A popular surfing spot, rare Sligo surnames, and kinetic jewellry….

Céad míle fáilte, welcome to your Letter from Ireland “Shorts”.  Each Tuesday we’ll bring you a quick-read of some of our favourite and interesting Irish things for this week.

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FAVOURITE PLACES IN IRELAND
Mullaghmore Head, County Sligo. (See it on a map here.)

Next stop on our Wild Atlantic Way adventure: the breathtaking Mullaghmore Head in County Sligo! This dramatic limestone peninsula offers world-class surfing waves, stunning coastal walks, and the picturesque Mullaghmore village. The headland has been shaped by centuries of Atlantic storms, creating spectacular sea cliffs and hidden coves that have inspired poets and artists for generations 🌊 Check out this video to see more of what Mullaghmore has to offer or have a listen at this song about Mullaghmore by Christy Moore.

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FEATURED IRISH SURNAMES – Rare Sligo Surnames

Do you have any surnames from County Sligo in your family tree? Your surname might even be a rare one! Check out the rarest Irish surnames and forenames from County Sligo here on John Grenham – and see if you can spot your own surname in the mix.

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BOOK I’M READING NOW
“At Swim-Two-Birds” by Flan O’Brien

Flann O’Brien’s wildly inventive Irish novel is part literary experiment, part comedy masterpiece. The story follows an unnamed Dublin student writing a novel about a character who’s also writing a novel – creating a dizzying meta-fiction where characters rebel against their authors. O’Brien’s humor is brilliant and uniquely Irish, blending folklore, mythology, and modern life in ways that shouldn’t work but absolutely do. Perfect for readers who loved “Tristram Shandy” or enjoy experimental fiction! Check out the book here.

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IRISH WORD OR PROVERB

“Is trom an rud cearc i bhfad”

Which translates to “A hen [carried] far is a heavy thing.”

Hear how it’s spoken in Irish here.

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IRISH CRAFT/PRODUCT WE LOVE

Alan Ardiff is a multi-talented Irish artist who creates extraordinary jewelry that literally moves! His unique pieces combine gold and silver with kinetic elements – watch fish jump, birds swing, stones rock, and hearts roll right on your body –  each piece tells its own story through motion! This Wondering Dog pendant is one of their bestsellers and makes for a precious memento of your furry friend. Check out their shop here.

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RIDDLE OF THE WEEK

“Where is the word happy always to be found?”

Click here to see the answer.

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That’s it for this week. Send us an email with any of your own favourites for inclusion in future emails, or if you’re a plus member leave a comment below.

Slán for now,
Mike & Carina.

*Note: The above article may contain some affiliate links (for example Amazon) which means we get paid a small amount should you choose to purchase, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep the show on the road!