A Comparison of Jarred Cranberry Sauces in Ireland

As an American expat in Ireland, Thanksgiving falls under one of the more unique experiences. Firstly, the grocery stores are not chaotic with shoppers seeking sage, cranberries, or the elusive last-minute turkey. Secondly, Ireland's appreciation for good food and family makes Thanksgiving a natural fit. Thirdly, life goes on without fanfare, festivities, or feasts - …

The Silence of Unshared Milestones

One of the hardest parts of expat life for me is the isolation and silence of unshared milestones. Yes, birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and more still exist and take place, but without much celebration or, for lack of a better word, fanfare. There have been 10 Halloweens here, only one with trick-or-treating. A few Thanksgivings I …

Raising a Family in a New Country

Being a mother of two youngsters in a country that was not my home since birth is a challenge. There is no back-up like at "home." Birthday dinners do not include the parents that gave us life and there are so many differences that are jarring. It wasn't like this when I was a kid, …

The American Love of Being Irish

There is a truth to being an expat that you may be a local, but will always be a bit of an outsider looking in. I am totally American to everyone here in Ireland. Nearly nine years has not earned me a place as an Irish person, but I understand maybe I have not earned it …

Reflecting on Thanksgiving in Ireland as a Homesick Expat

Each year, it is the same thing. A normal weekday is actually a special occasion in my heart. People still go to work and school, traffic is still bad, and grocery stores are the same as any other day. It feels like my own little secret, but one I wish I could share with everyone. …

American Thanksgiving at Electric

Electric on South Mall has noticed over these last few years that people's habits and expectations for socializing are evolving. At first, it made them nervous, but then they realized it is actually an opportunity to engage more, try new things, and be different.  From this, #ElectricExperiences was born – these are events, themes, menus, and specials that Electric creates that are uniquely theirs …

American Thanksgiving at the Cork Aiport Hotel

As an American abroad, Thanksgiving is very important to me. It is a tradition (which sometimes can be seen as a routine), but also something close to my heart. It is when we sit together, from different backgrounds and different families to break bread and share what we have. It started with the Pilgrims and …

Freedom

Today, I feel a swell of pride and hope on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Honestly, there is nothing I can say that will mark this day any better than his own words in my hometown on August 28, 1963.

Birthdays & Milestones as an Expat

In two weeks, I will have been in orbit around the sun for 40 years. I love my birthday. LOVE IT. Like each person, it is a personal holiday celebrating one's arrival in this world. It's wonderful and exciting and should feel like sprinkles on ice cream and puppy kisses. But with all the epic-ness I feel about my birthday, …

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Is it time to retire my blog about being an expat in Cork Ireland? With 9k views/month, I won't make any rash decisions. With so many other resources now available to arriving expats and study abroad students, I wonder if 40 Shades of Life has served its purpose and might be ready for retirement. With over 9,000 views a month, I am not taking this decision lightly.