If you’re in Dundalk this month, the County Museum’s new exhibition, From the Collection – A Christmas Special, is a lovely way to dip into a bit of nostalgia. Featuring toys spanning the last century – from wooden trains and dolls to early computer games and Transformers – it’s a gentle reminder of simpler Christmases. Visitors can even add their own childhood wish to a growing wall of memories. Admission is free until the end of January.
Some of the items on display at From the Collection - A Christmas Special, at the County Museum, Dundalk. / County Museum
Irish blood – ‘Every Drop Counts’
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service has launched a new national appeal ‘Every Drop Counts’ inspired by the late Carlow hurler Oisín Kelly, who lost his life to bone cancer in 2023. His courage during his illness continues to move people across the country. With only 17% of donors aged 18-30, the IBTS is calling on GAA clubs and young players to help secure Ireland’s future blood supply. Oisín aimed to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation, especially among young people while he was sick and said: “Every drop counts, I know.” Clubs and new donors can learn more and sign up at giveblood.ie/campaigns/oisin-kelly
Pictured below: Brendan and Sinead Kelly, parents of the late Oisín Kelly . /IBTS
Irish brand BabyBoo has become a favourite with parents thanks to its soft, organic-cotton bibs, blankets and sleepsuits that are kind to sensitive skin. Everything feels thoughtfully made, from their dribble-proof bibs to the cosy little essentials that make everyday life with babies that bit easier. They’re lovely for new arrivals, growing toddlers and, if you’re picking up a Christmas gift, they fit the bill nicely too. Explore the range at babyboo.ie.
BlankieBoo, €40.
Should Have Read The Journal by Dinah Berrill, Co Meath
Did anyone pick up The Journal?
Doesn’t The Journal come out today?
Did anyone grab it and hide it
Before Dad gives it away.
Mother must read Liz Kavanagh
As she goes on about “himself”.
But I should have scanned through ‘Getting in Touch’
For getting myself off the shelf.
Now there’s where you found all the answers
To questions you needed to know.
One’s age, one’s intentions and prospects, own transport,
whether or no.
Was there ever a CV like it?
No back-story needed to be told,
You might get a photo of 10 years ago
And reply with the same if so.
Well, I took the regular route to romance,
Found the one that I needed to know,
Didn’t think for now on the future outlook,
Just danced to Dickie, Brendan and Joe.
Time passed and we knew the folks had to meet,
First my home and the next month to his.
They eyed each other as in a mart it seemed,
Judging who brought the skim and who had the cream.
The mother came out with one question,
The only one needed to ask,
It would tell the size of one’s holding,
And the cheque that you’re hoping to cash.
Happily, I knew I was sorted, when next I heard her say,
Well Mike, tell me “How many are you milking today?”.
If you’re in Dundalk this month, the County Museum’s new exhibition, From the Collection – A Christmas Special, is a lovely way to dip into a bit of nostalgia. Featuring toys spanning the last century – from wooden trains and dolls to early computer games and Transformers – it’s a gentle reminder of simpler Christmases. Visitors can even add their own childhood wish to a growing wall of memories. Admission is free until the end of January.
Some of the items on display at From the Collection - A Christmas Special, at the County Museum, Dundalk. / County Museum
Irish blood – ‘Every Drop Counts’
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service has launched a new national appeal ‘Every Drop Counts’ inspired by the late Carlow hurler Oisín Kelly, who lost his life to bone cancer in 2023. His courage during his illness continues to move people across the country. With only 17% of donors aged 18-30, the IBTS is calling on GAA clubs and young players to help secure Ireland’s future blood supply. Oisín aimed to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation, especially among young people while he was sick and said: “Every drop counts, I know.” Clubs and new donors can learn more and sign up at giveblood.ie/campaigns/oisin-kelly
Pictured below: Brendan and Sinead Kelly, parents of the late Oisín Kelly . /IBTS
Irish brand BabyBoo has become a favourite with parents thanks to its soft, organic-cotton bibs, blankets and sleepsuits that are kind to sensitive skin. Everything feels thoughtfully made, from their dribble-proof bibs to the cosy little essentials that make everyday life with babies that bit easier. They’re lovely for new arrivals, growing toddlers and, if you’re picking up a Christmas gift, they fit the bill nicely too. Explore the range at babyboo.ie.
BlankieBoo, €40.
Should Have Read The Journal by Dinah Berrill, Co Meath
Did anyone pick up The Journal?
Doesn’t The Journal come out today?
Did anyone grab it and hide it
Before Dad gives it away.
Mother must read Liz Kavanagh
As she goes on about “himself”.
But I should have scanned through ‘Getting in Touch’
For getting myself off the shelf.
Now there’s where you found all the answers
To questions you needed to know.
One’s age, one’s intentions and prospects, own transport,
whether or no.
Was there ever a CV like it?
No back-story needed to be told,
You might get a photo of 10 years ago
And reply with the same if so.
Well, I took the regular route to romance,
Found the one that I needed to know,
Didn’t think for now on the future outlook,
Just danced to Dickie, Brendan and Joe.
Time passed and we knew the folks had to meet,
First my home and the next month to his.
They eyed each other as in a mart it seemed,
Judging who brought the skim and who had the cream.
The mother came out with one question,
The only one needed to ask,
It would tell the size of one’s holding,
And the cheque that you’re hoping to cash.
Happily, I knew I was sorted, when next I heard her say,
Well Mike, tell me “How many are you milking today?”.
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