The Scotland Squad: Home away from Home away from Home

How lucky I feel to have so many places I can call home. I've always loved travel and felt the need to explore from a very young age.

But it is not until I actually lived in another country that I truly felt the immense gratitude to find people and places that truly feel like home.

So when I learned that my dearest friend Heidi, who lived in Dublin when we did, was going back, I did everything in my power to join her. Not just because I love being in her presence, but because being in Dublin while she is there is PERFECTION!

💚 🍀 💚 🍀 💚 🍀 💚 🍀 💚 🍀 💚 🍀 💚 🍀 💚 🍀 💚

Ireland will always hold a special place in my heart. (as I'm sure it does for Heidi too). One that is beyond words, but feels like a great big hug when I arrive in the heart of the city. And by heart I mean the South Georgian core, of course. But really, when I see the Guinness sign when I step off the plane, I know I'm home, even if I don't drink the stuff.

So once I drop my bag, I'm soon off to visit 44 Fitzwilliam Square. A place that truly changed my life.

But really??? WTAF?

We might not be there any longer, but the flowers Oma planted live on!

Next up,

Grafton Street is a must, and I was lucky to experience it as they were decorating for the holidays.

And as I walk down memory lane I realize it is so bittersweet. Wishing the kids were this age again. Wishing life was as easy as it seems looking back. Wondering how time went so quick to have this have been a few years ago now.

And although these places bring back the most heartfelt memories, its the people that make the place. It's all ways the people.

The Dublin Dames Fiona and Hazel who sustained Oma and I. Teaching us as much about schools as about how to swear with reckless abandon!

Some of the best Perrigo mates you could ask for.

Gerry and Jodi who are still there, carrying on as the last standing survivors of the Michiganders who 'immigrated' in 2016.

Levi and Oma's pigeon man who still holds court near St Stephens Green.

And Ursula, a Texan, who is now a real Irish citizen. I'm green with envy!

BUT,,,

It must be said that.......

I love Glasgow. The places I've been and the Scottish countryside that makes my jaw drop every time I experience it. And the people - "The People Make Glasgow!" which isn't just their slogan, it's the damn truth.

And I love Grand Rapids (maybe not in the winter), with the family and friends that fill my soul. My house that is a massive hug to me when I relive all of the great times there. It really is the BEST house ever. Even topping 44 Fitz in my mind.

But today I feel immense gratitude to my time in Dublin. To my home there. My friends there. To Perrigo there. To my family there. Thanks for accepting me and my family you Dubliners. My heart and life will never be the same again. Because Dublin is really that special to me.