Top of the Day to Ya Lads!

I feel much more comfortable now that we are back in Ireland where I speak fluent Irish.

Anyway, today we caught a train to Rome's airport and flew to Dublin. The plane ride is worth talking about because I have never been on a flight where everyone gave the pilot a standing ovation after a landing.

The flight was fine until our descent into Dublin. It was extremely shaky and I felt like I was on a roller coaster. However, as an experienced flight taker, this happens and while I was concerned, I always thought we would be fine. But then we were getting very close to the ground and we were still jerking up and down. The pilot was able to get the back two wheels down but had trouble getting the front wheel down. At this time, the wind blew again and knocked the front end of the plane to the side (to the right side, my side), so as we landed the nose of the plane was heading for the grass (now all wheels are down). I was staring out the window and saw this, but couldn't believe it. Then the pilot jerked the plane back to the left, so now I believed it and clutched my chair. It was at this point that I thought there was a decent chance we were going to crash. You would think it would be somewhat relieving that we were already on the ground, but it wasn't, not at all. I pictured the nose of the plane diving into the grass and flipping into the airport. Anyway, the pilot jerked the plane back and forth a few times all while slamming on the brakes until we finally stopped.

I also think there might have been something wrong with the plane. Lauren and I both noticed a funny noise coming from the right wing engine, and when we landed we had to get out on the runway and walk to the airport. Basically, when we finally came to a stop, the pilot pulled over and we got out. It was weird. BUT WE ARE SAFE!!!!

Just hanging out tonight, walking around Dublin a little.

We are excited to see our families tomorrow!

Lauren & Harrison


P.S.

Dad, I am hoping you know when to pick me up? I might try to catch an earlier flight so I will let you know.