Pretty Blue Eyes...

Nicky Kealy in the Final of Glor Tire...

2011-12-20T12:02:00.001Z

So, a friend of a friend, Nicky Kealy, is in the final of Glor Tire (TG4, Wednesday nights at 10:30pm)!
I couldn't be happier for him. I have heard him throughout the show whenever I had the chance, and he is just a fantastic singer.

Nicky Kealy poster - Glór Tíre

As it says on the Glór Tíre website:

The popular country ‘n western talent show returns for another 15 week series, featuring nine of Ireland’s best performers as they each mentor a new contestant in a quest to win the Glór Tíre title. Each contestant will perform a duet and solo with their mentor within their concert programme and will also perform with the house band during the introduction, recap and elimination programmes.

There is one voting day left. Today. So, what do you have to do?
Text 'Glor 7' to (ROI) 53307, or (NI/UK) 81108
That is all you have to do!

If you need more proof that he's fantastic, listen to this Raglan Road, unplugged. Enjoy!

Help Charities for Christmas 2011 xxx

2011-12-10T16:00:00.003Z

I know a lot of us are struggling with money and finding work, but taking time out to help charities and even give as little as 99c for a charity single makes a whole lot of difference to the volunteers and people/animals that benefit from your generosity, and makes you feel good inside too.

A Christmas Tree in middle of snow and star covered light

Have a look at the charities I have given a little to this Christmas:

I sent a few euro to Cancer Care West ( http://www.cancercarewest.ie/ ) and to the Galway Simon Community ( http://www.galwaysimon.ie ). Both sites take Laser Debit cards as well as Credit cards, so I didn't have a problem with that.

Niamh is raising money for Outreach Moldova, which helps with the orphanage out there for disabled women and girls. She has organised a "12 Swims for Christmas", which she encourages others to join her in swims, and to donate as little or as much as you can for this brilliant charity ♥ More info at http://www.outreachmoldova.org and Donations to http://www.mycharity.ie/event/niamh_ni_argains/

100-140 Irish Twitter people got together and recorded "Wintersong", to raise money in aid of the Neonatal Unit at the National Maternity Hospital in Holles St., Dublin. @BrendaDrumm started this idea. The single is available on iTunes for 99c. http://itunes.apple.com/ie/album/winter-song-single/id485227782

Foireann iomlán Ros na Rún tagtha le chéile lena gcéad shingil charthanachta Nollag "Cuireadh Do Mhuire" a thaifead don charthanachta ainm2hithe, MADRA! *** The entire cast of Ros na Rún come together to record their first Christmas charity single "Cuireadh Do Mhuire" in aid of animal charity MADRA! .. Ceannaigh an singil, 99c. Déan é anois! :D ♥ ♥ ♥ Buy the single for 99c. Do it now! http://itunes.apple.com/ie/album/cuireadh-do-mhuire-single/id485788038

Storyfold brought out their single "Another Year" to raise money for St. Vincent de Paul. A lovely song, costs 99c. http://itunes.apple.com/ie/album/another-year/id483061075?i=483061076

Ryan Sheridan is raising money for the Make-A-Wish foundation. Buy this lovely song "Walking in the Air" from his EP on iTunes for 99C ♥ ♥ ♥ http://itunes.apple.com/ie/album/walking-in-the-air-ep/id477272660

I'll post up more if I remember. A brilliant site you should sign up to is http://www.mycharity.ie/ where you have a wide choice of charities to help fundraising and donate as little or as much as you can to them. Check it out!

Hugs, M x

*EDIT POST: 11/12/11 18:30
Please donate to the GalwaySPCA ( http://www.galway-spca.com/home.htm ) if you can.
Their Heathlawn Animal Sanctuary was broken into last night. 5 dogs were stolen, and these were animals that had recently had surgery and were needing medical attention. The Sanctuary was also ransacked, they took anything they could, with windows broken into. The GalwaySPCA need all the help we can give right now, coming up so close to Christmas.
This is really upsetting news. These animals had already endured so much, and then this had to happen. There are photos of the dogs on this website, so if you hear or see anything suspicious.

Don't ignore any signs or gut feelings you have if you see an animal that is neglected or tied up all day by their owner. Don't leave them there to suffer any longer.

** EDIT POST: 20/12/11 20:00
I raised over €100 for Arthritis Ireland this year ( http://www.arthritisireland.ie/ )
More information on this at Arthritis Ireland's Get Your Joints in Motion 2011

Glitter and all that sparkles...

2011-12-01T13:06:00.003Z

Happy December!

Working on essays for college, but I need a break. It's taking forever to finish these essays.

No pressents have been bought yet. A week ago, I used Tesco.ie for a huge Christmas food shop to bring home. Picked up some Selection Boxes, a Selection of Crackers for yummy cheese, a box of Black Magic for Mum, Advent Calenders for my sisters and best friend, some Pringles boxes and a huge Quality Street tin! All essentials for the festive season. I bought myself a Peppa Pig Advent Calender!! Awww, I love Peppa Pig, she's cool1 :D

Of course, every year, I miss the decorating of the Christmas tree, but sure college takes over when you're always half organised. Or feeling ill. Either or.

Am amazed by the amount of people doing things for charity.
*We had Movember, but I knew no-one taking part in that to give money to. *My friend Niamh is raising money for Outreach Moldova, which helps with the orphanage out there for disabled women and girls. She has organised a "12 Swims for Christmas" which she encourages other people to join her in swims, and to donate as little or as much as you can for this brilliant charity! More info at her charity page !http://www.mycharity.ie/event/niamh_ni_argains/ and at http://www.outreachmoldova.org/
*#twitterxmassingle 100-140 Tweeps recorded "Wintersong" to raise money in aid of the Neonatal Unit at the National Maternity Hospital, Dublin. @BrendaDrumm started this idea, and now its 6/1 for Xmas No1! This is amazing stuff, that so many people could get together via Twitter and get this single organised for a deserving cause. Woo hoo! Go the power of good!!

So, there is a sparkle in the air. I don't have time to take the Christmas Market of Galway and the lovely decorations, but I can read it around the Facebook and Twitter feeds, and it does make me smile.

Love,

M x

2011-10-05T05:52:00.001+01:00

I woke up to a howling wind activating an alarm to some building or car, either that or a burglary happened. It's too far away, so am not going to bother my bottom and find out.

So, things are going well in University. Am back in the thick of things, reading over notes, articles, poetry and prose, interesting little pieces of information that tie the whole thing together.
There's two worrying problems about this, lack of time and constant tiredness.

I know I've asked tips on tackling tiredness before, but I should be feeling on top of the world these days.
*Am taking my multivitamins and 3Omega tabs.
*I have breakfast, lunch, and sometimes a proper dinner, sometimes a spelt bread sandwich.
*I drink lots of water, cranberry juice, and Lyons tea.

Yes, it's fun fun fun here :/

I haven't weighed myself recently because am afraid to see if I've gained anything. Honestly, I know I've not pushed myself with losing the weight as much as I said I would. It's just a question of "where's the time?".

Lumbar Puncture #2 happened on Monday, 12th of September. At that point I was down to 117kgs.
It was done at the Medical Assessment Unit on the Ground floor of the UCHG.
This time around, the doctors found it very hard to find a space at the back of my spine to insert the lovely long needles. They were on their last go when they found a space, so they proceeded to remove a good amount of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF).
Due to the amount of times I was poked with these needles finding a space, I suffered from very bad headaches, and two days after, I couldn't hold most foods down, so I lived on chicken noodles for that time. I began to feel normal 1 week and a half after the procedure.

I did not fully get back to university life and study until 2 weeks after. There was a lot of material and classes to catch up on, but think I'm up to date now. To be honest, there are people worse off than me, and they are the people I think of now when I get up in the mornings. Am lucky.

Need another tea. It's 6am. Why am I up? Urgh.

2011-08-06T21:00:00.003+01:00

Well my pretties, the past few weeks were quite eventful, for me anyways...

For the past few week, I had been suffering from floating images and black spots in my vision. At the end of July, after having my eyes examined at Specsavers (opticians), they told me to go straight to Accident & Emergancy, where it took 6 hours to be seen to, and another 21 hours to be told I would get a hospital bed for more tests. Overall, I spend 5 days in hospital, which wasn't fun.

I had the whole nine yards of tests done to rule things out. In the end, they found it was Benign Intracranial Hypertension (simple meaning: too much stuff going on in the brain, but its all good). They had to perform a lumbar puncture on my spine to measure the pressure of CSF (cranial spinal fluid), and found the pressure to be very high, which must have put pressure behind my eyes.

I have orders now from my Neurological and Ophthalmology doctors to lose weight in order for the pressure to decrease. There is a strong case of serious illnesses linked with being overweight. It is a constant struggle to lose weight though. It really is my life story, but have lost quite a few pounds since before hospital. Yippee! Long may it continue!

Three really good points to losing weight

Drink tons of water
Watch your portions, three meals a day
Be more active in your life, whether on a walk down the road or a good workout

Most of all, be happy :)

Summer: London.. Misterman.. Houseparty.. Food.. :)

2011-07-24T16:00:00.003+01:00

Weight today: 19stone 5pounds

Life is good at the moment. It's the last week of July, the sun is coming out to play more often in Galway, and am enjoying time with friends and family. The last few weeks have definitely been eventful :)

Travelled over to London for two nights at the start of July. I had planned to do loads over there, but things didnt turn out that. On the first day, I had come in plenty of time, but my friend's bus was at least 10 minutes late. We queued only to find out our boarding gate had closed and we had to pay an extra €100 each for another flight. Typical Ryanair! I didn't hear any announcement over the speakers to us to come to any other line to go through faster, but they were adement they had called for us. Never flying with them again!

My friend had felt down over the weekend, so was trying to cheer him up. I wasn't really a success to be honest. Was afraid at one point he was going to take my passport and stuff and leave the hotel to go home early, while I was taking a shower, because I wasn't being nice enough to him. Who does that to someone? Who does that? Why do I get those people in my life, messing with my head? Needless to say, I am still alive, back in Galway, and not feeling ill anymore.

The Galway Arts Festival was on for the past two weeks, so me and my friends Shane, Ciaran and Gráinne went to see Cillian Murphy in the one-man play "Misterman". What can I say... Wow! He really knows how to use a huge stage area. If there is ever another showing of that play, you must go see it. At the end, I didn't know whether to be afraid or laugh out loud, it was that effective. Was actually afraid to clap.

Of course, I was at Shane's houseparty, the annual event of our calender year! His mum goes on holidays around July every year, so he has a mega houseparty with all his cousins and friends, me included. I was still feeling over the London weekend, so he was looking after me as well, but felt a whole lot better after a few Kopperburgs and shots of Tequila ;D ... Oh and chatting to friends, of course!
He had the usual, a huge spread of crisps and chocolate, spirits and fizzy drinks. His brother Ciaran was the DJ for some of the night (music videos on Youtube), but later on, Breda brought in her IPod Bucket with loads of tunes!
We ended up in Tí Josie for 45 minutes. It's the nightclub for Carraroe, but really, it's just like a shed with music and drink LOL. Came back to the house, and he was making his famous houseparty toasted cheese and ham sandwiches! Yumminess!

I really needed that nightout, because sometimes you just need to be around loads of familiar faces, people you're comfortable with, to chat to them and dance and all that. Feel a whole lot better after it.

In regards to being healthy and taking Xenical, I haven't been sticking to the meds. In the past week, I've taken a good amount of the meds with meals, the best I have done. I weighed myself today for the first time in a month. I have not exercised, but that has to start soon.

On Friday, when I came back to Galway city after a week at home with the parents, I bought white spelt and brown spelt bread from Griffin's Bakery on Shop St. It cost €9.90 overall, but it is worth it if you want to stay off the wheat. It is the nicest spelt bread I have found so far, seeing as my baking skills are not very good in regards to spelt bread. You can ask them to slice the loaf for you.
On Saturday, I decided to seperate the slices and freeze 2 white and 2 brown per bag. I froze 4 bags, and put the few remaining slices in the fridge for the next day or two. I have a tendency to binge and eat a lot of those slices, so this way, the temptation is taken away from me.

Another thing I did this weekend was go on a fresh vegetable shopping spree. Well, not really. I bought a bag of fresh carrots, some parsnips, celery, ginger pieces, etc. I cut up 11 carrots, 5 parsnips, 6 pieces of celery, a good amount of ginger, 4 cloves of garlic. I threw them all in a pot of hot water, and left to simmer until cooked. Once they were done and had time to cool down, I seperated into small bags and put them in the freezer until needed. There's enough for a weeks worth of portions. I love this idea, because it's all fresh produce that you're using. The ginger and garlic add flavor to the vegetable, and also help with blood circulation. Thanks to Mum for suggesting this idea to me :D

So, I should be thinking of what I'm putting into my body instead of how many inches I'm losing in the waist. If you're intolerant to wheat, dairy and other things, you should really try not to eat them, or at least limit the amount.

*I use light SuperMilk for my cereal and tea, but that should be ok.

*I still love cheese though, I will have the odd slice of Emmental with the spelt bread now.

*I bought Special Flakes (made with corn and rice instead of wheat), so I will have that with a bit of All Bran or Rice Krispies mixed with it.

*I am allergic to eggs. Am not allowed to eat them, because spots come out on my hands. Even though I love eggs :(
*I will still have my chocolate, but very little of it. Dark chocolate if possible.

They are small little changes, but if it helps you not feel bloated or come out in spots, do it. I've only had 1 bowl of cereal so far today, and I don't feel hungry or ill. So far so good :)*

June news...

2011-06-15T17:46:00.004+01:00

Happy Summertimes to all!

How's everyone doing? Am just ticking over these days, seeing my parents as much as I can since college finished for the year. The older you get, the more you appreciate how much your parents did and do for you over the years, if you are lucky to have parents like mine. They are truly a blessing in my life.

Marshy curling up in her little box

Over the last few weeks, I have gotten more into the vast amount of books on my bookshelf; my comics i.e. Tin-Tin, Asterix, and anything manga; and anything Doctor Who related. It has really relieved me of the stress of college, and is now a distant memory. I feel I could have done better in my exams, but was never an academic person. Let's just pray I did well enough to get into Second Arts.

Regarding my weight, I have not lost but I have not gained any weight the past few weeks. It has been steady. Two weeks ago, I started on a prescripted pill called Xenical. The doctor thought I would benefit from this pill during the summer. The main aim of the pill is to control the amount of fat that enters your system, and if you eat more than 30% of the daily recommended amount of fat, that it would cause certain bad consequences.

Am taking each day as it comes. I have good day with food, and bad days with food. More bad days than good the past two/three years. Just have to handle it better.

Starting to go on the online dating scene again the last few weeks. I have accepted myself as a BBW (Beautiful Big Woman) so guys know what they are dealing with. My confidence has taken a knock the last few years, so describing myself as a BBW now and guys being ok with that is helping me a bit. I know that online dating is not something I should be getting into, some of my friends have reservation with this style. I used to try it when I was younger but was never serious about it. Right now, I am a bit more serious about finding a nice guy and seeing how it goes. I hardly go out and meet people anymore; when I am out, guys never look at me, they look at my friends. Let's see :)

A beautiful bunch of flowers from a nice guy

I met up with a nice guy on Monday in Dublin city. I had known him online for a few years, and this was our first meeting in person. I had text him on the way there, and explained that I hadn't eaten that morning. So, when he landed first in Dublin, he ran to Moore Street to pick up some flowers for me, and then ran to the shops to get me some food, and ran to meet me back at the bus station before I landed. It was so sweet :)

During the day walking and chilling out in Dublin, we chatted about anything and everything random. We checked out Forbidden Planet, one of my favourite places in Dublin, where I picked up some Cardcaptor Sakura, Tin-Tin and Asterix stuff, and he got a electronic TARDIS! I wanted to steal it off him, giggle. Generally, I am a very kind person, too kind at times. People sometimes get put off by that. You need a little banter to keep it fun, but hopefully my kindness didn't put him off me. It is the first time I've had a "kissing friend", so it was quite weird. I can be mushy, so he did tell me a few times about that. It is a new thing for me. In the future, I hope we can become strong friends, like my friendships with my very best friends Shane, Sandra and David. I am very selective with who can be close to me, it is just how I am. So, here's to my new friendship, and to finding someone to love and settle down with :)

On a final note, I started reading a blog last week: Alice Pyne's Bucket List . If you can read it at all, do it. I have signed up to the Bone Marrow Registry in Ireland because it is her wish to see everyone join this registry to help people who need bone marrow. I may not be able to give blood, but I can surely give my bone marrow. Fingers crossed! :)

Hugs, M x

Edit: I thought I had side effects from the Xenical drug, but it is working well for me now.

Galway for Japan Day - May 26th 2011

2011-05-28T17:00:00.001+01:00

Irish Welcomes and Farewells...

2011-05-22T18:11:00.000+01:00

Good afternoon guys. Finally, my exams are over. Head feels de-stressed. It has been such horrible weather in Galway city though, that I have not felt like leaving the house. This is not healthy for me, as I am always cooped up in the house by my own choosing. Feel like I am missing out on what life has to offer. So, something will have to give by next week.

Important Things That Happened This Week:

· HRH the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip visited Ireland, the first time a monarch has visited these isles in 100 years, and as an Irish Republic.
· My exams finished on Friday. Let’s hope I get into Second Arts this time.
· The Rapture date was (again) wrong, so did not witness hellfire and total destruction of the Earth, as I do not believe I would have been the lucky few to arrive by God’s side in Heaven.
· Garret FitzGerald, the former Taoiseach of Ireland, passed away after a short illness.

I have been watching the State Funeral of Dr. FitzGerald, and I cannot help but feel saddened by his passing. He was happy in his life, loved his family, and worked for the people. It was lovely that he saw the Queen of England on the shores of Ireland in his lifetime, before he passed away.

With the coming of the American President on Monday (tomorrow) morning, it has been a busy but good time for Ireland. I have always liked Obama, and I hope he enjoys his visit to his ancestral home of Moneygall in County Offaly.

What is the meaning of life without the love of people and the love of your life.

The Rapture

2011-05-22T17:11:00.000+01:00

So guys, we are all still alive. Kept thinking that a large fireball was going to crash into the sitting room. I am quite disappointed now.

How did your post-Rapture evening go? x

Arthritis Ireland's Get Your Joints in Motion 2011

2011-05-21T17:00:00.000+01:00

Arthritis Ireland : Celebrating 30 Years : 1981-2011

Saturday 7th May 2011 : 11am - 12.15pm, Walked 5km

Woke up at 5am, got the Galway to Dublin train at 6:35am, arrived in Heuston Station at 8:55am. Got the mini-bus from Conyngham Rd to Furze Rd in the Phoenix Park where the 5km would take place.

Phoenix Park Walk Plan

I was one of the early ones to arrive. Felt quite nervous arriving, as everyone else seemed to be volunteers. Met Louise, the organizer of the Get Your Joints in Motion event, and we chatted about the organisation, raising money and awareness for Arthritis / Rheumatoid Arthritis / Fibromyalgia affecting the younger age group. She introduced me to Laura, who started up the Young Arthritis Network last November 2010.

We chatted about how the group was looking for members from around the country to connect with them via meeting places, emails, Facebook, etc. I told her that I hoped to raise more awareness about Fibromyalgia, and hopefully help raise more money for their group. She said that she had Arthritis herself, and I chatted to another volunteer that had Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. They told me how tough it was at times to get up and do things, but they were so happy to be a part of this day. Sending Laura and the YAN team well wishes in the future, and hope there are members that want to start something in Galway city, as well as other counties.

Around 400 or so people turned up for the 2.5km/5km walk, quite a lot of young people participated in the walk which was fantastic. Just before we started on our walk, Senator David Norris joined us for a little Zumba dance, to warm our feet up. He is such a character, and he cheered the walking group on. Once the walk started, he walked alongside us, chatting to various different people. I would have chatted with him, but felt especially nervous being on my own, so I wore headphones and listened to good paced music.

One of the girls doing a Zumba dance class to get us warmed up

Laura (centre) and David Norris (right) starting us on our walk

I was so surprised when the walk ended. Nothing strained, nothing annoying me. Felt like I made a different somewhere. Got my medal and goodie bag, and stood beside a tree for an hour, waiting for a mini-bus to bring me back to Conyngnham Rd. The soles of my feet usually throb after a hard walk, so could not do the touristy thing in Dublin. That was a waste, because I was free from 1:30pm, and had my ticket home to Galway for 5:35pm. A whole 4 hours of waiting, but sure, it was worth it.

After finishing the 5km walk

My walking number and medal :)

I raised €95 for Arthritis Ireland, and hope it helps somewhere. Bring on next year's Get Your Joints in Motion :)

Today is Fibromyalgia Awareness Day...

2011-05-12T12:42:00.000+01:00

Peace - Love - Cure - Support Fibromyalgia Awareness

Today (May 12^th) is Fibromyalgia Awareness Day. So, for today’s piece, I want to talk a little about Fibromyalgia. Not many people know that much about this form of Arthritis, which affects a lot of people I know.

**Imagine waking up (or lack of sleep, getting up from a night of restlessness), with pains on parts or even all of your body. You are paralysed with the pain, and the only way to get out of bed is being carried out of bed. Imagine not being able to make sense of sentences being said to you, because of the constant pain you’ve had all day. You’re tired, you cannot think straight. Sometimes you feel like life is not worth living, because your energy is drained from keeping positive. **

This is the view I got from someone very close to me who I admire that has Fibromyalgia, and these were the worst days. No-one understands how much pain a person with Fibro has to deal with in a day.

Fibromyalgia is basically widespread chronic pain, fatigue, and cognitive problems. When visiting a GP, initially they do not recognise the symptoms, as it is an “invisible” condition. Only the person experiencing the constant muscle pain and tiredness knows what they are feeling. Sometimes they themselves do not believe this is happening to them. Friends and family might not believe that you are experiencing these symptoms, as they cannot “see” it themselves.

I need to stress that people with Fibromyalgia need our support. It cannot be “invisible” to people anymore. It’s not just senior citizens that suffer from this, young people suffer as well. I will put up a few links for sites in Ireland that help with your questions, and also to meet people that have Fibromyalgia, and other Arthritis conditions like Juvenile Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Juvenile RA, and etc.

Am sending Fibro Love to all my friends and family that have FM. I look at you, and you remind me of steel, how strong you look. I admire you, and will help in any way I can to make people more aware. It will not invisible anymore, and will be acknowledged.

Links for you:

Arthritis Ireland

ArthritisIE : Fibromyalgia
Yorkshire Evening Post : Health: Coping with an invisible illness
About.com : What is Fibromyalgia?
Facebook: Young Arthritis Network
Facebook: ArthritisIreland.ie

xxx

Gach lá táimid ag shuffáil...

2011-05-11T15:16:00.000+01:00

LMFAO doing their Shufflin' thang....

... Utah Saints had Something Good to dance to in 2008...

... but the Fresh Prince of Bel Air was the master at shufflin'!

<3 Everyday I'm Shuffling (Gach lá táimid ag shuffáil) <3

Frightened...

2011-04-05T13:03:00.000+01:00

How can someone still feel like they're frightened of the world?
I had hoped I would be brave and take on the world by now. But, am in my late twenties, and I seem to have closed up to the world.
I hate my body. I eat everything I see. I try to be good for a few weeks, but then I get bored, and eat again.
Whenever people look at me, I see their eyes, their mouth, the look of disgust. It frightens me, and it hurts me.
Sure there are people out there saying "Change it, Change it!", but it's so as easy as that. You don't understand. You don't realise the fear, the scared feeling. The cocoon I have made for myself, it is safe, it will not harm me.

It will never hurt me.

My first stage performance... Enter Stage Right...

2011-03-06T21:50:00.001Z

I feel so tired today. Just had a chill out day, while doing bits of my essays :)

My first performance on stage yesterday for Feile na gColáistí (the College Festival) keeps coming back to haunt me in my mind. I played the ‘mother’ (formally the ‘father’) in the one act play, “The Proposal” (“Cursaí Cleamhnais”) by Anton Chekhov, through the medium of Irish. I keep remembering lines I forgot to say, or weird looks I did when I forgot a line, or that red belt I had on my outfit that kept falling off me. I keep going red, even now, overthinking about it all. Urgh, cringe.

But, everyone seemed to enjoy the play, which surprised me. My parents, sister and her boyfriend came to see me perform. *Cringing* Yet again, thinking about another part of it… The play was a bit of fun, at the end of the day. There will be a few festivals in the next few months, so might take on the role again. More practice on stage though, methinks. Speak more clearly, and slowly. But, I am happy I did it.

The cast and director of "Cursaí Cleamhnais"

After all the cast and members of the Irish Drama Soc NUIG had dinner and a few drinks in town, I chatted to a taxi driver on my way home about the day’s events. He told me that the taking part was what mattered, that I didn’t run off the stage when things got tough. Because there’s patient in that hospital across the road that would crawl out of their beds, just to take part in something as big as that.

This world is tough, but it’s so amazing. I am so incredibly lucky.

x

Music and Playing through Life...

2011-02-23T21:15:00.002Z

I used to play the tin-whistle when I was in primary school. Breathing problems didn’t help, but I loved playing some tunes with my Generation woodwind instrument. My music teacher showed us how to write down our songs if they were a high or a low note, and we knew our keys on the six holes. It was very easy to batter though. Sure we were young; we didn’t think we were damaging it by banging it against the school desk.

These days, I purchased a nice Susato plastic whistle a few months, with a cool book of Irish tunes to try out. For some reason, I keep thinking of this as a tin-whistle. It comes from the same wind instrument family, but more contemporary. I had good intentions of beginning again, but it has not happened yet.

Recently, my best friend Shane got me a Tin-Whistle booklet for my birthday. A week later, I was looking through my book shelf for a college book, and low and behold, my lovely Susato was standing there…

What was I doing to this poor whistle, leaving it there, gathering dust? I blew through it so loudly for a few seconds. It felt brilliant! Like, wow! It had me thinking about everything I’ve ever tried accomplishing, and giving up. Story of my life. I think it’s a fear of failure, so I fail before even trying. Well, if I really put my mind to it, practice my breathing and my tunes, I am so sure I will be playing up there with Darragh and the other Irish Traditional musicians in a couple of months.

***

In other news, I am currently learning my lines for a one act play by Chekhov called “The Proposal”. But, there is one difference. It will be entirely “as Gaeilge” (in Irish). I am not as good to the point where I know every line, as it was my first time to practice it on the stage yesterday. But I was reassured that it will come to me on the day when we will have to perform.

The last time I had to act in something, I was a nervous teenager, had a silly grin on me because people were looking at me, and had a massive crush on one of the guys on stage. Yup, dangerous! I do still get nervous and red-faced when other people are looking at me, but I am a bit surer of myself. It’s tough when you’re overweight though.

***

And now, here’s some randomness for you… Do you know the “Peigín Leitir Móir” traditional song? Well, someone from somewhere got this stuck in my head, and I find it so funny and it makes me smile. Most of you won’t get it, so ask me if you don’t and I’ll explain. Enjoy!

“O pócaí pócaí
A deir Peigín Leitir Móir,
Gan pingin i mo phócaí
O thosaigh mise ag ól.”
(O pockets pockets, Said Peigin Lettermore, No pennies in my pockets Since I started drinking.)

Love, M x

Sleepy Sundays...

2011-02-20T17:55:00.001Z

Oooooooooooh.... It's Sunday already?
The weekend flew too fast :'(

I decided to revamp the blog again. I played around with the Paint program, and came up with images of clouds, sunflowers and butterflies. Love the coolness of blues and greens, so have ended up with the average drawings of clouds and a sunflower in the green field... Hope it brings the spring with it. Smile.
Also revamped the Blogtv site. It's a sign of fresh air sweeping through my internet life, a lease of new new-ness...

My head is swirling with Irish words. I had an essay to finish for tomorrow morning, so that's done. Am also reading for a play in 12 days time, but afraid I won't know the words or the lines. The Irish in it is still tough to get the hang of, but hope it will all work out on the day.

Highlights of the weekend: Cadbury Eclairs, parents visiting, book reading, cups of tea, essay writing, play reading, movie watching, note taking, chatting on Blogtv, using Paint, uploading photos...

How did everyone's Sunday go? <3 x

Saturday laziness...

2011-02-19T15:00:00.001Z

Hey there!

Finished all my projects and essays for the week, and just relaxing on this Saturday afternoon. It looked yeuky but bright outside my window, think I'll venture out for a walk soon though. Am preparing a chocolate care package for my cousin and his wife in Boston, taking my time with it cos I scoff half the damn Cadbury things (hhehehehe). Yum!

Today, I went around the house, taking photos with my camera phone of all the stuff I need to pick up from the shop. Have trouble remembering what to buy most of the time, so this is a brilliant idea. For items that you've run out of, and they're usually in a certain spot of the house, I'd take a photo of that spot, and figure out what is missing later on. Don't worry, I will have a written list on my way to the shops, and not a photo album of stuff... xD

x

A baby of 28 years...

2011-02-11T19:05:00.003Z

Am having the bestest day so far. Everyone that mattered in my life sent me well wishes and I couldn't be a happier girl...

Here's to another 28 years of life lessons and crazy love! <3

xxx

Lá le Bríde or Imbolc

2011-02-01T13:45:00.007Z

Hi all.

Happy Saint Bridget's Day! The regrowth of life, the buds of the world awakening to new wonders... A clean fresh day <3

Am off the anti-depressants now for nearly two months. Have had a terrible mood for the past week. No period since Dec 22nd. Yeah. Grrr.

The month of January was generally good, until a week ago. I had a terrible headache, and I started crying out of the blue again. Before all that, I was doing good. Was focusing on losing weight, studying, and feeling happy. Hopefully it was just the crazy moon, and now I can get back to normality.

<3 x

Who loves Polaroids?

2010-12-06T14:19:00.006Z

Some of my favourites images of 2010, through the medium of the old Polaroid photo...

Blurry photos from Oireachtas na Gaeilge Samhna 2010...

2010-11-11T16:30:00.001Z

These photos were taken from my LG camera phone, so forgive the blurriness... Oireachtas na Gaeilge Samhna 2010 weekend, 29th and 30th October...

xxx

Some people are lovely... Others are users...

2010-11-11T15:00:00.000Z

Please be aware of both!
I'm all too gullible when it comes to thinking the 'users' are dressed as lovely people. All too often, I get used. Remember, you are a good person, and nothing noone else does or says will change that in you.

Two particular people pop up in my mind from time to time. One person, who I cared deeply for, and wanted to fight for, asked me for a few hundred euro over a year ago. Since then, he lied to me and never paid back.
Another guy had been a good online friend for a few years. But a few months ago, when he was stuck with bills to pay, I gave him a few hundred euros, and he's ignored me since then.

I will never forget, and I know karma will get them back. They will never pay me back, I know this. Just makes me ill thinking how nice I am to people.

Look after yourselves sweethearts,

M. xx

It's Wed-Nes-Day, and I've eaten my Nes intake...

2010-11-10T18:10:00.002Z

Foodwise, I did quite well today:

*slice of wheatfree bread with light butter
*2 oatibix with milk
*white wheat wrap with a little smoked salmon, peppers, tomatoes, sweet chili and light mayo
*2 baked potatoes with tuna, light grated cheese, light mayo and light butter

As well as a small pack of M&M's chocolate with my cuppa tae, I feel quite content with what I've had to eat today. I don't feel bloated. Mind you, I'm not exercising, but am really hating the horrible weather right now. You can't breathe with all this pouring rain!

Now, gonna make another cuppa and get back to my Classics reading. Meh! :)

M xx

***EDIT: I did eat another wrap with tuna and grated cheese after that! :/ *** xxx

Baking a loaf of bread turned frisbee...

2010-11-08T16:00:00.002Z

My sweethearts,

It is November. The wind is really strong, and the rain is relentless. Hurricane Thomas has been to visit, and he is not a happy bunny. Walked down Shop Street at 6pm on a Sunday evening, and the street was deserted, it was the strangest thing.

I baked a loaf of bread in the oven last night. It's a mixture of a lovely wheat-free bread. The ingredients included oats, rice flour, rye flour and barley flour. But, with the size of the tin, and the size of the mixture, the result was a frisbee loaf. I'm really hopeful the next loaf will be thick enough to cut a good slice for a sandwich.

The last few weeks have been fun-filled, with * a short trip to Boston for my cousin Colin Daley's wedding to the beautiful Ida, * a weekend away to An Oireachtais Irish speaking festival in Killarney Co. Kerry, * and the Japanese Film Festival in Galway city.
So, am just looking forward to the next few weekends being all to myself. I have so much studying to do for the next few weeks, so am happy to have done all that socialising.

Being someone that goes from eating good to bad very frequently, it really can be a struggle to stick to the good side for lengths of time. I do try though. Was eating wheat bread a lot until last Thursday 4th, and have gone back to eating wheatfree bread. You can get a loaf of spelt bread from the bakery these days at between €2.40 to €3. There may be only a few slices, but you do feel full and happy after 2 slices of that bread.
The fillings I have been using the last few days have been: ham/tuna, grated light cheese, tomatoes, red and yellow peppers, chopped cabbage, grated carrot, and light butter/ light mayonnaise. You should not buy a lot of fresh produce if you are eating for one, having too much in the fridge can actually turn you off eating the produce because there is too much selection. It makes me rebel and end up eating something bad.
If I need a snack, I will have multigrain rice cakes in the cupboard, and top it with a tiny bit of grated cheese and tiny ham/tuna. Or, there will be a treatsize chocolate in the fridge for me. I can't buy a large pack of treatsize chocolates to portion them out, as I would probably eat the whole pack in 1 or 2 days (this is from experience).

Am looking for information on either an Android phone or a Japanese style phone in Ireland. There is not much information to be found on the Japanese style in Ireland, which is really saddening, because they are the coolest phone. As for Android, it has been on the market in Ireland for the last few months, but still very little information on what phones the Android OS is on.

More news tomorrow... M x

Closed eyes, full of visions of colour...

2010-10-04T22:10:00.004+01:00

Hey there,

The days will always fly by if we don't use our days wisely. Which is why we all feel the time is flying. I ask any Irish person, and they agree with me. What does that say about the Irish people? A word I've said a few times describing people this week, "pessimistic". I must be one of those people myself, at times.

What seems to be happening to the Irish state of mind? People constantly saying that our morale is at an all-time low, wouldn't that inspire us to stand up and do something about it?

I haven't been to the gym in two days, feeling the slowness gathering in my bones. Although I did well today, a nice ham, edam and salad sandwich, a vegetarian lasagne with veg quarter pounder burger, a bowl of popcorn, and some mini choco bars. Feel tired though. Made it to the two lectures of the day and did an hour of study, spent the rest of the day in my own thoughts, listening to various crappy television shows while cosying up to a duvet on an armchair.

If I wanted to, I would sleep all day and all night, no bother.

On Saturday, I went to visit my best friend Shane and his family for dinner, and afterwards, prepared myself to look like an 80's chick, legwarmers, bracelets, earrings, bright colours all around. I felt great! I wish we could always dress up in 80's style. No effort, throw anything on with as many layers and different colours as you can possibly wear. It was a brilliant night out!

On the 17th of October, I will be flying over to Boston, MA, with my parents to attend my cousin's wedding. Am so excited to be visiting, to see all my relatives over there. Last time I'd been to Boston was at 18 years of age, and it wasn't the happiest time of my life. Teenagers can be a handful, especially when away from parents for two months. It was definitely an experience though. But this time, I feel more grown up and responsible for my own Boston experience. There will be independent sightseeing involved, and excessive funage with my cousins, here's hoping.

My stomach has just told me I've killed it with the food earlier and the lack of walking. Am a bad girl!

Apparently what style I write like... Hmmm....

2010-08-17T09:00:00.001+01:00

I write like
Cory Doctorow

I Write Like by Mémoires, Mac journal software. Analyze your writing!

2010-08-09T22:00:00.000+01:00

There is nothing worse than sitting in bed, drinking tea and eating custard creams, flicking through Facebook, Twitter and Gmail, and realising, why am I doing this AGAIN, ALL DAY?

MSN, mostly to be seen as "Appear Offline", so nobody thinks, "OMG, she's always online! Does she have anything else to do?". Although people have already commented on numerous occasions, just how much they've seen me online..

And, I started out so good in June, plans worked out as to what to do and where to go. I learned to play the tin-whistle a bit, and I walked everyday. I lost a little weight, and that made me happy. But then...

Low emotions, a few drinking nights out, and back to being a lazy, unemployed 27 year old, unsure of her future in anything. Why do the littlest things distract me? People tugging on my emotional strings, trying to borrow my love and the little money I had. Looking at people thinking, oh wow, they have a job, a social life, and a lover. Why can't I have that? Because I've already given up.

I've given up so many, many, many times. I try again, and then I give up again. What happened to those success affermations (oh dear, I can't even spell properly anymore)...

Never ever EVER give up!

Clear your mind of the word CAN'T!

Do what you can, where you are, with what you have!

Hugs, M x

Broke Days and all that..

2010-07-31T09:00:00.000+01:00

So... It's the last day of July, and I'm basically without money. Yeah, pretty much broke, still without a job, and might not even go back to college (due to said fund shortage). That's the scandal now with myself, but not to fear, something will turn up.

My CV looks as weak as ever. Afraid to give it out to people now because of all that paper I'm wasting with people not even looking at the ones I've given out. What are we expected to do? Keep going around in a circle until someone actually notices your potential in a future career? *Sigh*

Lately, a few ex-boyfriends have been messing with my head. It's along the same pattern: I love you, I really do, Let's make this work, But we won't be going out, and I want to have sex with you.
I mean, REALLY! COME ON! Honestly, because I'm so nice, they expect after all that happened, that I'd be an easy lay? It's disappointing to say the least.

Urgh, please, Mr. Right, I'm still waiting for you to friggin' pop up, and actually have a good old conversation and fun times with. I'm a decent, nice person like.

Oh, made €10 on the horses this week! Woo hoo! And it was the first time betting. Still don't understand it, but I won, so I'm happy out. Smiles. x

Love my sister x

2010-07-30T18:00:00.001+01:00

She turned a quarter of a century today, and we're about to head out for a few drinks. She's always acted like the older one, but I love her to bits. I wouldn't change a single thing.

Breda and me, June 2007
Happy Birthday hunni xxx Love u x

A Letter to my Friend about my Weight...

2010-06-10T18:46:00.002+01:00

I recently wrote a letter to my friend, and it sums up how things are at the moment for me. Maybe I should write letters and post them more often.
Makes me want to write more...

"Hey hunni,

Thanks for the email addy and the message earlier.
So, its good news really. There's no damage to my body, nothing is broken or put out, thank god. My back and legs have been in such pain, but am lucky there's no damage.
But, she said I'm at a BMI of 45, so she said I've seriously got to lose that weight. I told her I totally understood that, and that if there was any way I could see a dietitian or nutritionist. She said that there isn't one publicly, that I'd have to pay for it, and I said I didn't mind. It's for my health.
So, she rang one at the Galway Clinic, and she has to now write a letter to the dietitian to refer me to her.
I have to go see my doctor every month now, to check on my weight and health, but she said I'm very healthy for an overweight person.
My body work seems to be great. So, that's brilliant news.

Yeah, I would never get up for a walk this early, but I couldn't go back to sleep, and I was worried, so that pushed me out of the bed. I'd rather walk early in the morning as well where nobody can see me, but can I ever usually get out of bed so early? Nope :)

It's 5pm now. I ate from 12pm to now, and total calories I ate were 1687. Isn't that crazy?!
All I had was crossaint with ham & cheese (from shop), weightwatchers tortilla chips (18g), tiny 99cal choco bar, and my dinner consisted of 2 noodle portains, 2 large sausages and a swechuen sweet chili sauce thru it. Hahaha. Food portions will have to become smaller :D

Yesterday though, when I started the calorie count change, I'd eaten 2461, so I've done way better today. But, that still might change lol. My weakness for food is there.

I'm totally never this fixed on something, ever. I mean, I've always hated routine. But, if you need any support from me, I'm there for you. Think we all need motivation and a push. Hope you don't find my emails boring lol. Am just so excited about this.

She had to take me off the Yasmin pill, because of the weight. I told her I was fine with that, told her I'm not even concentrating on guys or sex these days, that control of my weight is number 1 right now. I just want to be able to walk normally again without pains all over my body.

My friend is coming to Galway tomorrow and Saturday. So, I'm not looking forward to the walks, a load of pain. But, I wanna do it.
Oooh, the Heathers are playing in HMV Galway on Saturday at 5pm, woo hoo :D Can't wait to hear that lovely Discover Ireland song from them (the one that came on Blogtv)... Hehehe :P

Chat ya later girlie :) Máire :)"

xxx

Sunny Days in Galway...

2010-05-26T23:39:00.006+01:00

A Shiny Morning...

2010-05-06T06:53:00.005+01:00

Good morning.

It feels like a better morning than usual. The sun is unusually bright, shining in my window, seeing as it's 7am in the morning. I don't wake up this early.

I had such a nice chat with my best friend last night, he came over to visit. He reminded me not to be always negative on myself, and try to focus on what I have to do now. Don't focus on things you haven't done, focus on what you need to do.
So, I'm trying to remember that.

Today, I'm not going to be negative to myself, and hide away from all my friends. Decided to wake up early, and walk into Galway city. I have some gift vouchers for music and book stores, so am going to use them. Also, I've no pretty shoes to wear for going out (one of the reasons why I dont go out, cos I've only got runners).
So, will buy one pair, so theres no excuse.

If it doesn't rain (much), am going to sit beside the Spanish Arch for an hour or so, and admire where I live. There is a beautiful place outside my bedroom, and am too afraid to go outside this comfort zone.
But, I'll try today.

Am listening to "The Swell Season", nice music to wake up to...

So, Good morning to you...

M x

Current Weight Check #1

2010-04-28T11:40:00.001+01:00

19 stone (266 pounds / 120 kgs)

Can't believe the weight is that much! But, I am going to work on this from now on.

Love M x

2010-04-27T12:00:00.008+01:00

Hey everyone, hope you're all doing well.
I think I'm more suited to writing than vlogging. But, haven't written in a while.

Exams finished on Friday 23rd which was a relief. But, I may have to repeat the Mathematics. Hard work and grinds will be needed for the next month, so that will be fine.
Also, am finishing off my Irish and Celtic Civilization essays. Thought they would be easier, but procrastination is hard to tackle.

Am single again for the millionth time, even though we broke up weeks ago. Tried to make it work with Ed, but it just didn't work. I think I am bad for people.

The new goal this summer, for 4 months, is to lose weight. (Damn I forgot to weigh myself again, and I've just eaten). Have yet to check my weight without eating, but I think it's around 17 stone (238 pounds / 109 kgs) at the moment.

The goal is to get down to 15 stone (210 pounds) by September '10.
In the fridge and cupboard I have:
*soups
*rice krispies cereal
*low fat milk
*chopped carrots
*houmous (for dipping the carrots into)
*a few frozen lasagnes
*light philedelphia spread
*oatcakes (for the spread)
*bewleys normal teabags and clippers green tea
*Normal food: pitta bread, cheese, ham, light mayonnaise (in case I really am hungry and need to make a proper sandwich)
*And some bramley apple tarts if I want a sweet treat....

What I need to get:
*Cucumber slices and Rice cakes/Waffles
*Rice cakes dipped in chocolate

I'm going to do this! I'm going to lose this stupid weight! Over 2 stone to lose!

Also, I'm hoping to travel this summer. Already have planned to get tickets to Boston, MA, and Aachen, Germany. Fingers crossed!

My back is very sore for a few weeks now, not been able to walk much. Wish I could fix it, but all I'm doing is relaxing it and hope it gets better soon.

Loads of hugs to everyone, and I'll write back soon. Smiles xxx Maire x

A Cute Kitty Photo...

2010-03-30T23:00:00.002+01:00

So cute, sitting in those runners.... Needed a cute kitty moment. Smiles x

Funnery in Febirthday!!!

2010-02-06T13:46:00.002Z

The month of February... I love this month... My favourite month of the year... It's such a small month, it doesn't bother anyone. Besides the one day in the middle of the month, where lovers get together and give eachother their hearts. I'm not a big fan, most of the time.

Anywho, it's my BIRTHDAY on the 11th! Woo hoo! I'll be older. Fun!

So, I'm going to celebrate the only way I know how... Text all my friends and tell them I'm going to the Roisin Dubh in Galway for a concert. Afterwards, we will stay in the lovely Roisin for drinks. The artist I will be humming to will be Vyvienne Long, another part of Damien Rice's old band (check out the piece I wrote on Lisa Hannigan in Dec '09). She sings this song on a cheese ad called "Happy Thoughts", and the full version of the song is the bestest! Oh, and she does the best cover of "Yoshimi". Ah she's great, big smiles.
Enjoy these videos of her...

Yoshimi Video:

Happy Thoughts Video:

So yesterday, for the First time in (Honestly) years, I bought 6 albums! They were all worth it :) I bought two Damien O'Rourke (1 studio and 1 live), Lisa Hannigan, Sigur Ros, Fionn Regan, and The Clash. I've yet to purchase Snow Patrol "Up to Now", Vyvienne Long's albums, and one or two more I can't remember.

Supposed to be doing my assignments, but they're so hard :( :( :( So sad.

Happy thoughts, happy thoughts, happy thoughts will save me... La La La.
Loadsa hugs xxx

A 1000 views...

2010-01-18T10:15:00.001Z

Wow! The 100th blog and a 1000 views, all in the same week!

Sing a Happy happy happy happy happy happy song...
Smiles.

Happy 100th Blog!

2010-01-12T09:07:00.003Z

I can't go out in that weather! Really! I can't!
Ok, I'll txt people so they can let me know what happened.
I don't have a car, only being safe...

How is everyone? Happy 100th Blog! A momentus time for me, as I thought this would be a forgotten hobby like everything else I've tried my hand at.
But, I love writing this. I have good days and bad days, but everyone does. I just choose to write them down. Nothing wrong with that.

What has happened? Well, had finished my exams on the 18th of December, and had 2 essays to finish by the 21st. After all that, I got to suffer from tonsillitis during the Christmas and New Years, so stayed in for a lot of it. I wasn't a happy bunny at all. Even missed out on eating proper Christmas dinner :(

It is now a new year, 2010, and things are looking up. This is supposed to be my second day back, but I'm afraid to walk through that really windy weather.
Edmund came to visit Galway on the last days of 2009, so I got to chat with him. It was really good to see him again, it's been so long. Known him around seven years now, my first kiss and all that. Hope this time, he'll stay in touch more often. Big smiles.

There are no resolutions this year, as they never work. All they do is pressure you. I can't be pressured further than I am going to be this year. Smiles.
Just be a more positive person, meet friends a bit more, and you will feel better inside.

And that Beatles song... Change it to "All you need is music...", and maybe a little love...

Darragh (of DigitalDarragh.com fame) has invited me to visit him this weekend in Drogheda for a trad session weekend. I can't wait to see him playing his music. Wish I'd learnt my tin-whistle over the last few months again.

Thinking of going over to visit my friend Patchie in Plymouth soon as well, looking out for cheaper flights. That would be great! :)

Been more social in the last few weeks (not counting Christmas and New Years), than all of 2009 put together of socialising. Been brilliant! Seen Lisa Hannigan and A Band Called Wanda, been to a few trad sessions, listened to my friends Rebecca and co playing instruments. It's been great! And I'm more of a fan of Guinness than ever! Haha.

This weekend was so great, on Saturday, went to The Crane Bar for a trad session with Rebecca, Brendan, Matteo, John and Megan, so much fun!
Then, on Sunday, me, Rebecca and co went to see A Band Called Wanda. Brendan plays in the band, check them out at ABandCalledWanda.com. Brilliant music!
Spent a few hours after uni yesterday, relaxing in Taaffes Bar on Shop Street, listening to trad music from 6 til 8pm, with a nice cup of tea.

This is so much better than going to a nightclub. You get to listen to real music. This is what I was missing. Smiles. Hugs, chat you soon x

Sad thought...

2009-12-17T00:55:00.002Z

I don't know... I heard that sad Christmas song "Same Old Lang Syne" by Dan Fogelberg, and if it ever comes on the radio again, I'm turning the radio off.

Why did someone say, from coming out of a coma, that he loved me, with his parents and his best friend watching?
Why did someone that adored me for the way I was, abandon me?
Why did someone, who loved me for many years, think I was a complete weirdo one day, and hated me for the rest of his life?

(All different people, but you see the trend here....)

It's really really depressing, and it really really hurts.

Damn sad song, grrrr.

2009-12-11T08:41:00.003Z

At my struggle to write a Celtic Civilization essay on Love and Jealousy, as well as a ton of study (I have not been able to do), I've decided to finally write a piece here.

Honestly, I did it to myself. Took too much on, and now really struggling with it.
I love University, it's the best thing I've ever done for myself and my self-esteem, but just have too much to study now. Just wish the essays weren't there to finish as well.
Next semester will be so much more organized. I promise.

Am doing well as a First Arts student. I see myself in a lovely robe, walking up to the podium in three years time, and receiving my Degree. It will be such an achievement.

....

So, I went to see Lisa Hannigan a few days ago at the Róisín Dubh in Galway. My uni friend, Rebecca Otto, got me back into listening to a few Irish bands, and Lisa was one of them. Wow, she is just amazing! First time I've ever seen her live. She is just so brave to go it alone (well, she does have half of Damien Rice's band, but still...)

See how great she is... Big smiles!

....

Of course, I fancy a few people, but just want to have fun with my friends for now. I think one guy I like in Uni has a girlfriend, as he could not be single. If I had to describe him in one word.... Beautiful. I've never said that about any guy in my life. But, he just is *Sigh*
I wanted to write a piece about this guy, but just couldn't find the words...

The joys of life, huh...

...

Ok. So, that's me, up to a point. Lol. I really should get back to this essay, and the study :( Please, please oh please wish me luck.

Loadsa hugs x

2009-10-17T11:50:00.001+01:00

Je ne t'aime plus mon amour, je ne t'aime plus tous les jours..

Am in a better energy this week. Am eating dinners at the university canteen, with tons of vegetables, and just feel less tired and stressed...
Well, I am a little stressed. Have a ton of reading to do, which I have started on, but it sees no end. Will have to just take it one step at a time. Smiles.

As for the guy issue, think I'm finally sorting things out in my head. Whenever I'm angry, I write it down, instead of txting it to him. He never txts back. I put all my negative energy in those emails and texts, that I have no energy for myself.
So, I'm putting my energies into my study, trying to anyway.

I am so happy to have such brilliant friends and family around me, so much support I shouldn't have lost sight of, and you know what...

He'll get whats coming to him. Someone like him always does. When hes on the street without a home or a job...

So, its a sunny day in Galway city, on a Saturday morning, and I need to be at the library, photocopying books. Ekkk! Smiles. Love you all...

Kisses x

2009-10-05T05:05:00.000+01:00

Am not holding up very well. Feels like my heart was torn out and kicked around with. He kept saying he loved me, and one day, it's just gone. How can you keep going after that?

If I ever Love again... It won't be on this Earth...

2009-10-01T12:15:00.000+01:00

Yet again, I'm broken hearted. A sweet soul consumed by worries of money.
A soul not able to completely give all to me, made all the lies and excuses of a coward.
I wish only to be happy in this life, and not be consumed by evil thoughts of loves past.
My woes in life are but a annoying distraction of my wonderful future ahead.
May I smile and be tear free again.

University finally starts... Fun times!

2009-09-22T08:55:00.000+01:00

So, I'm awake on a Tuesday morning, getting ready for Pass Maths at 10am... I know, Pass Maths. Do you think I'm crazy? I might be.

I've chosen my four subjects for the first year of Arts:
*Irish
*Celtic Civilization
*Pass Maths
*Sociologial and Political Studies
Am hoping to get my BA in three years, and maybe go forward with teaching or that area, will see what subjects I love to study. Smiles.

Already, I'm using the Library, without a tour. Amazing! Even found 4 books I needed on my own... (Well, ok, I have a little help with two books...).

It's too early. I've had a tea, but it's not helping.

I started University classes properly yesterday.
*Maths was tough, at one point, I started becoming panicky, but calmed down and just took the notes. I'm sure it will make sense once it clicks in my head.
*Celtic Civilization was great. We found out it might not make sense most of the time, but that's how it's supposed to be. Read one of the saga stories the lecturer recommended, and loved it. Loads of testeosterone and fighting, it was so funny.
*Irish was my last class, and am very proud. The lecture hall was so packed, students were standing all over the place and sitting on the steps. I ended up standing at the very back, and couldn't hear half the lecture, but spoke to the lecturer after, and he hopes they can split the class into two group. That would be great!

Today, I'm treating myself to a haircut, to make myself feel good. Also, going over to Natalie's place for dinner and a nice girlie chat. Should be fun, but we've class at 9am the next day, so I hope we can wake up for it, giggle.

The Mature Student party will be tomorrow at 8pm, a relaxed atmosphere. Hopefully, my new friends will be going as well. It should be a great night, huge smiles. Also, gonna join some Societies too, hope the Chocolate Society is fun!

Wish I'd gotten more sleep, not sleeping much lately. Smiles and Cuddles xxx

A Walk through Leitir Móir to An Trá Bháin...

2009-09-09T16:00:00.001+01:00

Scroll over the map below to see the area of the different photographs...

There's a lack of photographs of the Gorumna Islands online, and I wanted to show people this area on the West coast of Ireland which is hidden away. You hear places like Cliften and Letterfrack, where people think is the 'real' Gaeltacht, but the Irish language is fluent here in the Gorumna Islands.

It took just over 2 hours to walk from the first to the last photo, with hardly any rain. If you hover over the map of the Island, and all the photographs, they're marked from 1 to 50, with text describing where the place is.

I'd like to acknowledge thanks to the Ceantar na nOileán website, as I copied two of their maps for use on this project, and that I took all of these photos on a 'luckily' sunny morning on August the 4th, 2009. I wanted to show people how lovely this area is, especially when it's good weather.

Test 1

2009-09-06T23:00:00.003+01:00

Put the Hover over text by editing the end of this photo's HTML code to this... border="0" alt="LettermoreOne"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333720398637462818" title="Lettermoreone" />

Strange senses...

2009-09-04T13:00:00.000+01:00

So, on Thursday night, I went to support Shane as he read his story at the Over the Edge monthly Open Reading of stories and poetry readings. He will be a featured reader on Thursday September the 24th at the Galway City Library, so I can't wait to support my best friend again. Also, he's in the Short-listed 30 writers for the Over the Edge New Writer of the Year. So, watch out, Shane Ó Maoildhia is such a creative poet and writer, and a really great best friend. Wish him the very best of luck! Smiles.

The next day, Friday 28th August, I brought Shane and my sister Roisin for an afternoon Japanese dinner at Kappa-Ya (I love that place!), and we all had something to celebrate. Shane had been short-listed, Roisin received her Learners Permit for Driving, and I was starting University as a Mature Student.

Now, for the strange senses...

I was in Charlie Byrne's Bookshop (a really good bookshop where a lot of Second Hand books can be sold as well as new books)... (Sorry, a lot of name dropping going on here, but I love all these places in Galway city).
So, I was there with my sister that day, and wandered around all the books. I wasn't sure what I was looking for. We'd spend an hour looking through books, and she'd found 4 that she really liked.
One book from the shelves stood out for me, but I couldn't buy it, as it takes me forever to decide on something to buy for myself. It takes me months before I decide to buy something I really want. But, this book kept nudging at me to be bought. So, I left it, and decided to go home with Roisin.

.... So, on the 3rd day of my Mature Student Orientation (the 2nd of September), I came in for a whole day of Academic Writing lectures with this guy called Mike McCormack. I didn't know anything about this person, like most of the lecturers we'd had all week. I'd liked what he was talking about, but found at times to be repeating himself. I'm a quiet listener, and took down notes through class. He was very good, but found at 3:30pm that I wanted to go home and write out my notes. He'd given a lot of tips, and regretted leaving early...

The next day, I decided to find out more about the book which I'd left behind at the bookshop the week before. It was the strangest thing....

"Notes from a Coma" was written by Mike McCormack!

The book I couldn't decide on.
I was very shocked!

Tea and Wheat Free bread... Tasty with some light butter...

2009-08-24T13:34:00.004+01:00

Hooray for me!
I actually baked wheat free bread, and not those ready mixed packs, its the actual real stuff. Oats, Rye, Rice, Barley, well proud. The batch I made turned out quite small, but it was so tasty and the texture was moist. I hope to adjust the ingredients for the next time so I can make a bigger loaf.

I have an intolerance for wheat, and a few other things, but mainly focusing on wheat right now, one thing at a time. Found out in January thru an intolerance test, but not had the will to keep off bread and things like that. Bread has to be one of my weaknesses in life, I love a nice tasty sandwich :) So, this will be a good change for me, and a hobby as well, if the house isn't full of party people for the university year. We'll see.

Am playing this online game called Evony at the moment, it's quite addictive. I've been getting into a lot of addictive games lately, and it's not healthy. Took a break from The Sims 3 a while ago, and am only ever on World of Warcraft when Gordon wants to play with me, which hasn't been much. But, I don't mind.

Why are Health shops so expensive? Wish I could buy a dairy free chocolate bar that doesn't cost 4euro, or my favourite Japanese rice cakes that doesn't cost 2.50euro. It's so annoying when you can't afford these things, especially as I'm unemployed and going into full time education. But, gotta just compromise. Education or eating healthy. What a choice!

Every minute I chat to Gordon online, I miss him tons. Hope to see him next Tuesday at the latest. It'll be for a few days but oooooooooooh I can't wait for his cuggles and kisses

x x x MM 4 GL x x x
***i <3 u***

p.s. Things have changed, and I won't be able to see Gordon for a few weeks.

Out of sync a lot...

2009-08-08T22:30:00.003+01:00

My sleeping pattern is all over the place the last while, and getting headaches, which isnt normal. Am a bit worried about the Grant forms for University, really hope I get something to help me out financially for the next year.

Can't wait to start Uni, they have some study skills classes coming up there for Mature Students which is great. Am going to take all of them. Am worried about essays, but that should be ok, as long as I get the studying in.
Haven't focused on four subjects yet for the Arts course, should I do Irish, should I not? Hmmm.

Since coming back from Belfast after seeing Gordon for a brilliant 8 days, I really miss him. It's not been the same since I came back, and I still adore him. I think we really look cute together (Giggle)

We just spent time together, holding hands, cuddling a lot, playing World of Warcraft, watching movies, chatting about things. He's a brilliant cook :) But now, it feels like we're waiting around for things to move. Nothing's being moved, time goes slow. But, I'm so proud of him. Two interviews to look forward to this month, a place to live. I believe in him and that it'll all work out for us. Huge smiles to my Gordybaby :)

The kittens are growing up really fast. They're about 6 weeks old now. Buddha is the toughest of the three, running around the room following people's feet, and jumping out of tall cardboard boxes with a single bound ^_^". While Dora and Bubbles had been ill before, but are slowly recovering. With eye infections and hardly strength to eat from their mother's milk, most of the family have been cat-sitting, trying to feed them kitten milk and cleaning their eyes. I pray that they'll grow strong and live.

Have a lot of photos from home which I'll be uploading soon, doubtful it's my best photographic work, but hey, I like the place.

Memories of my Grandmothers...

2009-07-20T08:30:00.000+01:00

A nice thought strung into my mind as I woke up this morning... I remembered Mamo's soft hands... She had the softest hands I'd ever felt...

I had two grandmothers growing up, one we called "Mamo" who lived beside us, and the other called "Mamo Gavin", which took us 20 minutes to drive to her place. They were the nicest people in the world you could ever meet. But, then, everyone's Grandmother is the nicest you could ever meet...

They were both sweet souls. Both hardly drank, both were always either baking or cooking, both fell ill... I know Mamo Gavin passed away when I was 16, and it was a few years before Mamo followed. Wish they could have seen how we turned out, they'd be so proud.
They both suffered with their weight, like myself, and I know they both had a sweet tooth, so I know where those parts are coming from... Giggle.

Mamo was the one who'd sneak us a buttered sandwich behind her back so our parents wouldn't see, it was the really creamy kind of butter we didn't have. I used to love that. She'd be so proud when we sang or played the tin-whistle, or danced, clapping her hands cheering us on. She'd also sneak us sweeties. As she was diabetic, she couldn't have any, but she loved giving them. Or a few pounds to spend on ourselves...

What I remember about Mamo Gavin, was the way she held herself, always smartly dressed, always smiling. She used to bake cakes all the time, and she was so careful about what she ate. I remember she loved Philidelpia spread, I used to think it was some posh cream cheese. Mum never had any, and I thought it was for adults. She also used to have Wagon Wheels in the cupboard, and would give us one as a treat at times.

I'm always told I look like both grandmothers, as well as my mother. It's such a nice compliment. I hope I can be as strong as them in the future.

xxx

My memories... My thoughts... The woods....

2009-07-19T13:30:00.000+01:00

At times, I think back on memories that bother me a bit... And it does bother me.

One time, I was walking into the woods with an ex, it was one of the last days we'd spend together, and I like being quiet walking thru the woods, taking things in..
This place was beautiful. I don't know any woods near me, and have only been in one or two, so this was really great..
And a little bit into it, he asked me why I wasn't talking. I said I didnt know, I didn't think there was something wrong about not talking to someone you cared about in these beautiful woods, especially when it would be the last time we'd see eachother for a while (later on, it turned out we'd never see eachother again).

But, it seemed to bother him, which made me upset. I was having a great time in the woods with this guy, and he wasn't. On the way back, he told me to stop crying and walked in front of me. He wasn't holding my hand, I embarrassed him when people were walking past...

:( What did I do....

Today, I was watching this old RTE documentry, it was about this writer that loved to walk thru the woods. But, she said she'd bring someone who liked to walk beside her, but not to talk, but to enjoy the quiet of the woods, to listen to the little rivers running thru the place, to listen to the birds singing, and let all those worries flow away.

And I thought, wow, I wasn't in the wrong.

It just makes you think...

Arts... Gordon... Food... Kittens... All connected...

2009-07-06T18:27:00.003+01:00

Kind of... (Giggles)

No, not really. But, am in a happy mood these days.

First off, I accepted an Arts course in the National University of Ireland, Galway, today. Am so thrilled to have this chance, but not sure what I'll study yet. Would like something that could help me further my chances with Special Needs children, or young children in general, but I can try to do evening courses in those areas while studying Arts.
Wow, am going to be a student, at a university... So strange. Dreading the fees, but will work it out. Got to look at grants yet. Typical me, leaving it until last minute.

He went missing for a few days, but he's back, and he's mine! Giggle. Jellybean for Gordybaby xxxxx <3

Cut down on junk food the last four days, meaning less white chocolate, less biscuits, less tortilla chips. Felt really low the last few weeks and stopped going to Weightwatchers, but am back on my way again. Drinking a litre bottle of water every day as well.
Will go back to WW when I feel I'm ready to, in a few weeks. They says they dont judge if you've got up, but its the tone of their voice... Just put me off track for a while.

And, on a sad note, Marshy lost one of her kittens. The baby died at some point yesterday afternoon, and we have yet to bury the little creature. It's sad to lose life, even if you've only known the spirit for a few days.
God Bless you little white kitten in the sky...

<3

God Bless you Michael J... x

2009-07-02T20:30:00.001+01:00

Only now does the whole world see how special you and your music were... These are two of my favourite videos...

R.I.P.
Michael Jackson (August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009)

God bless you! x

Earth Song

Man in the Mirror

Also watch this video, the 1st part of 8 videos, where he did an exclusive interview with Oprah Winfrey 14 years after he had stopped doing interviews.

Marshmallow had 4 lovely white kittens....

2009-07-01T19:00:00.001+01:00

These were taken this morning.... The little mother had these cute babies around the afternoon of June 30th (yesterday)... First time ever seeing kittens being born....

Smiles... x

Slowly turning into a morning person...

2009-06-30T06:00:00.000+01:00

Guess that's what happens after a few morning classes, the light entering your room quite early, and constantly going to the Dept of Social and Family Affairs...

Which means I get tired earlier and take naps, or just conk out for a few hours, which means I wake up early again... Think it's supposed to be a good thing... Giggle.

Keep smiling x

^_^/

Music stuck in my head...

2009-06-27T10:30:00.000+01:00

Good morning everyone!

Another lovely warm sticky day in Galway, think it's like that for most of Ireland right now. We complain only cos its not normal nice heat, its that sort of humid heat...
Just had my big cup of tea in bed, and chatting away to my boyfriend Gordon online. What a way to start the morning! :)

I had the best time with Gordon last weekend, and am missing him so much. I arrived to my baby giving me cuddles and a kiss from the bus stop, and we walked back to his place. We spent the first night cuddling and chatting to eachother, it was really comfortable and just felt right... Not sure how to explain it...
Think he's addicted to the yummy white chocolate bars and jellybeans I love, I brought 2 big bars and a big of Jellybeans with me. We shared everything together :)
Watched a few movies, cuddling all the time. He even showed me around Belfast on Sunday, even though I'd rather spend another few hours staying cuddled to him... Giggle.
Even made me lunch for the bus back to Galway on Monday..... Awww :D... It's definitely the little things that matter...

I love you baby xxxxx

So far, I've passed 4 out of 7 ECDL (European Computer Driving License) modules, another 3 to go. Finished on the 10th of July, so another 2 weeks.
On the 9th, I'll be babysitting for Sandra, and on the 11th, Shane's thinking of holding a house party while his mum is away, so that weekend's going to be well busy :D

Went to Hazel's house party last night, and had a brilliant time. Saw Hazel and Eamon, Shane, Mairtin, Breda and Patrick, Serena and Liam. It was a good group :) Drank diet Lemonade cos felt I'm usually really quiet and shy at these gatherings, so didnt wanna add alcohol to the situation, would be more quiet....
Hazel is a great party host, full of good chatter :) Nice finger food and drink too. She always makes it great :D

I brought over Doritos, but glad they didnt get opened, or I'd have them finished. Just had a salad. Been putting up weight again, stressed over money stuff and ECDL, but needed to see everyone last night, so worth it!

Sad about the news of Michael Jackson and Farrah Fosset this week, R.I.P.

Checked my Chinese Zodiac
Me: Water Dog
Him: Fire Rabbit
Us: .............................. Very well matched!

Love you Gordybaby xxxxxxxxxxxx

Hugs and Cuddles everyone xxx

I Love my Gordybaby...

2009-06-23T18:20:00.001+01:00

These photos are of seeing my boyfriend Gordon in Belfast this weekend.... It was the best weekend ever! I love u Gordybaby x

Hopefully... 4 more days til I see Gordon...

2009-06-15T09:30:00.001+01:00

Am getting really excited about meeting him. We've chatted online for over a month, and get on really well with him... Always been the one to take the first leap when meeting someone, and he makes me so happy... Once I start cuddling him, I'll not wanna let go :) x

To Abby... Adore my American girl, keep smiling. Sending my Angel to you to give you sooooo many cuddles, you won't be able to breathe :D x

Job is still unattainable. Plus, I've no money coming in anymore, so its very tough. I'm keeping positive, love my family so much, they're such a support...
Just been eating more again, dreading going to Weightwatchers this Thursday :( But, it has to be done, and gonna try to be more positive again.

I am really blessed to have a loving family, a brilliant guy in Belfast waiting for me, and few good friends. I don't keep in touch with my friends as much as I'd like, but I do love them.

Sending a million cuddles xxx

Britney Spears in London Weekend...

2009-06-09T09:30:00.000+01:00

It went brilliantly... Just back... Putting up some photos, smiles...

The trouble with money...

2009-05-28T16:30:00.000+01:00

Hey.
Just had some bad news about the jobseekers allowance i've been receiving. It's not been good luck finding work, but my money might be going soon.
So, decided to visit FAS (it's an irish job and course centre) today and properly register with them. Been lookin at their online website for the yr and registered online with them. They were really helpful there, and said I should go to the Dept of Family and Social Affairs and ask to get a referal letter to FAS so it wil help with gettin funding for a course or getting work. Hope to get that done tomorrow morning.
It was such a panic today, it's hopeless getting work here. Looked in the papers, and applied for a position in Bar staff in Cuba* niteclub. Love that club anyways, Giggle.
And to Gordon, Sorry I wasn't myself today... Cuddles... And to all my friends, Keep Smiling x x x

Feeling much better... And happier too...

2009-05-26T11:15:00.000+01:00

Hey everyone,

I've been at home with the parents again the past week, was feeling ill for a few days, but feeling much better now. One of my friends thought it was Swine Flu, of all things... Giggle.

I was online a few days ago, early in the morning cos I couldn't sleep, and this person left a message on one of my online places. It was sweet, so I thought I'd write back the usual lovely Maire way... Hugs and cuddles :)
It turns out he's been a real gentleman chatting to me. His name's Gordon, he's from Omagh but living in Belfast. Looking for work like me, so he's been finding it very tough. He understood how I was feeling, and it's such a relief to be able to help eachother out, and cheering eachother up...
He's been just so open to me about everything, and I would like to get to know him better. I keep telling him why he hasn't been kept by some girl, and he's such the sweetest person...

Jellybean for Gordybaby x

I'm giving it time to know him better, but am gonna meet him in July at some point. We get on so well, and I don't think he's said one thing that 'bothers' me, and that's really strange for me.

Smiles... x

Weightwatchers is still going well, lost another 2 pounds since. Will let you know how its going. My clothes are feeling a little more comfortable... ^_^/

Just waiting for Dad to drop me off in town, gotta babysit later this afternoon. He's taking his time tho... Had a cuppa tea and a NutriGrain Strawberry cereal bar... Yum!

Tae, Tae, Is maith liom e! x

Three weeks on in Weightwatchers...

2009-05-15T18:30:00.000+01:00

.... and I've lost 7and a half pounds...

Yes! Silver Sevens star :) So proud of myself! Celebrating tonight with a glass of Rose wine with my friend Sandra... Smiles x

Weightwatchers is going well... And other stories...

2009-05-04T21:10:00.000+01:00

I like looking around my room, it's full of things I love...

Photos, DVDs, Books, Notebooks, Mugs, Lotions, Perfumes, Teddies, Souvenirs, Trinkets... And it's such a tiny room, but I love it...

So, I joined the dreaded Weightwatchers group, less than two weeks ago. This was the one thing I thought I wouldn't stick to, like a lot of other things I've tried. But, it seems to be a good direction in my life. There's a lot of support from the other people in the group, and everyone encourages eachother. The inital week, I lost 5lbs, but think that's just the quick start.
Seeing as I hurt my foot last night, not going to lose much at all this week... (Typical... giggle).

Smiling...

Still...

No luck with finding work. Am still positive.
Any stories for me? Would love to hear from you... Might take photos of Galway in the next while, and upload them. Been nice weather the last few days (besides today, oh how I love the rain!)...

Better days...

2009-04-19T14:00:00.000+01:00

Hugs to my coolest friends Shane, Sandra, Dave, Abby and Darragh... x

Love to my family...

How's everyone doing? Catching the bus to the city later, been at home with the parents the last two weeks now or more. Been helping with the washing up and general housework, it's been good.

Got a few errands to do in the city the next few days, so it should be ok. Hope to see Shane tomorrow, and babysitting for Sandra on Tuesday, as well as a good girlie chat... :)

Paid for the concert tickets, flights and accomodation to see Britney Spears in London!!! Ha ha. My sister Roisin wants to go, and Britney's playing in London in June, so I just had to get her tickets :) Saved up for ages, worth it to make her happy! :)

Oh god, I sound so boring! :) Still have Easter eggs to give to Sandra, Shane and his brother Ciaran, so hopefully I won't eat them before giving them away... Giggle.

Needed a friend today

2009-04-01T14:00:00.000+01:00

My weight...

It hasnt been my best friend, and I've ignored my problem since the breakup in July. But, a very good friend of mine joked about my weight on Monday night, and I've been upset about it since.
I gave up on the Yoga and Aquafit fairly soon after joining, hating routine was a part of it. Also walked for two weeks, but got sick, so stopped after. Been eating a lot too...
Then, once she mentioned about the weight, something triggered inside me... Hiding for so long, broken hearted. Guys don't even look at me, I'm a 'friend'.. I'm always a 'friend'..

Had a good cry today, and feel better. Tomorrow, the food in my cupboard is going to change. The walking will recommence, the water will be drank, the vitamins will be taken. The online guy's numbers will be deleted from the phone, and the onlne guy's MSNs will be deleted from my messenger...

Gradually and slowly, I will appear from my cocoon, and come out a gorgeous butterfly, with all my real friends at my side...

xxx

Happy 1st Year Blogoversary!!!

2009-03-27T14:46:00.003Z

Thanks to all my friends x

Summer feeling...

2009-03-20T19:20:00.000Z

Sorry if I haven't been around lately, just wanted to wish everyone a belated St. Patrick's Day. I didn't celebrate the day, with so much in the family going on, was burnt out. My sister cooked us dinner late enough, and then went to sleep.

It's been so warm here the past few days, loved it. Not gone out much, but felt it a lot. We all need it after the shit year we've had, weather-wise and everything else, in Ireland. Puts you in a better mood.

Rescheduling another date in the next few weeks to see Darragh, Emma and Freddie, as was unable to visit last week. Seeing as they had a ton of things planned for me, I hope to do something really nice for them when I finally get to see them! Smiles.

Hope to babysit for Sandra on Monday and chill out in her company, and then, see Shane next Thursday, have a full Shanie day! Am just so tired after the past week and a half.

Miss Darragh and Abby loads, hugsssssssssssssssss x

Keep smiling everyone x x x Maire

Just going to enjoy Sandra's Birthday...

2009-03-11T13:45:00.003Z

Am going babysitting for her tonight, so hope she has a ball. Smiles. Have been at hers since Monday, so happy out.
Meeting Shane for the day on Thursday, we've got Japanese food and DVDs on the mind, then off to Drogheda for the weekend to see Darragh, Emma and Freddie. Well excited! Can't wait! I wonder if Freddie will recognise me... Hope so.

Staying in Connemara next week for Paddy's Week, get out of all the excitement and noise of the city. Would like to see the parade in Carraroe with Shane, will see. I'd like to spend time with Roisin though, so we'll see.

Got this annoying cough, the throat is a bit sore, so am taking Lemsip for it. It relieves it for about an hour, but that's about it. *sigh*

Have a guy texting me at the moment, but am not really looking for anyone cos of my weight being way up again. We've only been texting as friends the last few months, starting chatting to him on a website. He's nice and all, but all the texts I send him suggest I'm going thru the motions with what I'm writing to him. So... Yeah... *sigh*

Kisses.

***Update: Thursday 12th March...
***I've had to cancel both Shane and Darragh's meetings due to family circumstances, and wish everyone well tonight. xxx

Blogger's Block...

2009-03-05T01:20:00.001Z

To answer Darragh's question (being my Number 1 fan), I have Blogger's Block. What to write, what to write... *giggle*

Twitter is on my phone, Addictive or What! Now, how to add it onto this blog...

I've the next two weekends filled, with Oisin's 3rd birthday lunch and Sandra's birthday night, both on this Saturday. And next weekend, its me, Darragh, Emma and Freddie on the loose in Drogheda... Woo hoo! Fun times! Cant wait to meet Emma. Darragh's been going out with her the past few years. I've been told great things about her, but I've not been introduced, so me think a few drinks and a chat are in order :D

Also, Darragh's friend Abby added me on Twitter recently. I remember him talking about her a few years ago, but we never knew eachother. Heard she was lovely.

Oh, and just received an email that I won an iPod Shuffle from RecruitDirect.ie . Lovely stuff! Knew signing up to all those jobs sites would come in handy... Now, WHERE'S MY JOB?!?!?!?

Still have Blogger's Block. This post seems too forced... I'll quit while I'm ahead :P

Smiles.

I am so upset..

2009-02-20T01:00:00.001Z

I am going to kill my laptop... No INTERNET, AGAIN!!!!!!! At home in Connemara, using home computer.... :'(
Why is my laptop punishing me???

ICE - 'In Case of Emergency'

2009-02-17T22:20:00.000Z

I read this in an email, and found it very interesting. It should be applied to all phones, hopefully never to be used...
----------

ICE - 'In Case of Emergency'

We all carry our mobile phones with names & numbers stored in its memory but nobody, other than ourselves, knows which of these numbers belong to our closest family or friends.

If we were to be involved in an accident or were taken ill, the people attending us would have our mobile phone but wouldn't know who to call. Yes, there are hundreds of numbers stored but which one is the contact person in case of an emergency? Hence this 'ICE' (In Case of Emergency) Campaign.
The concept of 'ICE' is catching on quickly. It is a method of contact during emergency situations. As cell phones are carried by the majority of the population, all you need to do is store the number of a contact person or persons who should be contacted during emergency under the name 'ICE' ( In Case Of Emergency).

The idea was thought up by a paramedic who found that when he went to the scenes of accidents, there were always mobile phones with patients, but they didn't know which number to call. He therefore thought that it would be a good idea if there was a nationally recognized name for this purpose. In an emergency situation, Emergency Service personnel and hospital Staff would be able to quickly contact the right person by simply dialing the number you have stored as 'ICE.'

For more than one contact name simply enter ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc. A great idea that will make a difference!

Let's spread the concept of ICE by storing an ICE number in our Mobile phones toda y!
Please forward this. It won't take too many 'forwards' before everybody will know about this. It really could save your life, or put a loved one's mind at rest.

2009-02-16T15:30:00.000Z

Now I remember why I left the bar job in London...

I got a lot of panic attacks there. It wasn't healthy for me.

2009-02-16T00:05:00.001Z

Hello there. How was your Valentine's Day?

^_^/

Don't ask about mine, it was just too quiet. Ended up watching the IFTA's (Irish Film & Television Awards) on tv while eating chocolate and drinking cups of tea..
Dad had said he'd pick me up that night to travel to Connemara, but he never showed up. Also, could have gotten the bus back today, but parents were in town again. Thought they'd remember me and give me a lift home, but again, forgot.
Wow, could have easily gotten the bus. Didn't mind. Now I can't visit until Thursday.

Moral of the story, don't hold your breath. Make your own travel plans, don't wait for other people.

Missing Roisin a lot, she's stuck at home in the middle of nowhere.
She's been ill over a year now with Fibromyalgia, so it's been very hard on her.
It's a form of Arthritis, but it affects the muscles. She couldn't go to school because of all the pain on her weak muscles, which led to sleep deprivation, lack of movement due to pain, lack of concentration, mood swings, etc. But, with the medication she's taking recently, it's helped her a lot.
Wish I could help her out in some way, but am just thinking of her. Studies are on hold this year, where she'll be back at school in the new school year.

Monday: Babysitting.
Wednesday: Yoga.
Thursday: Home for a few days.

Mmmm, JOBS WHERE ARE YOU?

It will happen...

An image for the Day that's in it...

2009-02-14T21:00:00.001Z

The ultimate sign of love, two penguins finding eachother...

Oh... Valentine's Day....

2009-02-13T12:00:00.001Z

Hmmmm....

Oh, think I'm hiding in Connemara for that one. There'll always be next year, people say. Only had one Valentine ever, and that was last year. Ah well... Good times...
^_^*

For tonight's entertainment, I will be seeing Cecelia Ahern's play "Mrs Whippy" at the Town Hall Theatre. As all my friends know, I love her books, she has such an amazing way to connect with people's emotions, she really makes you laugh, and cry! So, am so excited to see this play tonight.

After that, I'll be babysitting Sandra's little boy Alex for the night. Think there's a pizza in there as payment. Sweet!

Am all stretched out after Yoga class last night. Felt so embarrassed though, because I can't do any of the really hard positions. I was looking around and thinking, ekkk I can't do that. But, the Yoga teacher ensured me wherever I'm comfortable with is fine. Hmmm. When everyone else is flying with one leg on the floor, I'll be safely on the ground, both feet please...

Thought of the Day...

2009-02-12T14:30:00.000Z

"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - Bonnie Jean Wasmund

Time heals all wounds. x

My 26th...

2009-02-11T20:00:00.003Z

Am happy the people that mattered, said Happy Birthday to me... Thank you xxx

I took these photos on a morning trip to Inverin beach on Monday, needed to clear my mind, and I love going back there to the peace and quiet...

"To change and to change for the better are two different things." - German proverb

Saturday Night's Birthday Party Time!

2009-02-08T17:00:00.006Z

My birthday isn't until Wednesday, but me and Shane decided to invite a load of friends. The friends that mattered came out, and I love them for that. Here are some photos of the night... (I'll try not to upload too much... I hope...) ^_^/

Me and Sandra

Sandra, me, Shane, Breda, Patrick and Jen

Shane and me (Best Friends Forever)

Helen, me and Sandra (with bunny ears)

Me, the sister and her boyfriend (awww)

The whole gang, love ya to bits xxx

Oooooh dear... Am ill....

2009-02-06T13:30:00.000Z

It's not fair. It's my little birthday drinks thing tomorrow, and feel like death. My nose hurts from all the tissues I've blown thru... Help... :(

The sound has gone from my laptop since getting it back, tried finding out why it's doing this, but no luck yet. Sandra told me to look for all my Recovery Disks, but don't know where I left it, or even if I marked them properly. Blah...

My poor laptop...

2009-02-03T08:05:00.000Z

It's finally fixed... Let's hope it stays that way...

X

Yes... February is my favourite month...

2009-02-02T11:43:00.008Z

...even though my throat hurts and I've a stuffy nose! Giggle.

Resolutions (Part 2):
3: Join an Aquafit class
4: Do the Food Intolerance Test, and try for a few weeks.

I've done all my resolutions so far, and ended up being ill , giggle, but I'm happy right now ^_^/
Passed my Driver Theory test, 38 out of 40, yay!

Shane's helping me round up people for my birthday celebrations, think Saturday 7th will be the big night out, and might go out for a small dinner on my birthday day (for people who would like to know, the 11th of February... yes that magical day...) ^_^*
More than likely, Cuba* will be the venue for the 7th... Come one, come all...

Was out for Jen's birthday last Friday with Shane, Hazel and her man Eamon. Had a brilliant night! We spent it in The Living Room, late bar til 2am. Happy out. Was so good to see Jen and Hazel again, been ages.

Shane and Hazel...
Shane and Hazel... Again...
Me and Hazel...

Will be babysitting every Monday from the 9th of February for the next 10 weeks, so that'll be good experience. It's for a good friend as well, so am happy to help out. She's starting a course, so yippee for her :)
Applied for the CAO myself, its an Arts course, doubtful I'll get it but no loss applying...

Keeping positive... x

The End of a Shitty Year...

2008-12-31T18:00:00.000Z

Just feel like jumping up and down...

So far, I've two of my Resolutions started, which is:

1: Booked my Driver Theory
2: About to join a Yoga Class

There will be more added and I hope to fulfill them. Just happy to have those two sorted.
At the moment, Róisín is playing baseball on the Wii, Breda's on her way to her boyfriend's parents for a few days, my parents are sorting out dinner, and I'm writing a piece here. I've a ton of spots on my face from the chocolate overloaded week (sorry, maybe 2 weeks) that I've had at home. Haven't gone out drinking once, which I don't mind. If I had good drinking company, I'd enjoy it, but I don't have that.

Santa got me cool slippers I wear about the house all the time, so comfy.
Also love the Wii so much, we got Super Mario Bros on the Shopping Channel at 500 points (5euro), and we've a ton of other games to get too. All the old favourites are on the Channel, like Megaman, Columns, Sonic the Hedgehog, Pac-Man, Shinobi, and Golden Axe. Used to have the Nintendo NES and the Sega Mega Drive when I was younger, so kinda recognise a lot of the old games... Ah, memories... ^_^/

Still have no job. Really really REALLY have to do something about this. It's just ridiculous now. Hate the stigma attached to it, like people think you do nothing, and it's just not true.

It's going to be a better year, 2009 is going to be my year. It really is...

xxx

A Very Merry Christmas...

2008-12-24T14:00:00.000Z

... and a Happy New Year to all x x x

Loads of Love...

Maire x

Christmas lights and Candy canes...

2008-12-16T09:00:00.000Z

There we go, that time of year again. Those familiar songs are playing again, the days are growing short, the cats are playing with the brightly lit Christmas lights.. Oh yes, it must be Christmas! That 'happy' time of year. For contemplating our little lives, to see who loves us and thinks of us. To look over those hills and see the wonder of this world...

Yes. I feel that at times. Not everyone is happy all the time though.

Am still at home in Connemara, planning on going back to the city tomorrow to do a little bit of shopping, and a little bit of spending time with friends. Picked certain days for friends so they don't clash, and I can dedicate all my energy on chatting to each of them.

Shane, the most wondrous friend of them all, will be turning 25 on Wednesday (tomorrow), yippereeee! Getting him a little cake with sparkly candles (hopefully), and gonna just chill in with him Thursday night bitching and watching DVDs...

I'm unsure of Simmy yet, either seeing her Friday or any day after Saturday night. She's the loveliest person you could meet, a little darling. Met her when we were working in Supermacs years ago, and she's since married and had two gorgeous children. She always looked out for me too, when getting me a job away from Supermacs. I'd only known her a few weeks, and she'd gotten me a job with her in Boston Fashions, ah the funniest time. Havent seen her in two years now, it'll be good to catch up...

Then, on Saturday, I'll be meeting Sandra and little Alex for the day. Am babysitting Alex for his Mummy that night, cos she's gonna relax with her friends, so he better be good ^_^ We always have the best laugh together, she's a mad one. Wouldn't change her for anything tho!

Oh, and guess what we got for the whole family for Christmas?

The excellent, fantastic, incredible... Nintendo Wii! Yippee!
Well, we split the cost 5 ways, but we got it ^_^ Oh yeah! The sisters and myself ended up playing with it last night, just to give it a 'test run'. Loads of stuff with it for €325... Three games, 2 controls, loads of accessories... Money well spend! We're supposed to be wrapping it up tonight..............

Hmm...... ^_^

Coming up to Christmas...

2008-12-11T00:30:00.002Z

How's everyone been?

Am at home for Christmas, which is nice. Haven't picked up any presents for anyone yet, as Id to pay a huge dentist bill. And with no work, am just stretching for now. Tough, but positive.

My weight is very bad, recently had to cop on again. Afraid to weigh myself, but feels like 15stone. Confidence is low, but I'm good, really.

They finally picked up my dead laptop today. Took them long enough! Should be back after Christmas though. Nevermind, this is the season for family and friends... :) I don't need a laptop for that...

Thinking of buying chocolate and biscuits for everyone, the nice ones. I wonder would people see it as the thought that counts? Hmm.

I'd love chocolates for christmas... Mmmm :)
... A bit of romance too, maybe. Haha.

:P

A few photos of my sister Breda's Graduation 28th of November...

2008-11-29T23:00:00.001Z

It was a brilliant day :)....

This is of all the family... Me on the right, if you didnt know...

This photo of all the siblings... Colm, Roisin, Breda, Seosamh, and me...

The two sisters... Gorgeous x

Breda and the proud parents... x

This weekend felt dead...

2008-11-17T07:40:00.000Z

Thank god thats over with!

Nothing happened to me all weekend! I was going mental. Ended up watching three movies, "Nineteen Eighty Four", "Animal Farm", and "Thunderball". All very good. Also have read halfway thru "Angels in My Hair" by Lorna Byrne, really enjoying it...

Won €5 on Saturday, very lucky :) Was happy with a bit of luck x

Had a great few days before that. On Thursday, I ended up getting 5 books, the one I'm currently reading, as well as, "Thanks for the Memories", "The Book Thief", "The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas" and "Life of Pi". Also, bought a Kodak camera, been wanting one for ages, but dont know what photos to take now... *giggle*

On Friday night, I went for a gorgeous 3 course meal with friends at Mairtin and Thomas' house. Mairtin had cooked for us, and it was a lovely meal. There was me and Shane, Thomas and Rachel, Mairtin and Hazel G. While Hazel H. sat watching us eat, the poor hun, she wasnt feeling well. A gang of them were going to London the next morning, but wasnt really jealous. I wanna go somewhere sunny in the future, get some rays. Mmmmm.

Gonna go back to my book reading now, seeing as I cant get back to sleep... x

Treated myself today...

2008-11-11T20:30:00.002Z

I don't spend much on myself these days, as Ive to keep whatever money I have, but it was a good day today.
The women at the library were so lovely to me, I'd brought back a book I've kept for 2weeks overdue today. I told them I'd pay whatever the charge was, and the lady told me it was fine, she gave me a few days grace. It was really lovely of her. They were really helpful to me when I was studying books there for my Special Needs course, so they remember me ^_^
And sure enough, I got 3 Stars with the scratchcard, so here's hoping I'll be spinning the wheel in the future *giggle*

I was really happy today, so treated myself to buying various accessories in New Look and Penneys. Was having a really hard time finding a new belt for my jeans (I'm a large size 18/20), so its torture finding belts for myself. There was 1 in New Look but only a code sellotaped on it, written in hand. So, I asked a lady there if she knew the price and if any other belts like this were in stock. She checked for me, and when she came back, she said that it had been discontinued a while ago, and said I could take it for free if I wanted. I was shocked, offered her money for it, even for a charity, but she insisted it was fine. Thanked her, and told her I was buying accessories here anyways, to which she smiled at me, and said "Enjoy that!".

...Which I did. He he.

Nightclothes, Scarfs, Bags, Purses, Bras, Socks, Hairbands... Whats a girl to do! ^_^

Oh, and my free Belt... Good karma.

Good Strong Teeth, but still addicted to Chocolate...

2008-11-10T23:50:00.000Z

Yes, I went to the dentist today. It had been nearly 3 years since my last checkup, when I had to extract a tooth out (I've two extracted teeth, not really missed, gorgeous smile anyways...) ^_^

So, after a good clean and checkup, they wouldnt have thought I'd had a sweet tooth, even though I ate tons of chocolate, but truthfully told them anyways. They gave me a talk about how important it is to floss (which, I promise, am starting on now) and use Listerine, but to come in in a few weeks for 1 filling. I couldn't believe it, was expecting 10 fillings at least! I have strong teeth, but I tend to grind a lot, which is a problem as well, so they're going to have an xray done, to see what can be done to change that.
Really found the whole thing interesting. People forget how valuable teeth will be as you get older, and the younger you can tackle properly looking after them, the better. Am blessed to have a magnificent smile, and got to look after it... *Bing**Bing*

Met up with Shane for a 15 minute chat, was a bit of a speedy thing, because he wanted to get the next bus home after his Writing class in town. A whole gang of them are heading off to London this coming weekend, I decided against it. Had enough of London for a while, besides, saving money for Christmas... ^_^

Oh, checked the Lotto website, and I've gone and won a €3 scratchcard, so yippee, I'm so collecting that tomorrow! Pray I win a quarter of a million! *Giggles*

Suile Solas... A memory from the past...

2008-11-09T13:30:00.000Z

'Bright Eyes'... Always good memories.... Thanks Darragh. Keep smiling! x

Happy Days... Smiling...

2008-11-09T01:45:00.001Z

Just relaxed tonight, as usual... It was good, a few drinks, had a good night, chatted to a few people online.

Saw Zig and Zag on The Tubridy Tonight show, they were so funny. Used to watch them when I was very little, two alien puppets. Giggle. Oh the childhood memories... Big smiles.

Thought of my Guardian Angel today. How she's looked after me. Am so grateful of the loving family I have, the few friends, and my good health... Am so lucky to be alive and not homeless on the streets... My love life was never the best, but everything happens for a reason. My heart is very big. Am always there for you....

Einstein The Parrot...

2008-11-07T01:20:00.002Z

Einstein the Parrot

Please check out this video, it's the loveliest and funniest video I've seen in ages ^_^ Big smiles!

Happy Birthday Mum!

2008-11-07T00:15:00.001Z

Today's your day! Love you x x x <3

Thursday night in, someone callin me on my Self Pity....

2008-11-06T20:00:00.000Z

I find the meaniest people...

Knew this guy for a long while, we chat online. Made me feel guilty tonight cos I didnt want to meet him for a drink. He hardly talks to me about his life. Told him I'm covered in spots and fat, and he just told me to 'enjoy livin in your SELF PITY! ur gona hav a sad life'. Lovely person....

Thanks people.

Mustard, Super Troopers, and Halloween Weirdness...

2008-11-02T15:00:00.000Z

The days seem so unbearably cold, I find myself complaining like an old woman. Planning on buying a load of jumpers next weekend, have been wearing 3 t-shirts, a scarf, gloves, and a hoodie around the place, not the most attractive look going for me... Although, I'm not the most attractive anyways...

It was lovely to see Shane on Thursday. We wandered around Shop Street, looking for ideas for birthdays and Christmas coming up. The queues from the costume shops were long and packed. Some people were even dressed up the day before Halloween. Strange... He brought me to this restaurant called 'Mustard', which does really different burgers and pizza's, like an Ostrich burger, things like that. Got myself an Indian Spiced Lamb burger, very nice indeedie. Then we went to a poetry reading, where Shane read his poem for the first time to an audience. He did fairly well, was proud of him... We visited Hazel and Oisin after that. It was pretty late, so Ois had gone to bed, and we all watched Super Troopers. Just hilarious!

How was everyone's Oiche Shamhna? This was the first year ever it didn't feel like Halloween for me. I was thinking of visiting the parents that day, and Dad had said he would pick me up, but just wasn't sure if I was going home that day. So, I went to Aldi to buy a Halloween brack, but of course, too late, none left. Got them a Fruit loaf (and some yummy white chocolate for myself), and walked back. Bag was packed, made Dad some warm Meatballs, cos he'd been working in the cold all day, and the heat in his van was broken. Once he'd eaten a bit, we were on our way home, with a duvet over us in the van!

It takes about 1 hour from Galway city to my home in Connemara. So, we'd made it half way when suddenly, the van conked out. Dad had to quickly find a safe place to park the van. I'd thought the tyre had burst or something, but Dad said something about a Timer Belt (don't ask me). So, there we were, in our duvet, talking and keeping warm, while Mum and Roisin were on their way to pick us up...

Once we'd gotten home, which was around 8:30, we had a little dinner, and everyone was tired. It didn't feel like Halloween at all. No scary movies or anything like that. Think I even went to bed before 11pm... Next year, I'll have to get a load of scary DVDs for the night...

Things have been good since. Mum got us a brack, on All Saints Day (the day after Halloween). Giggle, it was a bit late for it, but it tasted gorgeous :)

Breda came down as well, she's been having bad pains in her tooth, and can't figure out what it is, as she's braces on. Feel so bad for her, she just finished her paper, and gets her results (oh, she got a 2.1 in her Masters last week, yippeeeeeee), and now shes in pain. :(
She was showing me the photos of her teeth and how they've changed so much since she's had braces. Don't know, I always thought she was pretty before her braces. Think it's a confidence thing, she always looked confident. But, I'm always told I'm blessed with perfect teeth, although not looked after them well...

Oiche Shamhna...

2008-10-31T13:00:00.003Z

Happy Halloween everyone... Don't overdo it like these poor kids...

The Sound of Thunder...

2008-10-23T17:22:00.002+01:00

Isn't it the most horrible day today? Listening it through my bedroom window, am staying well cosy inside. Being the child that I am, been checking out this website the past few days...
http://www.newgrounds.com/
Has a lot of flash cartoons and games submitted by everyone. I've always liked Anime, but Horror and Noir collections are in this too, and they're so interesting to watch.

The trees blowing fiercely to the wind, the coldness of the air, the rain crashing down... I wish I could get away to somewhere warm... For my health if not anything else...

x

Rant coming up....

2008-10-20T21:15:00.000+01:00

Now, this really gets me. I get if people don't like my blogs, great.. It's not everyone's taste... But, Do not tell me how I should feel, or who I should get over. Oh no no no no. I will not respond well to it. I feel what I feel, and I express it in my own way. "Oh do cheer up Maire." will not help in ANY way!

As for another rant, I was in Aldi on Thursday, paying for some items. The nice girl asked me for some form of ID for my little €2 bottle of Rosé wine, in which I produced my Passport. Seeing as my Garda Age Card is refused in every area of Galway, I never bring it out with me.
But, at this time, one of the security men passed me on his way to their staff room when he saw my passport being looked at, and warned me to have my Age Card next time. I laughed, thinking it was a joke, but he was serious. Saying it was ridiculous, and that my Age Card has repeatedly been refused, he said the Passport will not work in this store again.

Honestly, make up your mind. I hate bringing my Passport with me to places, but I'm either refused with one or the other...

Breathe in, breathe out... Calm....

A Quiet Weekend...

2008-10-19T21:36:00.005+01:00

Not much to say really. The babysitting went really well, and had a bed there to sleepover, so it was grand. Spent the weekend listening to music and watching 'Samantha Who' episodes online... OH JOY! Lol.

( Monday 09:20am... P.s. Enjoyed a nice bottle of Rosé wine just after writing that short blog... Really relaxed today! :D )

xxx