Which do you think sounds less prétentieux? The South of France” or “the French Riviera? In a few weeks, N and I are going to France together for the first time (other than an afternoon spent in Alsace last year). We’ll be dividing our time into 3 nights in Marseille and 4 nights in Nice. … Continue reading Au revoir, America
Author: delsoblogger
Teenaged President
We’ve been watching a new long Netflix series, Adolescence, this week. Each of the four installments are approximately 60 minutes in length and I’ve watched two so far. I know there are those who might muscle through the entire program in a day or two, but an hour is about all I can stomach in … Continue reading Teenaged President
The last of 14
Earlier this month one of my father’s last remaining siblings died at the fine age of 92. My aunt was one of 5 daughters, along with 9 sons, born to Conan and Mary McMenamin over a span of 23 years. Yes, my grandmother really was pregnant for the better part of a quarter century. Moms … Continue reading The last of 14
Sending a message
If you are not deeply concerned about the direction this country is heading in at breakneck speed, skip this post and make yourself aware of what is happening. I’ll give you some key words to search, ok? Mahmoud Khalil Federal Education Department Social Security Ukraine Greenland Canada Illegal protests on campuses Transgender citizens Tax cuts … Continue reading Sending a message
Nurturing eagles as democracy dies
In “my” library at school, which was completely renovated recently, we have a banging a/v system, complete with Bose speakers. Often we’ll project a scene onto the big screen, something inspiring or designed to transport viewers from the greyness of winter in upstate New York. Cozy fireplaces and spring gardens can literally warm the soul, … Continue reading Nurturing eagles as democracy dies
Sign your name
A lot has changed since I first began traveling to Europe. I’ve gone from having the heaviest piece of luggage in our friend group of 7 to being able to successfully pack for a 4 week trip in a small carry on bag. No longer do I have to watch every franc, guilder, pound or … Continue reading Sign your name
No pocket for my sunshine
I’m making an effort to take breaks from the dumpster fire that is the United States, be it a quick trip “home” to Ireland to spend time with family, reading voraciously or chilling on the couch with trashy television and freshly baked cookies with a side of milk. Expressing my outrage and disgust with the … Continue reading No pocket for my sunshine






