One-year anniversary

I've been here a year. It's been a weird mix of falling in love with Ireland all over again and dealing with high levels of stress around being a student; finding, buying, and fixing up a house; living out of suitcases; constantly learning new things (phone, washing machine, driving, house thermostats, car radio); missing friends; and marital stress, which is probably unavoidable given everything else, but not much fun regardless.

The weather has been beautiful for the past week but was especially warm today. We walked along the beach and the coastal path from Holywood past Seahill. Hundreds of people out with their children and dogs, playing on the playground equipment or on the beach. I love how there are wonderful playgrounds for children at some of the best spots along the coast. In the U.S., I'm convinced the same real estate would host a high-rise condo. The playground was packed and there was even an ice cream van there. I love that first warm day of the year when everyone is in a wonderful mood and newly appreciative of what was there all along.
3-22