My winter break, from the middle of December to the middle of January, was mostly spent going to the Brocach with my friend Doug (we both studied abroad in Ireland). Unfortunately, the job market wasn't very college-student-back-for-winter friendly, but at least it gave me time to work on my Irish and music. Oh, and for Christmas my parents got me the Rosetta Stone Gaelic program! It's actually kind of fun, and a great way to keep up with Irish when there's nobody around to talk to.
The end January was marked by the Robert Burns Supper in Rockford. I got all dressed up for the formal occasion and enjoied their Scotch and haggis samples. It was really great, and I think the highlight was a reading of Burns' "Tam O'Shanter" by a man from Ayrshire, Rabbie's birthplace. He dressed up and recited the whole thing my memory - it was brilliant. The next week, I piped at a Scotch tasting in Madison. 15 guys, 18 bottles, and a haggis. It was phenomenal, and the guys were great. I had an amazing time, and I hope they invite me to their next one!February saw the begin of the session in Beloit too. Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at The BOP on East Grand Avenue, starting at 9:00 pm. I've also bought tickets for the Wolfe Tones in Chicago on the 21st and Dropkick Murphys in Milwaukee on the 27th. Pretty exciting stuff!
After the month ends I get ready for St. Patrick's Day. I won't be doing as much as I did last year, but I'll still be busy. My Spring Break is the week before St. Patrick's Day, so hopefully there'll be some things to do while I'm back in Madison.
