We just returned from 10 days in Ireland less than a month ago and I’m still tracking down some of the interesting things I saw. I’m not the one to stand in museums and read a bunch of signs. Instead, I do my research after I get home and the other evening, I came across this gem which is available on Prime Video…
Today I learned how to make Irish soda bread
To be fair, those of you who have made it will be laughing because we all know how easy it truly is! You can find a lovely recipe right here: https://www.lionsbread.com/traditional-irish-soda-bread/
Here’s a little more info about the health (yes, health) benefits…
Continue reading “Today I learned how to make Irish soda bread”Crossing the Water: A Tribute to Bill Staines
Bill Staines was an American folk musician and songwriter, known for his contributions to the folk music scene since the 1960s. Born on February 8, 1947, in Whitinsville, Massachusetts, he grew up in New England, where he developed a love for folk music. Staines gained popularity for his storytelling style, blending humor and heart in his songs. He often drew inspiration from the natural world and his experiences traveling across the United States, particularly New England.
Continue reading “Crossing the Water: A Tribute to Bill Staines”From ChatGPT to Custom Itineraries: The Future of AI-Powered Travel Planning
“The article “From ChatGPT to Custom Itineraries: The Future of AI-Powered Travel Planning” explores how artificial intelligence, particularly tools like ChatGPT, is revolutionizing the way people plan their travels. It discusses the benefits of personalized itineraries generated by AI, which can adapt to individual preferences and needs, enhancing the overall travel experience. The integration of AI in travel planning not only saves time but also provides unique insights and recommendations, making it easier for travelers to discover new destinations and activities tailored just for them.”
Continue reading “From ChatGPT to Custom Itineraries: The Future of AI-Powered Travel Planning”The Quiet Girl
My Anam Cara and I are preparing for a visit to the Emerald Isle in late October and as part of the process I was looking for films that might help her prepare for Irish culture and language. I stumbled upon this…
Continue reading “The Quiet Girl”Easter Rising begins, April 24, 1916
On Easter Monday in Dublin, the Irish Republican Brotherhood, a secret organization of Irish nationalists led by Patrick Pearse, launches the Easter Rebellion, an armed uprising against British rule.
Saint Patrick dies, March 17, 461
Saint Patrick, Christian missionary, bishop and apostle of Ireland (and namesake for St. Patrick’s Day) dies in Ireland.
Source: Saint Patrick dies | March 17, 461 | HISTORY
Read about the man, the myth and the legend here: https://brightshinyobjects.net/2012/03/17/the-confessio-of-st-patrick-and-lessons-for-today/
Welcome to Notre Dame
A post from my new blog Welcome to Notre Dame. Follow me there if you’re a Fighting Irish fan…
The Alma Mater: Hymn of Hope
“What puts the “fight” in the Fighting Irish? Hope—it is hope that makes this University resilient in adversity. It is a hope that gives this University the courage to work for the common good, especially for those who have no hope.
This kind of hope stands fast especially when faced with a challenge. There is a long campus tradition that was born in such a moment of adversity, and it continues to inspire today: the Alma Mater song, “Notre Dame, Our Mother.”
In 1931, a disaster shook the Notre Dame family to its core—coaching legend Knute Rockne died suddenly when his plane crashed in a wheat field in Kansas. Almost 100 years later, Rockne still remains the winningest coach in football history, and his statue stands in front of the football stadium gate that faces the library.” Source: The Alma Mater: Hymn of Hope
Lou Holtz on maintaining self-motivation…
Easter Rising begins, April 24, 1916
On Easter Monday in Dublin, the Irish Republican Brotherhood, a secret organization of Irish nationalists led by Patrick Pearse, launches the Easter Rebellion, an armed uprising against British rule. Source: Easter Rising begins | April 24, 1916 | HISTORY
9 Life Lessons I Learned from The Cat I Loved (Who Left Me)
I’ve joked before about writing a book called “Everything I Need to Know About Detachment I Learned from my Cat”. This author took it a step further: “here’s how losing a pet made me realize I was living my life wrong.” Source: 9 Life Lessons I Learned from The Cat I Loved (Who Left Me)
btw, don’t forget the famous Eckhart Tolle quote: “I have known many Zen Masters in my life — all of them cats”. Cats can be powerful teachers, especially if you believe like the Irish that black cats are shape shifters. Who knows what powerful teacher could be living under your roof? :-D
The lethality of loneliness
The Christmas advertisement for Charlie’s Bar in Enniskillen, has become an internet sensation, touching the hearts of the thousands who have viewed it. Source: Deirdre Heenan: The lethality of loneliness
JFK: One Day In America
60 years ago on November 22, I returned home from morning kindergarten to find my mother sobbing on the couch and I can remember it like it was yesterday. As a former Catholic of Irish descent, John F. Kennedy was a god to me. The first book I was able to read on my own was about him. Here’s another good documentary, this time with ‘last’ interviews from the people who were there…
Just enjoy
Irish mindfulness and meditation blogger Karl Duffy shares:
“When a ray of sunshine comes, open out, absorb it to the depths of your being. Never think that an hour earlier you were cold and that an hour later you will be cold again. Just enjoy. Latch on to the passing minute. Shut off the workings of memory and hope… Take away from suffering its double drumbeat of resonance, memory and fear. Suffering may persist, but already it is relieved by half. Throw yourself into each moment as if it were the only one that really existed.” Source: Just enjoy – Mindfulbalance
Singer Sinead O’Connor dead at 56
Sinéad O’Connor, the Irish singer known for her intense and beautiful voice, her political convictions and the personal tumult that overtook her later years, has died. She was 56 years old.
O’Connor’s recording of “Nothing Compares 2 U” was one of the biggest hits of the early 1990s. Her death was announced by her family. The cause and date of her death were not made public. The statement said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”
Source: Singer Sinead O’Connor dead at 56 : NPR
Sinead, nothing compares to you!
Dreams
What could be nicer than a lovely group of Irish women singing for a good cause?
It made me want to hear Delores again…
The Truth About Black Cat Bias
Recent research helps explain why some people have a bias against black cats. Source: The Truth About Black Cat Bias
However, it’s interesting to know that many cultures (including my Irish ancestors) think that black cats are good luck and I choose to take that approach myself. No cat is more beautiful than my little Sadie…
Dreaming of Moving to Ireland? Here’s What You Need to Know If You’re American
Because of the work-from-home push of the pandemic, many folks have transitioned to working remotely, creating makeshift workplaces at home and beyond. It’s a shift that has afforded flexibility as people trade cubicles for a different view of the world. Source: Dreaming of Moving to Ireland? Here’s What You Need to Know If You’re American
Ire
Ireland: A Dark Secret
“How could 800 children die in a place where they’re supposed to be looked after?: Ireland: A Dark Secret
Bright, shiny objects! 
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