Irish people (J1)

Let's start with some 'fun facts' about Ireland today, just bits and pieces I picked up in the newspaper in the last few weeks. a) Ireland is one of the most corrupt Western countries recent research has revealed. b) Ireland is the worst country in Europe with regards to CO2 emissions effecting global warning, and the government is making very little effort in tryin to change. 3) Ireland has officially the worst record when it comes to traffic accidents and casualties in Europe. 4) Irish people think on average more often about suicide as an option to solve their problems then any other European country. 5) Ireland has officially become one of the most expensive countries to live in, and Dublin one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Of course we knew all of the above already (unfortunately by experience), maybe I would like to add to this list that they probably have the worst weather in Europe as well. Does anyone still want to ask why we are leaving?

Ok, the whole house thing. It was supposed to be signed a week ago, but this has obviously not happened up to date (as has the paying of a deposit). We are dealing with a real cowboy here, as mentioned before. The good news is that he has reached an agreement on the pub next door as well, and has given me 'his word' it will be signed next week Wednesday at the lastest. I will believe it when I see it.

We have been checking on this property website for rental houses in Gabs, and unfortunately there does not seem to be much choice out there at the moment. They used to have like 5 pages, now they can not even fill 2. There is loads available which is not on this particular website, but it does give an indication of availability. Our friend there also informed us that most rental contracts are yearly renewed, this usually happens in December and January, meaning that this is the time people move around. There will be no problem finding something, we might just have to compromise (that is what renting is all about I guess....)

I have sent out my job applications, so will have to keep my fingers crossed on that one. I have not written my resignation letter yet, and decided I might not quite next week yet, and leave it until the very last minute, the week after. I am obliged to give 4 weeks notice.

Other things to organize: the puppies will have to get their blood taken for tests and certification next week, we really need to get their crates as well, the cars will go for sale. During all this poor J2 is very busy correcting reports again to help the company making deadlines.

One last small thing: I realized that I can not remember certain things from my old neighborhood in Melbourne anymore. Simple things like the milkbar on the corner, and the entrance to the park where we used to take the puppies. Last weekend we have gone around our good old Blackpool to take some pictures for later memories. I will upload them this weekend and link it to this blog.

J1