One of the hardest things about teaching English in Central and Eastern Europe, especially if you're in a rural area, is finding other native English speakers to engage with. I didn't realize the effect that this had on me until about 3 months in to my stay. I was anxious to discuss things with fellow Americans and find out if any people lived by me the rural area I lived in. Then, I met a girl from Minnesota who lived in a small town just 40km away from me. A 640 forint bus ride away! If you're looking to teach English in Central/Eastern Europe, the following resources are

Driving the Ring of Kerry, and want to get off the beaten path? Head to Staigue Fort - it's between Sneem and Caherciveen, off a tiny road inland. You will drive a very narrow lane, but keep following the signs. There's a visitor centre with films (and a cafe), although we never stopped there. Park your car in the lot and pay your voluntary entrance fee. Skip across the creek, and climb a small hill to get to the fort.

If you've been to Ireland, you've probably flown into Shannon airport (the better to explore the west with, I say). It's a small, regional airport that is VERY easy to get in and out of - and very friendly people. It's in County Clare, Ireland.

We're in Ireland, and loving it (needless to say). And yes, the rain is ubiquitous.

You probably know by now how much we LOVE Great Wolf Lodge. It's so much fun to go there - a complete vacation, for our entire family. We recently visited the Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City, and had a blast (click here for rates and availability at Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City).

I love hot dogs. We always search out great hot dog joints whenever we travel - there's such a variety that I never get bored!