Botanical gardens, Donegal surnames, and fun T-shirts

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
National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin. (See it on a map here.)

The National Botanic Gardens are a hidden gem in Dublin. They showcase a wide variety of plant species in beautiful, scientifically curated collections and the grounds are a delight to wander. Just outside the gardens you’ll find Glasnevin Cemetery, where you may be able to find a Padraig Pearse reenactor delivering the famous “Ireland unfree shall never be at peace” oration. You can check out a recreation of this oration here. 

For Letter from Ireland Plus members: Also check out our County Dublin Homelands Feature here for much more.

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FEATURED IRISH SURNAMES – County Donegal Surnames

Do you have roots in County Donegal? If you do, your lineage may boast names like O’Donnell, Gallagher, or Doherty. Read more about it here – and see if you can spot your own surname in the mix!

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BOOK I’M READING NOW
“The Boy in the Striped Pajamas” by John Boyne

You may already be familiar with the book “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas” and its 2008 movie adaptation by Irish writer John Boyne. But in case you haven’t read or seen it yet, the story is set in World War II and follows an unlikely friendship between a Nazi officer’s son and a Jewish boy in a concentration camp. This novel is targeted for young readers and has sparked much debate worldwide. But we’re sure readers of any age will still find it quite a poignant and relevant (albeit heavy) tale to absorb. Check out the book on Amazon. 

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IRISH WORD OR PROVERB

“Is Gael-Mheiriceánach mé.”

Which translates to “I’m an Irish American”.

Click here to listen to how a native Irish speaker would say it.

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IRISH CRAFT/PRODUCT WE LOVE

Mireog is a stylish, modern brand that brings old Celtic stories back to life with their magical creations — from eye-catching t-shirts to artisanal notebooks. It’s like a wearable piece of Irish heritage! They’re perfect for the culture enthusiast or the fashion-forward fan. Check out their shop here. 

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RIDDLE OF THE WEEK

“What can turn without stirring?”

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!