Spent the weekend playing

Never taken to photography, just a bug maybe?

So these are the best

Dear Santa

I've been a good girl, and well...I'd like to take my snooping to the next level. Please think of me this holiday season...

worn out

I can't hide my emotions, and very seldom is this a problem. I prefer that people know how I'm feeling, as I wouldn't want them putting on a face around me. There are times and places that this is inappropriate, but for the most part, if I'm having a tough day I'll just come out and tell you.

And today is that day.

I absolutely forget about the seriousness of blood clots. Because all of my limbs are fully functional and I have a smile on my face, I figure I'm as healthy as the person next to me. The reality is a bit different. I suffer from extreme exhaustion, although this is something I do an okay job of hiding, it is seldom that I like to be outside of my home after 9pm, waking up in the morning is always difficult, and I haven't had a good nights rest in well over 8 years. My veins have a hard time pumping the necessary blood to my extremedities so the act of sitting often leaves me in pain as my body screams out its desire for me to position myself in a way that aids in this process. I have a swollen leg and arm, proof that my internal roadways resemble Dallas traffic, and a constant reminder that my recovery process is not going according to plan.
I like to imagine that everyone goes in for weekly blood tests, and have their doctor on speed dial. I don't want to be the only one of my friends who's doctor office know them by first name alone and who's records never actually get filed in the appropriate spot because of being a "special case."

Today I'm feeling alone in this. I'm feeling misunderstood. I'm worn out and desperate for some kind of relief.

They were right

picture by Ciarán Butler. A fantastic photographer and an even cooler friend.

sweet sweet memories.

I was told when going to Ireland that I wasn't going for long enough...and they were right. I'm a week from my return and I've already planned my return.

http://adidasdublinmarathon.ie/

I'm running for my survival. I'm running for awareness. I believe in spreading the word about DVT. I'm running for a reason.

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Update: I was a bit presumptious to think I could get in shape for a full marathon by the fall so this wonderful goal has been pushed aside for the time being. I have opted for a more reasonable distance that I'll discuss at a later date.

pictures

View from afar

Today I ventured to Killiney Hill. The train ride probably took about 20 minutes. After walking through a wonderful neighborhood, slowly up a hill, we arrived at the park. The grass was so green, the trees were practically bare, the weather couldn't have been better, and the skies were cloudy. As I reached the top, this is what I got to see:







It was a perfect way to finish a wonderful trip. Time to come home. I never thought I'd say this, but I miss Texas.

Red Ribbon

Hoards of people were walking down the streets, carrying modest size boxes of red ribbons for World AIDS Day. It was great to see. Those are the people that I don't mind inturrupting me while I enjoy my time alone on Dublin streets.

www.worldaidsday.org

always look up

"Always look up" was by far the best advice I have received on this trip.

The buildings here are absolutely sunning at eye level, but even more magnificent as you gaze up.

I am loving my trip. I adore the people here, the city, the atmosphere, the aesthetics. I enjoy the culture, the weather, the accents (!!).

I have a day and a half left and will leave here having felt accomplished. This has been ideal. perfect. successful.