I absolutely love the Irish language. She’s beautiful, haunting, full of blessings (and curses), and chalk full of crazy-ape rules. Crazy-ape exceptions to the rules are what’s really maddening. After spending a total of nearly five years learning this language I can say that she has found her way into my heart, and become a part of me in a …
First Name Basis (Or, Culture Shock 3 Years On)
Padraig. Maire. Mairead. Sinead. Siobhan. Luisne. Nora. Deborah. Tony. Traolach. Donal. These are just a few of the names of folks we know around here. I’ve noticed since we’ve been here people always greet me using my first name. This has both made me smile, and unnerved me. It made me smile because I felt special; the fact that they …
Grace Is…
I sit at your feet pouring my heart out. I’ve given up. Again. I’m starting over. Again. Grace is listening to me cry and hurt and moan. Grace is lifting my eyes to see You again. Grace is taking my hand in Your’s and taking the first step with me. Again. Grace is loving me the same today as You …
The Dot On the Horizon {Five Minute Friday}
I was at a loss for what to write today. And then I saw what Lisa Jo and the followers of her Facebook page landed on for the 5 Minute Friday prompt. And I knew I had to write. Perspective start I see it there…that dot on the horizon. That thing that I’m hoping for. Praying for. I would be …
When Beauty Hurts
It’s a tricky thing, beauty. We chase it. We praise it. We protect, nurture and tend it with such precision and care. The world loves a thing of beauty. To look at you brings such joy to my heart. Pride inexplicable. Fear undeniable. The beauty within you is stunning. A sight to behold. Not just beauty of skin; face; hair; smile …
The Empty Arms of A Mother
Right now my arms are full. Full of pudgy cheeks, dimpled fingers, hair needing brushed, blankies, and sippy cups. Full of lap sitters, bedtime snugglers, and slow-to-wake-uppers. It’s a funny thing, motherhood. Every mother begins her journey with empty arms. Once that precious baby (then the next, and the next) fills up our arms, our entire role as mother is …
Dancing the Night Away – THANK YOU!
I just have to start this post by saying a ginormous THANK YOU to everyone who supported me during the time leading up to the Strictly Come Dancing Fundraiser/Competition! First and foremost, to my awesome, amazing, supportive hubs – Seth. You are an amazing man and you did such a great job holding down the fort during all the late …
Brushing Dreams
Caramel-colored strands of hair cascade down a back clothed in pink. With long, smooth strokes I brush. The tangles are long gone, but she is engrossed in her book and I can’t will myself to move, so still I brush. Breathing in the fresh scent of strawberry shampoo and reveling in this quiet moment together. Well, it would be quiet …
The Rock in My Garden
Our house has several distinctive features. The bright red door contrasted against the white exterior to name one. The biggest sign you’ve found our house however is this: A giant rock boulder smack in the middle of our front garden. There are many things I love about that rock. It provides an easy landmark when giving directions to our house …
Irish Teens Need Your Help
**UPDATE: See the videos and read about the night here!** When you think of rural Ireland, you likely think of rolling, verdant hills, sheep, and rock walls. And you wouldn’t be far from the truth! We live in a stunningly beautiful, rugged area of the country that is home to an unimaginable combination of rocks, hills, bog land, mountains and …