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

When foreign is familiar

I travel as much as I can. It’s more important to me than  new furniture, a 2000 square foot house, a fancy car or piece of jewelry. It’s what I need to do on many levels and I’ve arranged my financial life so I can get on a plane or train, or even a bus, … Continue reading When foreign is familiar

First impressions – Dublin, 2019

Yesterday was the first time I’ve visited Dublin since 2013. Here’s what struck me... I heard an amazing array of languages and saw numerous ethnic markets as I walked the streets for hours. The 3-day visitor’s trip transit pass is a great deal at 19.50 It’s dirtier than I remember it being. There seems to … Continue reading First impressions – Dublin, 2019

A due date becomes a do date – 22 years later, that is

My first pregnancy was pretty dreamy - I conceived the exact month I wanted to, which meant my maternity leave would be perfectly integrated with my academic calendar. The Lilly baby was due April 5th, which would give me about 6 weeks home, followed by 6 weeks back at work, and then summer off. It … Continue reading A due date becomes a do date – 22 years later, that is

Headed to Ireland’s half light with a full heart

After a nearly six year absence, I’m visiting Ireland this month. It would take some effort, and both hands, to count the number of times I’ve traveled to the country where my father was born, yet I’m about as excited as I was on that first trip to the Emerald Isle. Back then, all flights … Continue reading Headed to Ireland’s half light with a full heart

I’m your Mom, not your pimp

I’m really concerned about today’s young people* and there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think about what a shitty world in which the next generation is  growing up. Does saying that make me sound really old? If it does, so be it. Unlike much of today’s youth, I can live with … Continue reading I’m your Mom, not your pimp