"How Lucky I Am to Have Something that Makes Saying Goodbye So Hard"

I know I said I would post about my experiences during the 12th of July, and I still plan to devote a blog post to that, but I think now is more time for reflection.

First, an update of the last few days. Monday we went saw parades and then went to the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum - super cool museum full of old cars and trains.

Tuesday was a crazy day. We visited Stormont and City Hall and shopped in Belfast (and enjoyed a delicious Ulster Fry, the area's specialty). Then we went to what is called the "Sham Fight" in Scarva. Pretty much, a giant festival celebrating the 12th of July and the main event focused on a bunch of men in wigs shooting at flags on a stick. Because, you know, that's what happened at the Battle of the Boyne.

Then we made dinner and had #TacoTuesdayswithTim. We enjoyed margaritas, tacos/burrito things, and then watched a play that Tim was in a few years ago.

I don't know if I ever formally introduced Tim. He is the Director of the Saint Patrick Centre and an all-around fantastic human. Full of humorous anecdotes, great one-liners and tons of energy - he is a perfect match for the Young Ambassador Program.

Then on Wednesday, Hannah and I worked on a new website for the Young Ambassador Program and spent time at the centre.

Today, I was able to go into MP of South Down Margaret Ritchie's constituency office. I did research, wrote a press release, and got a feel of the political life of Northern Ireland. A great day!

Final thoughts:

It is now 11 o'clock in the evening and I am sitting on the couch surrounded by 5 incredible individuals (and it is pouring rain - I think the sky is crying that we are leaving). What an incredibly crazy, exhausting, enlightening, entertaining, spiritual, lovely two weeks it has been. We have traveled together, cooked together, shared a drink together, and learned about this part of the world together - we now share a special bond, and I am glad it is with them.

I found that at times I forgot where I was. Life goes on no matter where you are - people go to work, cook dinner, spend time with family, repeat. I had to remind myself to look around me, into the world - a small piece of the giant puzzle looking for where to fit in. I am one-step closer to the never-ending journey of finding myself; of learning about the world and all of the fantastic treasures it has to offer. What a glorious opportunity I have been given - I am saddened this part of the journey is over, but I am excited to see what is to come.

I will be blogging more over the next few days - from here, 3 of our 6 Ambassadors are heading home. I will be heading down south to see my granddad and spend a few days with family (an opportunity for which I am so incredibly grateful).

Thank you for participating in my journey so far. I know it has been sporadic and full of nonsensical ramblings at times (see above), but boy - what a ride!

Until next time.

Love,

Ciara