International Grocery Stores in Cork

Being from Washington, D.C. and living for over 30 years in the United States, I am accustomed to a wide variety of the world's cuisines. When I cannot find a restaurant that makes what I am craving, I turn to the many international grocery stores to help me make it myself. Here is a list …

Wood Werkin’ It at Benchspace at Cork’s Marina

When David Scannell from Benchspace, a local woodworking workshop in Cork city's Marina center, invited me to participate in a woodworking workshop this past Saturday, I was all for it. I love handcrafting anything and they had no idea that at age 19 I was an assistant woodworking counselor at The Hole In The Wall Gang Camp. …

HomeSense Coming to The Capitol in Cork City

If you’re a fan of TK Maxx homewares, then you will love HomeSense, their dedicated store offering domestic awesomeness for less. If you're familiar with HomeGoods in the States, I am guessing it is a lot like that. Home interiors fans (like me) will be in their element in HomeSense, searching for unique pieces at …

Still Loving Cork Monopoly

Two years ago, Monopoly Cork Board Game was launched to much fanfare and excitement – at least in our house. It all started before the game's release, when I was asked if I would contribute a few photos to the board game. Mind you, this was all a few years ago, but with Christmas coming I …

Vivi’s Trading in Kinsale

As you know, I'm a fan and friend of Smudge Yarns. We recently collaborated together and with Suzanne McEndoo on the book, These Islands: Knits from Ireland, Scotland, and England (which recently sold out of its second print run). But I'm also a fan of independent shops, especially local yarn stores. So, today, I'm showing …

Christmas in Cork

I wanted to share some tips and information for spending Christmas in Cork. So, put your tinsel on and slip your feet in some elf slippers so you can browse these great details to make your holiday in the Rebel City a wonderful one. I'll start with my personal favourites then share useful links to …

Bloomsday Flowers

There is the most charming and inspiring flower shop in Carrigtwohill, County Cork called Bloomsday Flowers. I ran across it while driving through the town last month and was immediately drawn to it when I saw the bunting-laden front windows. The shop within didn't disappoint. It is no shabby all chic and completely darling! Jess …

Pumpkin Puree, It’s Like Gold to American Expats

I waited until April 2nd to post this because I didn't want anyone to think that talking canned pumpkin was a joke. As an American living abroad, it is a serious topic of conversation, especially in November and December (pumpkin pie season). Here, I'll detail what I know about sources for pumpkin puree in Ireland. …

Drink Local. Ode to Bradley’s Off-Licence

I feel fortunate to live close enough to an off-licence that also sells Irish gourmet foods, including Arbutus Breads, Fenn's Quay scones, my favorite bottle ginger brew and the frozen fish sticks that my son LB loves. That magical place? Bradley's Off-Licence on North Main Street. It is also one of the few places in …

Adrigole Arts in West Cork

Earlier this month, I had the joy of getting to visit Bere Island with my bestie. On the drive back, the roads were empty because we timed the trip to be during the All-Ireland match. One of the best parts of the long drive was stopping into Adrigole Arts and the Hungry Hill Gallery for …