On Wednesday, IES (my affiliate abroad program) took me and 10 others in the program out to dinner. It was a good thing I looked up the restaurant before leaving because half of us probably would have been under dressed. Fallon and Byrne was the name, a fancy little place on top of a super market with huge glass windows surrounding us. The whole city was lit before us as we sat down at a long table for 14. I normally hate sitting at long tables because you can't have a conversation with every one there, so I made best of the situation and sat directly in the middle. I wore a grey sweater with a white button up underneath and dark grey dress pants. I don't like to brag, but I looked good! We were all allowed to have one free drink. Suiting the occasion, we all got a glass of wine. Most of the girls got white, while the guys got red. The menu was shortened for us, as we could only choose from four different starters, entrees, and desserts.

After we all ordered, and before the socializing broke out, I decided to make a toast. I rang my wine glass, stood up, and began my little spiel. I thanked the IES ladies who took us out, and told them that this will probably be the best meal we have overseas. I then went on to say how much the 12 of us have bonded over the past few days, and how other people were jealous of our little "click" at school. I finally wished everyone a good and healthy semester, and ended it with the old Irish saying "Cheers." (and yes mom, I did this all on my own without anyone telling me what to do. Sam took this picture while I was talking)

My starter, a thinly sliced piece of smoked salmon covered with greens and beats, was just displayed so eloquently, that i didn't want to eat it.

For the main course, an Irish ribeye steak cooked to perfection (medium rare is a Kinslow must) with a side of chips (french fries for us Americans) and light salad. I wish i took a picture after i finished because i literally licked the plate clean, and still had room to pick off other friend's plates.

Finally, and most highly anticipated, dessert was on the way. In a tall milk shake like glass, was orange creme ice cream covered in whip cream and chocolate syrup. At the bottom, a warm brownie surprise. I didn't spare a second, digging right in once the last dessert was placed on the table.

I sat back, stuffed beyond belief, ready to go back home and sleep. We stuck around for another half hour or so, and then went on our way back home. It was a perfect dinner on a gorgeous Wednesday night. Here are two pictures of our group at dinner and on the stairwell of the restaurant. (I am third down on the right)

Keep posted for more blogs

Steve