nights in halloween

The past 2 nights have been amazing. JCR halloween party at purty kitchen, and biosoc's halloween party for all members (essentially medics) and for UCD and RCSI peeps. With good music, and good crowd. People were all happily dressed up to their fancy, and there came a number of interesting dress-ups (such as a man who just came out of the shower - he was robed in a towel below his waist, and had a square curtain around as his 'shower' room). Last night in particular was of great fun. Before the party at citibar was lady gaga's concert, and she rocked the stage with her top hits, and even sang a new song called 'you and i' from her upcoming album. After the concert, i even had a lady gaga lightning scar drawn on my left eye with an eyeliner, to which i didn't oppose, nor exactly fancied it, but its halloween, so I say, it's all good 'craic'.

Alicia came over from glasgow to visit soe-na over this weekend, and it was great catching up with friends from nj, most of whom i haven't seen for ages! I sure do hope more friends would drop by and pay a visit in dublin!

Today wasn't the best day around I have to admit. After 3 years, I had a 'tiny reality check' when I peered across the gass onto the noticeboard, and searched through the digits to find the right combination - my student number. And I didn't get the marks I expected. It was disappointing. It's a good self check that I have to work hard, be more careful with my work, and be more productive with my revision and tests. I cannot be as complacent as I was during my years as a 'non-student' anymore. However, I'm glad Im getting back into my studying routine and habits, which is considered a good start after a rusty 3 years serving the nation and enjoying holidays. With the well deserved break of 36 months, it's 5 more challenging, exciting, and fruitful years ahead!

I was reminded how I fortunate my family and I are, when I read about the recent tsunami in Sumatra, which left over 100 people deceased, and 500 odd missing. My country is well protected by the surrounding nations, definitely a blessing, and a blessing we ought to be grateful for, and thus we should play our part in helping them. I wonder if I will join the rescue mission to assist in healthcare when I'm qualified after my studies. I'm sure I will.

I have to thank God for this opportunity to be overseas for studies. It is a time to be independent, and learn how to make decisions on how you want to lead your life. And to see the world out there. The amazing creation He has made.

It has been more than a month since I've arrived in Ireland and to Dublin. So far, I'm feeling like it's a long holiday, somewhat perpetuated by the fact that technology has brought me and my parents closer than snail mail.

Army has probably trained me well. I am accustomed to taking care of myself and handle all the laundry, cleaning of room and toilet, cooking (the maggie mee in outfields didn't exactly help that much), and groceries.