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

Being comfortable in the skin you’re in

(I considered placing a warning here for male readers, but that would be a disservice to any guys who may appreciate skincare. Like my son.) How do you care for your body’s biggest organ?* Do you moisturize? Exfoliate? Tone? Protect it from the sun? Or maybe you’re low maintenance and just allow it to breathe? … Continue reading Being comfortable in the skin you’re in

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

Best bites – Ireland, 2019

People say all kinds of negative things about Irish food - it’s bland or all fried or what in God’s name is black pudding?, but I’m here to tell you there is some excellent food to be had on the Emerald Isle. While my first day of eating was a disaster with two subpar meals, … Continue reading Best bites – Ireland, 2019

The thrill of espadrilles

While I wouldn’t describe myself as incredibly traditional, there are some classic wardrobe pieces for which I have a genuine fondness. My Frye Campus boots or the gold charm bracelet I’ve been adding to for decades, for instance. I love the fact that neither will ever go out of fashion and that adding either to … Continue reading The thrill of espadrilles

Before the Notre Dame fire…

I never imagined a Paris without Notre Dame. I didn’t know how much I admired that centuries old building. I wouldn’t have predicted how sad I would feel to see it aflame. I wasn’t interested in reading Victor Hugo. I didn’t truly appreciate how fortunate I was to have visited a cathedral and lit a … Continue reading Before the Notre Dame fire…