Celtic Rainbow Gifts News and Views

St. Brigid's Day

2012-01-31T20:34:00.000-08:00

St. Brigid often called the Mary of the Gael, is the co-patron saint of Ireland along with St. Patrick. Her feast day is February 1st, the day on which she died about 525AD. She is buried in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland beside Saint Patrick and Saint Colmcille.

Patron Saint of: babies, blacksmiths, boatmen, cattle, children whose parents are not married, dairymaids, dairy workers, fugitives, infants, Ireland, mariners, midwives, newborn babies, poets, sailors, scholars, travelers and watermen.

The origins of St. Brigid’s Cross comes from her weaving a cross of rushes
while attending to her ailing father, a pagan chieftain. To this day in many parts of Ireland, on the eve of St. Brigid’s day, rushes are brought into the house to make crosses. A girl of the family leads them in prayer. Food is left outside the door for Brigid. A ribbon or piece of cloth is left out on the windowsill or on the door for Brigid to bless. It is used for healing headaches, sore throats and earaches.

Robert Burns

2012-01-25T14:05:00.000-08:00

Robert Burns is the national poet of Scotland and the most loved figure in Scottish history and literature. "Burns Night" festivities are celebrated all over the world on his birthday of January 25th.

The poet Robert Burns (1759-1796) collected and wrote new lyrics for hundreds of traditional Scottish folk tunes which he felt were falling into obscurity. Working in the Scots language of the "lowlands", which is distinct from the Gaelic of the highlands and islands, he produced many masterpieces of 18th century poetry and song. Among these are "My Love is Like a Red Red Rose"," Comin' Through the Rye" and" Auld Lang Syne", popular even today at New Year's celebrations. His short but colorful life has become the subject of both legend and scholarly documentary.

Newgrange

2011-12-21T00:59:00.002-08:00

Newgrange

2011-12-20T22:07:00.001-08:00

New Way to Shop!

2011-12-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

Now there’s a new way to shop at Celtic Rainbow Gifts, right on my Facebook Page!

From time to time, I will feature special offers at great prices using the new OWJO store. This will give me an opportunity to sell items from my inventory that I may only have a couple in stock and wouldn’t put on my web page.

Check it out and see what you think, I look forward to your input. Don’t forget to give me at hit on the thumbs up “Like” button.

Don't miss this one!

2011-11-18T02:47:00.000-08:00

Celtic Rainbow Gifts: www.CelticRainbowGifts.com

Just in time for Christmas! One Day Only!

Mark your calendar & set your alarm clock!

Celtic Rainbow Jewelry Sale

Sunday, November 20^th

^{Buy One, Get One At Half Price.}

^{All Pendants, Earrings, Bracelets and Fancy/Wedding Jewelry included in this sale. We’ll even Gift Wrap.}

Orders will be filled first come, first serve. Place order on web or call, I will adjust the price and make a "paypal" request to you. Equal price or lower price item will be the half price. In stock items only, inventory limited. No rain checks, no gold.

I will be standing by all day to help you make the perfect gift selection. Slainte!

Linda 207-288-3860

www.CelticRainbowGifts.com

^{You may have refresh or reload each page of your browser.}

"The Fighting Irish" in Ireland

2011-11-14T07:42:00.000-08:00

“The Fighting Irish” in Ireland
Notre Dame Football plays Navy in Dublin September 1, 2012.
August 24-September 3, 2012
$2199. Land only
$2450. Land only & game ticket

2 Nights in Musical Co. Clare
3 Nights in Kinsale, Co. Cork "The Gourmet Capital"
4 nights in the fair city of Dublin
Includes:
• Exclusive transport by luxury motor coach with
a PRIVATE driver/guide (one man) for 10 days
• Hotel accommodation based on twin bedded
rooms with private bath for 9 nights

• Full breakfasts (9)
• Table d’hôte dinners (3)
• Medieval banquet at an Irish Castle
• Tea and scones in an Irish farmhouse
• Guided walking tour of Kinsale
• ‘Titanic Trail’ walking tour of Cobh
• Visits and admission fees to: Bunratty Folk Park, Cliffs of Moher,Charles Fort, Blarney Castle & Woollen Mills, Cobh Heritage Centre, Old Midleton Distillery, Rock of Cashel
• Hotel porterage, service charges and
government taxes
• Flight bags, ticket wallets, baggage tags and
identifying strap
OPTIONAL EXTRA:
Tickets for the September 1, 2012 Notre Dame
vs. Navy football game at the Aviva Stadium

"A Toast to Arthur"

2011-09-21T18:34:00.000-07:00

A worldwide ‘toast to Arthur’ will start in Ireland at exactly 17:59 on Thursday 22 September; honoring the date Arthur Guinness signed the lease on the St James’ Gate Brewery (in 1759) and introduced Guinness to the world. The Arthur’s Day celebration was set up in 2009 to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the original lease.

The toast will launch a jam-packed night of live music performances taking place all across the world, starting in Dublin, Ireland. As clocks strike 17:59 locally around the world, millions will raise a pint of Guinness to Arthur.

The annual Arthur’s Day celebrations directly benefit the Arthur Guinness Fund, which identifies and supports social entrepreneurs aiming to make positive changes in their communities such as helping bereaved families in Europe, or reducing harmful waste in deprived areas of Africa. The aim of the fund is to create a self-sustaining movement for grass-roots social entrepreneurship in the markets where Guinness operates and inspire a generation of potential change makers.

2011-07-07T17:57:00.001-07:00

2011-07-07T17:57:00.000-07:00

Join us at the Maine Celtic Celebration in Belfast Maine July 15-17th. I'll have lots of festival specials on sale. Check out their web site for more info: www.MaineCelticCelebration.com
Hope to see ya there!

2011-06-15T16:49:00.000-07:00

A Painting of James Joyce from The Brazen Head Pub

Last year when our group toured Ireland, we went out in Dublin town to The Brazen Head Pub. The Brazen Head is officially Ireland's oldest pub, dating back to 1198. While it is unclear how much of the original 11th century coach house is still intact, there is a palpable sense of history within these timeworn walls.

It's so cool to be sitting in such a historic place tossing back a few chilly ones. It's past patrons include the great Irish writers as James Joyce, Brendan Behan and Jonathan Swift. As well as revolutionaries Robert Emmet, Wolfe Tone, Daniel O'Connell and Michael Collins. Today the patrons still include some famous faces, including some very famous musicians like Van Morrison, Hothouse Flowers, Mary Black and Garth Brooks.

James Joyce famously referenced The Brazen Head in his book Ulysses:
"Corley, at the first go-off, was inclined to suspect it was something to do with Stephen being fired out of his digs for bringing a bloody tart off the street. There was a dosshouse in Marlborough street, Mrs Maloney's, but it was only a tanner touch and full of undesirables but M'Conachie told him you got a decent enough do in the Brazen Head over in Winetavern street..."

Leaves

2011-05-22T10:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the leaves finally came out, at least on the maple trees.

At the Show

2011-04-17T03:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, I arrived at "The Ireland Showcase" in Secaucus NJ after a long drive down from Maine. I love going to this showcase, I get to see new products, & old friends!

April Fool's One, Two Punch

2011-04-01T17:29:00.000-07:00

It's been snowing all day!!! There has to be about 6 inches of heavy wet snow on the ground. The heart attack kind of snow, thankfully, I had no place I had to go today, so I stayed home. A very relaxing day!

2011-03-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

May the patron Saint of Ireland
Be close to you each day
To bless you with good fortune
In a very special way.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Happy St Patrick's Day

2011-03-14T01:06:00.000-07:00

I certainly hope wherever you live, St Patrick's Day is celebrated. Here in Ellsworth, we have an Irish pub own by a French guy that hardly plays any Irish music. They serve Guinness, that's about it! No parades or dances here, I guess we have to work on that!

England & Scotland Trip

2011-02-27T15:51:00.000-08:00

Recently I went to England and Scotland with a travel agency that I hope to do business with in the future. We had such a good time and the weather was wonderful. Of course you can always expect some rain in the British Isles, but we lucked out with only one full day of rain, and that was mostly a travel day any ways. What I tell folks is; "you don't go over there to sit on a beach, just like here in Maine". It was funny seeing all those tacky souvenirs of Prince William & Kate in England, I saw very little in Scotland except at Holyrood Castle where the royal family stays in Scotland.

Off to London & Scotland

2011-01-28T08:17:00.000-08:00

I'm off on a tour of London & Scotland next week. It's really a working vacation as I'm checking out some sites for upcoming tours. I have three tours in mind: August 2011 -Scotland, August 2012-Beatle's Tour, 2013- Italy. I'm just to planting a seed of things to come. Please contact me should you be interested these or other tours. More about that when I return from my trip.

What do people do in the winter?

2011-01-09T11:48:00.000-08:00

The second most common question that folks ask me in Bar Harbor is: "What do people do here in the winter"? My reply is "lots"!
There's Condra Dancing at the Trenton Grange Hall & Blue Hill Town Hall on the first & third Saturday of the month. There's plenty of lakes for ice fishing. Cross Country skiing on the carriage roads in Acadia National Park. Not to mention snowshoeing, snowmobiling and pot luck suppers. Plus the winter sky is perfect for star gazing. I actually enjoy the winter time here, it's so beautiful and peaceful. I walked the Compass Harbor trail with my dog Charlie yesterday, it was snowing lightly and all you could hear was the bell buoy in the harbor. The way life should be!

Christmas Count Down

2010-12-15T09:20:00.000-08:00

There's still time to order your Christmas gifts from Celtic Rainbow, but time is running out. Shipments in the USA will still make in time for the big day. Don't know what to get for that special person in your life? Jewelry is always a big hit with women, rugby shirts for the guys in your life, Celtic Blessings prints make great hostess gifts. And of course the perfect gift just might be a gift card from Celtic Rainbow. I can help with gift suggestions, just give me a call: 207-288-3860

Chester Greenwood Day

2010-12-01T16:18:00.000-08:00

Chester Greenwood Day will be celebrated on December 4th in Farmington, Maine with a parade, craft fairs, chili contest & more. You don't know who Chester Greenwood was!! Well, he's a famous guy here in Maine because he invented ear muffs!! He invented them at only 15 years old, obtained a pattern for his invention and continued making them for the next 60 years. Today the city of Farmington, Maine keeps his name alive with the annual Chester Greenwood parade, and of course everybody wears ear muffs.

Black Friday, Saturday & Sunday

2010-11-24T10:52:00.000-08:00

Any web orders between November 26th -28th will receive a surprise free gift from Celtic Rainbow. Keep the free gift for yourself or regift it for Christmas! Call if I can be of any help: 207-288-3860
Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving. Linda

Ireland Trip

2010-11-11T08:12:00.000-08:00

Celtic Rainbow's tour to Northern Ireland and Donegal was fun, fun, fun! We had an excellent group of people that was always up for a good time and a lot of laughs. The weather in Ireland was a little warmer than here in Maine, of course you can always count on some rain. But it was a soft rain, thank God! How do you think they get their forty shades of green. We had a great bus driver named Bob, that did way more than drive a bus. He was more of a historian and comedian, which made our trip not only fun, but we all learned a lot too. "The craic was ninty" as they say in Ireland. I'm starting to plan some other trips for 2011 & 2012. Stay tune for more information about upcoming tours.

Counting the hours

2010-10-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

I'm counting the hours until our Celtic Rainbow tour departs for Donegal and Northern Ireland on Friday. Of course I'll be telling you all about it when I get home. I'm looking forward to spending Halloween night with the Aughakillymaude Mummers in Derrylin, Northern Ireland. The Mummers, all dressed in straw will march down to a huge bonfire in a field on the shores of Lough Erne. As they circle the fire they chant and play music, the third time around the fire they throw in a cup of seed to give back to the earth. Then it's up to the community center/museum for a night of Halloween parades, music and general merrymaking. I hope next time you can join us for tricks & treats in Ireland.

Store closed for the season

2010-10-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

Celtic Rainbow is now closed for the season but looking for another location in Bar Harbor for the summer of 2011. I will be holding onto the same phone number which is: 207-288-3860 for orders or questions. As many of you already know, the face of Bar Harbor is about to change with a big four story hotel taking over West St. (No, I was not compensated as I don't own the building). The block from Main St. (including the Quarterdeck Rest.) down to where my shop at the corner of Rodick St. will be torn down in early November. I will keep you updated of any changes.

50% off Store-Wide Sale

2010-10-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

50% off store-wide sale including GOLD!! Celtic Rainbow will close after eight seasons on October 13th to make room for the new four story hotel. Shop early for best selection.

Closing October 13th

2010-09-23T02:58:00.000-07:00

Celtic Rainbow will be closing on October 13th after eight seasons at 56 West Street in Bar Harbor. Now Going On: Huge store wide sale with 30%-50% saving, even the fixtures must be sold! Come in now for the best selection.

The Parting Glass

2010-09-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

Each year on September 17th, Celtic Rainbow celebrates half way to St. Patrick's Day. We have always had special sales, maybe some sing songs and a little bit of whiskey. However this year will be the last year for Celtic Rainbow Gifts at the West St. location.
The whole block will be torn down from the Quarterdeck Restaurant on the corner of Main and West St. down to Celtic Rainbow. Because I'm just a renter, I will be booted out in October and this could very well could be the end of Celtic Rainbow. Of course I may find another spot with reasonable rent between now and next spring, however, the presents rate of rents in Bar Harbor is putting it out of my reach. I will continue with my web site sales and will be offering tours to Ireland, England, Scotland and beyond, so stay tuned. Thanks for the memories, and be sure to stop by and share a Parting Glass.

Hurricane Earl on the way!

2010-09-02T14:20:00.000-07:00

Folks here have been pulling boats and docks out of the water today. I'm wondering if I should be boarding up my storefront tomorrow. If the storm does hit Saturday as expected, I will be closed for the day and reopen on Sunday.
A word of warning to storm watchers on Mount Desert Island; please keep a safe distance from the waters edge. Last year seven people were washed into the ocean at Thunder Hole and one little girl drown.

Short Walks

2010-08-20T17:23:00.000-07:00

The best thing about living or working on Mount Desert Island is that you're already in vacationland. Around dinner time I usually take a little break with my dog Charlie and go for a walk. Last night we walked the Compass Harbor trail, today we walked a bit of Eagle Lake. One of our favorites is the trails off the Duck Brook Road. So even if you only have a half hour or so, there's plenty of short walks in and around downtown Bar Harbor.

Mention this blog and...

2010-08-06T10:47:00.000-07:00

Mention this blog and receive 25% off any one item (except gold) in the month of August for in store purchases only!

The Presidential Visit

2010-07-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

President Obama was about 100 ft from Celtic Rainbow both Friday night and Saturday morning, but he didn't come into the store. On Friday night he ate at the lobster pound just across the way. The Secret Service ran the yellow police tape from the sandwich board sign on the deck of my store into the street and the crowd had to stay in back of it. My heart was racing as one of the Secret Service men came walking towards me and signaled me back into to the store to talk to me. For that moment I thought I may get a visit, but he only wanted to know if I had umbrellas for sale! I told him that I didn't sell umbrellas but he could use mine. However, they needed several as there was a threat of rain.
Finally the President came out to the street and waved to the crowd, it was over in a wink! On Saturday morning across the way from me in the other direction, he played tennis at the Bar Harbor club and had lunch there. It was low tide and no one was allowed on the sand bar to Bar Island and they drove him into the Bar Harbor Club via Bridge St.
It was exciting to host our President in Bar Harbor, I hope they will come back again as they were only here for a day and a half and that's not long enough.

Obama's Visit to Bar Harbor

2010-07-15T05:19:00.000-07:00

The whole island has been buzzing about the First Family's visit to Bar Harbor this weekend. Although they will be here only two days, we can feel the presents of the Secret Service around. Black Hummers are kinda a dead give away! I've heard rumors of the Secret Service checking out stores around town should the First Family want to shop, but not my shop. I really think the O'Bama's should be discovering their Irish roots at Celtic Rainbow Gifts!

Blueberries

2010-07-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

The blueberries are early this year. I have several favorite patches in and around the woods I keep an eye on. Yesterday me and Charlie (my dog) went to check on a few spots and the berries are just starting to come out. I made the mistake of feeding Charlie some berries and he loved them. As I was picking some more, I look over and there's Charlie eating them right off the bushes!

I love blueberries, but they have to be Maine's wild blueberries. The giant ones in the grocery store are short on taste, the wild ones are by far the best!!! Picking them is like a therapy for me. I usually pick as much as I can, bring them home and put them on a cookie sheet then pop them into the freezer. It's easier to pick out the stems or bad ones once their frozen. Put into freezer bags and enjoy all winter. However, do not wash the berries until you use them. They get mushy if you wash before you freeze.

Local Music this Summer

2010-06-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

Sessions every Wednesday night at 8PM at Finn's Irish Pub on Main St. (across from the Grand) in Ellsworth. I went to last week's sessions and had a blast hooking up with old friends.

In Bar Harbor at McKay's on Main St, Emma Walsh & Chuck Donnelly will be playing on Thursday, July 1st at 7PM. Chuck and Emma play quite often at McKay's during the summer. Check for other times by calling: 288-2002

Tipperary International Peace Award

2010-06-19T12:27:00.000-07:00

The former US ambassador to Ireland Jean Kennedy Smith and her brother the late Edward Kennedy were this afternoon honoured with the Tipperary International Peace Award.

Accepting the award in Tipperary, Ms Kennedy Smith paid tribute to Albert Reynolds and Bertie Ahern and to the former SDLP leader John Hume. She said the men were extraordinary leaders of the peace process.

She also spoke of her pride in the role the US had played in the process.

Both Ms Kennedy Smith and the widow of the late Senator Edward Kennedy Victoria paid a special visit to the Kennedy Homestead at Dunganstown, New Ross, Co Wexford today to meet their Irish cousins for a private family gathering.

They were accompanied by Mrs Smith’s daughter Amanda and her husband Carter Hood and their children, Summer and Stephanie.

The visit recalled images of President Kennedy in the same farmyard taking tea with his cousins in the full glare of the International press during his momentous Presidential visit to Ireland in 1963.

During today’s visit, Minister of State, Sean Connick highlighted the development of the Kennedy Homestead Visitor centre, funding for which was announced in the last budget. He said he expected that work to start “within six months”.

He said the project would include a new exhibition centre, restoration of existing buildings and a special section dedicated to the memory of Senator Edward Kennedy for “the significant role he played in Irish American affairs particularly in the architecture of the peace process and his tireless quest for peace on the island of Ireland.”

“Our Family is deeply honoured to see the Irish Government taking this enormous interest in the development of the Kennedy Homestead Visitor attraction,” Mrs Kennedy Smith While Mrs Kennedy added that she was particularly honoured and pleased to see her late husband Edward’s work recognised in the proposed new exhibition centre.
Taken from The Irish Times

Bloody Sunday

2010-06-15T21:18:00.000-07:00

David Cameron on Bloody Sunday report: "I am deeply sorry" The Bloody Sunday killings were unjustified and unjustifiable, the Prime Minster has said.

Thirteen marchers were shot dead on 30 January 1972 in Londonderry when British paratroopers opened fire on crowds at a civil rights demonstration.Fourteen others were wounded, one later died. The Saville Report is heavily critical of the Army and found that soldiers fired the first shot.

Prime Minister David Cameron said he was "deeply sorry".He said that the findings of the Saville Report were "shocking".

A huge cheer erupted in Guildhall Square in Derry as Mr Cameron delivered the findings which unequivocally blamed the Army for one of the most controversial days in Northern Ireland's history.

Taken in part from the BBC

"Bloomsday"

2010-06-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

“Bloomsday”

For the sixth year, Celtic Rainbow located at 56 West St. in Bar Harbor will host “Bloomsday” on June 16th at 4PM. Wendy Kearney will start the readings, but the public is invited to read or discuss some of their favorite parts of the novel with the group.

For millions of people around the world, June 16th is an extraordinary day. For on that day in 1904, Leopold Bloom took his epic journey through Dublin, Ireland in James Joyce’s novel “Ulysses”.
Considered the world’s most highly acclaimed modern novel, “Bloomsday” as it is now known, has become a tradition for Joyce enthusiasts as they retrace the odyssey each year with readings and re-enactments.

The Children of Lir

2010-05-31T13:56:00.001-07:00

The Children of Lir

In this ancient Irish tale, King Lir, of the Hill of the White Field, married in succession two sisters. By the first, Aobh, he had four children, a girl and a boy, and later twin boys, but their mother died in childbirth. This loss weighed heavily on Lir, he might have died of grief had he not set his mind on his four children. Then he married Aoife. She was childless, and she grew jealous of her husband’s exceptional love for the four children, who were everyone’s joy and delight. So she took them away and cast a spell changing them into four beautiful white swans for 3 x 300 years. The spell granted them speech and that no music would equal their plaintive songs, which have haunted Irish ears ever since. Their food was to be the white sand, their drink the salt sea, and their bed the bare rocks above the restless waves.
They eventually settled upon the Lake of Birds until St. Patrick came to Ireland and a holy man came to their island. When the Children of Lir heard his matins bell they started about in terror. Calmed by the holy man, they joined him in singing the Holy Office and grew accustomed to hearing mass with him. For their safety he linked them in pairs with silver chains.
The spell cast upon them by Aoife was to end with the marriage of the woman from the South with the man from the North. In due course this came about and the bride demanded that the silver linked birds as a wedding gift. The request being rejected, the groom himself sought out the swans, took hold, and pulled them off the altar where they had retreated. As he laid hands on them their feathers fell off, revealing four withered, vastly old people. They were baptized, shortly died, and were buried together.
Even today there may be seen four green patches if grass o the islet of Iniskeel off the coast of Donegal.

This version of The Children of Lir fairytale was taken from The Wild Goose Studio, Kinsale, Co. Cork Ireland.

Tour Info Nights

2010-05-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

I will be conducting two informational nights about our upcoming tour of Donegal and Northern Ireland. On Sunday evening, May 23rd at Leary's Irish Pub located at 2 Mt. Desert St in Bar Harbor and on Monday, May 24th at Finn's Irish Pub on Main Street in Ellsworth across from the Grand. Both evenings are from 5:30-7PM. Join us for a fun filled evening.

Opening May 22nd

2010-05-16T07:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 22nd will be opening day at Celtic Rainbow. There's been so much construction at Stewman's Lobster pier on West St, I figured I'd open at a later date this year so I don't have to listen to heavy machinery. This project is moving right along and should be ready in a couple of weeks. On another note, the appeals board approved Mr. Walsh's hotel, so I guess this is really the last year for me at this location. The last two years I've been thinking it was going to be my last ;year, but it does really look that way now. I'm still unsure what will become of me.

Happy May Day

2010-05-01T04:37:00.000-07:00

The leaves on the trees are coming out early and the weather has been grand. I just hope we don't run out of this beautiful weather because it's been such lovely spring so far. Keep your fingers crossed!
I was going to open the store for May 1st but decided against that date since construction is still going on at Stewman's Lobster Pound on West St. So opening day for Celtic Rainbow will be Saturday, May 15th. Hope to see ya this year!

Moose on the Loose!

2010-04-30T04:10:00.000-07:00

Last night I realized that the milk in the fridge had gone past it's expiration date and smelled bad. Since I'm a coffee drinker who likes milk in my coffee, I thought it was best to buy some milk last night instead of going out early this morning. My dog Charlie, always up for a ride, came with me to the store. I quickly purchased my milk on High St. in Ellsworth, when I got back out to the car Charlie was barking like crazy. Right there in the parking lot was this huge moose looking very confused. We watched for a few minutes from the safety of the car before the police arrived.

Looking for Something?

2010-04-14T11:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend I'll be away to the Ireland Showcase to shop for new items for the upcoming season. Looking for something special from the Celtic Lands? Or do you have any suggests of products that I should be carrying in my store? If so, let me know.

Going to this show is always fun, I get to see and talk to Celtic shop keepers from around the country & Canada, plus I get to see all the new gorgeous little things first hand.

A week to go

2010-04-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Acadia National Park will open for the season in just one week. On April 15th, the park loop roads will be open for visitors including the summit of Cadillac Mountain. I'm going to take the day off and playing in the park!

New Phone Number

2010-04-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

I have recently moved and have a new phone number: 207-610-5005 for off season calls. I will be opening the store on May 1st, the phone number there is: 207-288-3860. However, I check my email several times during the day, so often that's the way to go: linda@CelticRainbowGifts.com

Donegal/Northern Ireland Tour

2010-04-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

Our Donegal/Northern Ireland tour deposit deadline has been extended. So don't delay in getting that deposit to me. If you have any questions, I can be always be reached by email. The full itinerary is available on this web site.

There has been a lot of interest recently for touring Northern Ireland, which pleases me that people no longer feel uneasy about going there. It's a great place visit with a flavor of it's own. Long gone are the border crossings with machine guns pointing at you! You now can cross back and forth over the border without even realizing it. We can thank Maine's George Mitchell and his role in the Good Friday agreements that has made Northern Ireland what it is today.

Fairy Forts

2010-03-25T07:39:00.001-07:00

Fairy forts or fairy mounds are small fields encircled by ditches or walls made of sod or stone. They may have been ancient forts, ancient sheepfolds, or small farmsteads. Some of the fairy forts can still be seen in Ireland to this day. And many Irish farmers will not disturb them any more than they will interfere with trees or paths that are thought to belong to fairies.
Shamrocks, Harps and Shillelaghs by Edna Barth

It's Spring!

2010-03-20T11:36:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how nice it is outside today! All of a sudden there's people out and about walking the Shore Path and eating ice cream on the streets of Bar Harbor. It's not usually this warm. I may open the store early this season. Enjoy the day.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-17T05:53:00.000-07:00

All web site purchases today will receive a free CD of Celtic jigs & reels. How's that for the Luck Of The Irish!!

May our blessed good Saint Patrick
Whom we all so dearly love
Intercede and bring you
Many blessings from above.

What Is It to Be Irish??
It is to have an angel in your mouth, turning your prose to poetry. It is to have the gift of tongues, to know the language of all living things. Does an Irishman pause and turn an ear to a tree? It is because on this day he wants to hear what one sleepy bud says to another as it opens it pale green hands to the warm sun of spring.

Irish Blessings

2010-03-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

As sure as the shamrocks are growing
in the land which the Irish all love,
as sure as the lakes of Killarney
reflect the blue heavens above
As sure as the warm hearted Irish
All pay honor to Saint Patrick too,
I'm wishing you "top of the morning"
and happines always for you.

Back to Business with Deb Neuman

2010-03-13T09:29:00.000-08:00

I'm one of the featured guests on Deb Neuman's "Back to Business Radio Show" on WVOM, the Voice of Maine radio. It will air on Sunday, March 14th 2-3PM on 103.9 Bangor & 101.3 Augusta Maine, 96.7 Portsmouth, NH and streaming on 967thewave.com
The show had a St. Patrick's Day theme with a Maine business connection. Also on the show is a piper Tom Ryan of the Claddagh Mhor Pipe Band from the Portland area and Donal Durkan from Belfast Northern Ireland. If you miss the broadcast you can always hear the podcast.

Robbie O'Connell

2010-03-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

We're lucky to have singer/songwriter Robbie O'Connell playing at the Grand in Ellsworth on March 16th. Back about 12 years ago when I worked at the Grand, I put on my own Celtic Festival and Robbie was one of the featured performers. I'm so glad to have him back with us in Downeast, Maine. As a member of the famous "Clancy Brothers" family, he grew up surrounded by the greatest of great Irish performers. His song "Kilkenny, Ireland" always makes me cry. Just don't ask him sing "Oh Danny Boy"!! If you ever get the chance to see Robbie O'Connell you won't be disappointed.

Can-Am Dog Sled Races

2010-03-04T17:34:00.000-08:00

We're off to Ft. Kent this weekend for the Can-Am dog sled races. I love going "up the county" as it's called in Maine, although it's a five hour trip from Bar Harbor. Ft. Kent is located on the Canadian border and the hometown of my partner Steve. I'd move up there in a heartbeat but I don't think a Celtic store would make it there as everyone is French. However, French Acadian music does have a Celtic flavor to it.

David of Wales

2010-03-01T08:34:00.000-08:00

David or Dewi Sant as the Welsh call him is the patron saint of Wales. He was born about 520, the son of Sanctus, a Welsh king, and Non, one of the great female saints of the Early Celtic Church. David became the founder of numerous monasteries, including the monastery call Cell Muine in the south-western corner of Wales. The town where the monastery was located now bears his name.

What's wrong with this picture?

2010-02-26T07:57:00.000-08:00

While most of New England is getting hammered with snow, Bar Harbor has only a little snow left in the woods! We did get a lot of rain yesterday but today is spring like with temps in the mid forties.

The Making of "The Quiet Man"

2010-02-21T13:23:00.000-08:00

SIX DECADES after Hollywood came to Connemara, a fictional film about the making of The Quiet Man is to be made in the village where the 1952 classic was filmed.

Former James Bond actor Sir Roger Moore, Aidan Quinn and Geraldine Chaplin have signed up for the “romantic comedy”, based on the impact of director John Ford’s arrival in Cong, on the Galway-Mayo border.

Moore, returning to the screen after a 10-year gap, is also executive producer of the film, Connemara Days , which is to be directed by Kevin Connor and produced by Belfast company Causeway Pictures with support from Fáilte Ireland.

Stacy Keach, star of Escape from LA, will play director John Ford, who arrived in Cong in 1951 with the “Duke” John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. As The Irish Times Pictorial Weekly correspondent Nouvelliste reported in July 1951, electricity had arrived into Cong just a week before, and locals were paid 30 shillings a day to work as extras.

In Dublin, there were queues for fuel, for jobs, for almost everything, The Irish Times noted, but in Cong they were “queuing for crisp pound notes”.

Nouvelliste, who spent the day on the set, was unsuccessful in his efforts to get hired for a “street scene” – wryly noting that Cong only had “two streets” in any case.

The Connemara Days plot concerns an 18-year-old girl, Heather O’Dea, who falls for one of Ford’s assistant directors. Also lined up to act in the film are Sarah Bolger ( In America ) and Thomas Dekker ( Sarah Connor Chronicles ). In a statement issued yesterday by Fáilte Ireland, Moore said he was very excited to be part of a “delightful project”.

“ The Quiet Man was undoubtedly the best movie John Ford ever directed. It is also one of my all-time favourite films,” he said.

“The opportunity to revisit the time when Hollywood arrived in Ireland to shoot it was simply too delicious an opportunity to miss.”

The script, based on a novel by Steve Mayhew, has been described as “excellent” by director Kevin Connor, who also directed Marco Polo and Black Beard , among other films.

“From the moment I first read the script, I loved it,” Connor said. “Steve Mayhew has blended a terrific story of the reaction of a rural community to Hollywood’s biggest stars arriving, added to the looming electrification of the region, to produce a touching, funny and endearing screenplay in the mould of the great Ealing comedy classics.”

Fáilte Ireland says the film will provide a much-needed economic stimulus in the region.
Taken from The Irish Times.

Maine's Seth Wescott wins the Gold

2010-02-16T16:45:00.000-08:00

Wescott had his iPod on as usual during Monday's time trial and his poor performance may or may not have been down to the distracting sounds of Dropkick Murphys, whose ear-bleeding, Irish-tinged songs include "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" from the Oscar-winning film The Departed.
Wescott, also the champion in Turin in 2006, finished a disappointing 17th in the time trial but took inspiration from a band who have also recorded "Curse Of A Fallen Soul," "Famous For Nothing" and "Victory" and hauled back Canada's Mike Robertson to win the final.
"I do listen to music on my iPod in the time trial," Wescott told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.
"Mostly for the last year or so, coming from New England, I've been listening to the Dropkick Murphys out of Boston.
"I grew up as a skateboarder and so punk music is part of that scene and that lifestyle.
"The combination of things they have, bringing traditional sounds like the bagpipes into it, the Irish heritage.
"Basically all my heritage comes from the British Isles and so there's something about that for whatever reason I've had pride in since I was a young kid and just does something to me emotionally and gets me fired up."

Taken from Reuters, February 16, 2010

The Morning After

2010-02-08T05:35:00.000-08:00

I was one of the few people who didn't watch the Super Bowl last night. Instead we had tickets to Banf Mountain film festival playing at The Grand in Ellsworth. The place was packed and the films did not disappointment. Now I watching the highlights on the morning shows!!

Donegal Person of the Year

2010-01-31T15:22:00.000-08:00

MAIRÉAD Ní Mhaonaigh described herself as 'over the moon' to be declared the 2009 Donegal Person of the Year award."This year is Áltan's 25th anniversary and getting this award for me is just the crowning glory - it's the icing on the cake", said Mairead.

She formed the band Áltan together with the late Frankie Kennedy and the band's success has brought them to the world stage with their unique Donegal music.

Although Maireád lost Frankie to cancer in 2004, she continued with the band at his request and now The Frankie Kennedy winter school attracts musicians and tourism to the local area from around the world," the citation read.
Maireád is the 31st person to receive the Donegal Person of the Year and the fourth woman to receive the prestigious title.
She joins an exclusive list of recipients which include Daniel O'Donnell, Sir Gerry Robinson, Brid Rodgers, Cannon Tommy Doherty and Fr James McDyer.

Taken from The Donegal News

Guinness to the Rescue!

2010-01-15T19:34:00.000-08:00

From the Irish Times: Thousands of properties in Fingal, Dublin, Limerick and Westmeath have been without water for days as a result of pipe bursts and leaks from frozen ground.

Councillor Richard Boyd Barrett said that "in reality, the harsh weather conditions have simply exposed the utterly decrepit and inadequate state of the country’s water infrastructure and the government’s own failure to remedy this major infrastructural deficit".

Dublin brewer Guinness has provided lorries — which usually carry 30,000 litres of stout — to deliver water to areas around the city. Dublin City Council worker Michael Walsh, manning one Guinness truck at Kilmore Estate, in Santry, said many turned up thinking there was free stout on tap.

Colin O’Brien, operations manager of St James’s Gate Guinness brewery, said the company’s minimum water usage programme allowed it to provide water and tankers to where it is needed without disrupting production.

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Happy New Year

2010-01-01T08:39:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all a very Happy 2010. Hope you're able to come back to Bar Harbor this summer for a visit. If not here, how about joining Celtic Rainbow on our tour of Northern Ireland/Donegal Oct 29-Nov 7 2010. Email me for details.

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-29T09:54:00.000-08:00

This morning we were treated to a fresh snowfall that makes the forest look like a winter wonderland. My road hasn't been plowed yet so I guess I'll continue working on inventory and year round stuff inside!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T14:38:00.000-08:00

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas! We have a white Christmas here in Bar Harbor from a snowfall earlier in the week.
It's cloudy but weather wise, not bad. Hang in there you folks in the mid-west!
Sean is home from college for Christmas break for two weeks. It's Steve's birthday tomorrow and our dog Charlie got a new sweater from Santa, so life is good, thank you Lord.

Time is running out

2009-12-21T04:58:00.000-08:00

Celtic Rainbow can still ship Christmas gifts, but time is running out fast. For the ultimate WOW gift this year how about taking a loved one on our Northern Ireland/Donegal tour Oct. 29-Nov 7th 2010. You will make memories that will last a lifetime. Email me for a full itinerary of this tour or others on our web site.
http://www.CelticRainbowGifts.com
Linda@CelticRainbowGifts.com
Winter Phone: 207-244-5486

No More Ferry to Nova Scotia

2009-12-18T11:28:00.001-08:00

Bay Ferries Ltd. announced Friday that it will end its high-speed CAT ferry service between Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, and Bar Harbor. The decision, which also ends Yarmouth-Portland service, takes effect in the spring of 2010.

Sea Smoke

2009-12-17T10:17:00.001-08:00

This morning going by Somes Sound I noticed the sea smoke raising off the water. It's such a pretty sight to witness in the morning light, of course from the warmth of my car. Today at mid-day it has only warmed up to 10F. There's a thin layer of ice on the lakes so you know the ice shacks will be soon to follow.

Standing by

2009-12-14T07:14:00.000-08:00

I'm standing by to help you with purchases via phone: 207-244-5486 of email: linda@CelticRainbowGifts.com
If you saw something in the store that you didn't see on our web site, feel free to call with your request. I just might have it in stock! Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas.

Need some gift ideas?

2009-12-10T10:52:00.000-08:00

One of the roles I play as a shop keeper is to make gift suggestions for those hard to get folks. Even if you don't see what you looking for on this web site, I might have it on hand or can make a suggestion. So please feel free to email or call me if I can help in any way.

Chester Greenwood Day

2009-12-05T11:19:00.000-08:00

Who's Chester Greenwood you may ask? He's the guy that invented ear muffs. Every year the town of Farmington, ME has a big parade in his honor (he was from that town), everyone wears ear muffs, even the fire trucks in the parade has huge ear muffs. His ancestors lead the parade and cut the giant cake all in his honor. To answer the number one question that tourist asks me 'what do you people do up here in the winter'? These are some of the things we do here in Maine. I didn't go to the Chester Greenwood event this year because it's about a three hour drive from here and I got up too late. Tonite we're going to the contra dance in Bar Harbor, that's another big past time for folks. Wish you were here to enjoy it with us.

Personalized Gifts

2009-12-01T04:58:00.000-08:00

We all have a 'hard to get for' friend or relative that we want to give a special gift. You don't want to buy just anything, its like throwing money away! The perfect solution is a personalized gift from Celtic Rainbow. How about a Coat of Arms matted print? We offer over 400 surnames, just pop it in a frame. Another big hit is our Coat of Arms afghan or pillow case, made in the USA.
Personalized one of our Irish Pubs wall hangings with either a surname or something fun. The pubs with the little red bike can include your family Coat of Arms crest! There's still time to order for Christmas, but don't wait too long!

Travel Talk

2009-11-29T06:04:00.000-08:00

I will be doing a talk on the Donegal/Northern Ireland tour with Celtic Rainbow on December 9th at the Lighthouse Restaurant in Trenton. For more details call me at: 207-244-5486. Hope to see you there!

Big Changes in Bar Harbor

2009-11-24T12:39:00.000-08:00

Right across the way from my business on West St., Stewman's Lobster Pound and Ice Cream shop was torn down the other day. There was a small crowd of people this morning watching the diggers do their thing. It will be rebuilt closer to the street and should be ready in time for next season. However, I'm still up in the air as to when my building will be torn down to make way for the new hotel. It is expected to pass the planning board at the next meeting on December 3rd, so it's just a matter of time. Although I'm unsure of where Celtic Rainbow Gifts will be located next season, I'm still in business here on the web and available via email or by calling my winter phone number: 207-244-5486. I'm happy to help with any questions about your gift purchases or tour information.

Come home to Ireland

2009-11-19T18:29:00.000-08:00

Is Ireland on your bucket list? Come home to Ireland with Celtic Rainbow in 2010. Our featured tour will be Oct 29-Nov 7 to Northern Ireland and Donegal. It will include Halloween Night with the Aughakillymaude Mummers, Newgrange, Giant's Causeway, Bushmills Whiskey tour, a Matchmakers Festival and a lot more. Please see the tour section of this web site for this and other trips.

Just in time for Christmas

2009-11-17T17:58:00.000-08:00

Our web site has just been updated with some new products for Christmas. Featured items include Scottish Clan Crest plaques in resin or bronze, the detail is amazing!

Closing for the Season

2009-10-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe another season is coming to an end. Celtic Rainbow will close on October 20th., which is only two weeks away!!
Hope you get by to see me before I pack up for the winter. However, our web site is open year round 24/7. Feel free to email me or call the winter phone number if I can be of help. Linda

Acadia Night Sky Festival

2009-09-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

September 17-21,2009
Maine's spectacular rocky coast is home to Acadia National Park, and some of the last star filled skies in the country. Here the Milky Way shines bright in the largest expanse of naturally dark sky east of the Mississippi. As the rapid loss of dark skies to light pollution receives national recognition, Maine is increasingly referred to as someplace "that still has stars."
Visit: www.NightskyFestival.org for a complete listings.

Half St. Patrick's Day

2009-09-14T14:32:00.000-07:00

This Thursday, Sept. 17th is Half St. Patrick's Day and to celebrate we are having a super 17% off sale store wide. Also, I'll be baking a couple of Irish breads and providing spirits to wash it down. We might even break into some sing songs. Slainte, Linda

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

It's hard to beleive it Labor Day Weekend already! Harder to beleive is the fact that it's usually a very slow week here. Mainly because families with children are getting ready for school and the people that don't have children think it will be crowded and stay away. As a result, fewer tourist on Labor Day Weekend. So come on up and enjoy our outstanding weather.

Sean is heading to college

2009-08-21T16:27:00.000-07:00

Next Wednesday I'll be heading to Washington DC to bring my son Sean to college. Sean has been working with me at the store since he was 12yrs. old and I will greatly miss his help. While I'm away DeBanne will be minding the store but with part time hours. I'll be back at the store September 1st with hours 10AM - 6PM Monday-Saturday and on Sunday Noon-4PM

Celtic Jigs & Reels

2009-08-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday evening, August 18th from 7PM to 8PM, Chuck & Emma will be performing Celtic Jigs & Reels out on our deck. Both musicians are local and a big favorite with folks here on the island. Chuck has one of those brainy jobs with Jackson Labs and Emma is a brilliant 13yr. student from the Quietside of the island. Join us for an hour of fine Celtic music and enjoy the summer evening.

Local Maine book signing

2009-08-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 8th from 10-12 on the deck of Celtic Rainbow Gifts 56 West St. (along the waterfront) in Bar Harbor. Join Maine author Mary Duncan as she signs the third book in her "Eyes of Garnet" trilogy, "Double Vision". Eyes of Garnet is a historical fiction with a paranormal twist, set in 18th century Scotland about a young girl—Cat, as they all call her—trying to find her way with Second Sight. While learning about her gift and the craft of herbology with a very ancient mentor, she is given a new name: Garnet, which stands for courageous, fiery, independent and determined. As Garnet begins seeing the death of her family and clansmen in a war with the Hanoverian English, she tries everything in her power to keep her father and brothers from the pyres of the dead at Culloden.

Filmmaker Ken Burns in Bar Harbor

2009-08-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, August 5th, filmmaker Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan will be at the Criterion Theater to present a sneak preview of their film: The National Parks: America's Best Idea which will premiere on September 27, 2009 on PBS.

The 7:30 showing is already sold out. A second preview at 9:30 pm has been added, however, Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan will not be present for that one. I could only get tickets for the second show, but that okay with me as I don't we don't have TV at home.

wild blueberries

2009-07-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

This morning I was out walking in the woods with my dog Charlie and I'm happy to report; the blueberries are nice and plump and ready to be picked!! I think I'll head out early tomorrow morning to pick some. Nothing can compare to Maine's wild blueberries! Those huge blueberries in the grocery stores have little flavor. Maine's wild blueberries are much better for flavor and your health.
When I going picking I always use a basket to collect them so they can breath. At home, I pick out all the little twigs and leaves and spread the blueberries out on a cookie sheet to freeze. DO NOT WASH THE BLUEBERRIES BEFORE FREEZING. Put the frozen berries in a plastic bag and keep in the freezer to use as needed. Only wash the berries just before you use them.

Summer at last

2009-07-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

Although it's raining at the moment, we've had some beautiful weather in the last week. Like most of the east coast, the month of June was mostly rainy and cool. However, the last couple of weeks have been perfect for hiking & biking but a little on the cool side for this time of year. It's going to be a bumper crop for blueberries this year.

Join Us on July 4th

2009-06-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

If you're in the Bar Harbor area for July 4th you are most welcome to watch the fireworks from our deck. The following is a line up of the days event, Bar Harbor folks know how to have a good time!! And if we don't see you here, we wish you a great holiday.

The day begins at 6 AM with the Rotary's Blueberry Pancake Breakfast at the ballfield.

At 10 AM don't miss the Independence Day Parade. This year's theme is "Past, Present, and Future." The parade route will once again go from Main to Cottage to Eden to Mt. Desert to Ledgelawn.

At 11 AM it is time for the Rotary's Seafood Festival and then after the parade don't miss the MDI YMCA's Lobster Races.

From 9 AM to 3 PM the Island Artisans hold their Craft Fair at the YMCA.

Enjoy a live broadcast from 95.7 WWMJ at Agamont Park from 3 PM to 7 PM and the Town Band at 7:30 PM at the Village Green.

At approximately 9:15 PM enjoy fireworks over Frenchman Bay.

Rain, Rain, Go Away!!

2009-06-28T16:23:00.000-07:00

It's going to stop raining tomorrow and the rest of the week will be sunny right on through the July 4th weekend. You should make it a point to come to Bar Harbor for the 4th. We have lobster races, a pancake breakfast, band concerts and the best parade on the planet! Not to mention a holiday sale at Celtic Rainbow.

Legacy of the Arts

2009-06-22T11:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we kicked off Legacy of the Arts with a Fairy Contest on the deck of the store. Fairy Princess Anna Rose read some Irish fairy tales followed by a fairy contest. Only a small group of fairies showed up for the event and each was awarded a prize and a bag of goodies. But we had to canceled the Fairy Parade as it started raining.

Lupines

2009-06-18T15:43:00.000-07:00

Today I was cruising around Mt. Desert Island dropping off my rack cards in B&B's, campgrounds, etc. What made the today's ride extra special is that the lupines are in full bloom & all over the island! I wish you were all here to see them.

Bloomsday-June 16th at Noon

2009-06-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

DeBanne Browne will read from James Joyce's "Ulysses" in period dress with improvisations of scenes from the story. Join with millions of people around the globe and retrace the odyssey of Leopold Bloom through the streets Dublin on his epic journey of June 16th 1904. On the deck of Celtic Rainbow, 56 West St. Bar Harbor.

FAIRY CONTEST

2009-06-15T07:09:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, June 21st at 2PM on the deck of Celtic Rainbow on West St. Bar Harbor local storyteller and actress, Anna Rose Keefe will read some Ireland's most loved fairy tales as part of the week long celebration of Legacy for the Arts. Followed by a costume contest with prizes in three categories: Best Fairy Costume, Funniest Fairy Costume and Cutest Fairy Costume. Ms. Keefe will then lead the Fairy Parade down and around Agamont Park.

Charlie's Birthday

2009-05-31T16:28:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow my sweet little poodle "Charlie" turns four years old. Usually Charlie hangs out with me at the store, but I'm giving him the day off so he can get his summer haircut. We don't get him groomed like a poodle, we like the sheep cut best on him. We got Charlie about a year and a half ago from the animal rescue and he's such good company for me at the store. Oh course I have to train him all over again this year not to jump on customers and bark at passing dogs. Happy Birthday Charlie, you're the best!

What a weekend!

2009-05-26T06:19:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend here in Bar Harbor was just beautiful. The weather was great the whole weekend, mostly sunny, a little windy, but it's still only May. My son Sean marched his last Memorial Day parade as part of the MDI High School Band. Sean will be going away to college in three months time, I hope he keeps up his clarinet while away at college. He also plays in the Bar Harbor Community band that performs on the village green twice a week in July & August, so try to make a concert if you can.

Opening May 22nd

2009-05-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit behind in opening the store, therefore Celtic Rainbow will open on May 22nd instead. My neighbors at the West St. Cafe and The Alone Moose Gallery will be opening on May 22nd, so we may as well all open the same day.

However, the celtic music store across from me on West St. sold their building a couple of weeks ago. I'm sad to see them go, they had a nice little store.

Building permits are still being sought for the new Marroitt Hotel going in my spot. I will keep you posted with the developments.

Opening May 15th

2009-05-05T22:34:00.000-07:00

Celtic Rainbow Gifts will open for the season on May 15th. I can hardy believe this will be my seventh season. It looks like I'll be in the same location (56 West St.) for another season. The new hotel will not be started until Oct or Nov, however it has not cleared the planning board yet. So anything is possible!

New Products

2009-05-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

I had such a great time at the Secaucus NJ Ireland show last week, two days at the show is just not enough. I have some funky new products for the store this year which include: Scottish Clan wall hangings in bronze or lighter weight resin, Fairy pendants and Fairy Dust, Leather wrist bands, Ireland Road Sign magnets, Coat of Arms Coasters and lots of new rings & jewelry. Looking to open the shop by mid-May, I'll keep you all informed.

Ireland Showcase

2009-04-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Next week I'll be attending the Ireland Showcase in Secaucus, NJ to see first hand the new products for the season. It's not just products from Ireland, but also from the other Celtic Nations. There's always a great mix of business and pleasure at these shows. As a member of the North American Celtic Trade Assoc., I get to see friends from around the USA and Canada that have Celtic stores, plus the vendors from across the pond that have become our friends as well. We share new trends in the business, industry concerns and of course, a few pints!

Cadillac Mt Open

2009-04-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

Acadia National Park loop roads opened today, although the carriage roads are close as the ground is still to soft to walk or bike.
I went up to the top of Cadillac Mt. this morning and it was just beautiful, however, there's snow on the sides of the road going up. So that's the report from here. Start planning your vacation to Mount Desert Island, we're waiting for ya's!!

The Titanic Curse

2009-04-13T18:47:00.000-07:00

On April 14th 1912, the supposedly unsinkable Titanic hit an iceberg and sank in the Atlantic Ocean. When Titanic sank, claims were made that a curse existed on the ship. The press quickly linked the "Titanic curse" with the White Star line practice of not christening their ships. One of the most widely spread legends linked directly into the sectarianism of the city of Belfast, where the ship was built. It was suggested that the ship was given the number 390904 which, when read backwards as reflected by the water's surface, was claimed to spell "no pope", a sectarian slogan attacking Roman Catholics that was (and is) widely used provocatively by extreme Protestants in Northern Ireland. In the extreme sectarianism of north-east Ireland (Northern Ireland itself did not exist until 1920), the ship's sinking, though mourned, was alleged to be on account of the sectarian anti-Catholicism of her manufacturers, the Harland and Wolff company, which had an almost exclusively Protestant workforce and an alleged record of hostility towards Catholics.
The "no pope" story is in fact an urban legend, with no basis in fact. RMS Olympic and Titanic were assigned the yard numbers 400 and 401 respectively. The source of the story may have been from reports by dockworkers in Queenstown of anti-Catholic graffiti that they found on Titanic's coalbunkers when they were loading coal.
Source: Wikipedia

Happy Easter

2009-04-11T06:44:00.000-07:00

I want to wish you all a very Happy Easter. Hang in there, summer is coming!
I'm heading off to the Ireland Showcase in two weeks down in Secaucus NJ. It's always fun to see old friends from around the country and pick new products for the upcoming season. As a member of the North American Celtic Trade Assoc. I'm lucky enough to have a great network of shop keepers and vendors from both the US & Canada to share ideas and concerns. Usually, I alternate shows in the US and Ireland from year to year. It maybe called the Ireland Showcase but vendors represent products from Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England as well. I certainly will update you with my latest finds.