Summer is my favourite time to be at home in Ireland. The days are long and there’s plenty of sunshine to get out and explore! Here is a list of my top 10 favourite things to do during an Irish summer! Although the weather can vary during the months of May, June, July & August, we usually see great long spells of sun - but here’s a TOP TIP anyway; if you really want to be there while the sun’s out, plan your trip for June. June is great for what we call ‘Leaving Cert Weather’. The Leaving Cert is kind of like the SAT’s here. They are exams that all secondary students sit before going off to college. They take place from the 1st Wednesday until the end of June. In the grand tradition of Murphy’s law, when students have to study, sit inside and do exams - the weather is always spectacular. Haha! So that’ll probably be your best bet for finding the perfect weather for all of your Summer activities!

#1 Take a Walk or Cycle on the Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is a route that takes you from the very tip of North Donegal to Kinsale in South Cork. Almost the entire length of the route (which is over 1500 miles)  is coastal. Choose a section of the route (or challenge yourself and take it all), use it to see stunning beaches cliffs and cute wee coastal towns! The sunshine will be great for taking in the views and of course, you can always take a dip in the sea when the sun gets too hot!

#2 Enjoy some Irish Music & Dance at the Fleadh Cheoil

The All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil takes place in Ennis, Co.Clare from the 13th-21st of August. It is a huge Irish Music competition! Musicians from all over the country compete to be the festival champion. The festival is full of Irish culture, music & merriment. Last year, over 400,000 people attended the Fleadh! You’ll love the dancing, music, food, drinks, laughs and more! It really is a must see!

#3 Climb Croagh Patrick

On the last Sunday of July (which will be July 30th this year) thousands of pilgrims flock to Mayo to climb Croagh Patrick (pronounced ‘Crow Patrick’)! This day is also referred to as ‘Reek Sunday’ as the mountain is often called the Reek by locals. The patron Saint of Ireland, St. Patrick himself is said to have fasted for 40 days and 40 nights on top of the mountain! Now, visitors can attend mass in the church on top of the mountain on that day! However, you can always pick a different day to climb if you’d prefer the area to be a little quieter. Climbing the mountain is very difficult as it is very steep and covered in loose rocks & stones, however the payoff is well worth it. Provided the weather is clear, visitors can enjoy views out over Clew Bay and its 365 islands - one for every day of the week!

#4 Jump Off Blackrock Pier in Galway

Located in Salthill, Galway, Blackrock pier is a favourite for many in the west of Ireland. The area is great for swimming and features high diving boards or steps into the water. There are lifeguards on duty  during the summer months and many people flock to the area for the chance to take the plunge! But make sure you take note of warning signs and lifeguards - the tide must be in for diving so please don’t jump unless the tide requirements are met! However, if you catch the right day, you can happily stay there all day swimming, diving and simply enjoying the sun.

#5 Take a Stroll in Phoenix Park, Dublin

Phoenix Park is Europe’s largest enclosed park! It really is worth a long walk. There is plenty of wildlife to see such as wild deer, foxes, hedgehogs, rabbits and more! Take a picnic along and enjoy the sun! If you have no luck with the wild animals, head over to Dublin Zoo which is located in the park! The zoo is great fun and all the animals are well looked after by their loving keepers.  See the lions, tigers, zebras, elephants, giraffes, wolves, penguins and more!

#6 Take in The Cliffs of Moher

What kind of list would this be if I didn’t mention the Cliffs of Moher?! The cliffs are stunning all year round but on a clear day in Summer, nothing can beat that awesome view. The breathtaking view stretches as far out into the Atlantic as imaginable and visitors can also peer down at the the splashing waves and rocks over 700ft below! The cliffs stretch for about 5 miles along the coast and are easily one of Ireland’s best known landmarks! Visitors can also enjoy the museum built into the hillside on top of the cliffs as well as a cup of tea with a view! I can’t recommend it highly enough!

#7 Match Day at Croke Park

Croke Park is probably the most famous stadium in Ireland. Every year in August and September, Croke Park hosts the quarters, semis and finals of the All-Ireland Gaelic Football and Hurling Finals! This is definitely my favourite time of the year. I literally cannot describe the atmosphere in the stadium! Over 82,000 fans screaming their lungs out and all the shared highs and lows of the game! As a Mayo woman, the All-Ireland Gaelic Football Final is always a tense time in the county, full of excitement and worry. It’s an incredible experience to have so I highly recommend finding some tickets and heading to one of the games!

#8 Enjoy a Music Festival

Ireland hosts some of the greatest music festivals in the world! Our most popular Music festival is ‘Electric Picnic’. In previous years, performers included ‘Florence & The Machine’, ‘Duran Duran’, ‘Blondie’, ‘Blur’, ‘Sam Smith’, ‘Outkast’ and many, many more! The festival takes place over a weekend and visitors can camp, enjoy great food as well as other stages that include comedy etc. It’s a huge event. But fear not, if that music isn’t your thing, we’ve a festival for that. ‘Longitude’ covers hip hop. ‘Indiependence’ covers indie music, ‘Body & Soul’ is a soul & arts festival. ‘Life Festival’ covers techno music and ‘Rockathon’ covers rock music! Of course, there’s always ‘Sea Sessions’ that has a bit of everything as well as being located on a beach so you can enjoy your music and surfing!  There’s really a lot to take in so put on your wellies, grab a tent and get dancing!

#9  The Redbull Soap Box Races

This is guaranteed to be a lot of fun! People spend all year creating the most outrageous soapbox cars to race down St.Patrick’s Hill in Cork. Huge crowds gather to watch them whiz by and it’s a lot of fun! Laughs guaranteed! Visitors can expect to enjoy great food, a great atmosphere and a great show! Definitely worth a visit!

#10 A Pint in Templebar

Sure, I couldn’t finish this list without mentioning Templebar. During the summer months, Templebar is hopping with fantastic live Irish music and events. There’s nothing better than enjoying an ice cold pint in Dublin City Centre on a hot day! Highly recommend! This experience will stick with you, even if it’s just the one. Hearing the laughs, feeling the sun, listening to music, a great Irish pint of Guinness - it really is the best feeling!

I hope this has inspired you for your trip to Ireland. Most of these events are annual so fear not, they’ll be here the summer you decide to visit! Let us know in the comments below what your favourite thing to do in summer is? What would you like to do best?

Slainte.

For most Irish people “The Mammy” holds a special place. There’s nobody like ‘the Mammy”. 

As I reminisce, thinking about my Mother, I realize that she faced tough times like a lot of people are facing now. I’m channeling some of the wisdom and wit that she might have shared. So today’s blog is honoring all of those Mother’s facing tough times, trying to manage the multiple demands that you handle every day. As my Mum (Biddy Murphy) was an inspiration to me, so too are you an inspiration to others.

The “Bid” knew a thing or two about tough times shaping tough people. She was born in 1915 at the end of the first world war, one of 11 kids growing up on a small farm in Tipperary. (Here’s a tip of my Irish cap to my Grandmother as well!) Biddy would mention having very little worldly possessions as a child but they always had plenty she said. The “made do with what we had”

The odd time she would share stories, as the Irish will do. 

Everybody had a job on the farm. They would grow most of their own food and vegetables and there was always a pot on the hob with lots of cooking at home. I would imagine it was a challenge to get out when you have 11 kids. I remember as a kid going to the farm with chickens and turkeys and a huge garden with furrows of potatoes and bushes of Blackberries and Gooseberries for jam. The rhubarb patch was nearly as high as the house. There were rows of apple trees “up in the haggard” as they called it.

So how did she get through those tough times? She always shared her wisdom with us so I thought I’d share it with all of you as well:

• Prayer was good for most challenges. She had a strong faith and we’d be on our knees in the kitchen saying the rosary when things got bad. A decade of the rosary was the cure for most ills
• If you lost something, pray to St. Anthony. (Tony, Tony, turn around, something’s lost and can’t be found.) Inevitably, it turns up!
• If you feel desperate, pray to St. Jude, the patron saint of “lost causes.”
• “It takes more than one swallow to make a summer” was Biddy’s way of saying to be hopeful in tough times. Or as the data insights person in me would say today ”one data point does not a trend make…” I prefer the swallow analogy….

One last story before I go. Biddy loved her car, but when she got to be about 85, she didn’t drive it on the road any longer. It would sit in her garage. On occasion, she’d slowly back it out of the garage. Carefully, making sure that she didn’t scratch or accidentally dent anything. She’d sit in her precious car, enjoying the time while letting the sun rays shine down on her. Biddy called it her sunroom. You do what you have to do in Ireland for warmth and sunshine!

So as we plan ahead for Mother's Day on May 8th, I hope you can share some memories or stories of your mother in the comments . And don’t forget to get those orders in because before you  know it the shipping deadline for free shipping will have passed and you won’t be able to claim an Irish Mother’s Day  - shure no big deal -  another bloody holiday.”  Things have evolved and wouldn’t you feel bad.

Influencers: If you ever listen to interviews with the various celebrities you will often hear how they were influenced by a teacher in school. I’d have to say that overall I’ve had very good memories of the Christian Brothers School (CBS) Boys Only in Clonmel for Primary and Secondary education.  While I still flinch if I see a ruler in someone’s hand, there were teachers that instilled in me discipline, focus, and a lifelong love of learning.

We started our early years with the nuns in kindergarten. My memories are of a time before corporal punishment was frowned upon. The games outside were of mad hives of 5 year olds chasing the same ball on the tarmac which ended in fights, scrapes and bruises.  And only a few of those were from the nuns! The Sisters of Mercy were known to us as the Sisters of NO Mercy -  but then again - they had an unenviable role of dealing with a roomful of energetic boys. Yes there were no mixed classes until College and even then there were only 3 women in a  class of 80+.

For some it was a vocation and you could tell by their love of the subject or of helping develop and guide children. For others, especially of the religious orders you could tell that they were gifted intellectually but were not cut out to be stewards of young wild boys - which a lot of them absolutely were. To this day I have nothing but the highest admiration for those who enter the teaching profession. I feel they need more than one day a year of recognition for all they do for society as a whole.

Like my brothers before me I attended the Christian Brothers schools in Clonmel. They were a religious order founded by Brother Rice.  They had the long black smock and the satin belt that wrapped around their waist. For some, the “leather” was tucked inside and was cocked and ready for swatting at any sleeping or troublesome gent. I always had visions of the gunfighters of the Wild West -  quick draw and a swoosh of a snap.  

My favorite teachers: 

Two of my favorite teachers were Brother Collins and Mr Granville. Collins was very advanced in years but still held classes if I remember correctly as Gailege as a substitute and sometimes math.  He was referred to as Bhrathair O’Coileáin (Brah - her O’ Quil - Awn). He and Mr. (Brendan) Granville both managed to quell the riotous behaviour by engaging the students. With Mr Granville we had some great conversations during class and the patience they both showed as we indulged them with stories of our endeavors outside of school. 

Overall I enjoyed my years at CBS and felt they did instill a thirst for learning and an ability to think for yourself. That above all is the true measure of a good teacher in my view.

Traditionally in Ireland Weaving Mills would be located close to a water source for power and washing. You would find them about 7-10 miles away from each other as that was the “catchment area” for drovers and sheep farmers. The mill wheel and race were the sources of power and today they still are for many. Instead of turning a wheel to drive  a belt that powered the Looms in the mill that spun the thread and then wove the final product into a scarf or throw.

That mill race and wheel now will charge a battery that is used to power dryers or the lighting in the plant. So sustainability has been what traditional crafts people have been about for generations. It is not one day of the year  -  for them it is every day of the year.

Míle buiochas -  many thanks for your support of these sustainable businesses over the years. Lets keep it going

We had a great few days recently at Showcase - the annual gift show in Dublin. It was the first time in 2 years that it was being held. Some of our suppliers were not on hand so we had to get on the road and go see them. ‘Tis a tough job but somebody has to do it…..

So after a busy morning at the show we headed up to Donegal.  We wanted to get out of Dublin before afternoon rush hour as it’s about a 4 hour drive across the country.. 

Key points: 

Rental Car restrictions in traveling through Northern Ireland -  when driving a rental car,  the car companies (except Enterprise) will want to know if you are taking the car into Northern Ireland as it will affect your insurance coverage. Always best to be up front about these things. While you can no longer tell that you’ve physically crossed the border, you will be able to notice these indicators of being in another country:
-  Speed limit is in miles per hour instead of km/hour,
-  The direction signage is only in English - not dual English & Irish, and.
-  Lines on the side of the road become white and not yellow or is it the other way round?? Either way they change

Don’t trust Google Maps: 

Remember while Ireland is a small country, it takes 3 times as long as you think to get anywhere. Google Maps is great for navigating but be careful with the directions it gives you as it will take the most direct route – which may be a one lane road with grass growing up the middle or an isolated mountain pass!  I'd stick to roads that have 2 digits in the name such as N54 as these are “National” main roads. Avoid the R1234’s and definitely don’t do like us and start up the R2356 mountain road and THEN decide after a few miles to turn back. It's bloody hard to find a place to maneuver and the sheep are not impressed with your 6 point turn!!

Bookings for restaurants: 

Always call ahead at the start of the day and verify if a booking or reservation is necessary. It may sound crazy but even on Tuesday night in March we needed to make a reservation at a great seafood pub. Especially post COVID, restaurants really appreciate the ability to plan their menus and employee time while doing their best to keep locations clean and safe.  Locals will ask you if booked ahead – always good to do so.

Where to stay??

Do you like castles, quaint cottages, city, remote locations?  You can get it all in Donegal.  (You said it right, if that just rhymed!)  We’ll tell you our favorite places along the Wild Atlantic Way…in the next newsletter.  Stay tuned and keep reading!

#donegal #wildatlanticway #travelireland #ireland #irishtraveller #irishtraveltips #travel_ireland #codonegal #downings #cietravel

The sentiment was to remember the humble beginnings of many of the forebears that came to America before us and forged their way in industry.  Examples included leaders from Fedex to Mutual of America to Walmart and Xoom. 

Patrica Harty, another great Tipperary woman, and magazine editor said that this year saw one of the highest % of Irish born recipients ever. Thirty-six percent of the nominees were from “the auld sod”.

The hosts for the luncheon spoke of the excitement of being able to hold events again and meet to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s recipients. Given current events in the world, there was a sense of knowing that an individual’s legacy is probably not going to be that of being a CEO, but instead remembered for how one treated people and made others feel. Did they follow their values and share in the kindness?

The main speaker, Denis O’Brien, spoke of his philosophy around philanthrocapitalism. He talked about his ability to set up the first phone payment systems in Haiti after the earthquake in 2010. Those systems enabled money from aid agencies to be put directly into the hands of the recipients so they could manage their own outcomes. 

When asked about the next generation of Irish Americans, he spoke of his policy to only hire Culchies. A what? In Ireland a Culchie is a person from “down the country” or not Dublin or one of the major cities around Ireland. While there are fine people growing up in the cities being driven around in their SUVs, there is something about the values of a person who has grown up on a small farm.  They have an inherent understanding of entrepreneurial commerce and how relationships in business work. 

I’m proud of my Culchie roots from a small town in County Tipperary.  While I didn’t grow up on a farm, I was the youngest of four siblings learning economics of working for what you want and plenty of my many cousins were farming families.

We should all be thankful for our freedoms as Americans –  and isn’t it a bonus to be an Irish American. It is great how the world can come together to support all of those in need. The coffin ships are reminders of what our ancestors may have gone through. Therefore, the onus is on us now to reach out to those who need a helping hand, to continue to build this great country, and even more so now help out our fellow human beings.

The Brigid’s Cross is typically hung over a doorway entrance to protect all those who enter.  Farmers used to hang it over the barn door to protect the animals. It’s a beautiful Irish symbol originally configured and shaped from dried reeds or rushes.  

The lore states that Brigid was called to the deathbed of a local unbaptized man.  He was inconsolable so she sat at his bedside and picked the rushes off the floor and crafted them into a cross.  When he asked what she was doing, she explained the points on the cross.  As she spoke, he was calmed by her words and agreed to be baptized before dying.  The cross has become a symbol for St Brigid, one of only three patron saints of Ireland.  She is the patron saint of many things including poetry, learning, and livestock but most widely known for being a protector against all harm.

My mother’s name was Brigid Murphy (aka Biddy) so I grew up hearing the story of St Brigid.  My mother was a protector of sorts as well.  She protected me from doing many stupid things as a young boy growing up in rural Ireland!  

Over the 18 years of owning Biddy Murphy, the Brigid’s Cross has been one of our best selling symbols.  Brigid’s Cross necklaces have become a popular gift for many life events:  a graduation gift as children move on to the next phase of their lives or a special gift for someone dealing with a dire diagnosis.  There are also wall hangings in various forms - reed crosses similar to the original design or pewter modern crosses or lovely bronzed wall hangings.  While there are many beautiful Irish symbols, the Brigid Cross is a best seller right up there with the Claddagh and the Trinity Cross.

In a year when we’ve all needed protection of some sorts, the Brigid Cross traversed many miles with us.  From our home in Michigan, to London, Co Dublin, Co Cork, and now once again safely back here in the US.  And a bit more luggage!  

As Ireland lifted all of their COVID restrictions yesterday, I’m sure there are many people giving thanks to St Brigid for making it through a difficult storm. St Brigid’s feast day is right around the corner on February 1st so it will be a good day to celebrate. 

Perhaps we should have a Brigid’s Day parade and commemorate her a bit more like we do St Patrick!?  We could all use another reason to celebrate!

Ward

Well, that’s kind of a trick question. The most popular Saint in Ireland happens to be St. Patrick, which we celebrate every year on March 17th. But the second most popular Saint in Ireland is St. Brigid of Kildare. We honor her every year on February 1st with the Feast of St. Brigid. This day is also linked to Imbolic, celebrating the return of Spring in Ireland.

Why do we celebrate St. Brigid?

St. Brigid was known as a healer and a protector. She spent her days tending to the sick and teaching the Holy Trinity so as to protect the spirits of individuals. One of the most revered stories of St. Brigid has her at her father’s bedside while he was ill. Although he was not a believer, she would talk about the Holy Trinity while picking up reeds or straw that covered the ground in the room. From those reeds, she crafted what is now known as the St. Brigid’s Cross.

How do we celebrate St. Brigid?

You know the Irish love a celebration! In fact, the celebration of St. Brigid has been turned into 2 days because the eve of the feast is just as important as the day of her feast. Known as Brideog Night, people start the celebration of St. Brigid on January 31st. There are several customs that honor St. Brigid. 

St. Brigid was said to have performed miracles, including healing and feeding the poor. One of the celebrations that honors St. Brigid includes children. Youngsters would dress down - either wearing tattered clothing or they would turn their regular clothes inside out. They would set out and go door-to-door, singing and collecting coins. 

They would sing:

“Here comes poor Brigid both deaf and blind,

Put your hand in your pocket and give her a coin.

If you haven’t a penny, half a penny will do.

If you haven’t a half-penny, 

God bless you.”

On the eve of St. of Brigid's Day, the night of January 31st, families would prepare a special meal. This meal wasn’t extravagant at all. It featured the equivalent of what we might today consider pancakes. The table would be filled with milk and plenty of butter. Including butter is tied to a tale about St. Brigid as a child. It is said that she once gave away all of her Mother’s butter to the poor. Brigid was born into slavery so her family did not have anything to spare, so giving away your Mother’s entire store of butter was not a wise decision, however the butter was miraculously replenished in an answer to Brigid’s prayers.

During this meal, oftentimes families will add an extra place setting to honor St. Brigid, showing that she was always welcome in their home.

After the meal was complete, oats or a cake was left outside the home’s main door to vanquish the hunger of the weary traveler or the Saint herself. It is a generous offering from those who often don’t have much to spare. At nightfall, a member of the house would go outside and call to let Brigid in their home. The family would all get down on their knees and would repeat the chant, “Welcome Brigid” three times.

Probably the most widely known custom to honor St. Brigid would be making crosses out of reeds or straw just as she often did during her travels. The crosses themselves would be hand woven into a few different designs that vary in complexity. You’ll see both 3-armed and 4-armed St. Brigid’s Crosses.

The St. Brigid Crosses are hung above the entryway to houses and buildings. These crosses are thought to protect all of those within the house, even the animals. Because these St. Brigid’s Crosses are typically made of reeds or straw, they are replaced with new crosses each year. It is customary that when the reed cross no longer holds its shape, that they either be buried to bless the crops or burned in the fire for additional warmth.

As you hang the St. Brigid’s Cross over the doorway, you can recite this short passage:

“St. Brigid’s Cross hung over the door

Which did the house from fire secure, 

O gillo thought, O powerful charm

To keep a house from taking harm;

And tho’ the dogs and servants slept, 

By Brigid’s care the house was kept.”

The custom of crafting St. Brigid’s Crosses used to be passed down from generation to generation but that tradition is slowly disappearing. We are so fortunate to have our maker-partner Patricia, who is committed to honoring St. Brigid, hand crafting our crosses in Co. Roscommon, Ireland.

Giving St. Brigid’s Crosses as a gift was also said to put a blessing on the maker or gifter. They would receive the benefits of lifelong friendship and these bonds would strengthen their ties, year after year. In addition to reed crosses, we also have a variety of St. Brigid Cross necklaces which make an excellent gift for someone you’d like to protect or keep safe.

We look forward to celebrating St. Brigid on January 31st and February 1st.

Which cultural traditions - they don’t have to be Irish - do you still observe? I’d love to hear from you. Send me an email at ward@biddymurphy.com. 

​​Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward

1.  Christmas Cake:  A typically marzipan-covered fruit cake.  But it tastes so much better than our US version of fruit cake.  That could be because of the alcohol!  You’ll find these all over Ireland from Aldi to high end restaurants and cafes.  When you see how much fruit goes into the mixture, you think there isn’t enough batter to hold it all together, but it works.  I like the tradition that when it gets hard to stir the bowl due to the weight of the fruit in the mixture, everyone in the family should take a turn in stirring and while doing, they should make a wish for Christmas!  Once you remove the cake from the tin, the fun has just begun.  As most recipes call for several weeks of “preserving” the cake by taking time once a week to poke holes and spoon whiskey - or rum depending on the recipe  - into them so that the fruit absorbs all that sweetness.  A lovely dessert served with some Irish coffee or tea.  Two recipe options I’ve used:  Nigella Lawson and a fun video demonstration from Sinead Davies.

1. Christmas Pudding:  A close relative of the Christmas cake is the Christmas pudding.  You’ll recognize that it’s a pudding as it’s shaped like a dome or the shape of a bowl turned upside down.  The pudding is also dense with fruit yet more moist than a Christmas cake as the mixture is steamed over a bath of water.  The wet ingredients include Guinness, whiskey, and rum - while the alcohol will steam off - the coloration and flavor remain in the cooking process.  However, similar to the cake, once the pudding is made, they do recommend poking and pouring whiskey into it – to again allow the fruit to absorb the alcohol.  The tradition with serving pudding then is to dim the lights so only the candles are lit; pour a shot of whiskey on the top and quickly light it on fire so the whiskey burns off with a gorgeous blue flame leaving a lovely caramelized flavor to the outside.  And it makes for great excitement at the table!  I also recommend serving it with a warm brandy butter - so yummy!  Grawnya’s Kitchen does a good video and makes it look simple in a busy life and I also like this recipe.

The funny thing was when my sister who is a fantastic cook and holder of Irish traditions asked recently what the traditional American Christmas dessert is and we couldn’t think of any!  There are loads for Thanksgiving but what are they for Christmas? We all have our favorite desserts, but nothing that screams Christmas tradition.  My family found that very hard to believe and kept probing us.  The closest thing we could come up with is Peppermint Stick Ice Cream!  That flavor is a staple at our house at the holidays. 

Do you have a Christmas dessert tradition?  Post your favorites in the comments below.

Whatever your traditions this year we wish you a festive holiday season filled with health and much happiness – and great desserts! 

Happy Christmas - Nollaig Shona dhuibh go leir!

Ward

Surrounded by so many ancient architectural structures, rocky coastlines, and rolling hills, there is something lyrical about Ireland. My imagination starts to run wild at various times throughout the day for some reason.  A stranger walking by on an isolated road makes me question what is their story? Where are they from?  Where are they going?  Why?  Sitting in our rental one day, my wife and I saw a man and a woman coming up over a large grassy hill in wetsuits, barefoot, and holding hands. Had they been swimming and got pulled out to sea only to recover by grasping to the rocks and successfully pulling themselves to safety?  Were they kayaking when a huge wave took their paddles and left them bruised and stranded?  Or had they just murdered someone in a remote cottage and were now walking away to their escape?  (C’mon, we’ve all read Hansel and Gretel!) Similarly, while out for a walk, we can come across an out of place item tossed along the roadside and we can create a whole short story as to how that arrived there!  Surprisingly, we are (mostly 😉) sober during all of these discussions!

You start to understand why so many great story tellers have come from Ireland.  The scenery, people, and culture feed your imagination and provide vessels for songs and books and poems.  Perhaps it is also the quiet or solitude of being somewhere else that allows our imagination to percolate.  We all know that the busyness of life provides little time for creative thinking – or even just thinking sometimes!  Perhaps it is also why children can make an empty box into any fort or castle they want it to be as they are alone in their thoughts and can allow their inner creativity to be released. 

As my wife and I walked along one of the coastline cliffs on a foggy morning recently, past large stone pillars, a cemetery, and a beautiful country house with horses that overlook the forts down below, she got out her phone and played Ed Sheeran’s “Castle on the Hill”.  “What are you doing?” I said to her.  She smiled and asked if I could imagine growing up here, running around these hillsides. Playing near the forts. Looking at these views.  That feeling of no responsibilities, living large, laughing, and enjoying the sunsets.  We were doing it (kind of – we still had work and responsibilities!).  We agreed we need to remember this feeling and carve out time for forts and castles and creative storytelling just like kids do. Time to escape reality, tap into our imagination and write our next fairytale adventure!

Christmas is a great time to do just that.  There’s a reason the kids were nestled with visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads.  Enjoy the sights and sounds and smells of the holidays.  Perhaps some Celtic Christmas music will allow you some time to let your mind wander to far off forts and castles! 

Sláinte - Cheers! 

Ward

Speaking of those no-fail strategies for selecting the best Irish gifts for 2021, I wanted to offer up 4 tips to consider when you are selecting a gift:

• Give problem solvers. If they are always cold, help them warm up. If they are worriers, help them de-stress.
• Be practical. Lean in favor of traditional vs. flashy. It’s risky to go with something that is frivolous if you aren’t sure about their personality.
• Give gifts they can feel good about. Perhaps you purchased it from a small, family run business who supports artisans. (We might know someone like that. Hint, hint.)
• Always buy the best you can afford. Quality never goes out of style and when you purchase the best, it will be a memorable gift they can cherish for years to come.
• When in doubt, give from the heart. Tell the receiver a story behind the purchase and why you picked that special item just for them.

At Biddy Murphy, we have so many options for you to choose from, that we decided to narrow it down to make your job of selecting the best Irish gift even easier. We’ve chosen our favorites from a number of our different product categories so you can select the one that speaks to you.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• The Best Traditional Irish Gifts 
• The Best Irish Jewelry Gifts 
• The Best Irish Clothing Gifts 
• The Best Irish Blanket Gifts 
• The Best Irish Home Decor Gifts 
• The Best Irish Stocking Stuffers 

THE BEST TRADITIONAL IRISH GIFTS

If you are looking for a traditional Irish gift that is incredibly unique, you’ve come to the right place. We work with smaller makers and artisans to bring genuine Irish gifts to the States. Our goods make excellent gifts for those who are special, regardless of the occasion. You’ll be sure to please even the most challenging people on your list!

Irish Shillelagh Blackthorn Walking Stick

Beautifully crafted from a Blackthorn tree branch, this Irish Shillelagh Blackthorn Walking Stick is a unique piece of Ireland. We’ve heard from purchasers that they believe this authentic Shillelagh is a symbol of distinction. Because it’s made by Mother Nature and polished by our maker-partner in Co. Roscommon, Ireland, no two sticks are the same so you’ll be purchasing an Irish original!  SHOP NOW

Patchwork Cap

The Irish are known for being scrappy and this cap is proof, seeing that it makes use of various pieces of fabric that are combined together for a unique looking Irish flat cap. No two caps are the same so you’ll be getting a true one-of-a-kind, original! SHOP NOW

Irish Wool Ruana Wrap

Made at one of the oldest remaining traditional woollen mills in Co. Kerry, Ireland, this Wool Ruana Wrap makes an excellent gift for that special someone who always seems to be a bit chilly. The Celtic shawl wrap is made with natural lambswool combined with nylon to make this ruana breathable and lightweight. Comes in several color choices. SHOP NOW

THE BEST IRISH JEWELRY GIFTS

Irish jewelry is sought after and known worldwide for its symbolism. The selection that we’ve recommended as the Best Irish Jewelry Gifts are certainly among our most popular styles of Irish jewelry gifts for both men and women. When you purchase fine Irish jewelry from Biddy Murphy  you can rest assured that it has been hallmarked at Dublin Castle, verifying the authenticity and purity of metal used in crafting these unique Irish gifts.

Claddagh Ring

Our #1 best selling Claddagh ring is beautifully crafted with a combination of sterling silver and 10K gold, so it pairs nicely with other jewelry and a variety of outfits. The meaning behind this ring tells a story of friendship (hands), love (heart), and loyalty (crown) that is recognized throughout the world as a genuine Irish gift. We offer a similar all-silver version for men. SHOP NOW

Trinity Knot Necklace

Our #1 best selling necklace is our traditional Irish Trinity Knot necklace that is crafted in sterling silver and features an intricate knot pattern. The Trinity Knot symbolizes a never-ending love because there is no beginning or end to this pattern. This is definitely a genuine Irish gift that has been hallmarked at Dublin Castle. SHOP NOW

Celtic Cross

The Celtic Cross symbolizes knowledge, strengths and compassion. This sterling silver Celtic Cross pendant and chain is an ideal gift for someone who embodies those traits or is unwavering in their faith. Available in 20” and 24” chain lengths. SHOP NOW

BEST IRISH CLOTHING GIFTS

If you are looking to buy the Best Irish Clothing Gifts, you have to consider the iconic Irish woollens. They are timeless in their style and made of high quality materials that will last for generations. 

Fisherman’s Knit Sweater

It doesn’t get any more iconic than an authentic Irish Fisherman Sweater. Knitted from 100% Merino Wool in the classic Aran pattern, the minute you put your hands on this sweater, you will feel the difference and know why it’s among our Best Irish Clothing Gifts. Others have tried to create knock-offs, but you will only experience the true quality of the Fisherman Knit Sweater if it’s crafted in Ireland. The difference is real! SHOP NOW

Aran Knit Cardigan Sweater

If you are looking for the best Irish clothing gift for someone who appreciates a timeless style, this Irish Aran Knit Cardigan Sweater is what you want! Crafted using the iconic Aran knit stitch, this cardigan can go with either office or casual attire without missing a beat. SHOP NOW

Cashmere & Merino Wool Scarf

When they see that it’s made with cashmere, your special someone will know you bought them the best Irish scarf! Woven into the classic herringbone pattern, this ultra soft scarf will always be like a nice hug around the neck. Ideal for men or women.  SHOP NOW

BEST IRISH BLANKET GIFTS

 Our selection of blankets and throws are truly the Best Irish Blanket Gifts. Not only does an authentic Irish wool blanket look beautiful now, because of the quality and craftsmanship, these are definitely gifts that are destined to become family heirlooms.

Irish Wool Throw Blanket 

Made with 100% new Irish wool, our throw blankets make excellent gifts. Meticulously crafted using traditional techniques that have been handed down for generations, they are durable and cozy. And they are always the right size! Several colors and size options are available. SHOP NOW

Undyed Natural Wool Throw Blanket

Pure, like the untouched snow, this 100% natural Lambswool Throw Blanket is one of the few that are made from undyed Irish wool. This is the perfect gift for that natural beauty or that person who is passionate about sustainable living. SHOP NOW

Cashmere & Merino Wool Irish Knit Baby Blanket

Rather than compete with all of the other toys, why not get that little someone special a unique gift that is destined to become an heirloom? Our Cashmere & Merino Wool Knit Baby Blanket is crafted exclusively for Biddy Murphy and will definitely be a stand-out gift that they will cherish for years. SHOP NOW

BEST IRISH HOME DECOR GIFTS

You don’t have to worry about the sizes and when the sentiment is there, you know your gift will be a winner! The Best Irish Home Decor Gifts are filled with sentimental meaning and bring a unique angle to your gifting this year. You don’t have to be Irish to appreciate quality goods and gifts for the home.

Slainte Sign

Whether it’s for family or friends, the sentiment and meaning behind our Slainte Sign brings cheer to any household or office. Slainte translates to “good health” and is the ideal gift for that someone special. Handcrafted in beautiful Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland.  SHOP NOW

Claddagh Crystal Posy Vase

This beautiful crystal vase features the traditional green color to accentuate the Claddagh symbol that is hand etched into the glass. The Claddagh symbolizes friendship, love and loyalty. Crafted in Co. Waterford, Ireland. SHOP NOW

Handmade Trinity Glass Ornament

Using centuries-old glass blowing techniques, our maker-partner in Co. Waterford, Ireland is carrying on the traditional artistry. This unique ornament is etched with a Trinity Knot symbol and filled with the traditional color green. This makes a wonderful gift and you might consider buying one for yourself too! SHOP NOW

BEST IRISH STOCKING STUFFERS

We have a nice selection of the Best Irish Stocking Stuffers for you, your family and friends. These stocking stuffers are little delighters that are perfect additions to your gift list. Keep a few on hand for those unexpected gifting needs.

Connemara Marble Worry Stone

Do you know someone who could use a stress reliever? Our Irish Worry Stone is made of genuine Connemara Marble. Rub the stone and let your worries disappear! Purchase a few to have on hand as last minute gifts. SHOP NOW

Pewter Claddagh Pocket Knife

Be prepared for any gifting occasion with this multi-tasking, pewter and stainless steel pocket knife that features the iconic Irish Claddagh symbol. It has multiple useful tools including a blade, screwdriver and corkscrew, so you are ready when the task arises! SHOP NOW

Lucky Irish Connemara Marble Shamrock Keychain

When you want to give your special friend an authentic Irish gem along with a little luck, consider our Connemara Marble Shamrock Keychain. Connemara Marble is known as Ireland’s own gemstone and since it’s carved into the shape of a Shamrock, you’ll bestow luck onto anyone who carries this keychain. SHOP NOW

Shop Authentic Irish Goods, Gifts and Experiences at Biddy Murphy. 

When you are looking for high quality, unique gifts, Biddy Murphy is your source for everything authentic Irish. Don’t forget, we alway offer FREE Shipping, FREE Exchanges and FREE Returns along with excellent customer service rooted in genuine Irish hospitality!

If you can't find what you need or you want additional help selecting that ideal gift, send us an email at customerservice@BiddyMurphy.com.

Wishing you and yours the best of the season, 

Nollaig shona duit

Ward

Speaking of things that are small here…we were making buckeye peanut butter balls, a family tradition back home, with our adult children and their grandmother in the US over Zoom last Sunday evening.  The largest jar of peanut butter around Ireland is 250ml (yes, it’s in metric!) which is about 8 oz.  And there’s no JIF.  My wife asked what kids eat for lunch here and did I not grow up on peanut butter?  No, not that I can remember.  And the chocolate chips bag here I think holds about 8 chips – clearly Nestle Toll House has trained us all well back home that more chips are indeed a good thing!  Nonetheless, the buckeyes were a success and it was great for Grammy to share her tradition and recipe with the next generations! 

Beyond all the food, the meaning of Thanksgiving will not be lost on us.  There is so much for which to be grateful this year – a year when we have all been reminded of what is truly important in our lives – our family, friends, and our health.  We lost my brother in May this year from a sudden heart attack.  We know many others have also lost loved ones in this tumultuous year.  From our house in Kinsale to your homes this holiday weekend, a toast of Thanksgiving from John O’Donohue:

“May dawn find you awake and alert,
approaching your new day with dreams, possibilities, and promises;
May evening find you gracious and fulfilled;
May you go into the night blessed, sheltered, and protected;
May your soul calm, console and renew you.”

Happy Thanksgiving and we hope there’s plenty of turkey to go around! 

Sláinte, 

Ward

Although visions of Irish Soda Bread may come to mind - for good reason - it is very popular and tasty. It is actually Irish wheaten or “Brown Bread” that is the most popular and arguably the most delicious type of traditional Irish bread that exists. It’s so common that you’ll find brown bread in almost every home on the island and it’s so versatile that it’s offered with a range of menu items.

On a recent day trip in Ireland, my wife Mary and I traveled to Newcastle in Co. Down to do some exploring (which we’ll tell you more about in next week’s post). Although we probably won’t be baking the bread ourselves on 11/17 in honor of Homemade Bread Day, we did find a lovely restaurant in Newcastle which featured a delightful Seafood Chowder served with brown bread. The delicious combination will warm you up on the coldest of days. Yes, that’s the bowl of Seafood Chowder served with a side of brown bread and creamy irish butter in the picture. If you can’t tell from the picture, it was amazing!

Why are we making such a big deal about Homemade Bread Day, you ask? In Ireland, baking is a tradition and trade that goes back centuries. It’s not uncommon for an Irish household to be filled with the aroma of bread rising or for an Irish person to offer you a slice from a freshly baked loaf over a cuppa tea. Most Irishmen and women eat Irish brown bread for breakfast or lunch. It’s best served simple, with a pad of Kerrygold butter or used as a dunker with soup. Maybe second only to its spirits, (the adult beverage type), bread is without a doubt, baked into the Irish culture.

Honestly, making brown bread is fairly easy and less time consuming than other recipes because you don’t need to let the dough rise. If you’d like to try your hand at baking a loaf of authentic Irish brown bread, you can use this recipe. 

Traditional Irish Brown Bread

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 cups stone ground whole wheat flour
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1/2–3/4 pints buttermilk
• 1/2 ounce wheat germ (optional)
• 1 ounce wheat bran (optional)

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by preheating the oven to 400 degrees. Then, add the plain flour, salt and baking soda into a medium bowl. Mix in the whole wheat flour. Stir in the wheat germ and wheat bran, too, if you’re using them. Add the molasses and enough of the buttermilk to create a soft dough.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead just enough for the dough to come together. Form the dough into a round and place on a lightly floured baking sheet. Cut a cross in the center of the bread. (It lest the steam dissipate.)

Step 3: Bake!

Place the sheet in the middle rack and bake for about 40 minutes. The bread is ready if it sounds hollow when you tap it at the base. Cool the bread on a wire rack. Wrap a tea towel around it during this phase for a softer crust.

Step 4: Serve

We recommend cutting your brown bread and serving it on one of our rustic looking Irish cutting boards. We have a handled charcuterie style board, a large or medium cutting board or individual serving, mini board - all will help you to serve in style!

If you are really into making bread, you might also like our St. Patrick’s Day post that features an Irish Soda Bread recipe.

Whichever recipe you choose to use, let us know how it turns out. I’d love to hear from you. Send me an email at ward@biddymurphy.com. 

​​Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward

On this Veteran's Day, we want to take a moment to recognize all who have served in the military and thank the Veterans who gave of themselves for our freedom. Many have paid the ultimate price with their life. We are forever in debt to their service.

If you are traveling to Ireland and are interested in visiting memorial grounds, the Irish National War Memorial Gardens is a spot you should add to your itinerary. Located in Islandbridge, Ushers, Dublin the gardens commemorate the nearly 50,000 Irish soldiers thought to have died in the first World War. The gardens were constructed in the 1930's - mostly by hand. The project provided much needed work for Veterans from the British Army and Ireland's New National Army and created a beautiful tribute to those who lost their lives. 

The design of the Irish National War Memorial Gardens was created by Sir Edwin Lutyen, an architect who is also known for designing the Thiepval Memorial and New Delhi’s India Gate. The memorial includes two sunken rose gardens with 4,000 roses and four “bookrooms” which represent the provinces. Within the bookrooms, you’ll see the names of the fallen Irish war Veterans.

There are many other war memorials around Ireland. This website has a thorough list of places you’d might consider visiting or you can look up names of fallen soldiers who fought on behalf of Ireland.

In addition to Veterans Memorials, Ireland’s cemeteries tell a story of a proud group of people and their history. Throughout Ireland, you’ll encounter Celtic Crosses which mark the burial places of its people who have passed. Celtic Crosses stand tall in the landscape, rooted in the landscape with a nod to the sky above. For decades, Celtic Crosses have marked sacred places all over Ireland, each with a story to tell. The carved stones are unique but typically feature a traditional cross with a circle, reinforcing the connecting point.

 We realize that the memories of those we hold dear are precious. You can keep a loved one who has passed, near and dear to your heart with a Celtic Cross Pendant or add a plaque to your wall so you remember that special someone as you pass the cross every day. We carry a large selection of Celtic Crosses so you can choose which suits you best.

We are proud to salute our Veterans on this special day. How do you celebrate the Veterans in your life? We’d love to hear from you so send me an email at ward@biddymurphy.com.

Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward Gahan

Biddy Murphy takes the risk out of buying jewelry online.

We understand that you may have been duped before or you’ve heard stories about other people who have had a poor experience buying online. Rest assured that you don’t have to be worried about buying jewelry online from Biddy Murphy.

First of all, you never need to be concerned about the quality of the metal that goes into Irish-made jewelry because each piece of fine jewelry is hallmark stamped at the Assay Office located in the famed Dublin Castle in Dublin, Ireland.

The Assay Office acts as the "consumer protection agency" for jewelry. Each piece is tested against the metal purity standards and is marked with a stamp showing that the piece is, in fact, the metal it claims to be. For instance, 925 is the standard designation for sterling silver. All Irish-made, sterling silver or gold pieces must be inspected before receiving the specific mark of authenticity - it's the law! All of our fine maker-partners send each piece of their jewelry to Dublin Castle for inspection and Hallmarking before it is sent to the States and delivered to our customers. 

Although they are small, each piece of fine Irish jewelry bears the following stamps: 1) Makers mark - which signifies who crafted the piece. 2) Hibernia - the official stamp showing that it was made in Ireland. 3) Metal purity - designating which type of metal was used. Learn more about Hallmarking here.

In addition to the hallmarking process, Biddy Murphy offers customers an added layer of protection with our “Delight or Make it Right” Guarantee. You will be delighted with your purchase or we will make it right with a FREE Exchange or FREE Return - in addition to our FREE Shipping. It’s our way of taking all of the risk out of your purchase experience.

We want you to have peace of mind when purchasing fine jewelry from Biddy Murphy. 

And remember, you don’t have to be Irish to have good taste! Our authentic Irish jewelry is high quality and each piece has symbolic meaning, so whether you want to show your loyalty with the Claddagh, your undying love with a Trinity Knot, keep someone safe with the St. Brigid’s Cross or send someone a little luck with the Shamrock - we have real, quality jewelry that you will be proud to give or wear yourself.

We hope that you feel confident purchasing from our small, family owned business. Please share your favorite Irish jewelry with us on our Facebook page or drop me a line at ward@biddymurphy.com.

Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward Gahan

The traditional Celtic holiday of Samhain, pronounced sow-ween, started over 1,000 years ago as a harvest festival celebration. Celts believed that on the eve of the holiday, which is celebrated on the evening of October 31 and into the day of November 1st, that dead spirits could visit our world. People would dress up in scary outfits and burn bonfires to fend off the evil spirits. Growing up in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, our CEO Ward doesn't remember pumpkins so much, but if there were jack-o-lanterns, they were made from turnips. Leaving small food offerings outside your door appeased visiting spirits and would keep you safe from what lurks in the night. 

Samhain is the final festival of the Celtic year. It’s marked by gathering with friends and family around a large bonfire. And what goes best with a bonfire? No, not s’mores. I’m talking about ghost stories of course! The Irish love of storytelling is particularly prominent around Halloween. Gathered together, the Irish have been telling stories of haunting figures and intriguing myths for decades. No one can tell a spooky story better than a Celt! When you have a land covered in castles from the middle ages and a history of wars and famines, it’s easy to turn up a ghost or two. Are you familiar with these Irish legends?

The Faceless Woman of Belvelly Castle, Co. Cork

Sometime in the seventeenth century, Margaret Hodnett and her family inhabited the Belvelly Castle in Co. Cork. Margaret was renowned around the county for her beauty, and it is said that she knew it; she spent many days admiring her reflection in the mirror. An independent and vain woman who had little interest in marriage, Margaret lived her wealthy life in content happiness. A local lord named Clon Rockenby asked for Margaret’s hand many times, but she always refused him. 

Rockenby, enraged at Margaret’s continual refusal of his advances, laid siege to Belvelly Castle in an attempt to force her to accept him. Despite the guard of Rockenby’s small army, the Hodnett’s held out for an entire year. 

The siege came with a price for both Margaret and Rockenby. When Rockenby at last entered the castle, he found that Margaret had been ravaged by the forced seclusion. She had become skeletal, and her beauty had worn away. 

Rockenby was irate, and smashed Margaret’s favorite mirror to pieces. After he did so, Margaret’s brother killed him with a sword, and Margaret watched him die. 

After these events, Margaret descended into insanity. She is said to have sought out mirrors, checking to see her beauty ever returned. Every time, she was disappointed to see her gaunt face staring back at her. Eventually, all the mirrors were removed from Belvelly Castle. Margaret died of old age inside the castle. 

Her ghost still haunts the castle today, appearing as a lady in white with a veil covering her face or with no face at all. Those who have seen the ghost claim that she stares at a spot on the wall as though it holds her reflection, and often rubs the spot. One spot in the castle, perhaps where her mirror once hung, has been rubbed smooth over the years. 

The Founder of Marsh Library, Dublin

Ireland’s oldest public library is located in bustling Dublin City. The Marsh Library was founded in 1707 by Archbishop Narcissus Marsh. Marsh was a man of faith and learning; he adored spending time among the thick volumes of literature and history, and spent a life passionate about teaching others. 

As an unmarried archbishop, he raised his niece, whose parents had died of some eighteenth century malady. Marsh loved his niece, and the young girl spent many hours with him in the library.

When the girl was eighteen, she ran off and eloped with a curate. Archbishop Marsh was blindsided by this, and never heard from the niece again. He never discovered her fate, and it haunted him the rest of his life. 

He was told that the girl hid her explanation, a note, in one of the volumes of the library. He spent the rest of his life looking for it, but never found it.

Some say that Marsh’s ghost still lurks in the library, searching for the note that might bring reason and hope into his afterlife. 

The Murdered Jester of Malahide Castle, Dublin

Built in the 1100’s, this lavish medieval castle was once home to the most wealthy English nobles and their courts. Now, hundreds of years later, it is home to many spectral figures.

The most famous figure is a murdered jester. This jester, nicknamed Puck, fell in love with a lady prisoner at a banquet. The lady was beautiful but gaunt, and it was clear that her imprisonment would lead to a slow and lonely death. 

The jester made up his mind to help his lady-love escape. He snuck down into the dungeon many nights to visit the lady, and together they made their plan to leave the castle. On the seventh night, Puck stole the keys from a guard and unlocked the cell of his lady. The two made it out of the dungeon, only to be faced by another guard, who stabbed Puck to death. 

With his dying breath, Puck said he would forever haunt the castle. His lady was taken back to her cell, and later died. It is said they both wander the castle, each one forever searching to rescue the other. 

I hope you have a story-worthy Halloween and that you encounter more treats than tricks. Please share your favorite Irish stories with us on our Facebook page.

Slán go fóill - Bye for now

 Ward 

There are amazing duty free shops at the Dublin Airport (DUB). You'll find all sorts of world famous brands. When you are leaving Ireland from DUB, you'll go through Immigration and Customs pre-clearance at the gate area AFTER you go through the first main security area to get into the departure lounges.

FUN FACT:  Chuck Feeney, an Irish-British-American businessman and philanthropist made billions in the duty free business as the co-founder of the Duty Free Shoppers Group(DFS). Feeney and his college classmate Robert Miller started selling duty-free liquor to American servicemen in Asia in the 1950’s and later expanded to selling cars and tobacco. In the 1980’s Feeney formed The Atlantic Philanthropies, secretly giving away his fortune for many years, some of which was donated back to Irish colleges, including my alma mater University of Limerick, and other worldly charities. In 1996, Feeney and a partner sold their shares in the DFS to the French luxury conglomerate, Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy. All be told, Feeney has given away more than $8 Billion to charity.

MY PERSONAL TIP LEARNED THE HARD WAY: When you get booze make sure they put it in a  sealed customs bag when you pick it up if you are on a connecting flight. Otherwise you will need to go back out and check your booze if you have it as carry on -  which you will; as you have given your checked luggage to the airline before you cleared security. I learned this the hard way. And no, I hadn’t been drinking.

I learned early on, before I had opened Biddy Murphy, that when you travel to Ireland and your mates learn about your trip, they will inevitably ask you to bring something back. “Hey Ward, can you pick me up one of those fine Irish caps I see you wearing?...Or “I sure loved that Irish wrap I saw Mary wearing, can you get me one of those as a gift for my wife?”...Or, “I wish I could find one of those fine Irish wool blankets. Any chance you could grab me one of those?” And the next thing you know, I was traveling like a pack mule. In fact, that was part of my inspiration for starting Biddy Murphy. I knew that I could import unique, high quality goods from the Motherland. Don’t worry about packing yourself with goods and gifts when you travel back from Ireland. You can get the real deal at www.BiddyMurphy.com where everything we carry is authentic Irish.

So you can see, I don’t have all of the answers but I do have experiences that I love to share with you. How about you? What is your favorite item to purchase at the Duty Free Shops when you are traveling abroad? Leave a comment on our Facebook page or send me an email at ward@biddymurphy.com. I’d love to hear from you.

Slainte!

Ward

Thank you for the great response to our first edition of Travel Tips Thursday that we sent out last week! It was wonderful to hear from some of our customers. In fact, Robert H. reached out to us with a question about his upcoming travel plans to Ireland. He asked "Should we cancel? Will stores and restaurants be open?" I thought it might be a good topic to address for all of our customers in this week's edition.

I'm no travel expert but here's my insider's tips based on my recent travel to Ireland:

1) YES! You can travel to Ireland. The gates are open! (Be sure to check all of the rules around traveling from your location.) I've had to make a couple of trips back and forth recently from the States. In order to be admitted into Ireland what I needed was a certificate showing I had received my two covid vaccinations and then I needed to complete a locator form. Once in Ireland they texted me a form upon arrival to ensure that I didn't have any symptoms. The text had a link to more information and Covid testing locations, should you need them.

2) Restaurants and bars are open. In order to go into a restaurant or bar, you will need to show your double vax certificate and an identification that verifies that you are in fact the same person on the vaccination certificate. Your passport or driver's license will do. We were also asked "Are mandatory hotel quarantines still in place?" No.

3) Download the Verify app on your phone. A few days before you travel, you upload your documents mentioned above so that you are ready to go once they are approved. When I landed in Dublin, the Immigration Officer already had visibility to your documentation in their system so you will essentially be pre-approved without fear or hassle at Dublin Airport. You'll sail smoothly onto your next stop within Ireland, wherever that may be.

Please keep in mind that I'm no travel expert - just a regular guy who travels to the Motherland on a regular basis. I'm giving you information based on my recent personal experience, so please verify all of these facts with your airline or you can also contact the US Embassy in Ireland or the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs. 

We'd love to keep the conversation going. Share your travel experiences on our Facebook page or drop me a line at customerservice@biddymurphy.com to let me know what topics you'd like to see me write about.

Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward Gahan

CEO - Chief Experience Officer

www.BiddyMurphy.com

Here are some of my favorite Irish language terms of endearment:

“A chara” (uh KHAR-uh): Means “friend.” This form of address can be used in everything from formal letter salutations to greeting cards. It is used to address both men and women.

“Mo chara” is used for a man or “Mo cara” is for a woman; “Mo Anam Cara” means "my soul mate" and can be found on one of our necklaces, bracelets, rings and even framed art. 

“A stór” (uh STORE): Literally means “my treasure.” Can be used in an affectionate friendship or as a term of endearment to a child.

A storin -  Ah storeen -  my little treasure for a child or grandchild; Mo Storin -  my treasure.  

“A ghrá” (uh GRAWH): Meaning “love.” A more romantic endearment.

“A chroí” (uh KHREE): Meaning “heart” and can be used in the line: A ghra mo chroi -  love of my heart.

“A mhuirnín” (uh WUR-neen): Meaning “darling.” In a sentence you might use Mo mhuirnín dílis (pronounced mu voor-neen deelish). It's the Irish for “my own true love” or “my faithful darling.” Use this when addressing a group or gathering. You may also hear it at funerals. And by the way, it’s also a well known traditional irish fiddle tune!

“A chuisle” (uh KHUSH-leh): Meaning “pulse.”

 “A leanbh” (uh LAN-uv): Literally means “my child.” It's an affectionate term of endearment.

Add "Mo" (muh)  in front of any of these to have it become "my." For example: Mo Chuilse Dilis translates to "my dearly beloved."

Drop me a comment and let me know which line you plan to use with your sweetie on Sweetest Day. 

Thanks for supporting Biddy Murphy, where we are sweet on our customers every day!

​​Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward

Do I have you scratching your head thinking, “I never knew there was such a thing?” Well it’s true! I’m filled with all sorts of trivia like this. Just ask my friends and family. 😉

Although I love a good linen or straw hat, sadly it's time to put those away. As the cooler weather approaches, you need to start thinking about fabric caps that will add a different layer of protection for your head. But with so many options, how do you choose which one is right for you? This is where my “Insider’s” perspective comes in handy. We Irish know a thing or two about hats because we grew up hearing that “there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.”

Where to start? The Irish Flat Cap is a term that covers a wide variety of styles and fabrics. The design of these caps are universally flattering. The Flat Cap can be spotted on the young and trendy or older and classic. The Irish Flat Cap pairs nicely with nearly all outfits, from dressy suits to casual jeans and a tee shirt. It’s much less stiff than other hats like a fedora but it definitely has more structure than a beret. The design of the Flat Cap is typically cut deeper in the back and then has a short brim in the front, to provide a little cover for your eyes. It’s intended to fit comfortably atop your head. Needless to say, when you purchase an Irish Flat Cap, you’ll get your money’s worth because it’s an incredibly versatile and useful accessory.

So how do you choose the right flat cap for you? We’ve got some tips.

The first thing you need to do is measure twice so you order once! Fine Irish Flat Caps are fitted, so you’ll want to grab a measuring tape and measure your head just above your ears and eyebrows. Use this measurement to find the right size for your head.

The next step is to identify your style preference. Do you like a slimmer fitting cap that contours to the shape of your head or do you prefer a roomier, full fitting cap? It’s purely a matter of personal preference.

When you start to look into Irish Flat Caps, you’ll see that there is a price variation between what may, on the surface, look like really similar caps. That may be confusing so I thought I’d point out some of the distinctions that you’ll see among our varied cap selection. Just like you may know the differences between Chevy, GMC and Cadillac or Scion, Toyota and Lexus, Biddy Murphy offers caps in a variety of price ranges and finishes too. Unlike other hatters ( the formal term for purveyors of men’s hats), every cap we carry is authentic Irish and made with Irish materials. You won’t find anything from China here! And trust me, there is a real difference. 

Our ULTIMATE caps are premium caps, with fine details that make them stand out. These caps may be a little higher in price but feature a thicker, dense, tightly woven tweed that is crafted by Kerry Woolen Mills. It is a high quality tweed that is substantial to the touch. If you’ve had another cap, you will feel the difference. 

These premium caps also feature a thicker, woven insulation that will keep your head comfortable in the coldest of conditions. You’ll see the craftsmanship difference in the way these caps are double-stitched throughout, ensuring that the thicker tweed will remain securely sewn and have a neat finish.

Our mid-priced caps are SUPER GREAT and still better than most caps on the market. They are high quality, authentic Irish caps which feature a thicker, medium dense tweed and a lightly insulated interior that will keep your head comfortable year round.

Our lowest priced caps are GREAT every day options. They are made of a slightly thinner gauge Irish tweed but still feature a classic style that has become the trademark of these famous Irish caps. These great caps are an ideal starter cap for those who want to try out the style without making a costly investment. 

Although Irish Flat Caps look fantastic on both men and women, we do also offer three additional styles of hats designed specifically for the ladies.

However you choose to celebrate Fall Hat Month, take comfort knowing that a good hat will not only keep your head from being exposed to the elements, they can be used to step up your style and make a fashion statement too. Our maker-partners in Ireland have designed fashion alongside function, so whichever hat you decide is right for you, we know you’ll get compliments!

Drop me a comment and let me know which cap you’ll choose to help you celebrate Fall Hat Month.

​​Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward

Located in Co. Meath, roughly 50 kilometers outside of Dublin, you'll find this amazing structure that was crafted by stone age farmers about 5,200 years ago, making it older than Stonehenge or the Great Pyramids of Giza. So there really isn't anything new about Newgrange, but it is a modern marvel if you think about how far the rocks traveled before they were meticulously placed to create this structure. Can you imagine what a challenge it must have been to transport all of this material? (See all of the large boulders and smaller rocks behind that rough attempt of a selfie of my wife Mary and I.)

What is truly amazing is the way the passage and chambers are illuminated by the winter solstice sun. Around December 21st, the shortest day of the year, sunlight penetrates the chamber, lighting up the entire room. Between December 19th through the 23rd, a narrow beam of light pierces through the roof box and reaches the floor, gradually extending to the rear of the chamber. As the sun rises higher in the sky, the beam widens and creates a dramatic illuminating effect that lights up the whole room between about 9AM until 9:17AM. The accuracy of this light box is extraordinary given the time when this was built. 

(Entryway of Newgrange)

The Newgrange mound is said to have been the home of Oenghus, the God of Love. Intricate carvings can be found throughout the site. You’ll see the tri-spiral design that has come to be referred to as the Triskelion, seen in our Sterling Silver Spiral Necklace, features a pattern of three interlocking spirals that exhibit rotational symmetry. The symbol looks as if it is in motion and is believed to signify energies, cycles and progress. Designers and craftsmen continue to draw upon the Celtic for inspiration, using spiral symbols in many different designs like our leather bracelet, flask and earrings. 

(Carved boulders at the base of Newgrange)

If you find yourself in or around Co. Meath, Ireland, Newgrange is definitely worth the trip. It’s unlike anything you’ve seen.  Visitors can get guided tours of Newgrange so you can continue to learn more.

Thank you for letting me share a little joy of Ireland with you. Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward

This picture above was taken during one of our day trips. It captures a beautiful view from a spot off of Vee Drive in Co. Tipperary above Clogheen. Vee Drive is considered to be "Ireland's best driving secrets." (So remember, you heard about it from the team at Biddy Murphy that is committed to sharing the joy of Ireland!) As you sit on this bench, you are overlooking the Golden Vale. "The Vee" as it's called, is surely a picturesque route. At the right time of year – mostly late spring or early summer – the Vee is dressed in purple rhododendrons. It’s a quiet, twisting road of sheep, tractors and as you'll see below, cows too! Photo opportunities are plentiful, and a striking chain of hills, provide for an amazing backdrop.

If you had the opportunity to sit on this bench and have a chat with someone special, who would you choose? Let us know by dropping us a comment below or you can also post it on our Facebook or Instagram page.

That’s Mary and I stopping for a quick selfie overlooking the lush Irish landscape. Be sure you read that correctly. It was a selfie. That’s it. If you read anything else into that, get yer mind out of the gutters!

‘The Vee’ itself is 2,000 feet above sea level, a dramatic hairpin bend above Bay Lough, the ‘Golden Vale’ between Knockmealdown and Galtee Mountain Ranges. As you can see, it offers incredible panoramic views. 

Take it from this “insider,” whenever you are traveling through Ireland, you need to be prepared for “Irish Time.” You’ll hear people in the states say “I'm not late, I’m on Irish time.” Being fashionably late is so deeply rooted in the Irish culture, it has almost become the norm. Perhaps the pace of life in Ireland is a wee bit slower. Given that we're visiting and thinking about the loved one we lost, approaching our days a little more slowly and with intention seemed to be fine on this trip.

But there is a downside to this pace. It’s a challenge to get someone in Ireland to stick to a specific time. You’ll most likely hear someone say “after dinner” - which actually means the midday meal. If you are able to nail someone down to a specific meeting time don’t be surprised if they are running 15 minutes behind as that doesn’t qualify as being late. As we experienced above, it was evening milking time and the cows had their own schedule. Their timeframe obviously takes precedence over ours.

Although the pace may be a little different than what we are accustomed to in the states, we can’t tell you enough about the quality and craftsmanship of the products produced in Ireland. And as you can see from these photos, it's no wonder that many of our maker-partners use the scenery around Ireland as their inspiration as they craft their high quality, unique goods. You'll find the deep hues of the countryside literally woven into the fibers of our blankets, caps and clothing. Because we have been in the states for many years now, you can count on Biddy Murphy to pack your order quickly and ship it to your door from our Midwest, USA warehouse as soon as we can. Rest assured, there’s no “Irish Time” when it comes to our customer response.

I called this "Post #1" because I’ll be sharing more photos from our recent trip to Ireland in a later blog post. Feel free to share photos of your own. We’d love to see what you’ve experienced along your journeys to Ireland.

Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward

In North America, the U.S. Department of Agriculture encourages you to visit one of their national forests or grasslands so you can enjoy the outdoors as well as the beautiful forests and parks. They’ve even provided a webpage that allows you to search for locations by state.

In Ireland, there isn’t a large “eat out culture” due to the rain, however there are “Lay-By’s” that scatter the countryside giving you the opportunity to pull over and enjoy the scenery. They are very similar to the ‘scenic overlooks’ that you’ll see scattered across America. When you are in Ireland and the weather cooperates, you can certainly set up a picnic at one of these Lay-By’s and take in the views. Remember, there is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing, so you should be prepared for all types of conditions. If you happen to be traveling around Ireland, be sure to visit my old stomping grounds in Co. Tipperary. It’s located about an hour and a half away from Dublin and Galway, one hour from Cork and only about “tirty” minutes away from Limerick (where I went to University) and Waterford. In fact, Tipperary Tourism has put together a nice little piece outlining the top 10 spots to picnic in and around Tipperary to help you choose from a variety of interesting places to visit.

Inch Field, which is #4 on their list, is just up the road from my boyhood home and sits beside Cahir Castle. That’s me below during my last visit to the castle. I wanted you all to see the grand scale of the fireplace. It’s big enough to cook a whole feast but for a picnic, don’t pack more than you want to carry!

You can take in the tour of the castle and work up an appetite so you’ll be good and hungry when you settle down on your picnic blanket. If you happen to visit Tipperary, be sure to take a picture and tag #BiddyMurphy and #MyTipperaryTips so they’ll know you heard about this picnic adventure from the team at Biddy Murphy!

Wherever your picnic plans take you, we have three simple steps for the perfect picnic: 1) Find the ideal location - bring along a quality Irish wool blanket for the base. 2) Prepare the spread - think about finger foods on an authentic Irish charcuterie board. 3) Plan an activity - perhaps a nature walk with your trusty Irish blackthorn walking stick. 

Drop us a comment and tell us about your favorite picnic spot. Is it somewhere in the states or a dream location back in Ireland? Wherever it is, we’d love to hear from you!

Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward

This idea of helping everyone find the ideal Irish cap started to energize the nimble team at our small, family-owned business. How do we help others find the right fit? And with Father’s Day approaching soon, we knew we had to share our ideas in time for our customers to take this into consideration as they are selecting their perfect Father’s Day gift. Here are some of our top tips:

• First and foremost, pay attention to the fit. Measure your head at the widest point to get the exact measurements. You want to pick a cap that fits snugly. Trust us, it will feel weird if it fits too loosely. You’ll find a measurement chart graphic on each of our cap listings on the Biddy Murphy website. Because we have three different maker-partners in Ireland that craft our caps, you’ll want to pay attention to their individual sizes.
• Back to the pants reference. Every man looks better wearing pants, but not every man looks good wearing “skinny jeans.” You want to choose the right style for you. Just like trousers, Irish caps can be broken into two categories: Slim Fit style and Fuller Fit style. Like slim fit pants, the slim fit caps are more form fitting and hug the contours of your head. If you are going for a sleek look, this style will suit you well. Like baggy pants, our fuller fit caps are a bit roomier and have a little “give” in the style.

• Consider the make and material. The quality of the caps we’ve seen out there varies drastically from one maker to another. We only carry authentic Irish caps made by one of our three maker-partners: Hatman of Ireland, John Hanly and Mucros Weavers. When you purchase a cap that has been finely crafted, the chances of it looking good and lasting for years increases dramatically. You won’t find any cheap China imitations at Biddy Murphy. Our caps are made with the finest Irish wool or linen, depending upon the cap you select.
• If you are looking for some additional tips on how to wear a flat cap, check out our “How to wear a flat cap” infographic. 
• And if we still can’t convince you of the fact that Irish flat caps are for everyone, check out our Irish wool baseball cap. It will be a step-up from that old trucker style cap you might have laying around the house.

We hope you learned a 'ting or two about Irish flat caps and that you’ll consider them for your next gifting occasion, like Father's Day on June 20th or you’ll purchase one for yourself. If you ever have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our customer service. We’re here to share the joy of Ireland and help you have the best shopping experience possible.

Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward

Yes, you are probably familiar with the fact that Irish wool is an excellent material to use when you want to keep warm in the cold weather but what is less known is the fact that wool blankets are also brilliant at keeping you cool. Because wool is an active, natural fiber, blankets made with a high wool content naturally adapt to the temperature. The wool is a breathable material that won’t trap in moisture. In fact, wool blankets regulate your temperature and wick away sweat so they are perfect as a ground cover when you are camping or having a picnic in the warm months.

If the closest you plan to get to camping this summer is your backyard fire pit, a classic Irish wool blanket will keep you comfortable while you are watching the sunset, gazing at the stars and enjoying s'mores alongside a toasty bonfire. ScienceDirect says Wool makes an excellent choice because it is naturally flame retardant. It does not ignite easily and offers a greater level of fire safety than other fibers. In addition, wool does not melt, drip or stick to the skin if it does start to burn. You will have a completely different experience with a cotton or a blanket made of synthetic materials. And although some struggle to choose between a cotton or a wool blanket for the summer months, Wool is a considerably better choice because of its significantly longer lifespan. Wool blankets are much more durable than cotton. Plus, wool is easy to care for!

Our Irish wool blankets are not only functional, because they are smart choices for year round use, they are also gorgeous and comfortable. When Irish wool is combined with Cashmere, like our Cashmere Merino Wool blend throw blanket, you not only get a beautifully designed blanket, it’s ultra soft as well. The Cashmere fibers have a higher loft, which makes it softer and when combined with Merino Wool, gives you a luxurious feel. The herringbone design gives it a classic style, so together you have a blanket that will feel good and look great for many, many years.

Planning a picnic? Coordinating a camping trip? Just sitting by your bonfire or gazing at the stars above? Don’t forget your Biddy Murphy Irish wool blanket!

As wedding season approaches, we’d like to encourage you to consider giving one of life’s greatest pleasures - a luxurious, heirloom quality Irish wool blanket or throw as a gift commemorating one of life’s biggest occasions. Premium Irish blankets and throws make a perfect wedding gift for a number of reasons. Because your time is valuable, we’ll give you our top 3 reasons here:

1. Unique Gift - Enough already with the toasters, food processors or nonstick cookware. Authentic Irish wool blankets are a unique gift that will stand out as the couple carefully rips through all of those perfectly wrapped gift items. The couple will be impressed that you cared enough to go beyond the standard stuff and gave them a premium Irish wool blanket or throw. 
2. Heirloom Quality - All of our Irish wool blankets are woven using techniques that have been passed down through generations. When you start with the finest new wool - no seconds or cuts - your finished blanket or throw is made to last a lifetime, or more! It’s a great feeling knowing that you're giving a gift that is something the couple can cherish with every anniversary.
3. Usable Every Day - Unlike that China or crystal that gets stored and only sees the light of day on rare, special occasions, our Irish wool blankets and throws are a gift that can be used every day and they won’t break. Unlike that Instant Cooker Pot that’s all the rage, you don’t need a manual to learn how to use a blanket! (And you know he won’t read the manual anyway, which will start a fight, so just don’t go there!)

We offer a wide range of wool and wool-blend blankets and throws at Biddy Murphy that also come in a variety of colors and patterns. We even pulled together this quick reference chart that identifies the softness of each type of blanket. These aren’t your Grandma's old itchy wool blankets. The options start soft and finish with our customer favorite, Cashmere Merino Wool blend that is ultra-soft, just like spreading fresh Irish butter onto your favorite, warm brown bread. Yes, it’s that smooth!

We’re not kidding you when we said that our Irish wool blankets are usable every day. Some may think that they are only great during the colder months but Irish wool blankets are actually great for year round comfort. Wool is active, reactive to your body temperature. The natural wool fibers have wicking properties and the space between the wool fibers allows for air movement which keeps you comfortable in the warmer months as well. Irish wool blankets and throws are also easy to care for, with a protective layer that is resistant to stains. Most issues are resolved with a quick spot clean. And you know how cleaning can be an issue in some marriages, so again, Irish wool blankets as wedding gifts are a no-brainer.

We hope that you’ll step out of the box in which the boring wedding gifts reside and that you’ll consider going with a unique option that will be sure to elicit a heartfelt “thank you” from the new couple. You can relish in the fact that every time the new couple snuggles in their authentic Irish wool blanket you gave them as a gift, that they’ll smile and think of you!

Slainte!

Ward

If you are still reading along with us, you might be scratching your head - or something else for that matter - wondering “what the feck does Earth Day have to do with Biddy Murphy?” Well, we’re proud to tell you that our suppliers don’t think Earth Day is limited to one day of the year. When you live on an island like Ireland, you have to be keenly aware of what you use, what you produce and what you throw away...every day.

As an example of our supplier’s sustainability in action, maker-partner Caulfield Country Boards, located in Co. Meath has gone so far as to “miter in” a sustainable philosophy throughout their business. Whether it’s how they design, package or create, Caulfield begins with sustainability in mind. In fact, our charcuterie cutting board, coasters and wall hangings have all been crafted using off-cuts of wood that might have otherwise been sent to the rubbish pile or merely gone to waste.

Our maker-partner John Hanly & Co. set up their weaving mill beside the Nenah River in 1893, using the waterwheel to provide power and wash it’s wool. In 1938, they transitioned to using electricity when their original main wheel was replaced by a water turbine. Hanly still uses that same turbine today to produce electricity from the river. All of the electricity used by John Hanly to produce our Caps, Scarves, Throws and Capes comes from renewable sources.

Another maker-partner, Kerry Woolen Mills has also been using sustainable power to drive it’s business for more than 300 years! Kerry Woolen Mills, located in the iconic Ring of Kerry in Co. Kerry, Ireland draws upon the adjacent River Gweestin for the power to drive it’s machinery and the water to wash and dye it’s wool that ultimately goes into our King Size Wool Comforter Blankets, Ruana Shawl Wraps and Capes.

We are also proud to offer high quality, authentic Irish goods that are crafted to stand the test of time. Whether they are timeless symbols or durable goods, you won’t find “throw away” items here.  We are committed to preserving the past by promoting the traditions, heritage and techniques that have been passed down through generations. We are also proud to protect the future by building relationships with environmentally conscious maker partners who practice these philosophies because it’s the smart thing to do every day. 

So when you shop with Biddy Murphy, you can count on being delighted on Earth Day and every other day too!

Slán go fóill - Bye for now

Ward Gahan

CEO - Chief Experience Officer

You can easily download the guide by clicking this link.

Before we get to the recipe, we should note that the story behind National Muffin Day is rather heartwarming. A man would grab a bag of muffins to bring to work everyday and he started to notice that his route took him by several homeless people. At first, he decided to give them some of his muffins, but before long, he started baking extras and giving them out to those who needed a nice little breakfast or snack on a daily basis. A local reporter heard about this story and decided to help this man get some support from others around the area. That story turned into National Muffin Day. The idea is to bake an extra batch or two and donate them to someone in need. Not only will it warm your heart, it will help others too!

Let us know what you think of these Irish Soda Bread Muffins.

IRISH SODA BREAD MUFFINS

Today, St. Valentine's remains are located within the Whitefriar Street Church in Dublin, Ireland. His aura draws followers and fanatic to his final resting place in the hope of finding everlasting love. Seekers come from all over for help in finding that special someone or praying for strength in their current relationships.

As Jack Kornfield so eloquently said, "Love isn't for the faint of heart." Love takes work and we thought this printable would be a great source of inspiration for you to continue sharing the love. You can download a print-ready version here.