tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-332912472011-07-28T15:48:49.988+01:00Feminist flavoured musings on life, art and foodartyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.comBlogger1591100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-60707960287454837512010-08-10T19:36:00.002+01:002010-08-10T19:39:26.317+01:00

Well I guess I can say I was pretty lucky for having a relatively illness free pregnancy. However with the removal of one large-ish baby it now appears that my suppressed immune system has 'unsuppressed' itself. I am now battling a sore throat which I think is turning into tonsilitis and a head ache. Not pleasant coupled with the demanding needs of a feeding baby that is HUNGRY. The worst is that

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-31037816567049882702010-08-03T18:29:00.006+01:002010-08-09T16:51:45.729+01:00

I'm excited to announce the arrival of my second daughter, born on 26 July by c section and weighing in at a whopping 8 lb 5 oz. I didn't get my VBAC in the end, this little girl was far to comfortable in there. Friends were calling her the 'Howard Hughes' of babies, and the world's most elusive baby. She was remarkably 8 days overdue, as was her stubborn independent sister, which leads me to

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-78554196070153142802010-07-21T10:08:00.002+01:002010-07-21T10:11:04.274+01:00

As you can see she has all her baby dolls lined up, just waiting for one more baby to complete her collection.

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-68302179825430493702010-07-18T11:23:00.003+01:002010-07-18T11:29:25.439+01:00

Today is 'supposedly' the day.However, I still plan on making my reflexology appointment tomorrow so what does that say?And husband and I still need to paint the back bedroom, 'Gigi & Nono's Room'. I am currently in the process of trying to clean the downstairs so I can give the floor a well needed mopping. Despite this effort I am continually thwarted at every turn by a well meaning two year old

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-22605557709752817142010-07-13T18:49:00.003+01:002010-07-13T21:22:54.975+01:00

Dear Unborn Child,I know I said I would have some patience these last couple of weeks. But according to my hospital records I am due in 5 days time. Yes, I know that sometimes these dates aren't entirely accurate. But let's face it - this is the end. Everyone I know pregnant and due in July - bar one person- has had their baby. I want my baby. Now I know this is entirely selfish, but I also want

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-16629345282171877282010-06-26T15:12:00.004+01:002010-06-26T15:37:37.898+01:00

You've heard of the 'Summer of Love', well apparently around these parts it is the 'Summer of Tantrums'. I would much prefer it to be the 'Summer of Love' but unfortunately I do not think my darling daughter will oblige. You see, at some point, inevitably, Mother and Daughter reach an impasse. Daughter beings to question Mother's motives, her wisdom, her ideologies and realises that she doesn't

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-11751015416437760822010-06-17T10:11:00.003+01:002010-06-17T10:31:49.359+01:00

I'm terrible I know. I tend to disappear for weeks at a time only to resurface again. I'm sure I've probably lost a couple of my 9 followers but hey that's pregnancy for you right?I am now 35 going on 36 weeks. Amazing how time during the second pregnancy flies when you don't have the chance to stop for breath. My darling 2 yr 4 mo old daughter is starting to get really excited for the new

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-7682109496951831622010-04-28T11:57:00.002+01:002010-04-28T12:39:25.940+01:00

The countdown has begun. On Saturday the three of us (plus bun in the oven) will be jetting off to a week in San Francisco with my parents. I can barely wait to see my parents, our last visit was in August. Trust me, when you are 27 weeks pregnant, sometimes the only person you want is your mother! I am also excited by the thought of how much Cupcake has changed since my folks last saw her.

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-29711164534320095872010-04-23T22:48:00.003+01:002010-04-23T22:54:03.889+01:00

Just thought I would add some of our recent pictures of last weekend's outing down to Glendalough in Co. Wicklow. An amazing spot, we are hoping to bring my parents here for a picnic when they come over to visit us for two weeks in September.

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-87031173768473125012010-04-23T22:40:00.003+01:002010-04-23T22:47:28.452+01:00

I suppose this 'instinct' kicks in at some stage. I had the nesting thing on the last pregnancy but have yet to feel it strongly on this one. Although we are not the only ones that will be expecting new arrivals soon around here...Imagine if you will waking up at 6.00am to hear this scratching sound in your roof. I instantly thought - ROOF RATS. Thankfully not. Instead a harem of starlings have

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-40224488232784709892010-04-15T10:24:00.003+01:002010-04-15T10:27:28.838+01:00

My husband rang me this morning to tell me that I should check to see if my flight to Glasgow (I am due to speak at the Association of Art Historians Conference) had been cancelled. I am supposed to fly tomorrow morning and apparently UK and Irish airspace has been closed due to volcanic ash from an erupting volcano in Iceland. I have just emailed my panel organisers and used the words flight

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-18136302069881625052010-04-13T13:39:00.003+01:002010-04-13T13:57:10.915+01:00

First off apologies for the lack of posting. These last two months have been so incredibly busy. I think the expression is, when it rains it pours?In PhD news I have nominated to the editorial board of a peer reviewed journal! I know it sounds glamourous but I am sure it is mainly copy editing. Well it will be good for the ol academic cv and great experience for me. My first peer reviewed

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-6947515223533704142010-03-23T12:16:00.003Z2010-03-23T12:29:28.656Z

I have finally located a woman doctor in my area to attend as part of my combined care. Today was my first visit with her and she seems thoughtful and friendly, which I something I really look for in a doctor. During the course of our discussion about my previous pregnancy we began talking about the possibility of having another c section. I went in being pretty set on having a planned cesarian

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-58713699963326367502010-03-17T11:31:00.003Z2010-03-17T11:42:24.183Z

I know I've been terrible about updating my blog recently. The truth is I have been so incredibly busy that I haven't had much of a chance to do anything really. We did however get to spend some lovely time together on Mother's Day that included going for a nice lunch and walking around the street festival held on Merrion Square. It was even warm enough to wear sandals and a dress! Today we are

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-27864280364790060962010-02-24T14:29:00.002Z2010-02-24T14:42:48.173Z

Oh where to begin?I have been extremely busy over the last couple of weeks so I will try to catch you up on what has been going on.Firstly to say that on the 13 February my little darling turned 2! It was a happy birthday spent with family. We took her to the Dead Zoo exhibition at Collins Barracks and later had a family dinner for her, which she loved.Secondly I was going to post (but never

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-51624225042837108552010-02-08T14:38:00.003Z2010-02-08T14:58:45.750Z

I have a problem. I am totally and utterly addicted to chocolate. It was bad on my first pregnancy, at one point I was definitely eating two chocolate bars a day. Husband once tried to rationalise with me and insisted that it wasn't good for the baby. The poor guy nearly had his head ripped off (I was 37 weeks at that stage - nothing was going to stop me from putting chocolate in my waiting gob).

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-36947799800249339342010-02-06T19:45:00.002Z2010-02-06T19:54:58.552Z

Butternut Squash Ravioli.The other day when passing the Asian market near the Jervis Centre a brainwave hit me. Wonton wrappers. They were my Italian grandmother's solution to quick and easy raviolis. I always remember to look for them when in Dunnes or Tesco's (neither of which sell them). But finally I marched myself in to the market and picked up four packs. This morning I took one out of the

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-85736952648367015592010-01-31T10:17:00.002Z2010-01-31T10:23:55.811Z

Another Sunday morning. I am feeling very well rested as little darling did not wake up last night and I was allowed to stretch out in my own bed. She is watching Dora in Irish, seriously not the same, and I am drinking a cup of strong coffee and enjoying a pastry. Today we are going into town, apparently there is a Trad festival on this weekend and there is a parade and a playground with ball

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-65877041124440257882010-01-30T15:02:00.003Z2010-01-30T15:07:10.143Z

A post script to my previous posting:Did I mention I am having fondue for dinner? Seriously how good does a giant pot of bubbling cheese sound right now. Dairy seems to solve all my problems.Do you think it is excessive to have cheese fondue three times in one week?Also just spoke to one of my best friends and I have been invited to Spain and France for a few days at the end of May. Even the

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-74126526790390371952010-01-30T12:28:00.003Z2010-01-30T12:49:39.037Z

Controversial no?Let me set the stage for this tale of frayed nerves and limited patience.My happy go lucky husband is away for the weekend in Paris. What is he doing in Paris? He is there for a bachelor party. Apparently Paris is the new... Vegas? Somehow I can't imagine 12 'lads' swirling their glasses of old world bordeaux. But I digress.That leaves me and my little darling full blown toddler

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-21250327053134630562010-01-29T19:14:00.000Z2010-01-29T22:01:31.798Z

Mammydiaries has kindly tagged me in the "Ten Favourite Things" meme.I am going to change this modify this slightly to read my ten favourite things about pregnancy list.1. The moment of realisation when I felt the baby move. Today I confirmed what I thought I felt over the weekend - the flutters of tiny limbs inside. So exciting to feel them this early on the second pregnancy.2. The cute things

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-21452531347378779442010-01-20T12:26:00.002Z2010-01-20T12:39:42.390Z

Today was my first hospital visit to the National Maternity Hospital, Holles Street. I was suitably impressed with my decision thus far to attend a semi-private clinic this time around. Last time I was frustrated with not seeing the same consultant - EVER and the terrible wait times for clinics. At the Rotunda it took 1 hour and 45 minutes to get everything taken care of. This time I breezed

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-90629317541605251982010-01-19T20:07:00.004Z2010-01-19T20:21:09.805Z

'Doing mama?' A small voice asks from another room. 'I am making dinner. What are you doing?'Cupcake is sitting on the stair into the laundry room with the glass door closed behind her. Next to her is her stroller piled high with bear, ducky and puppy.Sounds adorable right? The first several times I heard her ask this I got excited. This is where I can see she is starting to become curious about

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-35655778433012758762010-01-15T21:42:00.002Z2010-01-15T21:44:51.447Z

I'll admit it, breakfast for dinner is my favourite guilty pleasure. Tonight I gave in to the temptation and gorged myself on bacon waffles with mixed fruit and honey. It was delicious and nearly an hour later I want another one!!!

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-36522471122576612032010-01-12T14:54:00.006Z2010-01-15T21:45:27.198Z

I have a curious affliction at the moment. Well I am not entirely sure I would call it an affliction, honestly I am not really sure what it is. But it involves milk, and drinking a lot of it. I have always been a milk drinker, seems to be a habit in our family and love the taste of it, especially non-fat (or skimmed). On my last pregnancy I slowly noticed an increase in my milk intake. I switched

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-35639181475950849642010-01-09T13:08:00.003Z2010-01-09T13:22:56.817Z

Last week after eating a particularly large Chicago deep-dish pizza I noticed that I was unable to suck my stomach in. I don't think the reese peanut butter cups helped either. When I awoke the next morning I was disappointed to find that my bloated stomach had not gone back to its original shape. I made good use of my shopping time over there and hit up target for a pair of maternity jeans, two

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-26112215538847210092010-01-07T15:52:00.003Z2010-01-07T16:13:13.389Z

Our holiday in Chicago was wonderful. Despite my misgivings about how I would get around in the weather it was actually not a problem at all. Obviously a place used to having such adverse weather conditions (cough cough unlike the place I live...) the roads and sidewalks were all salted and only once in week did we come across a patch of ice that I had to navigate with caution. I would have loved

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-29338342283510568042010-01-01T14:38:00.003Z2010-01-01T14:57:00.626Z

The (brief) Decade in Review: When I reflect on the last decade some huge changes have taken place in my life. There have definitely been some of the highest highs and the lowest lows. Highs 1. Graduating from College and setting off for my European adventure. Little did I realise nearly 8 1/2 years later I would still be living in Ireland - the country where I had a work permit for only 4 months

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-76321030310434494302009-12-28T15:19:00.003Z2009-12-28T15:38:48.931Z

Tomorrow we are heading off for a holiday in Chicago. One of my closest friend's who hails from the 'Windy City' is getting married on Saturday and Cupcake and I are part of the wedding party. It should be an interesting trip to say the least because while I am back walking, I can't walk for long periods of time (not that I would expect to in that weather...) and I am still using a crutch. For

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-75250520639938947432009-12-26T12:37:00.004Z2009-12-26T21:52:54.446Z

Ah the day after Christmas... A time to relax and sit around in my bathrobe for hours and hours on end.On Christmas Eve we had husband's family over for some food and fun. This year has been very special as Cupcake's Spanish cousins are visiting over the holiday season. The cousins are nearly 4 and 2 years respectively. This was the first time that Cupcake found herself well and truly fascinated

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-69040727999699038602009-12-09T16:11:00.003Z2009-12-09T16:35:40.596Z

Well the holiday season is upon us. It seemed to come faster than usual this year, although I am not really sure why since I have spent the last 9 weeks house-bound! Right now I am laying in bed, staring out at a gloomy rainy afternoon and all I can think about are these delicious biscotti that my grandmother used to make. That is how I really knew it was Christmas, these delicious twice-baked

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-80392607820227304052009-12-01T17:18:00.004Z2009-12-01T17:29:26.152Z

It isn't very often that I post about pop culture but I just couldn't help but link in to this story. Apparently Suri Cruise, daughter of Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise has been spotted wearing high heels. Yes that is right a 3 year old wearing high heels (and drinking a Starbucks but that is a different matter). What is even more crazy is that Holmes defends her decision to let her dress up doll,

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-86057926139198583902009-11-26T21:02:00.003Z2009-11-26T21:13:32.253Z

Now I know this might now seem like a big deal to you but... I am happy to report that I can see my legs again - both legs! My heavy, ugly restrictive cast was removed today and with it a proverbial weight lifted off my shoulders (or lower limb... whatever). I was a bit nervous going into the hospital today, and not because they had giant warning swine flu pandemic signs everywhere (I am

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-62049579928168020702009-11-25T18:52:00.003Z2009-11-25T19:05:27.040Z

It is not very often I am puzzled by food. But the arrival of my Thanksgiving turkey has me very puzzled indeed.We are planning to have 22 people over for our belated Thanksgiving meal on Saturday. I am going in to have my cast removed tomorrow and I wanted to make sure that I would have enough time to brine and prep. I managed to secure a very moderately priced FRESH turkey for this occasion.

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-85237365237700229922009-11-21T16:50:00.004Z2009-11-23T10:53:53.299Z

Yesterday I hosted a wedding shower for one of my best friends. As we are both originally from the States, and her wedding is taking place in Chicago, it seemed the appropriate thing to do. To my knowledge wedding showers (and baby showers) have yet to catch on in the emerald isle. Usually the duty falls to the maid of honour and the other bridesmaids. As I am the only 'Irish' based bridesmaid I

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-89398332198828724362009-11-19T16:37:00.004Z2009-11-19T16:55:28.223Z

When I first moved back to Ireland (after moving home to CA to decide if I really wanted to live in Ireland), we had agreed as a couple that we were ready for a dog. I have always been a dog lover and I had wanted a miniature dachshund for sometime. We got our first puppy Oscar in November 2002. Cute, messy, at times total aggressive male we absolutely feel in love with him. But it was clear in

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-10408255181276505542009-11-07T15:59:00.003Z2009-11-07T16:07:49.971Z

The worst thing, the absolute worst thing about having this broken ankle is that I home all the time. I mean like I haven't gone out of this house since last Saturday!!! I have been constantly in the kitchen finding terrible horrible fatty food to devour. I have really fallen off the weight watchers wagon. What is that you say? It might not be as bad as it sounds? No it is really bad, worse even,

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-30705278418633840982009-11-03T13:42:00.004Z2009-11-03T13:53:20.474Z

Oh those men with their ravenous, insatiable golf needs. How can a simple [minded] woman like myself keep up?What, might you ask, are the golfing needs of men? And how might these golfing 'needs' differ from the golfing needs of women?The Irish Times has just reported on the outcome of the Equality Authority appeal to the Supreme Court on the case involving the discrimination of women from

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-55271434010266139762009-11-03T10:37:00.005Z2009-11-03T10:55:07.056Z

While talking to my father this past weekend he started baiting me. "I thought you had a strict no sugar policy, so how come every time I get a picture of that kid [Cupcake] she is eating ice cream or chocolate?" "Oh Dad, come on I did my best, she was sugar free for, like, 14 months.""Yeah you sound just like your mother, she tried that kind of mumbo jumbo with you kids. Ha she even tried to buy

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-16806494129192566962009-11-01T10:09:00.004Z2009-11-02T10:38:47.627Z

Or perhaps this post should be titled, "Back to my bed". Yes I have made the move back upstairs after three long weeks of sleeping in the kitchen. It has been wonderful to sleep on a decent mattress and not have some wayward spring digging into my back. The only problem now is that I have to plan very carefully when I will descend the stairs and when I will make my way back up, because it takes a

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-55552046348689518682009-10-31T11:11:00.000Z2009-10-31T12:43:38.841Z

The days are getting shorter, and rainier. From my kitchen bed I can here a symphony of bottle rockets, m80s and other wonderfully illegal firecrackers. The smell of burning couches, old mattresses and scrap wood from nearby bonfires gently invades the atmosphere, burning the lungs of your average environmentally friendly American. Yes folks, Halloween in Ireland has come again.This year will be

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-46303761609848918212009-10-28T12:03:00.001Z2009-10-28T14:25:33.049Z

Our upstairs shower is not exactly friendly toward those with limited mobility. We have a large bathtub-shower combo. The sides of the bath are approximately 3 feet high and it is quit difficult to swing your legs over when you can't evenly distribute your weight. Thankfully I have a very inventive husband who decided it would be best to place a plastic garden chair in the tub for my showering

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-21829405978487001382009-10-21T09:47:00.003+01:002009-10-21T10:08:49.434+01:00

Cupcake has a new favourite word. We are not really sure where it came from except we do know that her father said it to her months ago when she was doing something she shouldn't have been. Imagine this: I am newly installed on my 'kitchen bed', lazing around like Jabba the Hut in Return of the Jedi. Cupcake cautiously approaches Mama and her purple casted leg. She hands me a hair barrette to put

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-54486226962201296302009-10-10T12:35:00.004+01:002009-10-10T12:44:38.075+01:00

So I know you think that I am terribly patchy with my posting lately but I have a brilliant excuse. I have just been discharged from St. Vincent's Hospital after 3 days with a wonderfully painful broken ankle. I was rushed to ER on Wednesday at noon after breaking my ankle at UCD. It was broken in three places and dislocated. Oh the horrors of it all. I have never broken anything before and this

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-16950323328335960092009-10-05T11:59:00.003+01:002009-10-05T12:18:08.201+01:00

On Saturday himself and I were in the Stillorgan Bicycle shop looking at a new bike. I was wandering around with my little pumpkin when I happened across some horrible little car air fresheners, you know the kind with nude women on them. Now I am not a prude, but as a feminist I am fighting for gender equality. So I approached one of the sales associates. "Excuse me but do you actually sell a lot

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-58404901754212546832009-10-04T10:47:00.000+01:002009-10-04T21:42:19.390+01:00

Many thanks to Mammydiaries and Irish Mammy on the Run. Both of these inspiring women have kindly passed on awards to me. Mammydiaries, my favourite Canadian transplant mom in Cork has her hands full with two feisty little daughters, although from reading her posts closely for the 9 months it is clear to see where they get their spirit from. MD has given me the "I love your blog award' which I am

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-54661171017960430422009-10-01T13:52:00.003+01:002009-10-01T14:13:08.796+01:00

Today you celebrate your 32nd birthday and I can proudly say that for 30 1/2 years we have been best friends. Some of your funniest/best moments:1. Kicking Stacy RPB (I couldn't spell her last name in my diary so I had to improvise) out of your house and our lives for good. 2. Convincing me to run over Judy L's newly planted flowers with my bike.3. Your flashlight code when we could have just

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-89098714738416942682009-10-01T10:16:00.007+01:002009-10-01T13:31:49.482+01:00

Tomorrow is D Day. At least that is what yes and no campaigners to the Lisbon Treaty would have us believe. As I am not a European citizen I can't vote in European elections. Even so I am continuously bombarded on my way to college by these in your face posters. Let's discuss my most despised at the moment: The Libertas 'Irish Democracy 1916-2009?'. Sorry Declan Ganley but some of us who might

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-84547278462703960692009-09-23T19:19:00.001+01:002009-09-25T13:37:25.813+01:00

I have been missing in action recently due to an upcoming deadline. I realise that makes everything sound so official but really it is my way of saying I am way over extended at the moment. I will hopefully have an interesting post for you sometime this weekend. I just need to get through this weekend...

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-4507438902613216402009-09-14T12:47:00.003+01:002009-09-14T13:58:37.087+01:00

When undertaking my masters in Women's Studies the discussion of essentialism vs social constructionism formed the basis of many discussions. I was all for social construction - meaning in simple terms that gender, as separate from biological sex, is asserted by social conditioning - i.e. a girl must wear pink the instant she is out of the womb so everyone knows she is a girl and will treat her

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-45865146528589223252009-09-11T10:20:00.000+01:002009-09-11T10:44:24.120+01:00

I was notified that I did not receive that scholarship I applied for in June. When I wrote that first line, yesterday, I was so upset I thought I would have a mental breakdown. You see sometimes it doesn't matter how much you want something, how dedicated you are, how positive and optimistic, or even how smart you are or wonderful your idea is. Sometimes when it comes to competition there is just

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-36182448965184566922009-09-08T21:41:00.003+01:002009-09-08T21:52:16.224+01:00

Published. Yes one of the greatest words in an emerging academic's life. While on holidays I was notified that an article I submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal was accepted for publication. I cannot tell you the excitement that has kept me on a permanent high for the last two weeks since I found out. One of the reviewers suggested a few changes to make the article more

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-8806737545247986592009-09-04T11:15:00.003+01:002009-09-04T11:27:45.634+01:00

For the last month Cupcake and I have had an intense closeness. By this I mean an emotional as well as a physical proximity to one another. It started harmless enough, in the mornings she would call out "Mama? Mama?" The first few mornings I thought, "It is nice to be needed" and I smilingly went to pick her up out of her crib. Then bed time routines evolved to only Mama reading her a story,

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-11796664371532034212009-09-03T18:38:00.001+01:002009-09-03T21:58:20.087+01:00

The trip home to visit my family was an action-packed adventure. Keeping in mind that my parents had not seen the little one since Christmas, we were hoping to spend quality time with them. First we spent several days at home; we went to my Aunt's house for a swim party (I guess it is what all the cool kids are doing these days- at least those with pools!) and my closest friends came over for a

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-92106146668584626522009-08-31T12:40:00.004+01:002009-08-31T17:39:01.847+01:00

Hello blog land. I have returned from my two week hiatus and I have tons of stuff to write. But first let me start with the very last thing. About 7 hours into our 11 hour plane journey home my darling husband turns to me and says, "Well, I have waited to tell you this but there is some bad news." My stomach dropped. "Remember when my mom texted in Yosemite?Someone smashed the back side window of

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-7368689282767451422009-08-07T11:21:00.004+01:002009-08-07T11:55:39.254+01:00

I am anxiously awaiting next Friday. I am going home for the trip I have been looking forward to all year since Christmas, our last visit home. Allow me, for a moment, to tell you about all the wonderful things we will be doing. Friday: Arrive home and hug parents. Watch parents cry when they see Cupcake. Eat tacos.Saturday: BBQ at my aunt's house, beer for mommy and daddy, swimming for

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-44771253744826682922009-08-06T13:32:00.003+01:002009-08-06T13:39:35.675+01:00

This household is having some bad breath issues. As I sit here on my sofa with my loyal dogs by my side I can't escape from this terrible smell. Today I tried, for the first time in a LONG time, to clean their teeth. They didn't mind it so much, I mean to say Lulu the most loving and loyal dog in the world didn't mind it and even tried to lick the poultry flavoured toothpaste out of Oscar's

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-85742150409611146882009-08-04T11:04:00.003+01:002009-08-04T11:10:05.761+01:00

I am so disappointed right now. I have been neglecting my potato crop (and garden in general) and tragedy has struck! My potatoes have the dreaded potato blight. The good news is it appears that the blight hasn't spread to the tubers... yet. I've managed to harvest enough for dinner tonight, but I am hoping that there is something I can do! And my crab apple tree looks like it has something also

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-5270274252763794652009-08-03T21:55:00.003+01:002009-08-03T22:04:24.711+01:00

I have a problem with my tongue. I have these extreme inflamed taste buds and they are ruining everything. By everything I mean eating. Last night I went out with a couple friends to see Coco Before Chanel. Not as empty headed as one might think, I think Coco was a bit of an old feminist. After we ran around looking for early bird menus only to realise... it was Sunday! We settled for a big juicy

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-54054502190394612042009-08-01T23:24:00.002+01:002009-08-01T23:38:29.131+01:00

Today we went out to Howth to buy two huge whole salmon for a dinner to be cooked by my husband's uncle (just arrived in from Australia). Our plan was to buy the fish on the pier, take a little walk with Cupcake to see the seals and go have some playtime on the "wesha" (swing/slide). As our luck would have it Cupcake fell asleep about 5 minutes before we arrived. So we strolled along the pier as

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-88416788408690833012009-07-29T09:13:00.005+01:002009-07-29T09:23:41.484+01:00

Cupcake's words are coming fast and furious now. I've noticed her repeating many of the words that I am saying to her like bib, spoon, etc. Last night we listened in amazement as she attempted "Oscar". She already seems to have a word for Lulu but Oscar is a bit trickier. It came out kind of like "Doscktor" but it was still discernibly his name. I am also a bit blown away that she can tell the

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-51112413783028942302009-07-26T13:42:00.004+01:002009-07-26T13:53:29.193+01:00

I received a phone call from a colleague/good friend that I absolutely had to take. Cupcake, however had just climbed into her stroller and was insisting that we go "day, day". I figured I would wheel her down to the shops while I talked. We had just come to a halt in front of our local convenience store as I was deep in conversation. Suddenly I heard a little voice call out "Dada! Dada!" I

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-75784969844184042082009-07-24T13:48:00.003+01:002009-07-24T13:54:31.853+01:00

I was in the kitchen preparing some lunch for friends that are coming over this afternoon. Cupcake was talking about 'Dora' (Dora is her new word and this morning she said Lulu! Or something that means Lulu) and taking all the magnets off the fridge. I was deep in concentration chopping some peaches for a peach salsa when somebody hands me the salt. 'Thanks' I say, and then I stop and realise

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-7671550136574052422009-07-23T15:31:00.001+01:002009-07-23T15:34:21.631+01:00

This past weekend I called my mother in tears. "I am a terrible parent!" I cried. "How come 'Daddy Cool' makes it looks so effortless? I have absolutely no patience for anything!" We ran through the list of everything I was doing 'wrong' to which my mother pointed out that I was not actually doing these things right or wrong, I was just learning how to deal with them. I think at times it can be

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-68247805224625863672009-07-20T19:31:00.003+01:002009-07-21T15:16:37.702+01:00

For the past couple days I have been eating a homemade soup. For some reason when I am sick - just confirmed by the doctor, no not swine flu but a throat infection - I stuff myself with homemade soup, tea, and cinnamon toast (toast with butter, cinnamon and sugar- a PBA family recipe). I used to drink hot flavoured gelatin, a cure suggested by my grandmother which probably came into being during

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-50889050211684971522009-07-18T11:43:00.004+01:002009-07-18T11:58:03.762+01:00

Last night I met an American acquaintance of a friend at a leaving party. I was struck by the extremely contentious nature of her comments. Por ejemplo... She made some comment about something that I cannot entirely remember and I said that I thought she was stereotyping people. She then proceeded to argue that a stereotype had to contain some element of truth otherwise why would they reflect

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-40513891592759724522009-07-17T09:28:00.004+01:002009-07-17T10:52:56.320+01:00

I have decided today to write a tribute to my great-aunt, Genevieve E Worthington (nee Garbuio). She passed away on Tuesday after being in hospice care for the last two weeks. Nonnie as she was known by our family was the youngest of six children. She was born in 1924 in Eastland Texas. She was married twice and never had any children. In her later years Nonnie was semi-recluse and suffered from

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-83795001815999297812009-07-15T14:00:00.004+01:002009-07-15T14:49:03.405+01:00

You may have been wondering where I have disappeared to. Alicante to be exact! We arrived home yesterday evening totally exhausted. But let's not rush the retelling of the trip...My in-laws have an apartamento in Rojales, a little village about 25 minutes away from Alicante. We arrived in on Friday evening to the exuberant welcome of two cousins, a Nana we haven't seen for three weeks, an anxious

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-8957346915758390382009-07-07T16:54:00.003+01:002009-07-08T09:18:05.468+01:00

We have a new word. "Sheesh" which in cupcake speak means shoe. Little did I know that the appearance of this word would herald in her obsession with shoes. It all started when I realised that these darling little navy leather shoes we inherited from her two older cousins barely fit her growing little tootsies. I became fixated with finding a pair of shoes that would provide adequate support for

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-15036433890078949562009-07-03T09:09:00.004+01:002009-07-04T10:36:39.497+01:00

I am feeling slightly under the weather after the long day that I had yesterday. It was good to see old friends who I haven't been in contact with recently. I didn't arrive in last night until 3.30am which is very late for me these days. Of course I paid for it this morning, Cupcake was full of life. I probably would have been more productive if I wasn't so tired. So I decided to bake some

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-61713594636420549232009-07-01T21:31:00.004+01:002009-07-01T22:02:55.617+01:00

Tomorrow I am attending the funeral of someone I used to work with. Tragically this person felt that there was no way out of depression and so ended their life. I am of course shocked and saddened. I can't but help feeling for the family, the mother and father and child this person leaves behind. As a parent it has just really hit me hard and I am trying to understand how the mother must be

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-72191574869470037392009-06-29T15:51:00.007+01:002009-06-29T16:14:19.476+01:00

Last week Cupcake's only 'friend' in Ireland moved to the U.S. I am in desperate need of a nice toddler aged 1 -2 years for her to play with. I know I sound like a negligent mother, I mean really how hard is it to make friend's for your child's sake. But really it is slim pickings around these parts. Last Tuesday when rushing to pick her up from the creche I saw another mother putting her

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-74375035635821897052009-06-28T21:30:00.004+01:002009-06-28T21:55:24.416+01:00

We spent the bulk of this weekend outside playing. It was probably the first weekend I didn't feel under pressure to do something on my PhD or other research. The weather was absolutely wonderful yesterday so we headed out early. I needed to pick up a few new bras and I wanted to get remeasured. I haven't had a new bra since before nursing commenced (I know it sounds terrible). It really hit home

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-11986068842839388182009-06-23T17:03:00.005+01:002009-06-23T17:34:20.059+01:00

It is official, I am now a full licensed driver on the Irish motorways. It was by no stretch of the imagination easy even though I drive only automatic cars (here). We purchased an automatic nearly two years ago after I told my husband that if he wanted me to drive we would have to get a different car because driving on this side of the road + manual transmission was out of the question for me. I

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-17119099796588029912009-06-21T22:56:00.003+01:002009-06-21T23:06:27.734+01:00

Cupcake allowed us to gently wake up at 8.45 am and then we went downstairs to make Dada french toast with fresh blueberries and bananas. After reading through the papers, I popped a shoulder of lamb (my favourite Sunday roast if you couldn't guess from previous posts) into the oven. Off we went to the Kinsealy Garden Centre to pick up some gifts for Dada and Granda. Dada is now the proud owner

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-89863645870903004752009-06-20T20:26:00.004+01:002009-06-20T21:11:05.551+01:00

We are recovering well from my sister's visit. Her first night here the girls and I went a bit crazy on our night out on the town. And I mean crazy for a 30 year-old, not crazy for a 21 year-old college student. My sister's friend put it aptly when she said, "After college it is just considered alcoholism." We decided cupcake needed a day out at the park and attended the 6th Filipino Day in

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-27526684007708270942009-06-17T12:32:00.004+01:002009-06-17T12:53:15.288+01:00

I gave little darling a tiny haircut today. I just really wanted to clip her bangs because she absolutely refuses to leave her hair pulled back and I wanted to get it out of her eyes. I think I cut it too short, and she moved, so it is a bit uneven. The little lock of hair is so precious I have to save it. When I snipped it off I was reminded of this woman I taught in my women's studies art

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-90185657898644122362009-06-16T13:38:00.005+01:002009-06-16T13:57:30.286+01:00

I am supposed to be 'working' today. By that I mean I am supposed to be undertaking research on 1) my PhD 2) my summer research project for a big international artist.Of course we all know that no one ever really does what they are supposed to right?  Instead I am trying to prepare myself for my little sister's arrival (+ 3 friends). The problem is we only have one spare bedroom at the moment

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-85007631205209977752009-06-14T22:08:00.003+01:002009-06-14T22:28:20.980+01:00

I have spent the past three days at a seminar devoted to the oeuvre of Leo Bersani. I am literally running on metal empty. It was an amazing three days filled with psychoanalysis galore. Bersani writes on all sorts of things, relationality, art, queer politics, literature, philosophy and of course Freud. Somehow I keep falling into these psychoanalysis seminars 'for fun'. I honestly do find the

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-51229348799333167652009-06-10T10:59:00.004+01:002009-06-14T22:29:37.387+01:00

I am anxious. I can't concentrate on what I am supposed to be doing. Yesterday I emailed a contact regarding funding for my research. The response back was that a call had been sent around and I had missed the deadline. I promptly burst into tears. But the injustice of it is that the email was never sent to me. On any of my millions of mailing lists!Funding is a loaded word 'round these parts.

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-4693999324894697522009-06-09T22:37:00.003+01:002009-06-09T22:56:11.492+01:00

In June of last year the two of us participated in the Spencer Tunick installation at the Dublin Docklands. Spencer Tunick is an American photographer who is known for his use of the naked body. He often places the human form in urban and occasionally rural landscapes. The photographs function as documentation of the installations and as works of art in their own right. When I learned that

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-33035981199655537622009-06-07T19:58:00.008+01:002009-06-07T20:33:05.461+01:00

This morning we went over to my in-laws house for coffee and to see great Aunt Nora. Ah Nora, where do I begin? Two weeks ago she kindly gave my mother-in-law a book to be passed along to ourselves and the other married sibling in the family entitled, Who is at the Centre of Your Marriage? The Pill or Jesus Christ? Of course I found the notion hysterical because 1. I am a non-theist and 2. What

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-52459084617185094192009-06-06T08:36:00.003+01:002009-06-06T09:42:04.127+01:00

RingThat is the sound of my unresolved dream.No wait how could that possibly be the sound of a dream?RingConfused, I stare blinkinglyat the green LED numbers over the pillow.Momentarily they focus then blur then focus.5.00amIt is the doorbell not a child. I drag myself out of bedclearing the unresolved dream from my head.Standing at the doorarriving home moments beforethe heavens open up to

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-56453646069001556162009-06-05T16:05:00.008+01:002009-06-07T20:33:53.438+01:00

Today we went to a play group in a nearby community centre. Cupcake was hesitant at first but soon lost her shyness and was trying to run the other kids over with a giant car. A couple moms were discussing baby talk. I mentioned that I wasn't really certain if cupcake said any words other than hello, no and ta-ta. One mom mentioned that her daughter was watching Maury the other day and repeated

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-55336592501257117292009-06-02T17:08:00.005+01:002009-06-03T09:46:36.043+01:00

On Monday we went to the Bloom Garden Show on in Phoenix Park. As we are trying to stay on top of our garden it was well worth the heat and the crowds. I was particularly taken with the Recession Garden which featured sustainable ideas like a chicken coop and large paving stones that doubled as a small water feature complete with water plants and moss. Keeping hens for fresh eggs has been a

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-69357277027399745192009-06-01T09:49:00.004+01:002009-06-01T10:17:33.713+01:00

Three letters sum up this bank holiday weekend: BBQ. In my family grilling and being the grill-master is a time honoured tradition. My grandfather Ed was the son of two Polish immigrants and everyone knows the Poles are crazy about the meat. So when Ed moved from the windy city out west to sunny California the first thing he purchased was a barbeque. No I am lying but I imagine it was top of the

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-75584434345978681382009-05-29T14:45:00.007+01:002009-05-29T17:08:46.458+01:00

I've decided to start a foundation. It is called the Arty Feminist Needs Money to Buy Art Foundation. Yesterday during my whirlwind trip over to Edinburgh I was completely blown away by Francesca Woodman. The pictures in her monograph and on the internet just cannot do justice to them. I went to the Ingleby gallery which was showing 27 of her works selected by her estate to exhibit. The work

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-34378526516372115482009-05-27T19:20:00.006+01:002009-05-27T21:30:19.306+01:00

I feel like things are finally starting to fall into place for me. On Tuesday I went to Northern Ireland to meet with a gallery. It was a very long day, leaving Dublin on the 9.30 train and returning home at 7. I was tired but I am pretty sure it was from all that thinking. Tomorrow is my fabulous day in Edinburgh. I am really looking forward to it, although I am not looking forward to leaving

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-45373226071131503902009-05-24T08:26:00.006+01:002009-05-24T09:04:52.733+01:00

Last night we drank these lusciously fabulous berry caipiroskas that I concocted with some delicious raspberry vodka we picked up in Poland. The occasion? Himself convinced me that we should have cocktails to make up for the fact that he didn't go into the Barge with the lads to watch the Leinster match. Funny though because he's not a rugby fan. Upon questioning his motives he said, "Baby, if

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-865760430455041232009-05-22T15:36:00.003+01:002009-05-22T15:40:19.701+01:00

I recently saw a review of Paula Meehan's Painting Rain on RTE's The View. Well I am a push over for good reviews but what really sold it was the clip of the author reading aloud. I decided there and then I HAD to own that book. I was going to buy it online but decided to have a look in town for it. Turns out it is more popular than anyone imagined. I trekked to 4 different bookstores in varying

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-20276785081104297292009-05-20T12:49:00.007+01:002009-05-20T13:01:06.341+01:00

Two weeks ago I got the great idea to dye my hair. I had spent the last two years (due to pregnancy and laziness) growing it out to my natural color. One night I was inspired to change something and that something was my hair. It turned out a little red but I thought nothing of it. At least not at first. But when talking to my mother on Skype she laid it on the line for me. I suppose the one

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-20688887795115025252009-05-19T11:56:00.003+01:002009-05-19T12:09:54.304+01:00

It is official, cupcake LOVES playgrounds. But not as much as Mommy. This weekend we went out to Newbridge Farm but as the weather looked threatening we decided to stick to the playground instead of paying in to see the animals. I had been told that this was a cool playground but it was better than cool. That is probably the highest honour I can bestow upon a playground. It had jungle gyms and

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-49586520348606332522009-05-15T18:43:00.004+01:002009-05-16T15:45:18.809+01:00

Well it appears that Miss Fussy has decided to try some new (old) foods. On Sunday she devoured an egg although I didn't want to push my luck so I only put in the tiniest bit of chopped spinach. Monday and Tuesday saw her consume half a head of cauliflower served in a chicken broth (Nana's idea). Friday for lunch and dinner I made poached haddock with potatoes, zucchini and cheese. She was

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-72566348319118931292009-05-14T11:46:00.006+01:002009-05-14T12:08:35.697+01:00

I met my good friend Julie in my sophomore year of college. We moved in together as juniors and had a great laugh. The first place we lived together was this tiny tiny dorm room. Our families helped us cram our junk into that room. I was a bit apprehensive about living with her. Would she discover my not-so-secret signature messiness and be disgusted with me? Her mother, who I hadn't met until

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-23598115305042172202009-05-13T11:20:00.000+01:002009-05-13T11:25:05.048+01:00

Last night I watched an autobiographical documentary The House (2008) by Tanya Doyle. It was a haunting look at the decision to sell the family home that consequently forces Doyle to confront the breakdown of her parents marriage and the death of her mother. Located in a housing estate in Clondalkin, the house provides a way for Doyle, her siblings and her father to deal with their unanswered

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-65004005849976889552009-05-12T13:53:00.005+01:002009-05-12T14:11:50.666+01:00

I have just booked a quick one day jaunt over to Edinburgh to view an exhibition of Willie Doherty's latest work in the Fruitmarket Gallery. Willie Doherty is a well-known video artist from Northern Ireland who was twice nominated for the Turner Prize. On display will be his newest video works, Ghost Story (2007) and Buried (2009).I found a cheap 28 euro return ticket that goes over at 7.30 and

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-61062038623704210682009-05-11T20:42:00.005+01:002009-05-11T21:05:02.351+01:00

Have I ever mentioned that I think chorizo is the best pork product in the world? Tonight I made a pasta with mussels and chorizo. I picked up a bag of mussels in Wright's of Howth (the best fish shop around in my opinion). Last night I made sea bass with grilled mediterranean vegetables with pumpkin seeds and feta. Tonight I decided I wanted to be a bit more adventurous as I do not usually buy (

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-90846958671072627902009-05-10T20:12:00.003+01:002009-05-10T20:22:25.301+01:00

Today was absolutely beautiful so we headed out around noon to Howth. There is a lovely farmer's market that is great for finding seasonal organic veg plus delicious fresh baked bread. After loading up on graffiti aubergines, zucchini, blueberries, cherries and strawberries we walked out along the pier eating shish kebabs made of grilled chorizo, halloumi and olives. YUM! Cupcake has the amazing

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-46780685365162662072009-05-07T08:57:00.005+01:002009-05-07T09:28:46.678+01:00

   Cupcake is no longer a baby, even though I keep calling her that. She is a full blown toddler with likes (raisins, milk, birds, dogs, people on bicycles, tummy tickles) and dislikes (nose wiping, face washing, putting her hair out of her eyes in a ponytail, vegetables that mommy prepares). Today she was patiently waiting for me to take a shower and so thought to amuse herself by throwing the

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33291247.post-74975348698790529302009-05-06T20:38:00.003+01:002009-05-06T20:52:32.519+01:00

Ha! That got your attention didn't it? Without revealing anything specific about an on-going case... I was hastily called this morning while minding my own business by a friend who is taking a case against a former employer. When I was told that I actually had to be there I was like where is there? There turned out to be the Four Courts. My American brain screamed "Wow! The Four Courts this is SO

artyfeministhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657048508034330043noreply@blogger.com0