I have not been blogging much in the last few months as I have been struggling a bit what with one thing and another.
I was diagnosed recently with an auto immune disease which has really knocked me for six! I never know any day how I will be feeling and this affects what I do for that day. I have also, during the last six months had a short stay in hospital and since then have had one if not two hospital visits each week since then.
All of this has taken big chunks out of my time and really disrupted things but I should not complain as I have had the best medical treatment and best of all, I have lost a lot of weight, something which I have been trying to do for a long time.
So you see, fate is a fickle thing!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Monday, February 7, 2011
STAYING CONNECTED
Our handsfree phone in the hall has finally given up the ghost. For the last few days it decided to cut out after a few minutes which is very frustrating - especially to the caller!
Geoffrey dug out an old phone from our previous house. This phone is one of those "L" shaped cream phones with white square push buttons and not handsfree of course. It feels so clunky and of course you are stuck to the spot when talking on it. When we bought it we thought it was so modern, just shows how times change.
We just have to save up for a new one now!
Geoffrey dug out an old phone from our previous house. This phone is one of those "L" shaped cream phones with white square push buttons and not handsfree of course. It feels so clunky and of course you are stuck to the spot when talking on it. When we bought it we thought it was so modern, just shows how times change.
We just have to save up for a new one now!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
SPIES!
Did you ever have the feeling you were being watched?!
This morning I went out to feed the birds as usual, filling the several dishes we have left out for them and the little bird house they particularly love. I took my time enjoying the cold air. Something made me look up and I could not believe my eyes. On top of all my neighbours roofs were birds and lots of birds all looking down at me (or so it seemed!) SPOOKY!!!!!!
This morning I went out to feed the birds as usual, filling the several dishes we have left out for them and the little bird house they particularly love. I took my time enjoying the cold air. Something made me look up and I could not believe my eyes. On top of all my neighbours roofs were birds and lots of birds all looking down at me (or so it seemed!) SPOOKY!!!!!!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
SNOW ON THE ROOF!
Picture the scene ..........
I am fast asleep in the Rectory, its the middle of the night - I am a very light sleeper.....
WHOOOOOOOSE !!!
"What was that!!! I shot out of bed and ran out onto the landing, the Rectory is quite large and of course not being at home I am not used to the noises this house makes - WHOOOOOOOSE! - I happened to be in front of the big window on the landing and immediately saw what was making the noise - a huge sheet of snow had just falled off the roof - "so that was what it was" - relief - I thought we were in for a burst pipe. I went back to my bedroom to share the knowledge with Geoffrey that the thaw had begun as foretold by the weather forcasters and found him fast asleep and snoring! I crept around the house and found that neither Adam or Simon had woken.
Next morning Geoffrey announces, all excited - the thaw has set in - I know already!
I am fast asleep in the Rectory, its the middle of the night - I am a very light sleeper.....
WHOOOOOOOSE !!!
"What was that!!! I shot out of bed and ran out onto the landing, the Rectory is quite large and of course not being at home I am not used to the noises this house makes - WHOOOOOOOSE! - I happened to be in front of the big window on the landing and immediately saw what was making the noise - a huge sheet of snow had just falled off the roof - "so that was what it was" - relief - I thought we were in for a burst pipe. I went back to my bedroom to share the knowledge with Geoffrey that the thaw had begun as foretold by the weather forcasters and found him fast asleep and snoring! I crept around the house and found that neither Adam or Simon had woken.
Next morning Geoffrey announces, all excited - the thaw has set in - I know already!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
SNOWED IN AT CHRISTMAS!
Christmas was interesting this year!!
I made the journey by train over to Adam (who of course was working all through Christmas) knowing that it was likely that Geoffrey and Simon might not be able to make the journey over on Christmas Eve. The train journey was long and cold and the view from the train windows was like a winter wonderland. As it was late in the day I watched a lovely glowing sunset gradually set behind the snow covered trees.
Geoffrey and Simon did manage to make the journey on Christmas Eve, getting stuck half way up the drive - sideway - but they made it for Christmas!
I made the journey by train over to Adam (who of course was working all through Christmas) knowing that it was likely that Geoffrey and Simon might not be able to make the journey over on Christmas Eve. The train journey was long and cold and the view from the train windows was like a winter wonderland. As it was late in the day I watched a lovely glowing sunset gradually set behind the snow covered trees.
Geoffrey and Simon did manage to make the journey on Christmas Eve, getting stuck half way up the drive - sideway - but they made it for Christmas!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
SNOWED IN!
It has been snowing heavily here all day and the garden is covered in a thick layer of snow. We fed the birds as usual this morning but it has snowed so heavily since that the food is covered and they cannot find it.
There has been much more birds looking for food today and they have been flying to and fro but there is nothing we can do until it stops snowing. It is a long time since I have seen such deep snow, I hope it stops soon.
There has been much more birds looking for food today and they have been flying to and fro but there is nothing we can do until it stops snowing. It is a long time since I have seen such deep snow, I hope it stops soon.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
GARDEN ANTICS
There was great excitement in our garden this morning!
We had noticed that a large ginger cat had been stalking the birds and that they were not feeding from the dishes left out on the garden seat and that the little birds were getting chased off by the bigger birds. So this morning I hung a fat ball in the middle of a bush and a small wooden bird stand from the circular line and sat back and watched.
As soon as I had gone in small birds came from all directions. I discovered by watching that the wobble on the bird house was too much for the bigger birds and this left it free for the blue tits etc, one of whom was having a ball flying too and fro with seeds. The fat ball in the bush also attracted the small birds which left the dishes on the seat for the bigger birds - everyone happy - except the cat!
We had noticed that a large ginger cat had been stalking the birds and that they were not feeding from the dishes left out on the garden seat and that the little birds were getting chased off by the bigger birds. So this morning I hung a fat ball in the middle of a bush and a small wooden bird stand from the circular line and sat back and watched.
As soon as I had gone in small birds came from all directions. I discovered by watching that the wobble on the bird house was too much for the bigger birds and this left it free for the blue tits etc, one of whom was having a ball flying too and fro with seeds. The fat ball in the bush also attracted the small birds which left the dishes on the seat for the bigger birds - everyone happy - except the cat!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
BLESSINGS
Adam rings me or sends me a text most days, keeping me in touch with his busy life. He is especially busy coming up to Christmas and he has been telling me about the carol services which he has planned amongst other things but the text I got last night I would hazard a guess most mothers do not get (except when your son is a rector!)
Text read "am off to bed now after blessing the Christmas lights and crib"! Well what do you say to that - except "Bless You" back!
Text read "am off to bed now after blessing the Christmas lights and crib"! Well what do you say to that - except "Bless You" back!
ICY JOURNEY
Yesterday Geoffrey and I went up to Dublin. I had an appointment in a large hospital there. I have not seen Dublin in such freezing conditions since 1983 when we were snowed in.
Yesterday wherever we went there were huge piles of snow on the edge of the roads and footpaths and the footpaths had a layer of hard slippery ice, I do not know how people have been getting around. Some hardy walkers were out, all wrapped up with either sticks or ski poles to try to help them keep their balance.
On our way home we admired the snow on top of two well known mountains in Wicklow called the Big and Little Sugarloaf. At that time of day the sun was setting in a lovely orange glow behind the Large Sugarloaf, I wish I had had my camera with me.
Yesterday wherever we went there were huge piles of snow on the edge of the roads and footpaths and the footpaths had a layer of hard slippery ice, I do not know how people have been getting around. Some hardy walkers were out, all wrapped up with either sticks or ski poles to try to help them keep their balance.
On our way home we admired the snow on top of two well known mountains in Wicklow called the Big and Little Sugarloaf. At that time of day the sun was setting in a lovely orange glow behind the Large Sugarloaf, I wish I had had my camera with me.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
WINTER FEASTS
The time has come again for us to feed the birds.
"our" robin has returned again and the pair of blackbirds and to our surprise we saw that they remembered where the food was left for them.
Yesterday I left out an extra treat of some pear pieces and the female blackbird immediately flew down and gobbled it up and then suddenly our robin swooped down all puffed up and chased the blackbird away. It is amazing to watch such a little bird bully a much bigger bird - and succeed - maybe there is a moral there somewhere?!
"our" robin has returned again and the pair of blackbirds and to our surprise we saw that they remembered where the food was left for them.
Yesterday I left out an extra treat of some pear pieces and the female blackbird immediately flew down and gobbled it up and then suddenly our robin swooped down all puffed up and chased the blackbird away. It is amazing to watch such a little bird bully a much bigger bird - and succeed - maybe there is a moral there somewhere?!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
OUR NEW PREMISES
The members of the gallery are settling happily into our new premises and I must say it is lovely and bright. The small street we are on now, always has people passing to and fro and we are beside the Halpin Cafe which is always busy.
Here's hoping for a good Christmas for everybody
Here's hoping for a good Christmas for everybody
Saturday, November 13, 2010
FOOT FALLS
I was sitting on the sofa last night, down at my feet scattered across the carpet were a variety of shoes - yes the boys are home for the weekend!
Come Monday I will begin the search for:- the tv remote, the weekend papers, my small laptop etc etc.!
But it is lovely to have them home!
Come Monday I will begin the search for:- the tv remote, the weekend papers, my small laptop etc etc.!
But it is lovely to have them home!
Saturday, November 6, 2010
LOST AGAIN!
Well, I did it again! Geoffrey was in a Dublin hospital for the day on Thursday and I had to pick him up when he was finished.
Finding my way to the hospital was fine, as it is a route I am familiar with but finding my way around the multi storey car park was another matter! The first time I went in I immediately turned the wrong way and had to come out and go in again. The second time was no better going round and round trying to find a space and trying to find the upper level and I was getting more and more bewildered. Finally I spotted a space much to my relief and could park. I wish my sense of direction was better!
Finding my way to the hospital was fine, as it is a route I am familiar with but finding my way around the multi storey car park was another matter! The first time I went in I immediately turned the wrong way and had to come out and go in again. The second time was no better going round and round trying to find a space and trying to find the upper level and I was getting more and more bewildered. Finally I spotted a space much to my relief and could park. I wish my sense of direction was better!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
ROMANCE IS NOT DEAD!
Geoffrey came back from the shops today with a present for me - a thermal vest! - and they say romance is dead!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Monday, October 11, 2010
NEARER TO GOD?
Adam rang me today to tell me what he had been up to this morning.
The roof has just been repaired on one of the churches he is responsible for so he had to go up on the roof with the architect to inspect the work. He sounds like he quite enjoyed himself and is obviously not afraid of heights. I asked if he had felt nearer to God and he laughed.
Who said being a rector is boring!
The roof has just been repaired on one of the churches he is responsible for so he had to go up on the roof with the architect to inspect the work. He sounds like he quite enjoyed himself and is obviously not afraid of heights. I asked if he had felt nearer to God and he laughed.
Who said being a rector is boring!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
CLOGGA BEACH, ARKLOW, CO. WICKLOW
I painted Clogga Beach a long time ago and enjoyed painting it. I am known for getting lost and several times I have set out to find this beach again, only to get lost, so today as it was a lovely sunny day Geoffrey suggested that he comes with me to search for this beach!
We set off after lunch - me driving and Geoffrey giving the odd helpful comment "why are you going down there - "you missed the turning" etc. We drove beyond Arklow - that much I managed before - then drove down a few narrow winding roads. I know now why I never found it! It is a little hidden gem and I still say it is difficult to find.
We set off after lunch - me driving and Geoffrey giving the odd helpful comment "why are you going down there - "you missed the turning" etc. We drove beyond Arklow - that much I managed before - then drove down a few narrow winding roads. I know now why I never found it! It is a little hidden gem and I still say it is difficult to find.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
MY VISITOR
Decided I had to do some housework as the Rector was coming to stay. Hang on a minute thats my son! Forget the housework!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
ADAM'S INDUCTION
Adam's induction service was a lovely friendly service and in spite of my failing voice I managed to do the first reading. Watching Adam was really very surreal as he took his role in the service. After the service a feast was laid on for everyone and I met a lot of people, everyone is very welcoming and warm and have made Adam so welcome. The family were also made very welcome with a lot of thought and kinds deeds, overall the parishes feel warm and welcoming and I am sure that Adam will be very happy there.
On Sunday I went to Adam's first service as rector and was amazed at his polish and relaxed presentation - remember he is still my baby! He fluffed a few things but turned these into a laugh and had the congretation smiling.
On Sunday I went to Adam's first service as rector and was amazed at his polish and relaxed presentation - remember he is still my baby! He fluffed a few things but turned these into a laugh and had the congretation smiling.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
IN THE COUNTRY
Adam's new home is really lovely, big and bright and such a view from the many bay windows.
I stayed with him for a few days and every morning I spent a few minutes looking out of my bedroom window at that view! I am not sleeping well lately so have been up at dawn most mornings.
Around dawn the clouds cover the hills in the distance and the river is black and fast flowing - then the scene changes gradually - wispy clouds floating down the mountain and the river surface gradually turning a lighter shade and reflections of the trees and buildings appearing. Throughout the day it changes, Sligo is a really lovely part of the country.
Since moving in Adam has had so much help from the people around him and it has made his move much less stressful.
I stayed with him for a few days and every morning I spent a few minutes looking out of my bedroom window at that view! I am not sleeping well lately so have been up at dawn most mornings.
Around dawn the clouds cover the hills in the distance and the river is black and fast flowing - then the scene changes gradually - wispy clouds floating down the mountain and the river surface gradually turning a lighter shade and reflections of the trees and buildings appearing. Throughout the day it changes, Sligo is a really lovely part of the country.
Since moving in Adam has had so much help from the people around him and it has made his move much less stressful.
Friday, September 10, 2010
SETTLING IN
Henry and Graham ( the two cats) have settled into their new home with no problem. Making themselves at home and Henry has already started doing his usual act of climbing up and down the bannisters.
When they look out of the windows I wonder what is going through their heads as the scene they see is very different to the one they are used to!
When they look out of the windows I wonder what is going through their heads as the scene they see is very different to the one they are used to!
A MOVING EXPERIENCE
Moving house they say is the worst experience you can have in life so Adam's move from his house in Wales to his new house in Sligo was no picnic and I was not much help to him.
In his time in Wales he had made a lot of friends and it was lovely to see his friends pitching in and helping him move.
One friend - from his first parish - took the cats overnight and fed both them and us the following morning before the journey. Another two friends - from Faith and Light - came and cleaned the house from top to bottom on the day it was being cleared out by the movers and another friend - a local pastor - fed us on our last night as they knew we were staying in a hotel and my diet was limited and lastly another friend met us in Aberystwyth (half way through our journey to the ferry) and looked after the cats and us.
The journey was not too bad and the cats behaved themselves very well. The only bad part was when we had to leave them on the ship, their cage had to be left against a wall on the open car deck and they were very frightened, I felt sorry for them but when we came to collect them they calmed down again.
In his time in Wales he had made a lot of friends and it was lovely to see his friends pitching in and helping him move.
One friend - from his first parish - took the cats overnight and fed both them and us the following morning before the journey. Another two friends - from Faith and Light - came and cleaned the house from top to bottom on the day it was being cleared out by the movers and another friend - a local pastor - fed us on our last night as they knew we were staying in a hotel and my diet was limited and lastly another friend met us in Aberystwyth (half way through our journey to the ferry) and looked after the cats and us.
The journey was not too bad and the cats behaved themselves very well. The only bad part was when we had to leave them on the ship, their cage had to be left against a wall on the open car deck and they were very frightened, I felt sorry for them but when we came to collect them they calmed down again.
Monday, August 30, 2010
TRAFFIC CONES IN THE HALL
The headline says it all! I am sitting here surrounded by piles of boxes and other bits and pieces ready for the movers.
The cats have been introduced to their travelling cage, if they only knew what they were in for! Wednesday is going to be interesting, not only have the cats not travelled in a car they have not been on a boat either! I will not be able to travel over with Adam to Sligo as I would have liked and am hoping that the cats do not make too much of a fuss on the journey.
Moving house is a nightmare, Adam has found that with his job he will have to move occasionally but he has moved three times in four years!
Roll on Sligo.
The cats have been introduced to their travelling cage, if they only knew what they were in for! Wednesday is going to be interesting, not only have the cats not travelled in a car they have not been on a boat either! I will not be able to travel over with Adam to Sligo as I would have liked and am hoping that the cats do not make too much of a fuss on the journey.
Moving house is a nightmare, Adam has found that with his job he will have to move occasionally but he has moved three times in four years!
Roll on Sligo.
GOODBYE TO WALES
I am over this weekend to "help" Adam with his move from Wales to his new parish in Sligo. I say "help" as I am really only supervising as I am still not in the whole of my health!
Today I went to church - which I don't do very often! Adam gave his last sermon and as usual choose an unusual theme which skilfully linked into the reading for the day. Towards the end of the service the assistant minister was reading the blessings and I promise I was listening when I suddenly heard him mention Adam's mom, mentioning that I was there and wishing me and Adam well for the future, its the first time I have been greeted in church like that and it was very nice. Afterwards there was tea and chat in the church hall and Adam and I were surrounded by people wishing us well and saying how they will miss Adam, it makes your heart glad and says something for Adam's time there.
Today I went to church - which I don't do very often! Adam gave his last sermon and as usual choose an unusual theme which skilfully linked into the reading for the day. Towards the end of the service the assistant minister was reading the blessings and I promise I was listening when I suddenly heard him mention Adam's mom, mentioning that I was there and wishing me and Adam well for the future, its the first time I have been greeted in church like that and it was very nice. Afterwards there was tea and chat in the church hall and Adam and I were surrounded by people wishing us well and saying how they will miss Adam, it makes your heart glad and says something for Adam's time there.
Monday, August 23, 2010
LIFE DIET
I am still struggling to get back to normal - eating wise. Because I have to stick to a bland diet with small portions my energy level is not what it should be.
Adam is coming back to Ireland in a few weeks and I am doing my best to get my energy levels up so that I can help him make his move but so far it aint looking good! The one good thing in all of this though is that I am loosing weight and continue to loose weight which I have been trying to do for some time - there is always a silver lining in everything!
I am very happy that Adam is coming back to Ireland to live and work, he will be over in Sligo which is a wee way from here and it is going to very interesting when I try to drive over to visit him as I have a habit of getting lost.
Adam is coming back to Ireland in a few weeks and I am doing my best to get my energy levels up so that I can help him make his move but so far it aint looking good! The one good thing in all of this though is that I am loosing weight and continue to loose weight which I have been trying to do for some time - there is always a silver lining in everything!
I am very happy that Adam is coming back to Ireland to live and work, he will be over in Sligo which is a wee way from here and it is going to very interesting when I try to drive over to visit him as I have a habit of getting lost.
Friday, July 30, 2010
MISSING
For the the first time in years I will not be taking part on the railings in Wicklow, displaying my art. This week Wicklow celebrates the Wicklow Regatta and the town will be full of visitors of not just the sailing kind. I have been trying all week to get back on my feet but this infection has knocked the stuffing out of me and I have no energy.
I will miss the craic as we say in Ireland.
I will miss the craic as we say in Ireland.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
LIFE'S LITTLE BUMPS
well - I hit a rather large bump last Wednesday and ended up being rushed to hospital by ambulance! It was very painful and scary and I HATE HATE HATE hospital.
I am now thankfully on the mend and being looked after by Geoffrey who wishes we lived in a bungalow!
I am now thankfully on the mend and being looked after by Geoffrey who wishes we lived in a bungalow!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Saturday, July 10, 2010
DUTY
As a condition of taking part in an exhibition each artist has to do desk duty, usually an hour or two which I am always happy to do. I always find that I learn so much by spending time with other artists and looking at the work on display.
Last night I did desk duty in Greystones where I am taking part in an exhibition in St Patrick's Recreation Hall in Church Road until Sunday. I really enjoyed the two hours I was there and I had a great chat with my fellow volunteer and other members that came in.
There is some really fantastic pictures on display and it was also great to look around with other artists and study and comment on each individual style of painting. Asking where other artists source their materials is very useful too.
I went home happy with my fill of artistic knowhow!
Last night I did desk duty in Greystones where I am taking part in an exhibition in St Patrick's Recreation Hall in Church Road until Sunday. I really enjoyed the two hours I was there and I had a great chat with my fellow volunteer and other members that came in.
There is some really fantastic pictures on display and it was also great to look around with other artists and study and comment on each individual style of painting. Asking where other artists source their materials is very useful too.
I went home happy with my fill of artistic knowhow!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
COMING HOME
Adam is coming back to live and work in Ireland. He has been living in Wales since he went to college there when he was 20, a long time. It is great that he has finally found a position here and I hope he will be happy and fulfilled here as he puts his heart and soul into everything he does.
I have been trying to search out different things for him and this morning I spent online searching out what he has to do to transport his two white cats.. As he has lived in Wales for such a long time he has accumulated such an amount of stuff it will take a bit of sorting out but his move will not be immediate which will give us time to get sorted.
I have been trying to search out different things for him and this morning I spent online searching out what he has to do to transport his two white cats.. As he has lived in Wales for such a long time he has accumulated such an amount of stuff it will take a bit of sorting out but his move will not be immediate which will give us time to get sorted.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
ENJOYING IT
Went for a stroll along the pier in Wicklow Harbour the other evening with my sister who lives in landlocked Kilkenny.
It was one of those warm windless evenings. There was a haze in the distance and those dark ripples on a flat calm sea, just great. My sister remarked how lovely it was and how lucky I was to live near such a fantastic place and I agreed.
The pier was full of lots of people strolling up and down just enjoying the evening and after the horrible winter we had it is just what we need to boost our spirits.
It was one of those warm windless evenings. There was a haze in the distance and those dark ripples on a flat calm sea, just great. My sister remarked how lovely it was and how lucky I was to live near such a fantastic place and I agreed.
The pier was full of lots of people strolling up and down just enjoying the evening and after the horrible winter we had it is just what we need to boost our spirits.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
WINDBLOWN
Went out to the garden this morning to photograph the poppies that are bursting into flower and found that the wind overnight had blown almost all the petals off so I consoled myself by painting instead.
Monday, May 31, 2010
I LOVE CATS
It is a long time since we lost our lovely cat and I miss him so when I see other cats I always go over and "talk" to them.
Today I was down in the recycling centre and noticed in amongst all the bins and noise a tabby cat sitting like a king on top of one of the bins. He looked so serene it amazed me as the building is very noisy with lots of people coming and going. I went over to him and he accepted a pet from me. He was one very laid back cat!
Today I was down in the recycling centre and noticed in amongst all the bins and noise a tabby cat sitting like a king on top of one of the bins. He looked so serene it amazed me as the building is very noisy with lots of people coming and going. I went over to him and he accepted a pet from me. He was one very laid back cat!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
WINDOW DRESSING
The two paintings below have been displayed in two shop windows in Wicklow Town as part of the Arts Trail for the Wicklow Arts Festival. Taking a stroll around the town it is lovely to see such a large range of pictures on display and all for sale!
I spent a lot of time painting the Asgard and it is something I had not tried before, as they are watercolours I had to make sure that the windows they were displayed in were not directly in the sun. One side of the main street in Wicklow Town never gets the sun (something that not a lot of people know!).
I spent a lot of time painting the Asgard and it is something I had not tried before, as they are watercolours I had to make sure that the windows they were displayed in were not directly in the sun. One side of the main street in Wicklow Town never gets the sun (something that not a lot of people know!).
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Monday, May 17, 2010
IT'S THE SMALL THINGS .......
Like most people today life for us is a bit of a struggle - no point in going into it - its too boring for anyone to listen to but it is amazing how one little thing can lift your spirits.
All day today a male blackbird has been singing his little heart out to his sweatheart who from the volume of his singing is some way away! It is really lovely to listen to, he is making - I think - about four different notes and starts at the back of the house on the roof of our neighbour and then goes round to the front of our house and sings and jumps up and down in the hedge there. It has really put me in a happy mood and I do hope he gets the bird!
All day today a male blackbird has been singing his little heart out to his sweatheart who from the volume of his singing is some way away! It is really lovely to listen to, he is making - I think - about four different notes and starts at the back of the house on the roof of our neighbour and then goes round to the front of our house and sings and jumps up and down in the hedge there. It has really put me in a happy mood and I do hope he gets the bird!
WORK?!
I have been busily painting these last few weeks, something I had not been doing lately as I havn't been feeling great. Now that I have got the bit between my teeth so to speak I am enjoying it and am delighted with the last two pictures I have produced which is unusual for me as I am rarely happy with my efforts.
One picture is for a local arts trail and is a subject I had not attempted before, fingers crossed that someone will like it and the other one is of Poolbeg Power Station in Dublin, a subject I have painted many times. I painted Poolbeg a bit different this time and I like it, it is going into an exhibition in Dublin in July - if I don't sell it in the meantime!!
As I sit here I am surrounded by pictures, some framed and some still waiting to be framed, I am lucky that Geoffrey is good at putting my pictures together as this allows me to paint a picture for an exhibition and have it ready for the next day if needed.
One picture is for a local arts trail and is a subject I had not attempted before, fingers crossed that someone will like it and the other one is of Poolbeg Power Station in Dublin, a subject I have painted many times. I painted Poolbeg a bit different this time and I like it, it is going into an exhibition in Dublin in July - if I don't sell it in the meantime!!
As I sit here I am surrounded by pictures, some framed and some still waiting to be framed, I am lucky that Geoffrey is good at putting my pictures together as this allows me to paint a picture for an exhibition and have it ready for the next day if needed.
Friday, May 7, 2010
ARACHNOPHOBIA
What! Yes I know - as my sister would say "I had one of those and the wheel fell off!"
The frightened and informed people amongst us would know that the big word above means that some of us are frightened by spiders.
I grew up on a farm and wasnt afraid of any of the animals I had to take care of, no matter how aggressive they were and had been bitten, stamped on and chased by many an animal but silly me I am afraid of spiders.
So picture the scene - I had just washed my hands and picked up the towel to dry them and there was a plopping sound and when I looked down at my feet there was this HUGE SPIDER, I nearly died of fright and there was nearly a Helen shaped hole in the ceiling!
The frightened and informed people amongst us would know that the big word above means that some of us are frightened by spiders.
I grew up on a farm and wasnt afraid of any of the animals I had to take care of, no matter how aggressive they were and had been bitten, stamped on and chased by many an animal but silly me I am afraid of spiders.
So picture the scene - I had just washed my hands and picked up the towel to dry them and there was a plopping sound and when I looked down at my feet there was this HUGE SPIDER, I nearly died of fright and there was nearly a Helen shaped hole in the ceiling!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
DRIVING LESSONS!
We had a full house last weekend which was great as both boys are rarely home at the same time. They both lead such busy lives and Adam particularly catches up with friends when he is at home - just one problem he does it in my car!
Simon spent some time over the weekend getting driving lessons with Geoffrey - just one problem he does it in my car!
Seriously - I don't mind - maybe just a little!
Simon spent some time over the weekend getting driving lessons with Geoffrey - just one problem he does it in my car!
Seriously - I don't mind - maybe just a little!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
WHAT FUR
The garden is strangly quiet now that the birds no longer require feeding and have gone off to build nests and things, so I was surprised to see another visitor to one of the feeding dishes we had left out.
At first I could not make out what exactly the moving object was, but as I studied it I realised that it was a very small dormouse. A sweet little thing with big ears and a tail longer than its body. It sits and feeds not even bothered by us going to and fro to the garage, I just hope the grey tabby that comes into our garden does not have it for lunch one day.
At first I could not make out what exactly the moving object was, but as I studied it I realised that it was a very small dormouse. A sweet little thing with big ears and a tail longer than its body. It sits and feeds not even bothered by us going to and fro to the garage, I just hope the grey tabby that comes into our garden does not have it for lunch one day.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
MAKING A CAKE
Its well known that I am not a good cook but I am also a very bad baker too! My cakes turn out flat and rubbery - not nice! So when Geoffrey had a milestone birthday yesterday I decided to make him a cake in the only way I knew how.
The outside was cardboard but the inside was sponge like a cake should be - a natural sponge of course! He was tickled pink and I can honestly say this is the first successful cake I have ever produced!
The outside was cardboard but the inside was sponge like a cake should be - a natural sponge of course! He was tickled pink and I can honestly say this is the first successful cake I have ever produced!
Friday, March 26, 2010
BUSY BUSY!
Havn't had much time for blogging lately as I have been away in Wales with Adam. It was my first long visit since he moved to his new parish. His vicar is away on a break and he is in sole charge of a big parish and seems to be doing ok. As his mother it is fascinating to watch him work. His two white cats have settled in well into their new home and he has plenty of offers to look after them when he is away.
I had an awful crossing on the ferry on my way back. Big seas and every so often a wave that seemed to twist the boat. I am a good sailor even in bad weather but this time I was very tired and what with a few people getting sick all around me, I did hold onto everything but only just!
I had an awful crossing on the ferry on my way back. Big seas and every so often a wave that seemed to twist the boat. I am a good sailor even in bad weather but this time I was very tired and what with a few people getting sick all around me, I did hold onto everything but only just!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Saturday, March 6, 2010
HERE COMES THE SUN!
Got up this morning and the sun was shining! I swore I would not moan about the weather but I am so fed up with being cold so it was just fantastic to see the sun this morning and to feel the warmth coming through the glass in the patio door. I sat for some time looking out at the garden watching a blackbird and a chaffinch warily eying each other at the feeding tray quite content with the day.
It just goes to show - the simplest things in life are the best.
It just goes to show - the simplest things in life are the best.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
I LOST MY HEART!
I don't paint very often in acrylics as I prefer watercolour but every so often I try my hand at it. I painted the fiery heart you see on the site and liked it so much that I was going to hang it at home but when I saw the beautiful valentine window in the gallery decided to put my heart into the window. The girls in the gallery insisted I put a price on it which I did. When I went down to the gallery on Monday I found I had lost my heart!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Sunday, January 24, 2010
GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL
I have just come back from Lanzarote, having spent a week there with Adam. It was lovely to get away from all the snow and ice but not without first falling the day before I flew out and twisting my knee!
Lanzarote is a really unusual place. The island is volcanic having had 2 large eruptions in the 1870's, although the islanders manage to grow vines in the middle of the lava fields! Thanks to a man called Cesar Manrique the island is one big artistic backdrop. Only two storey buildings (with one exception) are allowed on the island and no billboards are allowed which gives the island a lovely unclutted clean look. Cesar Manrique's house itself is amazing having been built within two volcanic tunnels - see the two pictures below.
The week went so fast but I was able to catch up with both my sisters (who live there lucky things!) and it was a nice winter treat with Adam.
Lanzarote is a really unusual place. The island is volcanic having had 2 large eruptions in the 1870's, although the islanders manage to grow vines in the middle of the lava fields! Thanks to a man called Cesar Manrique the island is one big artistic backdrop. Only two storey buildings (with one exception) are allowed on the island and no billboards are allowed which gives the island a lovely unclutted clean look. Cesar Manrique's house itself is amazing having been built within two volcanic tunnels - see the two pictures below.
The week went so fast but I was able to catch up with both my sisters (who live there lucky things!) and it was a nice winter treat with Adam.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
THE NEIGHBOURHOOD BULLY!
You know how people say Robins are the bullies of the garden scene well......
We have a large shrub growing on our back wall which this year was full of berries but as the winter has been so severe all the berries have gone so we have started to feed the birds. I put down fruit, a fat ball and water, I also scattered bird feed in several places as we are visited by quite a few birds. Guess who is trying to hog the lot - yes you guessed it - Mr. Robin! When he is not stuffing his face he sits in the ivy on another wall and creates such a racket, obviously to frighten off the other birds. The amazing thing is that birds eight times his size sit there cold and hungry and let him take over.
We have a large shrub growing on our back wall which this year was full of berries but as the winter has been so severe all the berries have gone so we have started to feed the birds. I put down fruit, a fat ball and water, I also scattered bird feed in several places as we are visited by quite a few birds. Guess who is trying to hog the lot - yes you guessed it - Mr. Robin! When he is not stuffing his face he sits in the ivy on another wall and creates such a racket, obviously to frighten off the other birds. The amazing thing is that birds eight times his size sit there cold and hungry and let him take over.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
CHRISTMAS MORNING
We spent Christmas with Adam in Wales as usual. This year he has moved to a new parish and Christmas morning was my first visit to one of the churches in his new parish. This visit did not make a good impression on me I am sorry to say but not through anyone's fault.
A few days before the pipes had burst on the heating system and of course on Christmas morning there was no heating. The church is a fairly big building with a high ceiling and I have never been so cold in my life! The poor organist's fingers kept going numb from the cold.
If you look at the picture below you can see the hunched cold look on the people's faces, I hope they get their heating fixed quickly.
A few days before the pipes had burst on the heating system and of course on Christmas morning there was no heating. The church is a fairly big building with a high ceiling and I have never been so cold in my life! The poor organist's fingers kept going numb from the cold.
If you look at the picture below you can see the hunched cold look on the people's faces, I hope they get their heating fixed quickly.
Monday, December 28, 2009
THAT LOVING FEELING!
How do you know someone loves you?!!
I was getting the dinner the other night - yes I said I WAS GETTING THE DINNER! I just could not open a jar of pasta sauce no matter how I tried so I yelled out CAN SOMEONE COME AND OPEN A JAR FOR ME and all three of my menfolk came running!
Of course I could be sceptical and it could just be that they were hungry and wanted to make sure their dinner would be ready soon!
I was getting the dinner the other night - yes I said I WAS GETTING THE DINNER! I just could not open a jar of pasta sauce no matter how I tried so I yelled out CAN SOMEONE COME AND OPEN A JAR FOR ME and all three of my menfolk came running!
Of course I could be sceptical and it could just be that they were hungry and wanted to make sure their dinner would be ready soon!
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
MY SLAVE
It had to happen one day.....
Geoffrey is officially a slave! He is taking part in the production of the opera "Aida" as a slave which is being held this weekend in the o2 Arena, Dublin and the Odyssey Belfast and in true slave tradition is unpaid!
Geoffrey is officially a slave! He is taking part in the production of the opera "Aida" as a slave which is being held this weekend in the o2 Arena, Dublin and the Odyssey Belfast and in true slave tradition is unpaid!
Friday, November 27, 2009
EXHIBITION
Below is one of my paintings which you will find in the exhibition opening at the Kilmantin Art Gallery in Abbey Street, Wicklow. You will also find a fantastic display of paintings and craft items, all by local artists.
We are having a gathering to open the exhibition at 5 o'clock on Saturday and if you are passing and see a happy band of people enjoying themselves do drop in and help yourself to some wine and mince pies and hopefully take something beautiful home!
We are having a gathering to open the exhibition at 5 o'clock on Saturday and if you are passing and see a happy band of people enjoying themselves do drop in and help yourself to some wine and mince pies and hopefully take something beautiful home!
Monday, November 23, 2009
NATURE
Nature is really cruel.
Our blackbird had returned to our garden and he had a "wife" Geoffrey and I have been watching them these last few weeks bouncing between the shrubs and chasing each other through the long wet grass and making quite a noise. All that came to an end this afternoon. Geoffrey was watching the male blackbird hopping through the grass when suddenly there was a flurry of fur and a lot of noise and a cat shot out of the grass and bolted over the fence with the blackbird in his mouth, it happened so fast we could not do anything to save it. The poor female is just sitting on the top of the wall being very quiet, we will have to keep a good eye on her so that she does not go the same way as her mate.
Our blackbird had returned to our garden and he had a "wife" Geoffrey and I have been watching them these last few weeks bouncing between the shrubs and chasing each other through the long wet grass and making quite a noise. All that came to an end this afternoon. Geoffrey was watching the male blackbird hopping through the grass when suddenly there was a flurry of fur and a lot of noise and a cat shot out of the grass and bolted over the fence with the blackbird in his mouth, it happened so fast we could not do anything to save it. The poor female is just sitting on the top of the wall being very quiet, we will have to keep a good eye on her so that she does not go the same way as her mate.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
SUPERSTITION
As I was saying recently - bad things come in threes - they don't - they come in fours. After the heating failing and Adam's car mishap we have now been hit with two jolts in life and I am keeping them to myself!
I must now think positive and get in the right frame of mind to sell my wares on Sunday at the craft fair held every year in my home town. The fair is held every year in a local hotel in a big room with a (closed) bar in one corner of the room - guess who bags the bar every year as it is in a good position with good lighting and lots of space to hang pictures!!
I must now think positive and get in the right frame of mind to sell my wares on Sunday at the craft fair held every year in my home town. The fair is held every year in a local hotel in a big room with a (closed) bar in one corner of the room - guess who bags the bar every year as it is in a good position with good lighting and lots of space to hang pictures!!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
MISERY
Its been a horrible week. First Adam rang to say that his car was a right off after an accident with a bollard. He was ok thankfully but in dispair as he needs his car to get around his parish. Then the heating went - again.
I have spent all week chasing heating engineers who made all kinds of promises and then simply did not arrive, all the time getting colder and colder. I was so cold that I could not paint as my hands were just too cold. Finally I asked a fellow artist friend if she knew someone and she gave me a name and we rang him on Sunday (yes I know but we were SO COLD) and he CAME AROUND a few hours later AND GOT THE HEATING GOING, the relief was mighty.
Then Adam rang to say that he had found a car, at the right price and would be mobile again in a week.
There is only one niggling thought at the back of my mind - I am superstitious, don't things come in threes?
I have spent all week chasing heating engineers who made all kinds of promises and then simply did not arrive, all the time getting colder and colder. I was so cold that I could not paint as my hands were just too cold. Finally I asked a fellow artist friend if she knew someone and she gave me a name and we rang him on Sunday (yes I know but we were SO COLD) and he CAME AROUND a few hours later AND GOT THE HEATING GOING, the relief was mighty.
Then Adam rang to say that he had found a car, at the right price and would be mobile again in a week.
There is only one niggling thought at the back of my mind - I am superstitious, don't things come in threes?
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
This time of the year,getting ready for the Christmas craft fairs I take part in, I knit more than I usually do. This year I am making bracelets with a thicker wire which is very difficult to knit with. The wire is quite stiff and my hands are quite sore so I have taken a break and am enjoying painting my favourite spot in Wicklow - the harbour.
Apart from being busy with my crafts it has been a busy two weeks. Adam was home from Wales for a week and then Simon came home for the weekend. Geoffrey and I rattle around the house when we are here on our own and when the boys come home it takes a bit of getting used to! Our heating had packed up on us so it was a cold visit for both boys, although thankfully heat has been restored in the last few days.
Apart from being busy with my crafts it has been a busy two weeks. Adam was home from Wales for a week and then Simon came home for the weekend. Geoffrey and I rattle around the house when we are here on our own and when the boys come home it takes a bit of getting used to! Our heating had packed up on us so it was a cold visit for both boys, although thankfully heat has been restored in the last few days.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
AGE IS RELATIVE
Yea, they say age is relative but not when it relates to you!
Adam is home this week as it is his birthday, he will be 36 today and it makes me feel ancient! It seems only a sort time ago when he was born, it certainly does not feel like 36 years.
Adam is home this week as it is his birthday, he will be 36 today and it makes me feel ancient! It seems only a sort time ago when he was born, it certainly does not feel like 36 years.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
DON'T TRY THIS AT HOME
You know when they say "Don't try this at home" when showing a stunt or something, well I can now say the same about a stunt of mine.
We have had a mouse in our attic space and I had put a radio loudly playing opera and when everything became silent I presumed that the mouse had moved on. Well,I was wrong, and the poor thing has died. How do we know it has died? I will leave that up to your imagination but suffice it to say we now have to sort out the roof space - pronto.
We have had a mouse in our attic space and I had put a radio loudly playing opera and when everything became silent I presumed that the mouse had moved on. Well,I was wrong, and the poor thing has died. How do we know it has died? I will leave that up to your imagination but suffice it to say we now have to sort out the roof space - pronto.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
MUSICAL TASTES
Well it worked! Our mouse does not like opera! No sign or sound from the roof space thank goodness. I wonder do all mice not like opera or would it have been the high notes opera singers get up, I suspect the latter.
Friday, October 9, 2009
DO MICE LIKE OPERA?
We have a mouse in our roof space, I live in a dormer bungalow and our "attic" is a space that runs down each side of the house under the roof space and a mouse has just moved into one side. The space is full of my youngest son's toys which he will not part with along with a lot of other stuff of his and it is impossible to find the mouse in all of that. It might also be a field mouse which are protected and I would not kill so I have resorted to an unusual method that my father tried in our old farmhouse. He used to put a loudly playing radio into the attic to get rid of the mice and it always worked!
So now I have a radio blaring out opera in the hopes that the same trick will work on this mouse. I don't know what I will do next if I find that he likes opera and stays!
So now I have a radio blaring out opera in the hopes that the same trick will work on this mouse. I don't know what I will do next if I find that he likes opera and stays!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
KILMACURRAGH WOODS
Went for a walk to one of my favourite places last Saturday. Wandering along the flower border it was lovely to see plants I remembered from my childhood. It is never crowded there - lets hope it stays that way!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
A RIGHT LEMON!
I havent been blogging lately as I have not been feeling very well.
I had realized that I have been grumpy and Geoffrey has been very patient with me but I did not realise how short a fuse I had!
I was getting the dinner the other night - grumbling as usual - salmon cutlets. Getting them ready for the oven I was trying to open a lemon squeeze bottle and just could not open it no matter how I tried. I finally lost patience and flung the bottle across the room, it bounced and bounced again and ended up in the front room on the carpet spilling out all over the carpet and a rattan mat in front of the fire.
Today when it finally dried I found out that lemon does not stain!
Phew!
I had realized that I have been grumpy and Geoffrey has been very patient with me but I did not realise how short a fuse I had!
I was getting the dinner the other night - grumbling as usual - salmon cutlets. Getting them ready for the oven I was trying to open a lemon squeeze bottle and just could not open it no matter how I tried. I finally lost patience and flung the bottle across the room, it bounced and bounced again and ended up in the front room on the carpet spilling out all over the carpet and a rattan mat in front of the fire.
Today when it finally dried I found out that lemon does not stain!
Phew!
Monday, August 24, 2009
A SUNNY MORNING
Saturday morning was lovely, warm and sunny and the butterflies thought it was a lovely day too.
Our front garden was full of butterflies flitting to and fro through the shrubs and I got some lovely shots of some of them, they were so happy feeding that they did not fly away which was great
Our front garden was full of butterflies flitting to and fro through the shrubs and I got some lovely shots of some of them, they were so happy feeding that they did not fly away which was great
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
NATURE'S SURPRISES
We do not use any artificial sprays or fertilisers in our small garden so that the wildlife visit us in safety. We do daft things like letting our onions and sage go to seed and the bees love this and on a sunny day the buzzing of bees can be heard. But we have noticed that in spite of planting shrubs that butterflies like we have had very few visit in the last few years so there was much exitement when a peacock butterfly landed on the sage. Unfortunately by the time I got my camera it had flown off, I remember some years back coming home from work and seeing the front of our house covered in red admiral butterflies! I sat in wonderment and counted them and got up to the figure of 35! Of course when I opened the car door they flew off but I have never forgotten that sight.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Friday, August 14, 2009
WHERE DOES THE TIME GO?
These last few weeks have been busy in our household and I do not know where July went!
My day on the railings in Wicklow was very successful and it was a happy day for all of us selling our wares. Its lovely to chat to like minded people, sharing ideas, where they get their framing etc. I always learn so much. The weather was very kind to us and there were lots of people looking at the pictures which was great.
Simon moved into his flat and has just made a few fleeting visits to us, we have just had some friends visiting from New Zealand who left yesterday and we have finally got the house to ourselves.
I now have the task of updating my filing system which I have neglected since the beginning of the summer so that when Geoffrey yells "where's the ESB bill" I can hopefully put my hand on it!
My day on the railings in Wicklow was very successful and it was a happy day for all of us selling our wares. Its lovely to chat to like minded people, sharing ideas, where they get their framing etc. I always learn so much. The weather was very kind to us and there were lots of people looking at the pictures which was great.
Simon moved into his flat and has just made a few fleeting visits to us, we have just had some friends visiting from New Zealand who left yesterday and we have finally got the house to ourselves.
I now have the task of updating my filing system which I have neglected since the beginning of the summer so that when Geoffrey yells "where's the ESB bill" I can hopefully put my hand on it!
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