Swans, Seals, and Brave Birds

The sun stayed away for the most part today, but it was somewhat warm despite it. And by warm, I mean I put on my windbreaker on top of my cardigan when I headed to lunch. Some girls here have managed to wear shorts on these warm days, I can't seem to manage it yet.

Running this morning, I ran into six swans swimming together in the river. Now, I stop for almost nothing during a workout, but six swans on the Liffey--I am pausing for a quick picture on my phone. Another first? I actually past someone this morning. I know what you're thinking--yes, they were actually out for a run too. That never to rarely happens, so I received a confidence boost. However, if you choose to pass someone, you have to kick it into a higher gear so you won't get in their way. Think about when a car passes you on the highway then subsequently slows down. Infuriating, right? Therefore, I was a bit winded for a good portion of that run.

Today must have been a day for wildlife encounters, because I spotted another seal as I walked across the Sean O'Casey bridge heading to the school. Bless his (or her) adorable heart--he looked right at me when I stopped to get a picture of him (of course my shot is of him looking away--tease). The river was up this morning like it was when I spotted the first seal, so I was on the lookout. He was so cute.

Lunch found me with three birds hounding me for a piece of my sandwich. Dublin birds are extremely brave. But, unfortunately they are also camera shy, because they fled as I was slowly reaching for my camera.

I promptly came back to the apartment for a nap. I have been tired this week. Weariness and anticipation are the culprits I believe. I will get my second wind on Sunday at approximately 8:40am.

I did get some exciting news. I don't want to jump the gun on this, but if things pan out it will be an exciting development. I had emailed one of my professors from ASU who is the head of the program I graduate under this past May. I wanted to touch base with him and let him know that I was accepted to the PhD program that I applied to. He was kind enough to write one of my letters of recommendation and I wanted to thank him. Upon his reply, he congratulated me and asked if I would be interested in an adjunct position teaching a course within the program, perhaps in the next academic year. Interested? Are you kidding? When is the next flight home? I really enjoyed the program and loved the professors I had in it. Nothing would be cooler. But, as I said--I don't want to get too excited. He did say he MAY need the help. And I do have a great job now, but I would certainly consider moving on if this opportunity presents itself.

We shall see.....