#dublin cleaning supplies

[avdirect]

[strawb3rryqueer]

Hozier's mention of the word "hushpukena" (a Choctaw word) in the song Butchered Tongue was, of course, not a random decision. In a song about the pain of being disconnected from your ancestral language and culture as a result of colonization and oppression from outside forces- which is something that both Irish and Native American people have experienced to varying degrees. Not only do Irish and Indigenous people have this shared history of colonization at the hands of the British, but Irish and Indigenous communities have a long history of support for one another.

The usage of "hushpukena" is even more specific and important because it calls back to the mutually positive relationship between Irish and Choctaw people specifically. During the Great Hunger in Ireland, the Choctaw Nation donated $170, which is more than $5,000 in today’s money, to aid the Irish. Out of all American aid given to Ireland during the famine, the donation from the Choctaw Nation was the largest donation given.

In 1990, leaders from the Choctaw Nation visited County Mayo in Ireland to participate in the first annual Famine Walk. In 1992, Irish people visited the Choctaw Nation and participated in a trek to commemorate the Trail of Tears. Also in 1992, a plaque commemorating the Choctaw's aid was installed in the house of the mayor of Dublin. In 1995, the Irish President Mary Robinson visited the tribal headquarters of the Choctaw Nation to thank the Choctaw people for their aid. In 2017, a sculpture named "Kindred Spirits" was built in Cork, Ireland to commemorate the Choctaw's aid and to continue friendship between the two communities. In 2018, the Taoiseach (prime minister) of Ireland visited Choctaw tribal headquarters and stated,"A few years ago, on a visit to Ireland, a representative of the Choctaw Nation called your support for us ‘a sacred memory’. It is that and more. It is a sacred bond, which has joined our peoples together for all time". In 2020, more than $1.8 million was raised by Irish people as aid for Native American people (specifically the Navajo and Hopi) during the pandemic, to help provide food, clean water, and health supplies.

[hannahssimblr]

Chapter Six (Part 2)

Later on, I arrive home to a house that smells like butter and sugar. My dad mutters a gruff “howya” through the ajar living room door as I hang up my coat and bag on the stairs. He’s watching snooker. I pause at the door. “How’s it going?”

“Grand yeah. Good match?”

I shrug. “It was alright. Not sure I’m converted into a football lover yet.”

“Tullamore win?”

“Yep.”

“Good stuff.” 

I go through to the kitchen where my mam is cleaning, as usual, and even though it’s turned cold while autumn has blown in, she’s in a sweat, wiping her brow with her sleeve as she works the mop into the floor with a vigour. 

“Hi.” I say. “Were you baking?”

“I was. A bit of tea brack.”

“Aw, yuck.”

“Yuck yourself. It’s always the sweeties with you, chocolate this, jellies that, there’s nothing wrong with a bit of good old fashioned brack.”

“Well I don’t like sultanas. Still.” I remind her. “Do you have anything for me?”

She stops cleaning and rests her elbow on the end of the mop. “What kind of ‘thing’?”

“I dunno, something quick, I just want to grab something before I get the bus back.”

She makes an outraged sound, shaking her head as she swipes the mop across the floorboards. “Sure you’re only just home and you’re gone again!”

“Yeah I know, there’s just not much to do here, I was going to go back and sort myself out for work on Monday, like, I dunno, maybe go to the stationary shop and get new pens.”

“New pens.” She repeats, like the thought of me wanting to get them is completely ridiculous. “If you want something to do I’ll find something for you to do.”

“Well, I don’t particularly-” I begin, but she’s already had an idea, so protest is futile. 

“You’ll clean your room.” She announces, and I groan. “Mam, no, I don’t have the energy for that.”

“It’s a tip! I’m sick of going up there and having to look at the mess on the floor, you’d think that you being long moved out would mean the place’d be spotless, but no-”

“Just shut the door then and you won’t have to look.” 

“-it’s still a state, every day. The amount of stuff you have in there that’s old and doesn’t fit you, or is no use to you whatsoever. The last time I was in there I saw the shoes I got you when you were going into your junior cert year, they’ve the soles hanging off them and all. What use are five year old shoes to you now?”

I roll my eyes. “Mam…” she props the mop against the counter and starts rifling through the bottom drawer in the kitchen. She seizes a roll of bin bags and tosses them at me. I miss, and they unroll ridiculously across the tiles. As I’m bending down to pick up and re-roll it she announces. “You’re going to go up there now and get rid of everything that you don’t want anymore. Put your clothes in a bag for the charity shop. And then you’re going to dust and hoover every inch of it, and it’s going to be sparkling clean when you’re done.”

“Yeah. Alright. Fine.”

“Good woman.” She says, wielding the mop once again. “I’ll bring you up a sandwich in a while. Off you go.” 

I’d never admit it to her, but my mother is right about my room. It’s bad. It’s always been bad, and while I’ve never explicitly cared that much about how bad it is, I can’t truthfully deny that it’s unacceptable. I don’t even know where to begin. I know that under the bed is crammed with stuff, old school books, birthday cards I can never bring myself to throw away, photographs, art supplies, sketchbooks. 

The wardrobes are bursting with clothes, none of which I wear, seeing as my entire adult wardrobe lives with me in Dublin. The drawer where I pulled the Tullamore jersey from earlier has collapsed off its roller slides and lies crookedly, half of it on the floor with piles of t-shirts and mismatched pyjamas spilling out of it. A cheaply constructed wall shelf my dad put up when I was ten is bowed in the middle from the weight of the old teen magazines I used to collect and props up the broken CD player I got from uncle Sean on my first holy communion. Looking at all of it makes heat rise to my neck and my chest heave slightly in panic. I don’t even know where to begin. 

I leave the bin bags on the floor and drop to my knees amongst piles of clothes and shoes, bits of useless papers and old bags. The breath that exits me is shuddering. What’s wrong with me? Why do I let things get like this? I pick up the first thing that my hand touches; A knee length white sock that was part of my school uniform. I haven’t worn these socks in over two years. I don’t even have faith that I’ll locate the other one, and I don’t care enough about it to try. This is the first thing that goes into a bin bag. 

After this it gets increasingly easier. Gone are the mickey mouse pyjama bottoms with an unravelling seam, the stack of coloured paper, scribbled with sketches I never liked, the lid of a vanilla body spray that I used up years ago, expired mascara, a tea stained leather coaster, broken earphones, the padlock from my old locker without its corresponding key. Before too long I have cleared the floor, exposing the carpet to the light for the first time in years, probably. I’d half forgotten what colour it was. I tackle the wardrobe next. 

There’s not much that interests me in it, out of style clothes, clothes that were potentially never in style in the first place. A heaping mass of hoodies, leggings, jersey shorts with drawstring waists and t-shirts, the clothes of a girl who desired only to blend in, dreading terribly the day that somebody might comment on her outfit. All of it goes into the charity shop bag. I am ruthless. Not a single item is spared. 

Once the clothes have been cleared, I turn my attention to the suitcase and the gear bags piled at the bottom. I recall that the suitcase is broken, those wheels got me nowhere on our school tour to Paris in fourth year, and I remember how a rock from the pavement got trapped in the wheel, preventing it from spinning, but instead of fixing it and holding up the tour, I decided just to drag the bag behind me, the bottom corner of it scraping horrendously against the paths until the wheel was worn completely flat on one side. I have few good memories from that tour anyway, as for most of it Kelly was in a strop over something that happened on the ferry, and went off with girls from her new maths class instead, leaving me alone to forge an emergency friendship with a group of Polish girls who refused to speak English to me even though they were fluent. I toss the suitcase into the discard pile by the door, then grab a gear bag.

There are things still inside one of them. I’m surprised to find it heavy, so I curiously lay it at my knees and undo the zip. More clothes. Yellow swimming togs. A few pairs of ankle socks, a denim skirt. I chuckle to myself as I uncover a pair of knickers. I remember these, mint green with a decal of Ariel from The Little Mermaid on them, the most embarrassing pair of underwear I ever had, and kept until I was far too old for them. I put them straight into the bin.

The bottom of the bag is grainy with sand, and when my fingers brush over it I’m transported back to the sunshine and the smell of salty air. This is the bag I brought to the mobile home that summer three years ago. I don’t realise I’m holding my breath as I look through it until my chest starts to hurt and I force it out of me. Memories from those scorching months spring up with every old piece of clothing I draw out of it. It’s so vivid that I can practically feel the sunshine on my face. It’s like a time capsule. I’m surprised I never unpacked this bag. Was it too painful to? Was I too distracted?  

At the end is a rolled up t-shirt, soft, grey, worn. I unroll it and hold it out, letting it drape over my thighs. It isn’t mine. The label reads a mens large, and I take a sharp inhale when I realise what it is. Hadn’t I ever given this back to him? I was always sure that I had. I lay it onto the carpet in front of me and snap a picture of it on my phone. 

Opening up my messenger I attach the photo, typing a quick message. 

By any chance is this your T-Shirt?

Jude is typing…

Hole in the armpit?

I check. 

Yes. 

I was wondering what happened to that. I assumed my mom had tossed it out after doing laundry. 

Well apparently I’ve had it for 3 years. Sorry! Hope it’s not your favourite.

Omfg definitely not.

Does this mean you still have my bikini?

Your bikini?

From when we went swimming. You said you’d wash my bikini and t-shirt. It was orange with a tie in the front.

Oh. THAT bikini. I’m wearing it right now, sorry, I thought it was mine. 

I’m taking that as a no.

No, I don’t have it. Are you sure I never gave your stuff back?

Pretty sure. 

It might be at the beach house? I’ll probably go back again next summer, so I’ll look for it. 

Oh! No don’t worry, it isn’t important, I just thought it was funny. If you want this T-shirt back you can have it.

Will you personally deliver it to Berlin? 

Hardly.

Come over though. 

You want a t-shirt with a hole in it that badly?

Come with or without the t-shirt. 

My stomach does a flip. 

Is that an official invitation?

A full minute passes before he texts back, and I stare at the screen the whole time. The little typing dots appear and then disappear. 

February?

Wow, that’s far in advance. It’s October.

Yeah but there’ll be a huge birthday party for someone, it’ll be fun if you’re there. 

One of your extravagant dress up parties?

Haha. Yeah. At my friend’s. He lives in a nice apartment. Plus, flights are cheap in February.

Cheap flights? I’m sold. 

Nice. 

It feels like the conversation has come to its natural conclusion, and yet I find myself wanting more. 

How’s Berlin right now? 

Alright. 

Nothing weird or wonderful?

Nah. 

Ah, great. Good talk.

Ha. How’s Dublin?

The same.

Nice. 

Yeah, nice.

Another minute passes. I leave my phone down and go about clearing out the rest of the gear bag, more old socks, a mostly empty bottle of suncream, cheap flip flops, a coin purse with two cent in it. The phone buzzes again and I reach for it. 

Hey, could you do me a favour?

I frown. 

Yeah…? 

Will you ask Michelle for her number for me?

Your ex?

Yeah, she got a new phone ages ago and I don’t have her number anymore. I know she’s going out with that guy you work with, so if it’s no hassle would you mind? 

Yeah okay. I just don’t know her that well. 

You can tell her that I’m the one asking. She’ll know what it’s about, but if you don’t want to, I completely get it. I can find another way to get it. 

I think I’m seeing her next week, actually. We’re going to the same party, so. 

Ah, Shane’s Halloween thing?

That’s the one.

I’m sorry if it’s weird to ask.

It’s not really, it’s fine. I’ll ask her for you.

I almost type “Jen doesn’t have it?” Before quickly curling my fingers into a fist. There’s so many things I want to know but I can’t ask him anything. Even if I did, I know that he wouldn’t tell me. It’s infuriatingly secretive, like the polar opposite of Jen, who tells everyone everything.  

I really appreciate it, Evie. It’s not urgent or anything, it’d just be good to have her details. 

Do you want me to give her yours?

Yeah, that makes sense. 

Alright. 

Thanks. 

I toss my phone onto my bed and head towards the chest of drawers, preparing myself for the ancient horrors that await me there, and it’s bad, like I expected and yet I don’t really mind it anymore. It’s a bit cathartic, honestly, to dump all of this old stuff. It’s like I’m clearing space inside myself too, emptying psychic drawers to make space for something new. It’s two hours before I’m finished, and as I lie exhausted on my bed afterwards, I reach for my phone to discover one last unread message. 

You’ll have to swear you’ll visit me in Berlin, btw. I meant it when I invited you.

I grin. 

Yes, of course. We’ll make it happen. 

Nice.

Nice.

x

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[artificialgrasssupplierireland]

5 Advantages of Installing Artificial Astro Turf in Sports Ground

Any person who plays football know how important it is to have a safe and reliable playing surface. A well-maintained playing ground is very much responsible and determines how well a game can be played. Also, it reduces the chance of injury. This calls for the popularity of synthetic grass that is, nowadays, used as a common material for sports, playgrounds and practice fields, serving as a great alternative to natural grass. The synthetic grass for dug out can be best used for football, rugby, golf, tennis, field hockey, soccer, badminton, lacrosse and baseball. If you are looking for synthetic grass for dug out in  Ireland, you need to know about its surprising advantages first hand. Let’s have a look at that.

Important Advantages of Installing Artificial Grass for Sports:

Are you looking for the best artificial grass for sports in Dublin? That’s great. Here are the top benefits of artificial astro turf installation for sports grounds.

Low maintenance needs as unlike natural grass it only requires brushing and rinsing to look clean and fresh.

Weatherproof as it has the capability to retain its quality even in harsh weather conditions. Most importantly, you will not get a muddy field.

Endure intense use as this grass does not require any time for recovery and thus, can be used for long hours of playtime.

Provides a safe and uniform playing surface as with uniform surface it provides less friction that reduces the risk of injury.

Positive environmental impact as there is no need to use harmful pesticides or fertilisers. Also, it has a lot of water, unlike natural grass.

Class Grass Ireland Ltd, As the Top Astro Turf Supplier in Ireland:

The company not only supplies a wide range of natural-looking grass but also offers outright garden design and landscaping services. Their friendly team will provide the best knowledge so that the entire process would be absolutely worthy and value for money for you. To discuss your necessary requirements, you may call them. You can also request a free sample from their exclusive range of collections.

Need more advice? Drop them a note now!

[dailyanarchistposts]

What Was Ours Is Now Theirs

The huge increase in the urban population of 19th Century Britain was accompanied by dysentery, typhoid and cholera.

The poor were blamed for cholera outbreaks, the result of their ‘ignorance’, lack of hygiene and general moral depravity. The prevailing orthodoxy was that laissez-faire capitalism and the management of water property for profit would provide solutions. It didn’t, and both municipal and state solutions – public ownership and management of water resources – were needed to solve the problem. Eventually it was recognised that easy access to a clean water supply was a basic human need, via the Public Health Acts. But with the re-emergence of neo-liberal and neo-conservative ideas about the role of the state and the importance of market solutions to social problems, all this is changing.

Britain is water rich, with adequate rainfall and only occasional water shortages. Until recently, water was generally seen as a common good and water planners saw any form of supply restriction, even a hosepipe ban, as an admission of failure. Regional water authorities pooled access to water resources and made long term plans for a London ring main, recharging aquifers from winter river water. People and organisations cooperated to manage water resources relatively effectively and to save water when it was needed, such as during the drought of 1975/76. However, water was privatised by the Tories in 1989, despite defeat in The House of Lords and the threat of prosecution by the EU on water quality standards, attacks by environmental groups over standards and questions about the fate of water authorities’ huge land holdings. As a result, the average household experienced an increase in water costs of 67% between 1989 and 1995. Company profits rose by an average of 20% to 1993 and are still high. The highest charging area of Britain, South West Water, took 4.9% of income from a household of 2 adults and 2 children, 7.6% from a lone parent and child and 9.1% from single pensioners in 1994. The profits of the water supply companies are being subsidised by the poorest people in Britain, those least able to pay. Thousands of households now regularly have their water supply cut off. In the Sandwell Health Authority area (in the West Midlands), over 1,400 households were cut off in 1991/2 and cases of hepatitis and dysentery rose tenfold. In 1994 2m households fell into water arrears, with 12,500 disconnected. Half of the water companies in England and Wales have selectively introduced or are testing pre-payment meters. The increased use of metering, most often in poorer households, has either increased water bills or resulted in forced cuts in water use by those who need it most. Non-payers are automatically cut off and the supply is not restored until the debt is paid. 10,000 meters have been installed in Birmingham since 1992; there have been over 2,000 disconnections. The water companies have responded to increasing criticism of their disconnection policies by devoting a tiny proportion of their profits to charitable trusts that help the poorest customers. This is pure PR and gives the corporations tax advantages. In the 1980s and in 1994–96, community campaigns defeated attempts to introduce water taxes in Dublin; see Issue 3 of ‘Red and Black Revolution’ for an excellent analysis.

Encouraged by a surge of prosperity in the 1960s, the Spanish have ignored the fact that they live in a semi-arid country prone to periodic, lengthy droughts. Golf courses have been built for tourists, swimming pools for themselves and there are many lawns and gardens requiring daily watering. Farmers have diversified from their traditional drought resistant produce such as figs and olives into water-hungry crops like rice and strawberries. The result is that Spain is now the world’s 4th highest per capita consumer of water after the US, Canada and Russia. Now it has to build huge dams and pay the cost to divert rivers to over-developed areas, amid growing environmental and community opposition. Other factors (which apply elsewhere) are laws giving producers the right to squander resources so long as there is a consumer demand to be satisfied; and the role of the centralised State (largely controlled by business influences), with its control of revenue, command of resources, expertise and power to enforce policy on citizens, in arbitrating the management of resources.

[paintingdublin]

Is It Cheaper to Paint Your Own Room? Understanding the True Costs of DIY Painting

When you scroll through images of beautifully renovated homes, the urge to grab a paintbrush and transform your own space can be irresistible. After all, DIY projects like applying a fresh coat of paint on your walls seem like a fun and affordable way to refresh your home. But is it cheaper to paint your own room as compared to hiring professionals in Dublin?

Before embarking on this home improvement project, it’s vital to fully understand the upfront costs and potential hidden expenses, as well as the long-term implications of choosing DIY over professional work. Let’s explore what these considerations mean for your wallet and your home.

What Are the Upfront Costs of Painting Your Own Room?

Jumping into DIY painting requires more than just buying a tin of paint. Your shopping list will likely include various brushes, rollers, paint trays, and perhaps even a ladder. The initial cost here can quickly add up, depending on the quality of the materials you choose. High-quality brushes and rollers, while offering better coverage and durability, do come with a heftier price tag.

Beyond the basic tools, consider the preparation materials required before you even begin to paint. This might include primer, putty for filling in holes and cracks, sandpaper, and a range of cleaning supplies to ensure that walls are pristine and ready for a coat of paint.

Furthermore, don’t overlook essential protective gear such as drop cloths, maskers, and safety glasses. These items protect both you and your furniture from splashes and spills.

Ultimately, choosing between cost and quality is a tough battle. Opting for cheaper materials might save you upfront but can lead to poor paint application and potentially more expenses in follow-up corrections.

All these factors contribute to the true cost of a DIY paint job. It’s important to acknowledge them when deciding whether to undertake a painting project yourself or to hire professionals who come equipped with the right tools, skills, and materials to do the job efficiently and to a high standard.

The Unseen Costs and Considerations of DIY Room Painting

When it comes to painting a room, there’s more to consider than just the price of materials. For one, consider the value of your own time. House painting, whether interior or exterior parts, isn’t just about applying a coat or two of paint. It involves preparation, such as cleaning walls, taping edges, and possibly even priming. These tasks are time-consuming, and if you’re new to painting, the learning curve can add even more hours to the clock. Hence, the opportunity cost—what you give up in terms of time that could be spent doing other potentially beneficial activities—can be significant.

Also, the skill level required for a professional-looking finish should not be underestimated. Messy edges and uneven coats are common mistakes for the untrained painter. And imagine discovering halfway through that the colour or finish isn’t what you wanted after all! Correcting such errors not only costs more money but also additional time and effort. Not to mention, there are safety and health considerations, such as proper ventilation and the physical strain of repetitive motion and prolonged standing.

Beyond these, there’s the potential for unforeseen challenges. Uneven walls, water stains, or cracks might require extra effort and materials to address them. These issues can significantly increase the time and cost of the project. Additionally, the risk of damaging furniture, floors, or other belongings is higher with inexperienced painters. There’s also the cleanup process, which can be time-consuming and messy, adding to the overall burden of DIY painting.

Ultimately, while DIY painting can be rewarding, it’s essential to weigh these hidden costs and challenges against the potential savings. The stress associated with these unforeseen issues can diminish the overall enjoyment of the project. For many people, hiring a professional painter in Dublin might prove to be a more efficient and less stressful option.

Is It Cheaper to Paint Your Own Room?

Now, let’s tackle the pressing question: does painting your own room truly save money?

To answer this, it’s crucial to compare the costs of both options realistically. While the initial outlay for paint and supplies might seem lower for DIY, factor in the cost of your time, potential mistakes, and the purchase of additional materials.

Here’s a DIY room painting cost breakdown:

Paint: €50-€150 per gallon, depending on brand and quality

Brushes, rollers, and trays: €50-€100

Drop cloths, tape, and other supplies: €20-€50

Potential additional costs: €50-€150 (for extra paint, supplies, or repairs)

Total estimated cost for DIY: €170-€400

On the other hand, professional painters typically charge an hourly rate or a fixed price. While costs can vary based on factors such as location, room size, and paint quality, you can generally expect to pay between €250 and €500 for a small room in Ireland. This might seem like a significant upfront investment, but it includes labour, materials, and expertise. Interestingly, when you factor in the cost of paint, supplies, your time, and potential mistakes, the overall expense of DIY painting for a small room can be comparable to hiring a professional.

Beyond the financial aspect, consider the stress levels involved. DIY painting can be a source of frustration if you encounter unexpected challenges or if the results don’t meet your expectations. Professional painters have the experience to handle problems efficiently and deliver a finish that exceeds your vision.

In conclusion, the age-old question of whether it’s cheaper to paint your own room or hire a pro doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. While DIY painting can offer potential cost savings, the hidden expenses of time, materials, and potential mistakes can quickly add up. On the other hand, experienced painters provide expertise, efficiency, and a guaranteed quality finish, often for a comparable price.

Ultimately, the best decision depends on your individual circumstances, priorities, and desired outcome. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to consider your budget, time constraints, skill level, and the desired outcome for your space. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can determine whether the potential benefits of DIY painting outweigh the potential drawbacks or if hiring a pro is the most suitable option for your project.

Thinking of taking on the project to paint your own room but want to ensure a professional finish? Take the hassle out of DIY and let our experienced residential painters in Dublin handle it. Call us today on 086 608 1817 or click here to schedule a consultation!

[refrigeration-erg]

Beer Taps Ireland

The Ultimate Guide to Beer Taps in Ireland: Why ERG Stands Out

When it comes to serving the culminate half quart the quality of your beer taps is pivotal. In Ireland where beer culture flourishes and each half quart things choosing the proper beer taps can essentially affect your business’s victory. ERG a driving supplier of beer taps in Ireland offers a run of arrangements planned to improve your refreshment benefit. This direct will investigate the significance of high-quality beer taps the highlights of ERG items and why ERG is the favored choice over the territory.

The Importance of Quality Beer Taps

Beer taps are not just functional tools; they are essential components that directly influence the quality of the beer served. Properly designed and maintained beer taps ensure that the beer is dispensed at the right temperature and pressure preserving its flavor and carbonation. In Ireland where beer culture is deeply rooted and the expectations are high, having reliable and high-quality beer taps is paramount.

Low-quality or ineffectively kept up taps can lead to issues such as level brew conflicting pour quality and squander. This not as it were influences the client involvement but can moreover lead to expanded operational costs and client disappointment. In this manner contributing in top-tier lager taps may be a wise choice for any foundation looking to supply an great refreshment involvement.

ERG: A Leader in Beer Taps Ireland

ERG has established itself as a leading name in the field of beer taps Ireland. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation ERG offers a range of beer taps designed to meet the diverse needs of bars restaurants and other establishments across the province. Here’s why ERG stands out:

Quality and Durability: are renowned for their robust construction and longevity. Made from high-grade materials, ERG taps are designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use while maintaining optimal performance. This durability ensures that your taps remain functional and reliable minimizing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Innovative Design: continuously invests in research and development to bring innovative designs to the market. Their beer taps feature advanced technology that enhances the dispensing process ensuring a consistent and high-quality pour every time. Whether it’s a traditional beer tap or a modern technologically advanced model ERG has a solution that meets your needs.

Ease of Upkeep: Standard support is vital for keeping lager taps in beat condition. ERG plans prioritize ease of upkeep with components that are simple to clean and benefit. This decreases downtime and guarantees that your brew taps stay in great working arrange contributing to distant better;a much better;a higher;a stronger;an improved">a higher in general client encounter.

Customization Options: ERG understands that different establishments have unique requirements. That’s why they offer a range of customization options for their beer taps. Whether you need specific finishes branding options or unique configurations ERG can tailor their products to match your specifications ensuring that your beer taps align perfectly with your establishment’s style and branding.

Exceptional Customer Service: prides itself on providing excellent customer service. From the initial consultation to installation and after sales support ERG’s team is dedicated to ensuring that you have a seamless experience. Their knowledgeable staff are always available to offer guidance and address any questions or concerns you may have about your beer taps.

Beer Taps Across the Province

ERG’s beer taps are available throughout the province of Ireland, making them an accessible option for businesses in both urban and rural areas. Whether you’re located in Dublin, Cork, Galway, or any other part of the province ERG’s distribution network ensures that you receive prompt and reliable service.

In cities like Dublin where the competition is fierce having high-quality beer taps can set your establishment apart. ERG’s advanced technology and design innovations can give your bar or restaurant the edge it needs to attract and retain customers. In more rural areas ERG’s reliable and durable beer taps ireland can provide the consistency and performance needed to deliver a great pint, no matter the location.

Choosing the Proper beer Taps for Your Foundation

Selecting the proper lager taps includes considering a few variables, counting the sort of beer you serve, the volume of benefit, and your particular operational needs. Here’s a brief outline of what to consider:

Type of Beer: Different types of beer require different tap configurations. For example, kegs of lager and ale might need different tap systems. ERG offers a range of options to accommodate various types of beer, ensuring that you can serve each one at its best.

Volume of Service: The volume of beer you serve daily can influence the type of taps you need. High-traffic establishments might require more robust taps with features designed for heavy use. ERG’s range includes options suited for both high and low-volume settings.

Operational Needs: Consider your operational needs such as ease of use and maintenance. ERG’s user-friendly designs and maintenance-friendly features can help streamline your operations and minimize downtime.

Budget: While it’s important to invest in quality beer taps, it’s also essential to stay within your budget. ERG offers a range of products at different price points allowing you to find a solution that fits your financial constraints without compromising on quality.

Conclusion

In summary the quality of your beer taps plays a crucial role in the overall customer experience and operational efficiency of your establishment. stands out as a leading provider of beer taps in Ireland, offering products that combine durability, innovative design and exceptional service. Serving the entire province, ERG ensures that businesses, regardless of their location, have access to top-tier beer taps that enhance their beverage service.

Investing in ERG beer taps means choosing reliability and excellence. Whether you’re in the heart of Dublin or a rural area of the province, ERG provides the solutions you need to deliver a superior pint every time. With ERG’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, you can trust that your beer taps will perform at their best, helping you create a memorable experience for your customers.

[theohonohan]

Unlocking

These images show a corridor on the ground floor of the Royal Academy of Arts in London. Since a major intervention which was implemented between 2008 and 2018 by the architect David Chipperfield, this corridor forms part of the public circulation routes of the building. One thing that is not, perhaps, clear, is that this corridor used to have a lower ceiling, or, to be more precise, it had a higher floor. Chipperfield had the York stone floor lowered by a couple of feet. You can see the evidence of this in the seven new courses of bricks immediately above floor level. They are subtly distinguishable from the rest of the brickwork. Visitors walking on the new stone floor are wading knee-deep in the old fabric. The space isn't exactly airy, but the proportions have been made grander, and a corridor that was previously interrupted by a flight of steps now has level access.

The architectural notion of raising the ceiling is noble and idealistic. The labour of lowering a stone floor, in contrast, is tiresome and seems to go against materialistic common sense. On the one hand we have the smooth, effortless route that has been created for the public, on the other, the toil of the workmen who cleared it.

Chipperfield has remarked

"The more you work with museums, the more you realise that the responsibility you have is to unlock things, to make things easier. Most museums don't take that as their first mandate: they mostly see the opportunity to 'do architecture'.

However humble and low-key Chipperfield believes it to be, the notion of "unlocking" has become trendy in architecture. It appeared, for example, in the title of an exhibition about housing in Dublin in 2022.

Unlocking is a familliar action, and usually gives access to something, but if I'm not mistaken, this new usage owes something to video game culture. In a game, unlocking is associated with achievements, and with gaining privileges or resources. Most typically, what is unlocked is an ability or an item: a racing game, for example might reserve access to certain desirable cars for players who successfully complete particular races. Unlocking connotes the release of some stock or potential.

This idea of unlocking as a release might be why the term is attractive to architects who are concerned with the supply of housing: it's pleasant to believe that the new houses are already "out there" in some sense (say, in the form of designs) and are just being held back by a small and soluble problem, something that could be addressed as easily as turning a key.

When what is unlocked is an unlimited supply of a previously scarce item, there is a sense of freedom. The idea of unlocking the door to a treasure chamber connects the action of unlocking with profusion. For Chipperfield, unlocking is about freedom, too, but more about removing blockages or impediments, making a clean sweep and doing away with narrow spaces or low passages that twist and turn. It is about opening up the circulation of a building and an institution—not just the concrete circulation of people and objects, but the conceptual circulation of ideas and projects.

It is a relative process—a totally unlocked space would have no constraining structure at all, and moving from point A to point B would always just involve proceeding along a straight line. A totally locked space prevents all movement. The most rational option is a grid layout, like Manhattan, where every trip just involves some easy to remember number horizontal and so many vertical steps. But the grid's purity and sacrifice of all architectural particularity to order and progress make it, too, an extreme choice.

Commenting on his work with Robbrecht and Daem on the Whitechapel Gallery, William Mann observed:

In the best museums and galleries one finds one's way through a series of rooms, where the artefacts are carefully lit and set off by calm backgrounds. A degree of repetition helps navigation, some variation helps orientation.

These are recognizable as the basic principles of wayfinding. A grid is easy to navigate, but orientation poses a problem—every cell or intersection looks the same. For Mann, the spaces of a. museum should aim to facilitate wayfinding by neither being too uniform nor too idiosyncratic.

In the 70s, the Italian radical architectural practice Superstudio imagined the unfolding of generic Cartesian grids across the whole surface of the planet. In their world, much as in the world of motorways and air travel, it's easy to get anywhere you want to go, but sometimes difficult to tell the difference between places. The standard white cube of the art gallery explicitly creates a placeless, neutral context, much like a cell in an infinite rectilinear grid, or like one of the hotel rooms in an infinite hotel. Being given the key to such a space is less an unlocking of wonderful things, and more of an allocation of a minimum place in existence. Unlocking is only an exciting thing if there's something interesting behind the door.

In many cases, institutions are very interesting—too interesting. To undertake a masterplan for an institution can entail opening a can of worms. A brainy architect is required to untangle the existing arrangement of a building or an institution complex. The design process can and must be involved, but the end result should as simple and straightforward as possible—for the end users, if not for the long-suffering builders who have to make it happen. The building must not only work for all of its users, but it must function as an adequate representation of the institution, in the same way as a piece of media such as a website would. In a sense both buildings and websites are masks as well as inhabitable places, giving impressions to their users as well as operating in a more mundane and practical way.

Le Corbusier asserted that "simplicity is a concentrate". It is the result of boiling down all the existing and desired aspects of the building. This final simplicity reflects all of the constraints—it is not freely chosen. That is what makes it a concentrate. It is a reduction rather than a confection.

Without the true involvement of an architect, a large institutional building risks growing by accretion, getting more complex and less coherent, exhibiting what architects sometimes dismiss as an 'additive' logic. Architecture's function, as unlocker, is to aid in integration and negotiation, so that the resulting new state of the building makes sense. The rational work of the unlocker is a kind of hygiene first, and a form of expression second. A good architect balances the necessary clarity and serial ordering of grids and axes with the more particular qualities and characters of the spaces and forms they connect. In other words, they make the spaces of the institution accessible, and put them into communication with each other, without nullifying the identity of those spaces.

[3rseo]

11 Expertly Crafted Articles by 3R to Enhance Client SEO and Build Authority

With the rise of digital marketing, search engine optimization (SEO) has become an essential aspect for any business looking to establish a strong online presence. One effective way to boost your SEO ranking and authority is through blogging. Not only does it drive traffic to your website, but it also positions you as an industry expert and builds trust with potential clients.

For clients who may not be familiar with blogging for SEO purposes, here are 11 blog article summaries that we wrote for our clients, that will help them increase their visibility and credibility in the online world:

Are Fitness Instructor Courses Online Worth Your Time and Money?

The article evaluates the pros and cons of online fitness instructor courses, particularly in Dublin. While these courses offer convenience and flexibility, they fall short in providing hands-on training, personalized feedback, and group confidence-building. The text emphasizes the importance of in-person training for mastering fitness teaching skills, practical experience, and networking opportunities. 

Blended learning programs, which combine online and in-person elements, are recommended as the best comprehensive educational approach. Employers in Dublin tend to prefer candidates with hands-on training experience when hiring fitness instructors.

Unlocking the Charms of Tar and Chip Driveways in Kildare

The article explores the benefits of tar and chip driveways in Kildare, highlighting their cost-effectiveness, durability, and aesthetic appeal. These driveways, made by embedding aggregate chips into hot bitumen, offer a rugged, skid-resistant surface ideal for diverse weather conditions. 

They provide a customizable look with various colours and textures, blending well with local architecture. While slightly more expensive than gravel, they are cheaper than concrete and require minimal maintenance. The installation process is detailed but rewarding, emphasizing the need for skilled contractors to ensure long-term performance and satisfaction.

7 Crucial Ways Fire Doors Enhance Fire Safety in Ireland

The article details the importance of fire doors in enhancing fire safety in Ireland. These doors prevent the spread of flames and smoke, reduce oxygen supply to fires, and maintain structural integrity. They also secure evacuation paths, limit property damage, meet legal and insurance requirements, and incorporate technological innovations. 

Benefits include containing fires, protecting escape routes, minimizing damage, lowering repair costs, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Technological advancements feature automatic closing mechanisms and integration with fire alarm systems, with future developments focusing on smart technology, resilience, sustainability, and energy efficiency.

7 Trending Global Home Design Ideas Perfect for Irish Renovations in 2024

The article highlights seven influential home design trends for 2024, ideal for Irish renovations. These trends include sustainability, smart home technology, open plan living spaces, the incorporation of natural light, outdoor living areas, multifunctional spaces, and the use of bold colours and textures. 

Each trend combines modernity with nature, providing practical and stylish solutions for homeowners. The designs aim to enhance living spaces by reflecting personal style while offering environmentally friendly and technologically advanced features, making them perfect for contemporary Irish homes.

Ultimate Guide to Upholstery Cleaning in Dublin: Breathing New Life into Your Home

The article underscores the significance of regular and professional upholstery cleaning for maintaining both the aesthetics and health of your home. Key tips include vacuuming weekly, responding promptly to spills, using protective covers, rotating cushions, and avoiding direct sunlight. 

It highlights the necessity of professional cleaning for tough stains, odour removal, and annual maintenance, especially for sensitive fabrics. Diamond Shine in Dublin is praised for its eco-friendly and fabric-safe cleaning solutions, advanced techniques like Hot Water Extraction, and commitment to improving indoor air quality. Their services ensure a cleaner, healthier living space and extended furniture lifespan.

Online Traffic School California: The Ultimate Guide to Clearing Your DMV Record

The article provides an overview of how online traffic schools in California help drivers maintain a clean DMV record amidst congested highways and frequent citations. Recognized by the California DMV and courts, these schools offer flexibility and cost-efficiency. 

Enrolling involves registering, completing coursework, and passing an exam. It is essential to choose a reputable, BBB-accredited school. Benefits include dismissing tickets, avoiding insurance penalties, and upholding driving privileges, making online traffic schools a valuable resource for California drivers seeking convenience and cost savings.

Asphalt vs. Concrete: The Best Paving Choice for Dublin Properties

The article compares asphalt and concrete for paving Dublin properties, highlighting key factors. Asphalt is cost-effective, quick to install, and durable for 15-20 years, but needs frequent maintenance and can soften in extreme heat. Concrete, lasting over 30 years, offers design versatility and requires less maintenance but is prone to cracking and can be slippery when wet. 

Other considerations include installation time, costs, durability, maintenance, sustainability, and aesthetics. These factors should be carefully evaluated to determine the best paving choice for specific property needs in Dublin.

Car TPMS Bypass Box: What You Need to Know

The article explains the function and benefits of a Car TPMS Bypass Box, a device designed to disable the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in vehicles. This tool is particularly useful for off-road driving or when using non-standard tires that may trigger false alerts. 

The bypass box ensures you won’t see persistent warning lights on the dashboard, providing peace of mind without compromising vehicle safety. It is user-friendly, easy to install, and compatible with most car models. However, users should be aware of legal implications and potential insurance issues when disabling TPMS.

Seasonal Itchy Scalp Solutions in Dublin

The article addresses the common issue of seasonal itchy scalp in Dublin, offering practical solutions. Causes include weather changes, dry indoor heating, and increased stress. Recommended treatments involve using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, avoiding hot water, and incorporating essential oils like tea tree or peppermint for relief. 

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and staying hydrated are also advised. For persistent issues, consulting a dermatologist or trichologist is recommended. Universal Hair Clinic in Dublin provides professional services to diagnose and treat severe cases, ensuring a healthy scalp year-round.

The Essential Role of Company Secretarial Services in Unlocking Business Success in Dublin

The article highlights the crucial role of company secretarial services in driving business success in Dublin. These services ensure compliance with legal requirements, maintain corporate records, and handle administrative tasks, thus allowing businesses to focus on growth and strategy. Key responsibilities include organizing board meetings, filing annual returns, managing statutory registers, and offering governance advice. 

By mitigating risks and ensuring regulatory adherence, company secretarial services enhance operational efficiency and corporate governance. APM Accountants emphasize the importance of these services for both start-ups and established companies, aiming to sustain long-term business stability and success.

Grief Counselling in Dublin: Transform Your Loss Journey

The article discusses the importance of grief counselling in Dublin, emphasizing its role in helping individuals navigate the challenging journey of loss. Grief counselling provides a supportive environment where people can express emotions, understand their grief, and develop coping strategies. 

Access Counselling offers personalized sessions that address various aspects of grief, including emotional, physical, and cognitive responses. Professional counsellors help clients move through the stages of grief, ultimately transforming their experience into personal growth. The service is vital for those struggling to cope on their own, ensuring they do not face their journey in isolation.

Conclusion

In a busy world with various challenges and opportunities, finding the right solutions can greatly affect your personal and professional life. Whether it’s keeping a clean DMV record in California, handling grief in Dublin, choosing the best paving material, managing legal compliance, or dealing with a seasonal itchy scalp, informed decisions are key. The same goes for the digital realm; effective SEO strategies can significantly boost your business’s visibility and growth.

And make no mistake – Our clients do love our service – read some SEO testimonials here.

Elevate your digital presence and ensure your business thrives online by contacting 3R today to explore their comprehensive SEO services. Request an SEO Audit to discover how your website can achieve higher rankings, attract more traffic, and convert visitors into loyal customers. Let 3R’s expertise unlock the full potential of your online presence.

[howleysouhan]

Maximise Your Property’s Value: Expert Sales Strategies from one of Dublin’s Leading Estate Agents

In the dynamic and competitive real estate landscape of Dublin, property sales can be a mix of challenge and opportunity. For homeowners, investors, and sellers with ambitions to maximise their property’s value, the right strategy can mean the difference between a satisfactory sale and an outstanding one. How can you ensure that your property stands out in a market that is as fluid as it is attractive? The answer lies in the expertise and proficiency of Dublin’s top estate agents.

Navigating Dublin’s real estate market requires a keen understanding of local trends, buyer preferences, and effective sales methodologies. Whether you’re a first-time seller or a seasoned investor, this comprehensive guide will provide you with actionable insights, insider tips, and expert strategies to orchestrate a successful property sale in Dublin.

Understanding the Dublin Property Market

Dublin’s property market is known for its dynamism, with variances experienced across the city’s premier postcodes. Understanding current trends is paramount for sellers looking to capitalise. For instance, in recent years Dublin has seen a shift towards more sustainable living spaces, with open-concept layouts and energy-efficient features enjoying a premium. Additionally, the market is heavily influenced by factors such as proximity to public transportation, the quality of local schools, and burgeoning commercial developments. Stay in tune with these dynamics to adapt your sales approach accordingly.

Market trends also point to particular hotspots where demand consistently outstrips supply, leading to a competitive seller’s market. In such areas, skilled estate agents can leverage this advantage to secure lucrative sales for their clients. Conversely, understanding areas with softer demand allows for a more strategic approach to pricing and marketing.

The Current Housing Crisis adds a new Dimension to Property Sales

Given the current scarcity of property for sale in Dublin, due to an ongoing housing crisis, this competitive landscape has only intensified. The demand far exceeds the supply, leading to a market that is both challenging and opportune for sellers. With fewer properties available, those on the market can command higher prices, particularly if they meet the growing demand for modern, energy-efficient homes in well-serviced locations.

Navigating the Housing Crisis as a Seller

In this constrained market, sellers have a unique opportunity to stand out by emphasising the features that are most sought after. Highlighting the energy efficiency of your property, its proximity to desirable amenities, and any sustainable living elements can significantly increase its attractiveness to potential buyers. Moreover, with the current focus on space and comfort, demonstrating how a property can offer a sanctuary in the bustling city can be a key selling point.

Strategic Pricing in a Seller’s Market

The scarcity of available properties also means that strategic pricing is more critical than ever. While the temptation might be to price high due to the demand, understanding the specific dynamics of your local market remains essential. An expertly appraised price that reflects both the desirability and realistic expectations of the market can lead to quicker sales and potentially multiple offers, driving the price up naturally through competition rather than initial overpricing.

Pre-Sale Preparation

Before your property hits the market, thorough preparation is essential. This may involve staging, making necessary repairs, or investing in renovations to increase your home’s desirability. The goal is to present potential buyers with a clean, well-maintained space that they can envision as their own.

Opt for a comprehensive property inspection to identify and address any structural or cosmetic issues. Next, focus on staging—the art of presenting a property to appeal to a wide audience. This can be as simple as decluttering, reorganising, and depersonalising your home, or as involved as hiring a professional stager to curate an inviting atmosphere. Remember, a good first impression is your strongest asset.

Pricing Strategies to determine the best price for your Property Sale.

Determining the perfect price for your property is a strategic balance between attracting buyers and satisfying your financial expectations. This is where thorough market analysis and a keen eye for valuation come into play. Comparative market analysis (CMA) allows you to benchmark your property against similar listings that have recently sold or are currently on the market.

A competitive price encourages more viewings and bids, leading to potential for a quick and lucrative sale. Pricing higher than market value can lead to stale listings, while pricing too low may leave money on the table. Engage with experienced estate agents who can guide you in this crucial decision. They’ll have their finger on the pulse and can offer valuable insights that automated valuation tools cannot.

Marketing Techniques for Selling your Home.

A successful property sale is often the result of an effective marketing campaign that reaches the right audience at the right time. Digital marketing has revolutionised how properties are promoted, via social media, dedicated property websites, and online listings. Professional photography and, increasingly, immersive technologies like virtual tours can captivate the online buyer, driving more engagement and enquiries.

Offline strategies remain relevant, particularly in Dublin’s communities where local reputation and word-of-mouth can be strong influencers. Consider a mix of online and offline methods, and be sure to highlight your property’s unique selling points (USPs). Whether it’s a Victorian terrace in the suburbs or a modern loft in the city centre, focus on what makes your property exceptional.

Negotiation Tactics

Receiving an offer on your property is only the beginning. Skilled negotiation can result in a higher sale price, favourable terms, and a smooth transaction. Understanding how to counteroffer and when to stand firm, while also being open to compromise, is an art form that professional estate agents excel in.

Common mistakes to avoid include reacting too emotionally to an offer, which can cloud judgment, or revealing your bottom line too quickly. A good negotiator knows the value of information and uses it strategically to achieve the best outcome for their client.

The Role of Estate Agents

An estate agent is often the linchpin in the property sales process. A skilled agent brings experience, negotiation prowess, and a network of resources to the table. They handle the complexities of marketing, legalities, and negotiations, allowing you to approach the sale with confidence.

But not all agents are created equal. When choosing an estate agent, look for a proven track record, knowledge of your local market, and a commitment to transparency. A good agent will put your interests first and work diligently to achieve your sales goals.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Selling a property involves adhering to legal and regulatory frameworks. In Dublin, this includes obtaining a Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate, providing a Home Bond warranty (for new builds), and the conveyancing process, among other requirements. Failure to comply can delay or derail your sale, leading to lost time and money.

Transparency and ethical practices are not only legal obligations but also contribute to a reputation of integrity and trustworthiness. Disclose all pertinent information about your property upfront, address buyer concerns honestly, and work with reputable professionals such as surveyors, architects, and legal counsel to ensure a smooth sale.

Conclusion

The Dublin property market is rife with opportunities for those who approach the sales process strategically and with knowledge. By understanding market trends, preparing your property meticulously, employing savvy marketing, and enlisting the support of expert estate agents, you can ensure a successful and rewarding property sale.

For the premier standard in Dublin estate agency services, contact Howley Souhan Estate Agents today. Our team of dedicated professionals is on hand to offer personalised guidance and to maximise the value of your property. Trust in our experience and commitment to excellence and take the first step towards a successful property sale in Dublin.

Remember, the decisions you make before and during the selling process can have a lasting impact on the sale of your property. Take the time to understand the market, prep your home, set a competitive price, market effectively, and negotiate wisely—your sale will thank you for it.

[jasonp01]

8 Security Facilities That Make Preschools Safe

So, your child’s preschool promises good care and optimum attention, which are pretty much all you wanted. But children are gullible and need a totally safe environment outside home to be comfortable with new people and have fun.  It’s your duty to ensure that your child’s preschool has proper safety and security measures. Go through the following security facilities reputed preschools have for children’s wellbeing.

8 security facilities preschools should have

1. Biometric system for Guardians: Schools nowadays have biometric systems that record fingerprints of guardians after admission of the child is completed. Always choose such a school that allows entrance only when the identity of the guardian concerned matches with the data in biometric system of the school. 

2. ID Proof for Parents: You may have multiple people in your family  accompany the child to and from school. Keeping guardian ID cards allows school authorities to keep a tab on who is coming to take children back home.  Some schools allow a maximum of two people from each family to have ID cards for their children. Each ID card has a unique code with which the school identifies you as the guardian and hands over the child. This is a pretty neat and safe method. 

3. Cleanliness of Classroom Floors

Children learn various physical activities and thus, spend a lot of time on the floor of the classroom. During parent-teacher meetings, inquire if the classrooms and the floor are cleaned after every shift.  Ask the authorities if classroom floors are covered with carpets to save children from dirt and diseases and maintain a totally hygienic environment.

4. Security Drills  Would your child be safe if a fire breaks out at the school? Some schools involve parents about their security systems in case of an emergency, such as a weekly fire drilling session.  Make it a point to attend these sessions so that you see children learn safety precautions and decisions in front of you. This way you’d be able to trust the school.  

5. Smoke detectors A mishap can be prevented if smoke detectors, fire alarms and heat detectors work perfectly. Don’t hesitate to ask security staff to demonstrate if smoke detectors inside school premises are active and react to even the smallest of flames or smoke.  No compromise on the operations of these facilities should be allowed as they give the first signal to teachers, guards and school authorities to usher kids to safety. Schools should also have a proper supply of fire extinguishers as one must not wait for the fire department to help in dangerous situations like these.

6. Safe  toys

Security of preschoolers is incomplete without checking whether the toys they play with are age-appropriate. Insist on a classroom visit at the preschool to verify if the toys have sharp edges and hard surfaces. Insist on removal of such articles and also toys that create loops, or have ropes and create dust.

7. GPRS tracked transport  Like the GPS systems of private transportation nowadays, you should be able to trace the routes and destination of your child entering the school bus. Schools should have a GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) system that monitors routes and speed of buses so that the buses can be tracked by them as well as the parents concerned. Besides, installation of CCTV cameras inside the school buses are also needed to check the conduct and behavior of everyone inside the bus on route. Security of your children is a very serious concern and schools having the facilities mentioned above can help you relax and focus on other things while your child is away at school. 

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Week 1: Settling into Dublin

Hello, hello! It’s Declan McGrath once again to update you all on what has been going on since my abroad program at UCD started! A lot has happened since my last post and I am so excited to share it with you all.

All of the program members arrived at UCD this past Sunday. There were no official program events scheduled for that day other than check-in, so soon after getting my room all set up and meeting my dormmates I met up with a friend of a friend, Kristina, in my same program and began wandering around campus to figure out where everything was. We slowly just kept meeting more and more people in our program and the impromptu tour group of the blind leading the blind kept getting larger. Everyone in the program I have met so far have been so nice! They are all from Big 10 schools which has been nice to have a kind of touchstone to start getting to know each other. After a bit the group figured out where everything was we all split up to go find stuff for our dorms. As there was a kitchen in my dorm I went with Kristina to a supermarket to buy some food and cleaning supplies. Kristina and I bought some eggs and sponges and decided to make the most amazing trade deal by splitting them equally between us. The deal is commemorated in the photo below

The next morning was orientation. All the program members gathered into a lecture hall as we learned what the next seven weeks were going to look like for us. The program consists of a Physics 2 lecture and lab course as well as a History of Ireland Course and every now and then we will be taking group field trips to historical sites and museums around Ireland. I have been looking forward to these courses for a long time as they are both classes that meet requirements for my major and also cover topics that I find really interesting! After orientation we all went to the dining hall (called the Pi Restaurant) for some lunch and it was really good! All of the food we have had in the dining hall here has been absolutely amazing, especially the deserts with dinner. After dinner, the group of friends I had made decided to take a trip into Dublin city together to do some shopping at a mall. Funnily enough, we ended up in an American thrift store section of the mall that was playing country music and had some pretty funny things to find all the way in Ireland like this American flag jean jacket I nearly bought. We ended the night by playing a couple rounds of various card games and then getting ready for some history bright and early in the morning. 

The history class was pretty interesting and after lunch we took a class field trip to the EPIC (Every Person is Connected) Museum. The museum was based around Irish immigration and emigration which was the same topic as the day’s history lecture and it was fascinating to see a lot of the things we had just learned about in lecture in a museum. Later that night, UCD held an event where they taught us all how to play the Irish game “hurling”. The game is kind of a mix between lacrosse and baseball and is really fun! We learned how to carry the ball (called a sliotar) on and also took turns seeing who could hit it the farthest. I was not really great at the game but had an absolute blast learning how to play! Afterwards a couple of us stayed behind on the field to play some soccer and cards.

Wednesday was our first day of physics. I knew that the program was an accelerated course but oh boy was I not prepared for how fast we would actually be going. We covered an entire in the span of a 2 hour lecture and I definitely need to look over my hastily scribbled notes before we have any exams. To recuperate from the breakneck physics crash course my group took another trip into Dublin. This time we decided to do a bit of sightseeing. We first visited the Portal from Dublin to New York. It was awesome being able to see all the way back into America and take some pictures! After the Portal we visited the Dublin Spire, a massive, metal tower in the center of Dublin. The tower was really really tall and cool to see up close as we were able to literally walk up and touch it. We wandered around the Temple Bar area and saw Dublin Castle for a little bit before heading back to campus to get the cheapest pint in Dublin at the Student Bar.

We showed up to the bar halfway through trivia night and somehow didn’t place last and celebrated with some drinks. I got my first ever pint of Guinness and was immediately yelled at by my friends for drinking from it wrong. Apparently, you have to take big gulps of it, not little sips like I did. I had an awesome time trying it for the first time with a bunch of my friends but I don’t think I’ll be getting any more pints any time soon.

Thursday was fairly relaxing. We covered another chapter in physics at light speed and did a lab on circuits and then had the rest of the night ourselves. We were all fairly exhausted after hurling on Tuesday and walking a couple hours in Dublin, so we decided to have a bit more of a relaxed day. We spent some time learning a new card game called Cactus that one of my friends' middle school friends came up with called Cactus which was pretty fun. After that, one of my friends, Allie (she’s from Ohio State but we forgive her for that, we all make mistakes sometimes), and I  went back to my dorm to see if we could get a whole group trip together. I am honestly hopeless when it comes to organizing any sort of event so Allie did most of the work while I made us some ramen (pretty even exchange if you ask me). We toyed with the idea of maybe visiting France but couldn’t get it together and instead settled on a trip to the Cliffs of Moher! As I write this blog post right now we are actually on the bus to see the cliffs! 

Friday, Allie and I proposed the Cliffs of Moher trip to the group and four other friends wanted to join! Friday was another laid back day as we had to be up early the next morning for a class field trip to a place called Glendalough.

Glendalough was absolutely beautiful! Nestled in a giant, lush, green forest between some mountains was a small “Monastic City” set up by Saint Kevin. This “city” (which is more just a monastery and abbey with a graveyard) was set up by religious followers of Saint Kevin who wanted to join in on his life of living alone in the middle of the forest away from city life… by coming in large groups… and building a city near him. After exploring the ruins a little bit my group and I began hiking through the woods. Words fail to describe how beautiful this place is (hopefully the pictures won’t!).

We followed some trails through the verdant forest until we reached a lake. The Lower Lake was a small lake that had some stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest. We continued onward until we reached the Upper Lake. This area was much more popular than the Lower Lake and was filled with dozens of tourists and locals taking in the warm weather. We took off our shoes and cuffed our pants as high as they could go and stepped into the water. It. Was. Freezing.

The water in the Upper Lake came all the way down from the tops of the mountains and was unbelievably cold. I tried to stay in the water with everyone as long as possible but was only able to stand in the water for a couple of minutes before retreating to shore to recover for a little bit and trying again. We found some really good skipping stones and spent a lot of time at Upper Lake trying to get the most skips possible. Unfortunately we had to eventually head back to the buses and go back to campus. After getting back to campus we all decided to head to a restaurant called The Goat and get some dinner and watch the start of a soccer (or I guess I should say “football” here) between two teams that none of us had ever heard of before. The food was absolutely amazing, I highly recommend stopping by if any of you get the chance! We went back to the dorms to cram as much sleep in as possible before the next morning when we would be waking up at 4 AM to catch a tour bus to the Cliffs of Moher.

Speaking of which! I did not cram as much sleep in last night as I wanted to so I think now is a good time to leave off. Wish me luck as I try to sleep on this bus next to a crying baby and I will update you all on how the Cliffs were in the next post. See you next time!