One of my problems is that now that I am back home, I have fallen back into my shy and somewhat withdrawn ways. I intend to combat that by taking Purnell’s advice. One of his suggestions, to draw on skills that helped you adjust when you were abroad, is a good start. While I was away, I decided to take the attitude, that every new place I went, whether a pub or a hostel or even a ride in a cab would be a place filled with people who were all my new friends–I just hadn’t met them yet. Not only did that attitude help me break through what would have been crippling shyness, but it made my experience so rich–because it really worked! I made myself open up and talk to people I otherwise would not have, and lo and behold–they became new friends!

Another suggestion of Purnell’s was to surround yourself with international influences and other travellers. Luckily I work with a young and adventurous group of people, many of whom have and intend to travel. Also, here in Philadelphia it is very easy to surround myself and participate in the culture and music of Ireland. I am going to continue to push past my shyness and go out to the pubs more than I have been for listening and playing the music. If I could play in a pub session in Ennis or Doolin with no fear, I surely should be able to do it here at home!

All of this and Purnell’s other suggestions will help get me excited and thinking positively about my next adventure to Ireland and beyond!

Andee (Andrea)