GAA

It's the weekend and we've got an international move to get on with. There are bits of paper all about, and a large number of black plastic trash bags in one corner. Going through a mass of papers lovingly shoved to one end of the dining table, Paddy found all our unsent Christmas cards (all filled out and everything). He's still sleeping at the moment, but today's sporadic activity may turn up and toss out more intertesting bits. I suspect there will be rugby games on the tv that could disrupt progress.

I actually enjoy rugby once I'm watching it, but I think I forgot over the break in the season. The Six Nations kicked off yesterday, but I wasnt in the mood for it. Paddy was surprised and his reaction reminded me that I am an enthusiatic rugby watcher - known to jump out of my seat, curse players out, and plan my day around when a game will be on. I almost understand the rules too.

There is another game that I've really taken to while I've been in Ireland - their national sport: Hurling. Not an easy game to describe, but it's very fast and something like field hockey and lacrosse. Nobody plays it but the Irish, so they fight out the championships by counties. It is the fastest field game in the world, and one of the oldest known games. I'll miss it when we move, but there are a few little local teams in the US, including the DC Gaels.

The Irish also have their own football, although, like American football, the hands are used a lot. I'd describe this game as a cross between soccer and the afore mentioned hurling.

I think I'll make cookies today... warm, chocolaty cookies......oh, I'm gonna be so popular!!