Tyler and I are having another good week here in Ireland. We both miss our moms and dads– well, at least I do.

I love school, nothing beats having a tea, coffee, and scones break. Did I mention that teachers get complementary lunches here? I think that is typical in Ireland, but don’t quote me on that. I have actually been able to eat lunch the past two days with two girls from the Taylor University Irish Studies Program group – Lauren and Amanda. They have been observing different teachers in the primary school for a few days. It has been fun comparing notes with them on school systems in the US and in Ireland.

I am working with a wonderful teacher named Mary West. She has been so helpful with showing me the ropes of teaching secondary students. My students are great! There have been a few particular classes that I have been able to really get to know because I see them three or four times a week.

One of my students I see a lot of happened to be good friends with my brother Ryan when he attended St. Andrews for the 03’-04’ school year. Her name is Saskia, and she is from Holland. She is amazing when it comes to painting, and she also has a good eye for design and composition. I also have many other students that have just been a joy to get to know. The more I am in this school, and no matter how preppy or international it is, highschoolers are highschoolers no matter where in the world they come from. They all have the same hopes, fears, dreams, struggles, desires, wants, needs, and the list goes on.

Tyler is doing well and continues to enjoy his work with both the sports ministry and the youth group. He’s been fighting a bad cold all week, but he thinks he is finally breaking it. Saturday’s have become our day off together, which has provided for loads of fun. Last weekend, we hiked a mountain called Sugarloaf. It was so windy - blowing up the mountain - it nearly blew us off our feet at the top. Then it took three tries to get back down going against the wind. It was worth it. We had a great view of the towns of Bray and Greystones. We warmed up, thereafter, at Powerscourt Mansion, sipping coffee and enjoying the views that you may remember from the party scene in the movie, “Count of Monte Cristo.” There’s your recommendation for a movie to watch this weekend… after you cheer on Ohio State to their victory on Saturday – GO BUCKS!!!

Okay, I think it is time for bed. Good night.

Erin Whitney

P.S. If you are in Upland area, you must see my good friend Becky Beeh’s senior art exhibit at the Metcalf Art Building. I had a sneak peek of it before I came here – I am sad to be missing her opening on Friday night the 17th from 7-9pm. It should be up for at least two weeks.