For all of you out there wondering how on Earth I came to travel across Ireland alone, here is some background to my epic saga. This whole adventure started out as a grant propsal to travel through Ireland for a month. I would have a stipend, a mighty hefty one I might add, and some basic guidelines and additional responsiblities to tend to once I returned from my trip.

Well, needless to say, I didn't get the grant and well, the rest is here for you to read. I hope that one day, I might be able to publish this little story (lofty goal, I know, but a girl has to dream big) for all the world to read. (And, royalties would be nice too! I know, I'm pressing my luck.) Enjoy!

I remember coming home that day to find that huge white envelope hanging out of my mailbox. I thought this was my ticket to a month of fun in Ireland. I had anticipated this day since November whan I mailed in my grant application. Now, as I stood in my living room, envelope in hand, butterflies in my stomach and the biggest lump in my throat ever, I knew I was holding the fate of my summer in my trembling hands.

As I was ripping open the envelope, I remember thinking this had better say "Congratulations" or else I might just dissolve into a puddle on the floor. I had spent so much time and energy into writing, what I thought was the greatest plea for travel money ever known to man. I thought I was a shoo-in for the travel grant. Afterall, when you get into college, they send you a big envelope and in my hands I happened to be have one honking massive envelope. I could almost smell the Irish air.