Ireland, my home country and the land that's in my blood. Interestingly, having grown up with fiercely anti-nationalistic sentiments, I began to develop a deep affection and love for my own country once I began to travel. I found myself feeling rather defensive when some people were familiar with only the shallowest of cliches or even thought that Ireland was part of another country. Could my reactions be ascribed to national 'pride'? I don't like that word when it comes to my homeland but I have come to realise how much I resonate with the landscape and energy of my country, its well known and rather popular foibles aside. Its landscapes are a product of its climate and culture, which combine to offer only occasional teasing glimpses of its full verdant beauty to those who aren't accustomed to its more veiled sensibilities. It is hard to beat a hike on the west coast when the ambient conditions combine to offer all climates juxtaposed with surprising harmony, inviting you to know and appreciate your place in its cusp.