"Beatha an Staraidhe firinne." (The historian's food is truth.)-Irish Proverb

Truth is what we historians strive for, but it's the mystery that keeps us entranced to keep looking, keep digging.

Recently, I was inspired to look through my work from Glasgow University. I had taken a Celtic Civilizations course which had mesmerized me.

The decline of the Roman Empire, and the beginning of the "Dark" Ages is the hardest period of history to study because there is just a minuscule amount of sources. The few manuscripts found reveal a period of constant religious and ethnic warfare. This period of history from the 5th to the 15th centuries is called the "Dark" Ages for very obvious reasons. The fall of the Roman Empire brought disorder and chaos to Western Europe. Pagan tribes from the North were able to take over the native peoples and a fusion of new cultures were created. Actually in truth, it was a period of cleansing and a period of rebirth. New cultures created new tongues, new art, new political boundaries, and new sects of Christianity. Pagan beliefs infused with Christianity and in a period dubbed the "dark" ages, some of the most intricate and priceless works of art were created.

The best example of course being the Book of Kells, "the word in its flesh." This illuminated manuscript of the Four Gospels displays the new Insular art of Anglo-Saxon, Mediterranean, and La Tene Celtic influence. To the scribes who worked all day every day, every brush stroke, every minuscule detail, was made by God. They were not paid, they had no need. They were the hand of God and they truly believed it. Their passion, their faith, and their artistry is unparalleled. In the depths of disorder, warfare, and chaos the fiery passion of mankind still burned.

Very little is known about the Book of Kells. When was it made? Who were the scribes that produced it? Which monastery was it created in? What influence did it have on the spread of Christianity? Were there other manuscripts produced? There are a million questions and debates on this one historical artifact which most will not be answered. But that doesn't mean it won't be attempted!

“It is only in adventure that some people succeed in knowing themselves - in finding themselves.” -André Gide

I truly believe that perusing adventure is the best thing anyone can do for the mind, the body and the soul. It seems that people these days get to comfortable and never broaden their horizons, their perspectives, and their passions. For example, when I announced that I was going to Mexico for three weeks almost everyone looked at me with fear in their eyes and told me that I shouldn't go, it wasn't worth the risk. The list of possible horrors I could have endured was long but I wasn't scared. It turned out to be an adventure of a lifetime. I ate insects (so yummy), drank Mezcal, swam in a cenote, gazed at the ruins of Chichen Itza, visited the most spectacular museums, snorkeled for hours over coral reefs, explored the amazing culture of D.F (it's HUGE) and made life long friendships. My perspective of Mexico was completely changed. It's healthy to take risks, and I will continue to live my life like an epic adventure. Next stop, Peru and Ecuador!

"Life's pretty good, and why wouldn't it be? I'm a pirate after all" -Johnny Depp

Here is the most recent picture of me! I am at the ye olde Renaissance Faire reenacting the spirit and passions of former days....or maybe it's really just an excuse to dress up as a pirate and drink Guinness at 10:00 in the morning! Hizzahhhh! :) Either way this is me, a young woman with a passion for history. Thus far, a B.A in European History, a six month study abroad in Scotland, and me stumbling about at Ren Faires are all I have to show for it. Most people ask me, "What the hell are you going to do with a history degree?" I simply reply, "Follow my dreams, change the world, and drink lots of beer!" In reality, I have no plan. There is still some soul searching and some adventure to be had. First I need to get the bloody hell out of O.C, savvy!

"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage."- Anais Nin

Courage isn't a word I hear very often here, behind this orange curtain. I am talking about the seclusive world of Orange County, California. I felt spoiled growing up here because everything you could ever want grows in the OC; beautiful beaches, high fashion, cultural venues, and of course Disneyland! Why would anyone want to leave this place or this lifestyle? In a world of instant gratification most never leave!

I am a recent college graduate in a suffering economy. I work at Whole Foods Market and I earn a descent wage; enough for me to pay rent, have a booming social life, travel, and eat healthy food. I have a awesome lifestyle during these hard times. However, my dreams are drifting further away. I need to get out of here!

This blog is about me, Annie McCausland, an ambitious 22 year old, and my journey to personal success. Wish me luck!