Coming up short

When was the last time you went shopping for shorts? Personally, I think it’s been a while because what I’m seeing, in the very limited number of stores I’ve visited, has been more than a little surprising. First - the styles I’m seeing are not particularly appealing. Either they’re too short, too bougie or too … Continue reading Coming up short

Take me to the river(towns!)

During a pause in my preparations for Maine, I thought of some info to share with you about a few spots closer to home. In the past week or so, I’ve ventured slightly south to hit up a couple of cool places, some new, some well established, of which you should be aware. First up … Continue reading Take me to the river(towns!)

The light touch of Ledhands Luke

My 2025 visit to Dublin included an appointment at True Electric Tattoo, a studio on Wicklow Street just south of the Liffey. A particular tattoo artist, Luke Martin, had been recommended by one of my cousins and I was very pleased with the work he did for me. It was a simple tattoo - my … Continue reading The light touch of Ledhands Luke

Dublin digs

Each time I visit Ireland, I revisit favorite haunts and discover new places that delight. I return time and time again to the Vintage Kitchen, Howth (with a meal at Octopussy), and The Cobblestone. Most importantly, I also spend time with my large and extended family. This trip was no exception. Some of the most … Continue reading Dublin digs

Howth Cliff Walk – and a Wonky Sauna

While it may seem as if I travel far and wide, if you look closely you’ll see that I have favorite spots to which I return time and time again. Howth is one of those places. This seaside village on the north end of Dublin Bay, has never failed to charm me, although, I discovered … Continue reading Howth Cliff Walk – and a Wonky Sauna

“If you have the words,…

…there's always a chance that you'll find the way." — Seamus Heaney Before I went to Ireland for the first time in 1990, the wife of the chef I had worked with prior to my move to Albany strongly recommended that I read the novel, Trinity, by Leon Uris. It was a must. I remember nothing about … Continue reading “If you have the words,…

Philly for 48+ hours

My second March mini getaway was a train trip to Philadelphia with my OG Albany (via South Troy) friend, Mary. It was her first visit to the city of Brotherly Love and my third and we got lucky with good weather, easy train connections and a hotel located right next to the Reading Terminal Market. … Continue reading Philly for 48+ hours