Well a month after arriving in Dublin, we finally moved into our house a few days ago! It’s hard to believe we’ve been here a month — in some ways it feels like forever and in other ways like everything is still so new.

We were so relieved to get into our house. The temporary apartment was in a good location where we could easily walk lots of places around the city, but it was just hard to not be able to fully unpack or baby proof things 🙂 Now in the house we are slowly unpacking, getting set up, and learning how to work all the appliances, which are a little different.

The house was completely furnished, which most rentals here are, so we didn’t have to worry about getting furniture. But, we had thought the kitchen would be furnished too, with dishes, pots, silverware, etc but it wasn’t. So our first afternoon here, i ventured to ikea to get a bunch of stuff (we also needed bedding, towels, etc). My cart was overflowing and we actually have to go back tomorrow and get some more things (we will all go together this time so at least Jeff and I can each push a cart). It takes a bit of logistics here getting around without a car, but we will do our best for now.

Our neighborhood is really nice and, walking around, everyone is really friendly. Lots of kids and families, and also older people too. Our house is just half a block from the sea, and I took a picture of the view from the end of our street. We’ve met a few neighbors who are all very nice and have kids. The neighbors two doors down used to live in the states so they described themselves as “America-philes” and they invited themselves over for thanksgiving! 🙂 It all still feels new and different, but it’s nice to know there’s the potential to get to know some nice families.

Also, Isaac started at school (again). After 4 days at the original school, I decided to switch him because this one is sooo much closer to our house. It’s a 2 minute walk (versus a 30 minute walk). It just feels a lot less stressful to get him there. He seems to like it so far after the first 2 days. The teachers are really warm and give him hugs at drop off and pick up. They are trying to teach him Irish phrases like saying “grand.” I think this school will work well for us hopefully. In the same building are also some classes I can do with Rafi while Isaac is in school so that’s convenient too.

It’s funny, I feel kind of like I’m in the 1950s here…I drop him off at school around the corner and right by the school is the local pharmacy, doctor, butcher, florist, and a little cafe. Then when I pick him up, I see all the other parents, sitters, or grandparents picking up their kids and walking home to have lunch. I can’t explain it — it just feels like I’m living in another era . It’s fun!

I’m super excited for my parents to get here next week!! We can’t wait to see them and show them around! Here are a few pics from our new house.