When Safety Becomes a Fight — A Cyclist’s View from the Margins
An occasional cyclist reflects on Irish roads, arguing that real safety lies not in perfect behaviour, but in better systems that reduce risk before harm occurs
Blogging
A wider memory than one name
What happens when a place of shared memory is renamed? The UK’s National Memorial Arboretum has long held many stories together. As remembrance evolves, this piece reflects on inclusion, balance, and whether all forms of service continue to be seen and honoured equally.
When Question Marks Cast Shadows
How a single word in quotation marks can cast doubt on a serious crime — and why those tiny choices in reporting shape what (and who) we believe.
Prison Gossip or Public Interest
Prison gossip sells papers—but at what cost? While headlines linger on the dramas of loyalist inmates, the real stories of political intrigue, power, and everyday struggle in Northern Ireland remain untold. This reflection asks: what truths are being buried beneath the spectacle?
🎄 Christmas decorations should spread joy, not trauma.
Christmas decorations should bring joy — not images of violence. Port Laoise McDonald’s needs to rethink this display…
Why Leuchtturm1917 notebooks are essential for organizers
Leuchtturm1917 dotted notebooks have become a go-to for anyone who loves organizing, journaling, or just needs a trusty notebook by their side—and honestly, it’s easy to see why! Here are a few reasons they’re so popular: 1. Dotted grids = total freedom The dotted pages give you just the right amount of structure without being … Read more
A fresh start: simplifying my medication tracking routine
Back in August, I set a goal to stay consistent with my medication routine. It’s a vital part of my health journey, but, as with many routines, it’s easier planned than done! I began recording each day in a planner, tracking when I had taken each medication. Initially, I thought planning ahead would help, so … Read more
Ireland’s Wildlife: Engage in Recording and Observation
We were lucky last year and this year to see an orchid growing in our front garden. This occurred because neither Andrew nor I is an intrepid gardener. We quite enjoy letting the grass grow long and then getting it cut back later in the summer, which gives the orchid the chance to grow and … Read more
Meandering with purpose in Ireland’s confederate capital
We have been very busy in the last few weeks. Yesterday was no different. We got up very early (for us) and caught the seven minutes past seven train from Monasterevin to Kildare, waited there and then got the train to Waterford. We didn’t go as far as Waterford on this occasion, disembarking in the … Read more
AV fistula considerations: exploring options at Midlands Regional Hospital, Tullamore
Yesterday, while I was on dialysis, a secretary from the Vascular Clinic at Midlands Regional Hospital in Tullamore called to schedule an arm scan. I’ve been waiting for this scan for several months to determine if there’s enough space in my arm for another arteriovenous (AV) fistula, which would aid in dialysis access. Given the … Read more