It's Actually Pretty Easy to be Lonely in a Crowd

I think I've discovered why it is that more people don't just pull up stakes and leave everything behind for a move like this. Loneliness. I know I worked hard to create this situation and that I am lucky to have my health. But such a clean break from my old life makes for a pretty lonely journey.

I think once Frances, my sister-in-law and cohort in crime, left, I realized I really am alone. Sure there are tons of people here. The pubs are packed, the streets are teeming with students and locals and tourists and people keep saying, if you need anything at all, just ask. But they can't give you your kids or your friends or even new friends. You have to do that for yourself.

On the upside I did go through orientation and I did get a student ID. I've registered for classes that start next week. I found a Gaelic Speaking Society to join that meets in the evenings. And I've discovered that there's a 'Mature Student Society' here. Apparently there are enough older students these days that we are a 'thing'.

I even booked a room in a little town called Lisdoonvarna about an hour away for the end of the month. Get this they have a Matchmaking Festival there. (Seriously, check it out!:  www.matchmakerireland.com/)And I'm pretty sure I got the last room in town for it. I feel like if I don't make myself do some of these things I'll sit in this wee house waiting for life to find me. And I only have a year here! So I'm trying everything I can. (That is except black pudding and blood sausage)

But there's no getting around it, I truly do miss my kids, and Oreo and Cathie and Frances and I wish they could all be here in the flesh. I guess that just goes to show you that it actually is pretty easy to be lonely in a crowd.