When I visit Ireland, I go with a wish list of things I hope to do. These days, most of my activities involve seeing family, particularly my late father’s remaining siblings. I’ve learned, however, that getting together isn’t always possible - and to not take it personally or as a rejection. We’ve all got busy … Continue reading Grave.Tender.
Category: Ireland
The $145 bargain mani-pedi
As my departure date has grown closer, the time finally arrived for me to complete a number of chores prior to heading to Ireland. Tuesday was the day for me to get a much needed pedicure, wash a final load of laundry, pack my suitcase and squeeze in a yoga class. I like to pace … Continue reading The $145 bargain mani-pedi
Carrying on
It feels like forever since I’ve checked luggage when traveling. I think I initially got away from it because of the added expense, but cost was not the only reason I abandoned the indulgence of checked luggage. I’ve heard far too many nightmares about bags not making it to their destination, particularly during these crazy … Continue reading Carrying on
Irish royalty
There once was a time when I wished to be an Irish princess, Rose of Tralee to be specific. It was before I had located my father’s family in Ireland and I was reaching for any connection I could make to that magically green country from where the father I never met came. To become … Continue reading Irish royalty
How to turn a Claddagh ring into a Celtic knot necklace
On a visit to Ireland maybe 10 or 12 years ago,* one of my father’s sisters gifted me with some euro. I felt inspired to use the money, along with some of my own, to buy a lasting souvenir for my boys...Claddagh rings for all! … Continue reading How to turn a Claddagh ring into a Celtic knot necklace
Don’t ever buy me earrings
It would be impossible to count all the earrings I’ve lost over the years. Hoops, studs and danglers - none are safe in my ears. Even screwbacks have inexplicably gone missing my from my lobes. I just can’t win when it comes to earrings. Until recently, that is. A couple of weeks ago, following dinner … Continue reading Don’t ever buy me earrings
Don’t let a beautiful day get away
I can’t believe it’s already been two weeks since I spent Easter in Ireland. It feels like it was just yesterday when we stayed in the back garden until Easter Sunday became Easter Monday when the wine finally became more persuasive about us going to bed than the air was about begging us to stay … Continue reading Don’t let a beautiful day get away



