The “month’s mind” is a tradition still practiced in Ireland. Basically, when a loved one has passed, a requiem Mass is celebrated one month after the passing. And, the family usually gathers together after the Mass for tea and words of remembrance for the loved one. I, for one, love this idea of family comingContinue reading “The Month’s Mind”
Category Archives: Irish Roots
County Mayo – The Heather County
Another Name for County Mayo County Mayo is often called the Heather County. Ling heather can be found in abundance throughout Mayo’s bogs especially in the bog of Céide Fields and in the Ballycroy National Park at the foot of the Nephin Mountain. Did you know that heather comes in colors other than purple? InContinue reading “County Mayo – The Heather County”
The Mysterious Cuckoo and Spring in Ireland
The Mysterious Cuckoo The first time I heard the mysterious cuckoo it was May. I was exploring the scenic route between Finney, County Mayo and Clonbur, County Galway near Lough Mask. I was intrigued because my partner, Bill, loves cuckoo clocks and several hung in our home in New Jersey. But this was the firstContinue reading “The Mysterious Cuckoo and Spring in Ireland”
Turlough – The Schipperke Character
Turlough, my schipperke, is quite a character. And, he will feature as a series character in one of my upcoming County Mayo Mysteries. The schipperke breed can best be described as a small dog who believes he inhabits the body of a King German shepherd. As a result, schipperkes exhibit a guard dog personality: protective,Continue reading “Turlough – The Schipperke Character”
Irish Roots – Pulling Away From Home
For me, my Irish roots and pulling away from home have always been both a source of joy and sadness. When I’ve gone on work trips or vacations, there has been a certain sweet sadness as I sat in the back of an airport limo and looked back at my home, knowing that I wasContinue reading “Irish Roots – Pulling Away From Home”