The snowflakes are coming down from the sky at high speed, too fast, just as time is passing too fast in Ireland. Four months are already over. My host daddy in Ireland keeps telling me that time will pass so quickly and before I realize it, it will be over, unfortunately. But as he taught me, I will always be positive, and return to Ireland after xmas and enjoy the remaining months there. I know, maybe it sounds stupid, but I really look forward to my return to Ireland to see my family, my friends, my school, to go on trips with my friends and to talk English. I think that one of the reasons why I`m enjoying Ireland that much is my heartwarming family who gives me the feeling that I`m really part of their family, more than just a student they are hosting for some months. I have the feeling that I`m -how could I put that feeling into words – like a daughter for them? Yesterday my mummy in Ireland texted me such a lovely message writing: Miss u lots. And these are the things that make me feel so happy, even if I know that I also have a great family and great friends in Italy who will always be there for me even if I`m far away. One thing I have learned so far is the fact that true friendships hold every distance.

Sitting here in the kitchen and looking outside makes me start thinking of the differences between Ireland and Italy. Things are different but mostly in a better way. When I get up in the morning, I do so with a smile on my face, expecting a nice and heartwarming school day. The school is quite different from ours, but as soon as you get used to it you like it, and really enjoy it. However, the best thing to my mind is the relationship between teachers and students. Even if they respect each other, they make jokes together, talk about daily topics and you don`t have to be scared that the teacher gets angry with you and gives you a bad mark if you don`t know things you can’t possibly know because you haven’t learnt them yet. On the other hand, I also really like wearing the school uniform, because you don`t have to make up your mind on which clothes to choose in the morning.

There are so many things I could write about, but I also would like to enjoy the snow outside, as long as I am in South Tyrol. Anyway, I hope I gave you readers a little insight of my life in Ireland.

I also hope that students who aren`t sure if they should spend a year somewhere else, are encouraged to do so… and don`t be afraid of new things. Because new things will make you feel stronger and better.

Your Irish girl,

Melanie

PS: If I reached your little heart and you now have the feeling that you would like to spend a year abroad, don’t hesitate to contact me and I will try to answer any question you have.