The GNIB

We had to spend most of the day today at the GNIB (Garda National Immigration Bureau). (Unauthorized pictures to follow).

I lost a bit of sleep last night worrying about that visit (and my upcoming first day -- tomorrow!). Anyone can stay in Ireland for 90 days, no questions asked. But we had to prove that I was here, with only a temporary permit from UCD, and, of course, who is this woman tagging along with me?

We thought ahead and brought tons of documentation, and it ended up being no big deal. In fact, the guy at the airport customs was much tougher on us!

We are officially legal here (until mid June)!

Just a quick update as I am exhausted and heading to bed for a good night's sleep:

Maggie had a great day. Got a few phone numbers and seems genuinely happy. We also talked about getting tickets to see The Voice of Ireland live, which made her day (that and some obscure fact that one of the judges on the show was in a boy band that was the favorite band of a dude's in One Direction and... since she likes everything One Direction, we now like Westlife!

Johnny went to his second hurling practice with his own hurley. He loved it and I did a little helping out, tossing boys what I kept calling the ball and what the coach kept calling the "slitter."

A few posts to come: what the Irish don't have to worry about and what Johnny is learning in school. Sorry, too exhausted for more tonight, but much relieved to actually be able to finish the term!