Is Ireland About to Become My Second Home?
- Ashley Sundquist
- Apr 17
- 3 min read
Hey there, fellow adventurers! Ashley here, and I've got some exciting personal news to share that's deeply connected to my love of travel and my family's roots. Last spring, I officially applied for Irish citizenship!
For those of you who've been following my journeys, you know I'm all about unabashedly embracing every adventure life throws my way. Whether it's an imperfectly perfect road trip through Ireland with my sister or exploring ancient castles with my husband, Josh, this island has captured a huge piece of my heart.
A Bit of History and a Whole Lot of Heart
My connection to Ireland isn't just a touristy fling; it runs deep in my veins. My great-grandfather, Patrick Joseph Nolan, left County Wicklow in 1907 to start a new life in America. But he never forgot his homeland, and that pride in his Irish heritage was passed down through the generations. I always enjoy when my Dad shares stories about growing up with "Pop" Nolan.
When I was little, Grandad Jim regaled me with stories of Glenmalure, his father's hometown, and the family home that's so special it's now on The National Registry of Historic Places! They even shot scenes for the 1996 action movie "Michael Collins" there, because it's one of the last remaining historic thatched roofed homes in the area. My Grandad Jim used to say he was "Made in Ireland, but born in the USA," and that always stuck with me.
From Tourist to (Hopefully) Citizen
My first trip to Ireland as a ten-year-old with my grandparents was a game-changer. I was there with the Titanic Historical Society (yep, I was the youngest member!) to visit Cobh, the Titanic’s last port of call. The vibrant colors, the friendly faces, and the sheer magic of the landscape had me hooked. I even got to witness the unveiling of the Cobh Commemorative Memorial Stone! This is also where I met one of my dearest Irish friends, Chantal Murray. We've stayed in touch for decades and she was with me the night in Dublin I found out I was pregnant with our son!
Since then, I've been back countless times. I've explored the windswept Cliffs of Moher, wandered the historic streets of Dublin, and even traced our family history back to a Millennium Stone honoring my McCurdy family ancestors in Northern Ireland. With each visit, that connection has grown stronger. And I've been blessed to stay in touch with cousins from every corner of the country. It's also surreal to know that in just a few weeks, I'll be back in Ireland to walk parts of The Wicklow Way with my son and Mom...who walked alongside me for 300 miles on our epic pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago! You can read more about that journey over here.
Why Irish Citizenship?
So, why take the leap to apply for Irish citizenship? Well, it's more than just a piece of paper.
To me, it's about:
Honoring my roots: It's a way to formally acknowledge and celebrate the rich heritage that's shaped my family and me.
A deeper connection: I want the option to not just visit Ireland, but to live there, to truly immerse myself in the culture and contribute to its vibrant community.
Family: My husband, Josh, and I welcomed our son, Wicklow (named after County Wicklow!), into the world last year. I want him to feel that connection to his Irish roots as strongly as I do.
The craic! Let's be honest, the Irish know how to have a good time, and I'm here for it!
The Adventure Continues
The process of applying for citizenship is a journey in itself, filled with paperwork, and a bit of nail-biting anticipation. It will take up to 3 years to hear a response. But, like any good adventure, it's the unknown that makes it exciting! I'll be sure to keep you all updated on my progress.
In the meantime, I'm dreaming of cozy pubs, trad music sessions, and long scenic walks on The Wicklow Way. Wish me luck, friends! And as always, thanks for joining me on this unabashed adventure.
Sláinte!
Kommentit