A Bit About Me

My Journey: A Life in Bloom

I grew up in Dublin, but my fascination with Ireland’s plants started early. As a child, I loved exploring the countryside on family outings, learning about the unique wildflowers and landscapes. That curiosity stayed with me as I grew older, shaping many of my choices and hobbies.

In my twenties, I married Brian, who was running a successful textile business. When we retired in 2018, we moved to a smallholding in Connemara, where I could dedicate more time to gardening. We raised chickens, pigs, lambs, and grew vegetables, but my favorite part was cultivating native Irish plants. From bog rosemary to sea thrift, I immersed myself in preserving the flora I'd loved as a child.

Brain's Untimely Passing

Brian took up golf and became part of the local community when we first moved west, while I focused on our garden and learning more about the plants around us. During winters, we stayed at our villa in Spain. Even there, I couldn’t help experimenting with Irish plants, trying to grow them in a completely different climate. Some thrived; others struggled. Every success taught me something new.

In 2021, my life changed when Brian passed away. It was totally unexpected. After a period, i had to find comfort in nature. Where I began. Our garden became a place of healing. I also divided my time between Connemara and Spain, finding new ways to connect with people and explore my interests. Now, I’m more dedicated than ever to sharing my love for Irish plants and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

About This Blog

This blog is about more than gardening. It’s about my healing process to be honest, and the role nature has played throughout my life. Whether you’re passionate about Irish flora, gardening, or simply enjoy stories of personal growth or Iike me you feel you'll be forever grieving, i hope you find something meaningful here.

This blog is my way of coping with Brian's sudden death. It ripped me to pieces but i hope that if anyone reads this it might inspire them to discover Irish flora (and some fauna!) along the way. This is my outlet. Something to keep me busy at night. Something to stop me dwelling. And if it helps anyone along the way, that's wonderful. Any feedback or messages, will be replied to.

Ann