Hi,
I've started learning Irish several times over the last few years. I'm starting again but, one of the biggest stumbling blocks for me is a lack of local speakers (I'm sure this is the same issue others have too) and, longer-term, no real idea how I'll use the language once I learn it.
However, I figure if I stick with it, eventually I'll find a use (even if it's just speaking with others on Skype - though I'd like to start a local meetup in my area once I'm a bit proficient).
I've also ordered The Poor Mouth in both Irish and English as, I've supplemented my learning of other languages in a similar fashion and, I'm hoping it will help with Irish too once I've got more of a vocabulary established.
I'm fascinated with the idea that learning new languages affects the way our brains think and process data. Irish is definitely one of the most atypical languages I've studied so far and I can't wait to start being able to converse in it - even if it's halting and stilted at first.
I'm not usually super out-going and tend not to participate in forums actively but, I'm going to try to fight my natural tendencies and be an active participant here. I don't know that I'll have any useful input to start with but, I'll do my best to stay engaged without posting useless blather
Thanks,
Kelly