The last few months of my life have been quite stressful with work and the anxiety surrounding the unknown of whether I was going to be able to stay in Ireland or if I had to go back to the United States. At work, we were coming up to a major election and we all were putting in long hours, so I was uncertain of whether or not sponsorship would be a possibility until the very end. However, I wouldn't trade my last few months for anything.
Fish tacos, burgers, and tapas.
I spent most of my time at work, but I still was able to spend a lot of time with my mates, and drank and ate far too much. It was somewhat like an extended holiday that I had to work through. I did still get to enjoy life though, and spent some time out in Wicklow which is always amazing.
Wicklow is beautiful.
Fianna Fáil did really well in the elections as well, much better then we all even hoped for! Now there's a lot of uncertainty when it comes to the state of next government, but I wish you all the best of luck.
Killiney and the Powerscourt waterfall.
As the date of the end of my visa got closer and closer, I realized how much I came to love Dublin and Ireland, and how much it pained me to think about going home. I wanted to stay there so badly. I had made a life for myself, in this beautiful and miserable country. I had a solid group of friends, a great job, and despite the stress, I was happy. I came to realize that home is not always where you come from or where your family is. Home is where your heart is.
The last few nights in Dublin spent with mates.
My final memento to Ireland. Forever in my heart.
Ireland stole my heart. I miss all of you and I miss you Dublin. I will see you soon.
I mo chroí go deo.