Stories, images, and impressions that make up the mosaic of experience here in Ireland: Today, an evening ramble wherein I lose my way and find the numinous—an ongoing theme in my life, I realize.
Funny you mention the fuchsia. I just said to Henry the other day that I noticed more of it this year in Ireland than before. Maybe it's a bumper crop! Of course, there's the rhododendron everywhere too in Ireland, also not native, but pretty and prolific enough to be called "the beautiful killer" by horticulturalists for its crowding out other species. Reading something about a plant in Ireland not long ago--gorse, maybe?--the author used the word "nativized" to indicate something not of the place but having adapted to it to the point it also can no longer be considered not of the place. So it's both foreign AND domestic. Reading that, I couldn't help but reflect on my experience as a former ex-pat, and the uniqueness of occupying that space, as you're now doing, with feet, sensibility and soul forged in various worlds. I'll be curious to hear how that shows up for you as your adventure continues.
I love how you’re reflecting on the concept of being both foreign and domestic in a new place. It’s so interesting to think about how we adapt and become part of a different environment. Can’t wait to hear more about your experiences!
I loved the hedges of fuchsia when I walked and bicycled the lanes in Dingle back in the summer of 1990 and I also just recently learned that they were not native to Ireland! My late mother in law loved them and we usually bought her a basket for Mother’s Day! They grew really well in her shady home in the Catskills! I’m delighting in your adventures, Cathleen and can’t wait to visit you a year from now when I imagine you will have found a settling place that suits your heart and spirit.
Sounds like such a beautiful memory and connection to fuchsia hedges! Can’t wait to hear about Cathleen’s future adventures and settling in a place that feels just right.
You and Maury are having a fascinating adventure ... many good wishes to both of you. And I hope your back improves – sounds like you've done what you can, spiritually, to help it.
Funny you mention the fuchsia. I just said to Henry the other day that I noticed more of it this year in Ireland than before. Maybe it's a bumper crop! Of course, there's the rhododendron everywhere too in Ireland, also not native, but pretty and prolific enough to be called "the beautiful killer" by horticulturalists for its crowding out other species. Reading something about a plant in Ireland not long ago--gorse, maybe?--the author used the word "nativized" to indicate something not of the place but having adapted to it to the point it also can no longer be considered not of the place. So it's both foreign AND domestic. Reading that, I couldn't help but reflect on my experience as a former ex-pat, and the uniqueness of occupying that space, as you're now doing, with feet, sensibility and soul forged in various worlds. I'll be curious to hear how that shows up for you as your adventure continues.
I love how you’re reflecting on the concept of being both foreign and domestic in a new place. It’s so interesting to think about how we adapt and become part of a different environment. Can’t wait to hear more about your experiences!
Do you have any idea what a profound gift it is to be seen and understood so well by someone who knows and loves you?
thank you for your stories.
I loved the hedges of fuchsia when I walked and bicycled the lanes in Dingle back in the summer of 1990 and I also just recently learned that they were not native to Ireland! My late mother in law loved them and we usually bought her a basket for Mother’s Day! They grew really well in her shady home in the Catskills! I’m delighting in your adventures, Cathleen and can’t wait to visit you a year from now when I imagine you will have found a settling place that suits your heart and spirit.
Sounds like such a beautiful memory and connection to fuchsia hedges! Can’t wait to hear about Cathleen’s future adventures and settling in a place that feels just right.
Sounds like a beautiful memory! Can’t wait to hear about your next adventures with Cathleen.
Smidiríní my new favorite word written into my journal today…the Smidiríní of vacation tucked yet again into my bag
You and Maury are having a fascinating adventure ... many good wishes to both of you. And I hope your back improves – sounds like you've done what you can, spiritually, to help it.