Arrived in Wales just yesterday(3/9/12).  Here I am in the city of Cardiff for the International Rugby match Wales vs. Italy.  I'm completely open to new sports and this indeed is a man's sport...although there is truly nothing like American football.  A day long event full of chips, booze, and friends couldn't possibly better than RUGBY right? So I thought...

(Pregame) Thoroughly enjoyed the Goat Manor Pub and some other local spots while waiting for the match to begin.  This is the big thing. Wales has the opportunity to win the 'grand slam' meaning they have won the most games this season...quite a proud moment in fact.  And the locals know it.

I was, at first, interested in my tolerance for being blatantly American, but I've been embraced and included in everything Welsh.  It's really quite homey. Brains SA and Dark welcome me in like a bonfire and marshmallows.  Yet the fire wins.

(Match) The smell of a stadium crosses borders, oceans alike.  The warm buzz of fans and athletes soothes the soul.  Embracing all that is Welsh, I am a leek today. A daffodil too.  Gwlad.  HOME.

The fans are quiet, surprisingly.  The game intense.  Not to mention all manors of tackle are allowed in rugby, including pants pulling and other such inappropriate moves to gain advantage.  No sissy padding here, just a simple soft helmet to protect the scrum foremen from permanently bent ears.  Genetics at its finest.  Burly.  Hairy. 

Guiness.  Lager.  I met a year two(second grade in the States) teacher who was so proud to be in cahoots with one of his kind(teachers of raptors unite!).  WALES. waaaaaales.  The chants drown my thoughts to pure pleasure.  This is exhilarating.

(Post game)  Snagged a take out tea and waited in line amongst fans of all ages, true bloods of Wales.  Red, green and white are blinding yet defining.  Enjoyment. 

W.1

subtle Greens
and familiar greys

I want what is tucked behind them, home
what's left Underground...
                        the scent of Family
              the tears of placement

Purpose

hidden soft behind stones of century, sharp wild
and waiting

Free grazing
forget your fences for here I will stay
here I will find sustenance
and here I will                             be

free to taste whichever blade I choose.