Ireland is known for its stories. I think the wind and the waves started something, and the music picked it up and ran with it. Myths and legends blend with history and hardship to weave a tapestry of tales. They interlock into the backdrop causing imagination to flourish. The fairies, giants, and banshees, the love … Continue reading Land of the Storytellers
The Churches of Ireland
I live in the Southern United States, the Bible Belt, where there is a church on every corner, so I am familiar with multitudes of churches. In Ireland, the spires of the churches are the tallest buildings in every skyline. In villages, the church is not only the largest building, it is often in the … Continue reading The Churches of Ireland
Driving Adventures
When we planned this trip to Ireland, I was determined not to have to rent a car. Not only for the expense of it, but also because my anxiety of driving on the opposite side of the road. I was terrified because I know how much cognitive ability it takes to drive in my own … Continue reading Driving Adventures
Wild Irish Skies
I have been to tropical islands. I have seen the rain coming towards me down the beach, and then move past in a moment. I have waited to go outside to swim until the skies cleared, because I knew they would. The constant change in the weather is easily planned around and expected on a … Continue reading Wild Irish Skies
Cotton Candy Hair vs. Irish Winds
When I was a girl I had straight-as-a-stick hair. I was jealous of my sister’s curls. When I was a teenager my hair was long and thick, and a body wave fixed the stick issue. During college I chopped my hair off to my shoulders, then around my ears when I had children. My forehead was short, so any bangs were in my eyes straight away. I detest hair in my eyes because I am so visual, it drives me crazy to not be able to see clearly.
Train Ride to Adventure
Along the tracks, Dublin and its busy streets fade into countryside. At first the train moves slowly, a reluctant beast, but as we slide further away from the noise of the city it finds its wings. We race to clear skies and lush green fields. Houses dot the landscape and soon there are barns as … Continue reading Train Ride to Adventure
Emotional Dissonance
There is an emotional dissonance on this dementia journey. The ups and downs of the path itself, but also all the things outside of it. Mom is fading. Last week, she had numerous bad days. This week, she has had numerous better ones. A small plateau of sorts? Maybe. Maybe not. There are no sure … Continue reading Emotional Dissonance
My Last, Last Day of School
I would be remiss if I didn’t say I have been looking forward to this day for what seems to be a lifetime. I would also be lying if I said I was not sad about it. There is a bittersweet feeling which vacillates from day to day. Retirement is a big word. Something Americans … Continue reading My Last, Last Day of School
Moments with Mom
In addition to our regular Friday/Sunday visits with Dad to go see Mom, Melinda and I have added some individual visits when possible. Every minute spent with her is precious. On good days or bad ones, it is a sacred space to just be with her. I sit beside her bed and hold her hand … Continue reading Moments with Mom
Non-Bucket List Items
I got a few items checked of my non-bucket list this week. Never heard of a non-bucket list? It is a list is made up of things you hope never to do. Allow me to explain. Unfortunately, I have had many traumatic experiences in my life. Enough to know how my body reacts to stress. … Continue reading Non-Bucket List Items
Michelle's Mosaic 