a)      Compare meals abroad to meals in the U.S.  (meal times, structure, etiquette, portion size, etc).  

 The meals here in Ireland (and in Europe, for that matter) are much smaller than the portions given at home. I'd say, almost half the size. For the most part, food in Ireland is a lot more bland than back home, but also a whole lot healthier. They use fresh ingredients for everything here, don't use preservatives, and rarely eat anything fried. (Even McDonald's is healthier here) Its actually a very nice change not having so much antibiotics and fake ingredients added to your food. You can really tell the difference.

I will say though, that when I first arrived it took my stomach almost 3 whole weeks to get completely used to the change in food here. They even use less spices, so things come off a little bland at first, but after you are used to the change in tastes, everything is good.

The etiquette in Ireland is really the same as it is in America, and so are the meal times (maybe add two hours for dinner). There are, however, less people that eat breakfast here. The Irish are more focused on the mid-day meal and dinner. 

b)      Where do you eat most of your meals?

 I eat 99% of my meals back in the Lennon house kitchen. The reason being, to save money for weekend trips. Eating out here is expensive, and I'd like to save any money that I can.

c)       Describe the most interesting or delicious local food you have tried thus far.

 In Ireland I'd definitely have to say the most delicious local food I've had is the home made Irish stew. Its lovely. Sister Mary made some for a debate the class had last week, and it was fantastic. As far as desert goes, I'm absolutely ape over the apple crumble and custard they eat here. Its completely different from anything I've ever tasted, and I swear to you, if I could pick one dessert for the rest of my life it would definitely be that.