellow man who marked the Dingle Way turning slightly inland, we followed blindly. We crossed about 6 bridges before we realized we were right back on the beach only a little past where we begun. Clearly the yellow man was testing our faith. We followed him anyways since we're Jews and know how to follow blindly in wilderness situations (and b/c there really was no other option) and headed inland yet again. This time we were not let down as we headed towards Mt. Eagle. On the way we managed to bring back some eleven eggs and hairy hummus from our trip in Israel.
We decided it would be a good time to stop for lunch when we found a little pad of grass by some of the houses we were passing. Mimi made a stunning sandwich, but apparently it was too perfect for our rough hike and Mother Earth sent a little brown present from the bird passing over head- which landed PERFECTLY in the middle of her top slice of bread. Amazing. If that wasn't enough surprises for one meal, 45 seconds later, the couple whose house we were trespassing on, tried pulling in to their driveway, ie our picnic table. We gave eachother a scare, but they showed us true Irish hospitality and let us use place till we finished.
After lunch we began our ascent up the mountain. It was a tough climb and every step we take left us more and more breathless. Literally and figuratively. The backpacks made it hard, but the views we saw distracted us. I'll spare you with the details of this hike, since its hard to describe without waxing poetic and even then won't do it justice. In fact one of our greatest frustrations were that we'd spend 10 minutes with tthe camera trying to capture what was in front of us, but we were left in confusion at how the tiny screen resembled the scene in front of us, yet just wasn't conveying it. We were completely enveloped by the mountains around us, tucked away on the coast of Ireland, with the sea slapping on the vast cliffs 300 meters below us. The mountains were larger than life, and the sea stretched out till it meshed with sky. It was the feeling of being less than a dot on a map. Besides for the tie-dyed sheep, it was nature in its most raw and unadulterated form. It was being face to face with yad Hashem. We couldn't help but stand in silence, we were totally awestruck.
As we walked on, we saw plenty of "clochains", ancient ruins from the 5th and 6th century pagans. We also saw a ton of sheep and goats... We felt at one with the earth as we had stepped again and again in their droppings. We even had no choice but to contribute to the collection..Slightly exhilarating and more than slightly scary. You would think Rockos backpack was as light as air since she seemed to be having a blast chasing the goats through the mountains. Ha it even feels weird to say that. But that's really how we walked, and it was not a fenced petting zoo. Don't worry Chan, we bodyguarded Deena every time they came close.
Right before our descent we came to a point where we saw the Blasket Islands off the coast in the distance below is. This is the most westerly point of Europe. And for such a lofty title, the view did not disappoint. After all that hiking we felt like we had to just engrave it in our minds before we were done. Proved to be an inspiring point for mincha, and soon we were back on the road.
The cafe at Slea Head which had served as our motivation was closed. But we got a few great pics and documentaries (stay tuned to anything deena) and continued after the yellow man. We walked and walked. And walked. But again, the Irish and the American concept of distance seems to completely differ. Last time I checked a "slight 2 km" at the end of a hike, did not take 2.5 hours. We doubted the yellow man. We continued thru the rain, up a hill, asking every car hpw far more to go. You would think we saw mashiach had you seen our reaction upon finally arriving at the Dun Chaoin hostel. The yellow man did not let us down!
The rest of the story you can probably infer from Rockos blog.... Suffice it to say- it was interesting.
All in all, we experienced something reeally special that day. It was nice to relive it by writing this. All I can say is after seeing those sights, the only thing that keeps me convinced that its not the promised land is that I don't believe we were ever meant to b in a place where we have fast to 1130 pm. I'm. 100% positive we were much more meant to be in the land where even yom kippur ends at 6.
Ooolright. Take it easy lads.
Sahar
The guide book read that we would cross a few streams on the way and so when we spotted the yellow man who marked the Dingle Way turning slightly inland, we followed blindly. We crossed about 6 bridges before we realized we were right back on the beach only a little past where we begun. Clearly the yellow man was testing our faith. We followed him anyways since we're Jews and know how to follow blindly in wilderness situations (and b/c there really was no other option) and headed inland yet again. This time we were not let down as we headed towards Mt. Eagle. On the way we managed to bring back some eleven eggs and hairy hummus from our trip in Israel.
We decided it would be a good time to stop for lunch when we found a little pad of grass by some of the houses we were passing. Mimi made a stunning sandwich, but apparently it was too perfect for our rough hike and Mother Earth sent a little brown present from the bird passing over head- which landed PERFECTLY in the middle of her top slice of bread. Amazing. If that wasn't enough surprises for one meal, 45 seconds later, the couple whose house we were trespassing on, tried pulling in to their driveway, ie our picnic table. We gave eachother a scare, but they showed us true Irish hospitality and let us use place till we finished.
After lunch we began our ascent up the mountain. It was a tough climb and every step we take left us more and more breathless. Literally and figuratively. The backpacks made it hard, but the views we saw distracted us. I'll spare you with the details of this hike, since its hard to describe without waxing poetic and even then won't do it justice. In fact one of our greatest frustrations were that we'd spend 10 minutes with tthe camera trying to capture what was in front of us, but we were left in confusion at how the tiny screen resembled the scene in front of us, yet just wasn't conveying it. We were completely enveloped by the mountains around us, tucked away on the coast of Ireland, with the sea slapping on the vast cliffs 300 meters below us. The mountains were larger than life, and the sea stretched out till it meshed with sky. It was the feeling of being less than a dot on a map. Besides for the tie-dyed sheep, it was nature in its most raw and unadulterated form. It was being face to face with yad Hashem. We couldn't help but stand in silence, we were totally awestruck.
As we walked on, we saw plenty of "clochains", ancient ruins from the 5th and 6th century pagans. We also saw a ton of sheep and goats... We felt at one with the earth as we had stepped again and again in their droppings. We even had no choice but to contribute to the collection..Slightly exhilarating and more than slightly scary. You would think Rockos backpack was as light as air since she seemed to be having a blast chasing the goats through the mountains. Ha it even feels weird to say that. But that's really how we walked, and it was not a fenced petting zoo. Don't worry Chan, we bodyguarded Deena every time they came close.
Right before our descent we came to a point where we saw the Blasket Islands off the coast in the distance below is. This is the most westerly point of Europe. And for such a lofty title, the view did not disappoint. After all that hiking we felt like we had to just engrave it in our minds before we were done. Proved to be an inspiring point for mincha, and soon we were back on the road.
The cafe at Slea Head which had served as our motivation was closed. But we got a few great pics and documentaries (stay tuned to anything deena) and continued after the yellow man. We walked and walked. And walked. But again, the Irish and the American concept of distance seems to completely differ. Last time I checked a "slight 2 km" at the end of a hike, did not take 2.5 hours. We doubted the yellow man. We continued thru the rain, up a hill, asking every car hpw far more to go. You would think we saw mashiach had you seen our reaction upon finally arriving at the Dun Chaoin hostel. The yellow man did not let us down!
The rest of the story you can probably infer from Rockos blog.... Suffice it to say- it was interesting.
All in all, we experienced something reeally special that day. It was nice to relive it by writing this. All I can say is after seeing those sights, the only thing that keeps me convinced that its not the promised land is that I don't believe we were ever meant to b in a place where we have fast to 1130 pm. I'm. 100% positive we were much more meant to be in the land where even yom kippur ends at 6.
Ooolright. Take it easy lads.
Sahar
Its my trip and I'll cry if I want to
Waking up in Dunquin's girl dormatory in a freezing sweat was not ideal but at least we didn't have to share our cozy bunkbeds with foreign roomates. sharing our room with strangers would have been pretty hilarious yet potentially very awkward haha. After Dee packed up her "soaking" clothes we headed downstairs where we were greeted by the hostle's nice but ever so slighty creepy caretaker who had snuck into our room at night and who had an eye on us with every move we made. I was convinced that Mimi and I would have no shoes this morning since we had violated the hostle's cardnial rule of bringing our hiking shoes inside. Call me crazy but I'm not leaving my shoes outside where cows roam and people have not one store to buy food who shoes. Seriously who knows if someone would steal my sneaks for foot protection or perhaps sell my shoes for some bread. I wasn't taking any chances! We then head outside to stand in a cloud waiting for the bus to Dingle. After waiting for a few minutes in the rain and cold we flaged down the jolly bus driver who greeted us with "the top of the morning to you" which began our upbeat day of fun. Once getting to Dingle we headed straight to the local super market called Super Valu ( no "e") since we all know its all about the food. We then went to the tourist center to plan our next days since we decided to cancel the last days of our hike due to rain and other reasons. Sahar and Mimi sat and planned while I was busy taking a tourist survey with a women wearing a orange traffic vest. Was I trying to help a women with her job, did i admire her choice of style or was I trying to avoid planning the trip? That is a great question but ill save you from another Dee blog vote since I truthfully admired her orange vest and I would do anything to get a closer look. After the deathly long survey I caught my friends being kicked out from the tourist center for the second time since we had made ourselves way to comfortable ( read with my accent) with our backbacks sprawled out which was not good for business We then spent some time in a internet cafe where I checked my mail the old school way which included dail up .. I'm just kidding but seriously I love being the only one without a blackberry as well as being the slowest typer on this trip. These keys are so small that I can't even use my fathers one finger typing skills. Frustrati-on! The internet cafe was very useful since we booked our bus tickets and hotels for Galway which were all really looking forward to. We then took a seriously awesome boatride where we watched our dolphin friend, Fungi do some wild tricks. After having a blast with our water friend we decided to continue our fun with running through the Dingle aqurium. We never quite got to witness the fish feeding by the native river but hey we were yelled at once again and dee won a claw stuff animal. With Sahar needing another coffee we then sat by the pier drinking cappucinos and eating rice cakes. After eating like animals we headed to the gym and pool however we never got to that pool since Mr. Shorts never left that suana! Or did he? Who's turn is it to check? Haha! We then hit up another internet cafe where we were kick out to wait for our cab to take us to Jimmy's bed and breakfast. Basically Jimmy is the man! Jimmy served us tea showed us a documentry movie of the Dingle penninsula and told us how he lives in Riverdale part of the year. Tommorow is the fast so we will not have the experience of having the breakfast part of the bed and breakfast but thankfully we have the bed component! Wow look how much I typed... Only. Took me three hours! Nebach - RoCKo
Sunday, June 27, 2010
speechless
We hiked from 1245 to 845 today and each one of us are way too tired to write and describe todays experiences. Exauhstion and soarness has taken on a whole new meaning. Well blog from the busride tomorow and fill u in.
Gnite!
Dee
We hiked from 1245 to 845 today and each one of us are way too tired to write and describe todays experiences. Exauhstion and soarness has taken on a whole new meaning. Well blog from the busride tomorow and fill u in.
Gnite!
Dee
wev arrived
Bus to Dingle is well appreciated after backpacking through Killarney with our back breaking bags. As I look to my left there is the gorgeous coast and to my right there are farmlands with a variety of green plush mountains set as the back drop ... I love Hashem! The scenery is breathtaking as well as the the red and blue tie-dyed sheep. Hey who knew Irish sheep were hippies? Peace out! RoCKo
Saturday, June 26, 2010
The Shabbos Marathon
Hey followers! (Who suddenly decided to stop commenting which is much unappreciated, so feel free to comment! As much as u wanna hear from us, we wanna hear from u!)
We left off as we were getting ready for shabbos. The preperations came down to the wire as the oven was tiny and everything had to be double wrapped but we pulled it off! I peeled raw sweet potatoes, and mashed frozen vegetables all with plastic utensils, which is nott an easy feat. Highlights was when my plastic fork chopper broke in the cauliflower mix and kinda camolfouged in so it was impossible to find, but bh rocko found it in her kugel today before it made it into her mouth! Anyways everything was ready and our friday nite meal was very nice. I'd say we were pretty exhaustesd so after diNner and a few tabloids later we were off to bed.
Now for today- after a much needed late wake up we davened, prepared lunch, and let the fun day begin. Now u may ask, wat did this fun day entail? Well ill tell u- some good food, some chatting, and a lott of kent, president, and yaniv games! (Elissa schertz- I started a new book and I'm already on page 24 so I hope to be done by pesach 2011!) We witnessed a huge rainstorm from our room which I kinda hoped wud be tmrw so I can use my new raincoat, but it was ok because a beauitfullll rainbow emerged...it was crazy we saw the full arch (sorry I'm not being as detailed as my nature freak travel buddies wud like but all I can say was that it was beautiful, wudda liked for the chanbon to give me a heter to use my camera, but ok). I don't think wev ever been more excited to eat chicken in our entire lives. Props to mimi and sahar for pulling off great recipes w limited resources. Also thanks mom for ur awesome makeshift kugel recipe...it was such an awesome added bonus, even with plastic in it!)
So after 4 girls being couped up in a room for over 24 hours its pretty impressive that we all survived and still like eachother. (Questionable at points). We are going to get ready for this hike now. Tomorow is 21 kilometers, 7 hours, and 300 meters ascent, and according to my bberry measurement converter 21km is 13 miles....which I've done before in 3 hours!!!!! So it shudnt be too bad! Anyways well keep u posted, shavua tov! Gut vuch! (8 more days till eretz yisroel!)
-"cheers"
Dee
We left off as we were getting ready for shabbos. The preperations came down to the wire as the oven was tiny and everything had to be double wrapped but we pulled it off! I peeled raw sweet potatoes, and mashed frozen vegetables all with plastic utensils, which is nott an easy feat. Highlights was when my plastic fork chopper broke in the cauliflower mix and kinda camolfouged in so it was impossible to find, but bh rocko found it in her kugel today before it made it into her mouth! Anyways everything was ready and our friday nite meal was very nice. I'd say we were pretty exhaustesd so after diNner and a few tabloids later we were off to bed.
Now for today- after a much needed late wake up we davened, prepared lunch, and let the fun day begin. Now u may ask, wat did this fun day entail? Well ill tell u- some good food, some chatting, and a lott of kent, president, and yaniv games! (Elissa schertz- I started a new book and I'm already on page 24 so I hope to be done by pesach 2011!) We witnessed a huge rainstorm from our room which I kinda hoped wud be tmrw so I can use my new raincoat, but it was ok because a beauitfullll rainbow emerged...it was crazy we saw the full arch (sorry I'm not being as detailed as my nature freak travel buddies wud like but all I can say was that it was beautiful, wudda liked for the chanbon to give me a heter to use my camera, but ok). I don't think wev ever been more excited to eat chicken in our entire lives. Props to mimi and sahar for pulling off great recipes w limited resources. Also thanks mom for ur awesome makeshift kugel recipe...it was such an awesome added bonus, even with plastic in it!)
So after 4 girls being couped up in a room for over 24 hours its pretty impressive that we all survived and still like eachother. (Questionable at points). We are going to get ready for this hike now. Tomorow is 21 kilometers, 7 hours, and 300 meters ascent, and according to my bberry measurement converter 21km is 13 miles....which I've done before in 3 hours!!!!! So it shudnt be too bad! Anyways well keep u posted, shavua tov! Gut vuch! (8 more days till eretz yisroel!)
-"cheers"
Dee
Friday, June 25, 2010
Dunloe Adventures
Today was an unbelievable day filled with ample laughs, tears, and lies. We signed up for the ultimate tour of Dunloe today. It began this morning with a fantastic boat ride. We rode our bikes to the pier by Ross Castle--an exquisite castle built in the 15th century. There, we boarded a motor boat and took a majestically scenic boat ride led by our everso professional Captain Rob. Our bikes were put on board with us so that we could bike the 13 mile path back into Killarney. The 3 lakes that we traveled across are enveloped by breathtaking mountains and fields. It was a bit chilly on the water but the experience was truly amazing- we were completely surrounded by such spectacular views.
When we docked at the Dunloe mountains we stopped at a picnic area for a delicious lunch of cheese sandwiches that were almost as appealing as the juicy burgers that everyone else was eating. Our table right next to the grill was probably not the best seating selection. Be that as it may, we emerged from lunch feeling satiated and excited to start our bike ride back to town.
This activity taught us a great deal: We've learned that either the people of Ireland have no concept of distance or the entire country has it out for us- and have all joined a national pact to cunningly ruin our lives. We were told before and during our lovely bike trail by numerous Irish individuals that we had just 2 miles (or maybe even kilometers) of a manageable uphill course until we'd hit our smooth ride downhill. The lady who rented our bikes to us told us that the uphill part wasn't too bad and assured us that her own granny managed it and that we'd have no problem. The total ride was about 20 km or 13 miles- and Captain Rob told us that it would take us roughly an hour and a half. Piece of cake. We (everyone but Deena) were almost upset that it may not have been rigorous enough.
Well, an hour and a half, one busted lung, and a few shed tears later we found ourselves still crawling up the alleged 2 mile/km incline wondering what on earth it was that we did to the Irish people that brought them to mercilessly mislead us so. According to our dictated course- we were supposed to be home by 230 or 3 at the latest. Sahar is an avid spinner, Dee runs marathons, Rocko's a runner, and I'm...well...me, so we were even anticipating an early arrival. The reality of the situation, however, was that at 3 in the afternoon we found ourselves sitting on the "granny" slope doubting whether or not we'd make it home alive- getting home before shabbos or even that day was just a bonus.
The concern was that we were still surviving the "2 mile" uphill path with another 12+ miles to go. At first, I attempted to appease Deena by telling her that there was just 3/4 of a mile left. It worked in the beginning but a few 3/4 of a mile's later Deena caught on that I had no idea how long the 90 degree incline would last for and we all became restless. We flagged down every car and biker we encountered to ask how much longer and were lied to each time that we were approaching a downhill course very very soon. Either Irish people are all liars or 'very very soon' means something very different here.
Finally, by the grace of God, we approached the downhill! It happened to have been the most beautiful scenery I may have ever witnessed that made the deathly bike ride worth every tear (debatable according to Deena).
Don't worry though- there's more. With only 2 km (really 2 km- not to be confused with the 2 km incline) left before finally reaching town, we reached a fork in the road. Our choices were 1. The "Holy Well" 2. The "Circular path". The lady from the bike store specifically instructed us not to take the circular path. And just to confirm, we asked a woman passing by where to go and she instructed us to follow the coast which was in the direction of the Holy Well course.
We hesitanty made our way down the rocky path that was in no way suited for a bike ride only to approach a locked gate surrounded by an electric fence. Seriously???? Sahar was the only one who healthily managed to laugh at the situation at the moment. Meanwhile Rocko began her effort to climb under the gate and sneak her way through the electric fence. She even threw rocks at the fence to test it out- it's unclear what that experiment really proved but It didn't matter. We were exhausted, annoyed with our misleading guidance, and itching to get back to the apartment. I admired Rocko's dedication to getting home. Was it normal? No. But definitely bold and courageous- which are definitely valued qualities.
We finally decided that the plan to jump the electric fence was most likely not the right course so we headed to the circular path and finally returned home a few minutes later. I held myself bak from knocking out the bike lady tho but I let her know I was very upset with her through my "you know what you did" face. Its serious stuff.
We're now in the apt- sore and exhausted- but we have much cooking and preparing to do before shabbos. And we have all of shabbos to enjoy the comfort of our apartment. Literally. We're on house arrest for all of shabbos because we conveniently chose the super nifty apartment complex where all the lights and doors operate through sensors. So we're stuck in cheirum from about 10 o'clock tonite till 11pm tomorrow night. Deenas thrilled, and Sahar's having heart palpatations.
It's hilarious because Deena has been suffering with anxiety the past few days over the approaching 3 day hike that Sahar planned and has been anticipating with more excitement than is perhaps normal. Meanwhile, Deena couldn't be looking more forward to 24 hours of confinement and vegetation, while Sahar is breaking out in hives from anxiety over the same condition. I respect that these two have managed to find themselves on the same trip. It's a trip of true sacrifice where everyones concerns and interests are considered. That's the second lesson of the day: compromise and sacrifice. Such an educational vacation.
That's all for today tho. Have a great shabbos everyone.
Cheers,
Mimi
When we docked at the Dunloe mountains we stopped at a picnic area for a delicious lunch of cheese sandwiches that were almost as appealing as the juicy burgers that everyone else was eating. Our table right next to the grill was probably not the best seating selection. Be that as it may, we emerged from lunch feeling satiated and excited to start our bike ride back to town.
This activity taught us a great deal: We've learned that either the people of Ireland have no concept of distance or the entire country has it out for us- and have all joined a national pact to cunningly ruin our lives. We were told before and during our lovely bike trail by numerous Irish individuals that we had just 2 miles (or maybe even kilometers) of a manageable uphill course until we'd hit our smooth ride downhill. The lady who rented our bikes to us told us that the uphill part wasn't too bad and assured us that her own granny managed it and that we'd have no problem. The total ride was about 20 km or 13 miles- and Captain Rob told us that it would take us roughly an hour and a half. Piece of cake. We (everyone but Deena) were almost upset that it may not have been rigorous enough.
Well, an hour and a half, one busted lung, and a few shed tears later we found ourselves still crawling up the alleged 2 mile/km incline wondering what on earth it was that we did to the Irish people that brought them to mercilessly mislead us so. According to our dictated course- we were supposed to be home by 230 or 3 at the latest. Sahar is an avid spinner, Dee runs marathons, Rocko's a runner, and I'm...well...me, so we were even anticipating an early arrival. The reality of the situation, however, was that at 3 in the afternoon we found ourselves sitting on the "granny" slope doubting whether or not we'd make it home alive- getting home before shabbos or even that day was just a bonus.
The concern was that we were still surviving the "2 mile" uphill path with another 12+ miles to go. At first, I attempted to appease Deena by telling her that there was just 3/4 of a mile left. It worked in the beginning but a few 3/4 of a mile's later Deena caught on that I had no idea how long the 90 degree incline would last for and we all became restless. We flagged down every car and biker we encountered to ask how much longer and were lied to each time that we were approaching a downhill course very very soon. Either Irish people are all liars or 'very very soon' means something very different here.
Finally, by the grace of God, we approached the downhill! It happened to have been the most beautiful scenery I may have ever witnessed that made the deathly bike ride worth every tear (debatable according to Deena).
Don't worry though- there's more. With only 2 km (really 2 km- not to be confused with the 2 km incline) left before finally reaching town, we reached a fork in the road. Our choices were 1. The "Holy Well" 2. The "Circular path". The lady from the bike store specifically instructed us not to take the circular path. And just to confirm, we asked a woman passing by where to go and she instructed us to follow the coast which was in the direction of the Holy Well course.
We hesitanty made our way down the rocky path that was in no way suited for a bike ride only to approach a locked gate surrounded by an electric fence. Seriously???? Sahar was the only one who healthily managed to laugh at the situation at the moment. Meanwhile Rocko began her effort to climb under the gate and sneak her way through the electric fence. She even threw rocks at the fence to test it out- it's unclear what that experiment really proved but It didn't matter. We were exhausted, annoyed with our misleading guidance, and itching to get back to the apartment. I admired Rocko's dedication to getting home. Was it normal? No. But definitely bold and courageous- which are definitely valued qualities.
We finally decided that the plan to jump the electric fence was most likely not the right course so we headed to the circular path and finally returned home a few minutes later. I held myself bak from knocking out the bike lady tho but I let her know I was very upset with her through my "you know what you did" face. Its serious stuff.
We're now in the apt- sore and exhausted- but we have much cooking and preparing to do before shabbos. And we have all of shabbos to enjoy the comfort of our apartment. Literally. We're on house arrest for all of shabbos because we conveniently chose the super nifty apartment complex where all the lights and doors operate through sensors. So we're stuck in cheirum from about 10 o'clock tonite till 11pm tomorrow night. Deenas thrilled, and Sahar's having heart palpatations.
It's hilarious because Deena has been suffering with anxiety the past few days over the approaching 3 day hike that Sahar planned and has been anticipating with more excitement than is perhaps normal. Meanwhile, Deena couldn't be looking more forward to 24 hours of confinement and vegetation, while Sahar is breaking out in hives from anxiety over the same condition. I respect that these two have managed to find themselves on the same trip. It's a trip of true sacrifice where everyones concerns and interests are considered. That's the second lesson of the day: compromise and sacrifice. Such an educational vacation.
That's all for today tho. Have a great shabbos everyone.
Cheers,
Mimi
Thursday, June 24, 2010
DK's Addendum to Sahar
Hey all,
So I thought I had a lot to clarify from sahar's most recent post and I am now going to take that opportunity. Before anyone calls me out for taking the extra 2 hours to sleep (and watch tennis for all of ten minutes) let me explain to u last nites circumstances. Yestersday manu, the owner of the jewish shak/hostel gave me the biggest room bc he said I smiled at him the most, thann mimi was afraid of her room (rightfully so) so I did the right thing and let her join me. Our mattress was flat, slanted, filthy, and on the floor and yet somehow mimi managed to fall asleep, I on the other hand was not able to until 330am...and we woke up at 530...andd before this eurotrip started I had Judah Schert (my almost nephew) bris so that was another rlearlyy morning. So yes, today I diddd need the extra 2 hours of sleep. Now that I cleared that one up, this movie was notttt my idea, am I dissapointed? No, but did I chose it? No to that too. We passed a theatre and my fellow movie buddy sahar suggested it. So we are going to see the killers (which I already saw), I suggested letters to juliet which shockingly I didn't make it to during its run in the usa, and I thought itd be especially appropriate with the whole euro trip theme, but newsflash everyone apparently mimi begas does not see chick flicks! I took my first irish shower which felt amazing! And now if only I found a way to get the horse odor off my clothing...I'm taking suggestions! U know how sensitive I am to smell and I was planning on using this skirt many atimes over the next 6 days. Oh ps mimi had 3 beers last nite! Everything is great, we're having an awesome time, and I cannot waittt to be fleishichs tomorow nite!! Regards to everyone
DK
So I thought I had a lot to clarify from sahar's most recent post and I am now going to take that opportunity. Before anyone calls me out for taking the extra 2 hours to sleep (and watch tennis for all of ten minutes) let me explain to u last nites circumstances. Yestersday manu, the owner of the jewish shak/hostel gave me the biggest room bc he said I smiled at him the most, thann mimi was afraid of her room (rightfully so) so I did the right thing and let her join me. Our mattress was flat, slanted, filthy, and on the floor and yet somehow mimi managed to fall asleep, I on the other hand was not able to until 330am...and we woke up at 530...andd before this eurotrip started I had Judah Schert (my almost nephew) bris so that was another rlearlyy morning. So yes, today I diddd need the extra 2 hours of sleep. Now that I cleared that one up, this movie was notttt my idea, am I dissapointed? No, but did I chose it? No to that too. We passed a theatre and my fellow movie buddy sahar suggested it. So we are going to see the killers (which I already saw), I suggested letters to juliet which shockingly I didn't make it to during its run in the usa, and I thought itd be especially appropriate with the whole euro trip theme, but newsflash everyone apparently mimi begas does not see chick flicks! I took my first irish shower which felt amazing! And now if only I found a way to get the horse odor off my clothing...I'm taking suggestions! U know how sensitive I am to smell and I was planning on using this skirt many atimes over the next 6 days. Oh ps mimi had 3 beers last nite! Everything is great, we're having an awesome time, and I cannot waittt to be fleishichs tomorow nite!! Regards to everyone
DK
we reek like today's activities
Another good day so far! We came from the beautiful train to a beautiful apartment. And for all those who have been thus far led to think I'm a nazi trip planner, I would just like to say- I booked this beautiful place. I know the art of compromise (and how important it is to the dynamics of this trip to keep team hotel happy). The apartment has marble floors, a beautiful clean kitchen, a flat screen, and greeaat water pressure! After a refreshing 2 hr nap, in the first actual beds since NY, we were ready to head out. And by we, I mean mimi, rocko and sahar. Deena had to stay behind because she needed a little more sleep and we NEEDED minute by minute updates on the tennis match. So the 3 of us set out, got a nice cup of coffee and headed to Killarney National Park. The weather turned beautiful, sunny and breezy and we chilled for a bit by a creek. This is what life was meant to be like. Next up was our horseback riding experience at Muckross lodge. Once again deena had to sacrifice and let someone lead her since she had to take pictures. She then proceeded to joke around and discuss heated politics with her guide since she felt bad for the attitude she gave him out of fear when she first got on the horse. But in all fairness, it wasn't necessary to get leather burns while learning how to use the reigns. All of a sudden we hear: JACKO JaCKO!!! (Verrry angry SS voice) Deena, now reaaaaly scared: omg! What did I do?! Rocko: yemach shemo! Also, a few freakishly prophetic things went on at that stable: a) the stable boy handed us perfectly fitted boots without asking our sizes and b) the horses had our twin personalities: sparky had ibs, davie loved taken breaks, marcy was a mad chiller, and pattie was the headstrong bossy one, pushing marcys butt forward with his head. can u guess who were their riders?
So now the plan is to get rid of this horse smell, go see the sights and get to know the local cinema. (Again, important to make team hotel feel at home).
Until next time, sahar.
So now the plan is to get rid of this horse smell, go see the sights and get to know the local cinema. (Again, important to make team hotel feel at home).
Until next time, sahar.
Rocko's in the house! (her first post)
Popped tylenol about a half hour ago to cure the headache one gets when waking before light breaks. As I sit on this train trying to take in the beauty of irelands countryside I've noticed that irish cows prefer not walking on fours but rather like to play dead... Omg a cow just waved to me! Mommy are you sure you gave me tylenol? Or did you give me those "happy" pills? RoCKo
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Let the backpacking begin!
Waking up this morning was one of the more miserable things I've experienced in life. I remember not having much of a clue as to what was going on when the alarm blaringly (not a word) went off, but I do remember being in a state of severe anger. No one should ever have to undergo the torture of being shaken out of a deep sleep by the sound of little boys shrieking modeh ani. Baruch hashem, a couple snoozes later, I was ready to literally roll myself out of "bed" (for lack of a better word for the alleged mattress that Deena and I slept on last night that decided to deflate itself more and more with each passed hour). And I just wanna say for all of you who casted me or Dee as the weakest link that if you could see where we slept last night your impression that Team Hotel may be too high maintenance for this trip would most definitely be abated.
Against the strong odds presented by my ranking in the polls, I made the train this morning. I'm now on the train ignoring the majestic scenery to write this blog. So I'm gonna sign out now to daven and then take in my beautiful surroundings (I.e. Pass out for the next couple hours)
Cheers
Mimi
Against the strong odds presented by my ranking in the polls, I made the train this morning. I'm now on the train ignoring the majestic scenery to write this blog. So I'm gonna sign out now to daven and then take in my beautiful surroundings (I.e. Pass out for the next couple hours)
Cheers
Mimi
pre hike anxiety attacks
Its 2am, we just finished packing up our backpacks for the next 6 days. When I say that I am having heart palputations...well that would be an understatement. The anxiety between the 4 of us is through the roof. What was sahar thinking when she planned this? Carry 6 days worth of stuff on my back?? Clearly she's never been on a hike with me before (well I haven't done that many for her to join but sure). Mimi is extremely dissapointed because she bought wacky mack and just learned that you can't boil water in a tin pan on a stove. Looks like well be living off tuna fish for6 days and for someone who doesn't even like fish! (Except toddys balsamic tuna of course) this is going to be quiet a difficult 6 days. I have a new diet everyone- its called let sahar plan a trip. We are waking up at 530 am (3 hours) to catch a train. That is the third night in a row of a 3 hour sleep...wow everyone should be rly pleasent tmrw :-). My roomate mimi (she's not even supposed to be my roomate but she's afraid of her room since there is more dirt than mattress in there. Literally my heart is pounding I'm bugging out. Please have deena bas chana and miriam esther bas sarah in mind in ur tefilot sunday monday and wed. Much thanks
Team hotel
Team hotel
my "roughing it" crew?
Blogging live from the post show celebrations... I'd like to dedicate this one to deena who, didn't just make our show tonight- she made THE show tonight. Literally. But we'll get there.
Fully recharged from our caffeine we decided to hit the town. First we stopped to check out the Travelodge because Team Hotel had an anxiety attack upon meeting our hostel. Mimi: give my reservations as a donation. I'm staying here!
We then started towards the the famous free wax museum. We got there, took some awesome pics outside, entered, realized it wasn't so free, and left. But its all good b/c our pictures say we were there.
We had a gourmet dinner of PB and rice cakes and tuna on the riverside. Very beautiful and very cute!
Then came our much anticipated show Britains Got Talent. The first act was a gymnast group called Spellbound, and true to their name were incredibly spellbinding. Check out their youtubes!! Theyr unreal! Then came the real highlite: CONNECTED, "the boy band of the decade". Unclear who was shrieking louder- deena or all the othr 13 year old girls in the stadium. It was so good in fact that the not-so-funny MC decided to work off their energy and start a wave. He points: "you with the glasses! You start it!" Deena almost cried at the honor. Next was the boy "with the voice of an angel". I was rudely awakened from my nap but sudden shaking, "you're sleeping?! This is history in the making! He's never sung this before!" Deena yet again. All in all, to cut things short, the show was beyond awesome!
We decided to end the night by getting to know the true irish culture and started walking to town. (We lost mimi momentarily- dejavu?- but then she reemerged from a tiny shop with her kitkat.)
And so we ended up at the AULD Dubliner where we bonded with the crowd singing wonderwall at the top of their merry lungs.
It was after all an early night for us however since we have to get up at the crack of dawn tomorrow to get to the other side of the country (and b/c rocko was picking up new admirers). We are psyched to pack all our food and stuff for shabbos and the week in our backpacks. Deena asked me to add that- tho her tone was slightly less one of excitement and slightly more one of disbelieving digust.
We are now in the taxi on our way back. I personally think he should be paying us since deena is currently giving our nigerian driver a personal concert of "oh africa" accompanied by akon/her beloved ipad.
just a few words from tonights honoree:
-everyone misses their family and friends! Thanks for your continued loyalty and following.
-she's pissed that she got votes for missing the 7am train tomorrow. These people obbbvvviioouussllly don't know her!
Good night!!
-sahar
Fully recharged from our caffeine we decided to hit the town. First we stopped to check out the Travelodge because Team Hotel had an anxiety attack upon meeting our hostel. Mimi: give my reservations as a donation. I'm staying here!
We then started towards the the famous free wax museum. We got there, took some awesome pics outside, entered, realized it wasn't so free, and left. But its all good b/c our pictures say we were there.
We had a gourmet dinner of PB and rice cakes and tuna on the riverside. Very beautiful and very cute!
Then came our much anticipated show Britains Got Talent. The first act was a gymnast group called Spellbound, and true to their name were incredibly spellbinding. Check out their youtubes!! Theyr unreal! Then came the real highlite: CONNECTED, "the boy band of the decade". Unclear who was shrieking louder- deena or all the othr 13 year old girls in the stadium. It was so good in fact that the not-so-funny MC decided to work off their energy and start a wave. He points: "you with the glasses! You start it!" Deena almost cried at the honor. Next was the boy "with the voice of an angel". I was rudely awakened from my nap but sudden shaking, "you're sleeping?! This is history in the making! He's never sung this before!" Deena yet again. All in all, to cut things short, the show was beyond awesome!
We decided to end the night by getting to know the true irish culture and started walking to town. (We lost mimi momentarily- dejavu?- but then she reemerged from a tiny shop with her kitkat.)
And so we ended up at the AULD Dubliner where we bonded with the crowd singing wonderwall at the top of their merry lungs.
It was after all an early night for us however since we have to get up at the crack of dawn tomorrow to get to the other side of the country (and b/c rocko was picking up new admirers). We are psyched to pack all our food and stuff for shabbos and the week in our backpacks. Deena asked me to add that- tho her tone was slightly less one of excitement and slightly more one of disbelieving digust.
We are now in the taxi on our way back. I personally think he should be paying us since deena is currently giving our nigerian driver a personal concert of "oh africa" accompanied by akon/her beloved ipad.
just a few words from tonights honoree:
-everyone misses their family and friends! Thanks for your continued loyalty and following.
-she's pissed that she got votes for missing the 7am train tomorrow. These people obbbvvviioouussllly don't know her!
Good night!!
-sahar
The American girls find refuge
We were off to a rough start running on less than 3 hours of sleep, only to be confronted with yet another obstacle when we arrived at our "sh-hole" hostel (to quote the wise Dr Genuth). We then travelled to the grocery store known to have a kosher aisle via cab where deena decided it was normal to share everything except maybe her SS number with the driver. We were slightly dissapointed to find that the kosher aisle was more like the kosher cubby but we managed and hopefuly we won't starve on Shabbos. Our "roughing it" trip has now taken a pleasant new tone beginning with a complimentary cab ride by an anonymous patron to our American embassy--Starbucks.
Cheers!
~Mimi
Cheers!
~Mimi
hostels or hostile
So we just got to our very first hostel....yikes never again! (We will be here tonite and next shabbos) see facebook for an image, having difficult time figuring out how to upload pics from the bberry to the blog. Anyone know of a dublin bed bath and beyond? Mimi wud like to know! Let's just say its a good thing I brought a sheet and pilowcase! In ordee to make americans feel more at home there is a zac efron posted in my room...phew and I thought I wudd miss him! We already made one new friend....a cat who lives in the hostel with us. Otherwise all is awesome, after a 3 hour flite delay we landed safe and sound and took a cab here (on the other side of the road!) All else is awesome, we're about to head out and tour the city before britians got talent. Anyways this place is a dump but its all part of the chavaya. Ireland baby!
Signing out for now....
- TEAM HOTEL (dk and mimi)
Signing out for now....
- TEAM HOTEL (dk and mimi)
Monday, June 21, 2010
The night before..
Getting ready to leave tomorow!
Gonna be a crazy trip!
stay tuned for updates, pics, videos, etc...
Peace out!
Gonna be a crazy trip!
stay tuned for updates, pics, videos, etc...
Peace out!
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