Issue No. 003
October 2026
Coastal Causeway, Northern Ireland
The Coastal Causeway of Northern Ireland, also known as the Causeway Coastal Route, is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world. Stretching along the stunning north coast, it offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and green countryside. The route is rich in history, wildlife and natural beauty, making easy inspiration for local artists. In contrast with the buzzing city life, here it's for those who enjoy walking, photography and exploring the outdoors. hugs, Liz
Liz's Corner of Local Tips:
1. A car is the easiest way to get everywhere but the bus system is reliable.
2. Many storefronts are closed on Sundays so check opening hours before you plan.
3. Depending on the time of year, if possible plan your adventures around when it's sunny.
4. There are so many restaurants locally sourcing their seafood right off the boats, so make sure to order some for a well rounded experience.
5. Take the opportunity to explore land and sea with a fishing trip or horseback riding.
A subtle way, as an ASL interpreter, I show I'm traveling is always a new nail color. Nailed it with peach polish and a Bushmill's cosmo.
Northern Ireland has GOT you when it comes to filming locations. We traveled all over, following the Journey of Doors to Ballintoy for a day of exploration. Much of the day featured a beautiful cliff walk, following the edge all along til Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge which connects a 100 foot drop from island to shore. Now I didn’t mind the height, but rather the sassy attitude of the wind whipping through that caused me alarm. However both Jon and I made it across and back unharmed. Along the edge we continued to Larrybane Quarry (location of Renly’s Camp) and yet another beautiful view of the coast. Then into town we went for a bite at the Fullerton Arms, location of the #6 Door but also a yummy bite to eat. Once full of mussels to Ballintoy Harbour (where Theon & Euron were born again) we went. This was probably the most rocky of shores I’ve been with so many seastacks and pools scattered along the coastline. The wind whistles through, creating such ripples I had never seen, playing with the surface of the water.
Carved into the stones themselves are that of legends. Walking down toward that shore you don’t quite know what you’re in for. It seems, coming round the bend, that it’s just where land meets the sea but every step closer brings into view the appearance of thousands of stone spikes, tightly up against each other, piercing the ground creating a stone walk into the mouth of the sea. Of all the times I’ve been to Giant’s Causeway the day when the waves were enormous, crashing all along the edge till the sandy shore, was the time I will remember most. Battering the coastline as if a sailor cried, “ramming speed!” Again and again water sprung feet in the air to land on that hexagonal shore.
Balancing on the edge of land but at any moment could be swallowed up by the sea is Dunluce Castle. Stripped down to just stones, a skeleton of a fortress. To look through one of its many windows is to see into the past. Clans came and went but the views from those windows remain jaw dropping. The dramatic northern Irish coastline with wind and water forever coming in strong, it’s easy to imagine what this castle had to withstand from cliffside.
A wonderful day full of festivities came about by chance and it felt so small town that I have to laugh every time I think of it. Only by talking to a local artist in Bushmills did Jon and I find ourselves at the Salmon & Whiskey Festival the following weekend. Stuffing our faces with all the flavors that Irish hospitality could serve. Textures of the sea in kelp relish and seaweed chips to whiskey finished marmalades to cosy wheaton breads. And that was only part 1. Upon chatting with a local gin distiller we learn of the local Beer Festival in Portrush where we happen to be staying. So after a hearty tasting of Bushmills we headed back for a little respite before returning to the streets to mix amongst the locals. The Portrush town hall was crowded with the contents of the areas’ over 18 enjoying a glass or two. And I must say, being gluten free, Jon can vouch for the beer (which he says was excellent) I can however say that gin mixed with lemonade and an orange slice was added to my top 10 favorite beverage list. “Happy Days!”
I am by no means an athlete so when I took a pleasant walk along the coastline from Portrush to Bushmills then Giant’s Causeway (clocking in 29,000 steps) on a beautiful sunny day, to say I was proud is an understatement. A third of the trail at least was walking the entirety of East Strand’s beach to the Whiterocks. With warm rays on my face, horses galloping nearby, and the ocean ever waving on my left, it can't be hard to imagine how peaceful that was. After a quick climb of stairs and joining the road we weaved in and out from the rocky side of the cliffs, hearing the waves crash many meters below, the view was endless. Passing Dunluce, then turning into Portballintrae the view changed to rolling hills and quilted grazing fields til Bushmills. There we changed course, pulling a hairpin and turning onto the trail that followed the heritage tram through Bushfoot Golf Club, over the river and close to the dunes. Here it opened up to the sea again, the wind blissfully playing with my hair. By this time we were only moments, a few steps from the end of the trail so spirits were high with the view of the countryside meeting the causeway. Before taking the Red Trail along the cliff to the causeway we took a moment to look back upon the many shades of green, with mixes of sheep bleating and what I like to call “Toy Story” clouds, you know the ones, in the sky beyond. It had been such an invigorating walk, and should the skies permit it, we’ll do it again.
Nestled between East and West Strand sits the cosy little town of Portrush. It is here where the amusements are not in short supply. Boasting four separate facilities it’s not a surprise that this seaside town is buzzing with the hum of bells and neon lights. A steady stream of life coming through with many getting their fill of the indoors, heading out to gorgeous nature just a stone’s throw away. From laughing on rides to walking to the lullaby of the ocean waves.
Issue No. 002
September 2026
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is a lively capital city where ancient history meets the gentle flow of the River Liffey. Georgian brick buildings line quiet streets with bright doors. Warm music spills out from old wooden pubs into the evening air. Friendly voices greet you on every corner. Stone bridges cross the water to connect old stories with busy modern days. It is a welcoming place of poets, history, and bright lights by the sea. hugs, Liz
Liz's Corner of Local Tips:
1. There is a surprising number of celiacs in Ireland so the options for gluten free is pretty good.
2. Just always be ready for rain and pleasantly surprised when the sun shines.
3. To truly understand Dublin, you need to learn about the struggles the Irish have gone through. Make sure to include some history when you visit.
4. The city is very walkable but if a bus is necessary, bring exact change.
5. Strike up a conversation with the locals: shop keepers, servers, and the like. Many recommendations or at least a good story come out of those interactions.
A subtle way, as an ASL interpreter, I show I'm traveling is always a new nail color. Nailed it with peach polish and a Guinness. I only had a sip.
I enjoy a good story, so naturally I was beguiled by the folklore at the National Leprechaun Museum. Each story taking its time to share, not only in word but small paired motions creating a story made out of the whole body. And if you can stomach it, ask for the gruesome stories since leprechauns tend to smile as they sneer.
Since the smell of old books entices me from my path, one of my top priorities was Trinity College Library and the Book of Kells. And boy was I not disappointed. It took everything within me to not crack open a spine and devour every word on the page. The jewel (literally) was the book of Kells. It glimmers in all its glory. I took a moment to revel in the detail that was thoughtfully hand placed. Just awe struck! This compared to another time where the smaller, more cosy experience at Marsh's Public Library was equally as fascinating. Instead of their pages being adorned with precious metals, these were pierced by bullets. The staff told us of the story of the British firing on rebels within the library and the librarian sending an invoice to the British government for damages. Couldn’t help but chuckle.
The question one asks when in Dublin is not whether one should drink or not … no no … the question is “Guinness or Jameson?”. Both factory tours tell of the process of how their product is made and includes a tasting. However, Jameson leads small group tours with a guide for a more personal experience while Guinness is a self guided museum experience with a view of the city at the end. I’m biased since I’m gluten free so I enjoyed Jameson’s comparable whiskey tasting more, but my husband swears by the freshness of a Guinness in its native land.
One rule Jon and I have is ALWAYS go up the tower of a church for the best view of the city. This rule has, to this day, never failed. In Dublin’s instance, we went up Christ Church’s tower for the added bonus of ringing the tower bells. Although St Patrick’s is taller, how often do you get the chance to ring the church bells, especially if you aren’t catholic? Having traveled for 10+ years, I think that’s twice. So yeah, that happened and it was glorious. Difficult work, even when not following music but the sweet sound of the bells makes it worth it.
Literature can be a great motivator and some of the greats have brick & mortars to their names in Dublin. James Joyce is immortalized in the literary club at Sweny's Pharmacy where they regularly hold readings in several languages. Oscar Wilde has a house tour. And William Butler Yeats has an exhibition in the National Library of Ireland. I’m partial to James Joyce, not because I have read his work, but due to the charm that PJ Murphy (the managing director of Sweny’s Pharmacy) brought to the writings. Beguiling us with an Irish blessing in Gaelic before we left.
I do enjoy a night out, I will admit, and in Dublin’s case The Temple Bar district had me covered. Many a pub colors its streets with Irish family names written in gold and flowers draping over the sides. In my limited experience there are two main categories to consider (after your preferred beverage): traditional or pop music. This factor separates the classics from the tread chasers. Back in the days when I enjoyed crowds and could recognize a song within a few notes I was down for The Temple Bar Pub. But now, a few years later and having not practiced patience, I was more tempted by the Vat House Bar. Both have their place, it’s just what you’re up for.
Issue No. 001
August 2026
Seattle, Wa
Seattle was my home for 18 years. I moved around but was always exploring the city. Here it’s all sorts of rain for 10 months then drop dead gorgeous for most of summer and a bit into fall. It's quirky and fun with more weird things to do than normal, but that suits me. And every memory is connected to a friend. hugs, Liz
Liz's Corner of Local Tips:
1. A rain jacket is a MUST since umbrellas are few and far between.
2. Coffee is a custom but it's the little cafes we love most.
3. When in doubt, a hiking wardrobe will help you to fit right in. So you might as well have a plan for a hike while you're at it.
4. Summers are EPIC. There is so much to do and see since Washington has a little bit of everything. Almost every natural environment spread across the state but a car is needed to see it all.
5. If you can make it up to the islands, I swear it's worth it.
A subtle way, as an ASL interpreter, I show I'm traveling is always a new nail color. Nailed it with purple polish and a coffee from the "original" Starbucks. I had to, at least once.
Like the time I realised Washington state had “islands”. Growing up in a small town like Olympia I had no concept of such a thing. Islands were tropical and far away but one year, to my surprise, Lora and Anna (dear friends) mentioned the phrase “girl’s trip,” and exploring the Islands was born … at least for me. When summers rolled around and there was space in our calendars we ticked off the list, one by one. They feel like a small nestled little part of WA. Just the cozy good parts, with ocean, art, and seafood.
Like that time with Jon (my husband) at Dancing til Dusk, when the floor was temporarily thrown in the middle of the park, everyone crowded around their sweaty partners dancing next to trees and a life size chess board. Experience didn’t matter because it was summer and sunny in Seattle. It was a relationship on that checkered floor that may last 3 minutes or longer, depending on the band.
Like that time when I barely said a few words about a bucket list item and Kristie (a dear friend) knew she was going to make Hot Tub Boating on Lake Union happen. With Jon at the helm and me on cooler duty, 6 of us including Kristie made it out on the lake in a hot tub. Half the time laughing over the bumps from the wakes of other boats and the other half laughing at my choice of song. It was an epic time and probably one of my favorite views of Seattle.
Like that time when Sarah (a dear friend) and I went up in a hot air balloon in Snohomish. Having a fear of flying was no issue since we simply floated. The occasional burst of heat and flame to keep us afloat and everything was becoming miniscule. I’ve never had to trust a basket more than in that hour. Considering it required a liability waver, we were at the mercy of the elements in a freeing and vulnerable way.
Like that time when you had to show up early for a fire pit at Golden Gardens. Ange (a dear friend) was insistent and, I will give it to her, it was worth it. A cozy place to sit, make s’mores, and watch an epic sunset. On another evening when Jon and I were alone, we’d return to that very beach for a picnic but Jon had other plans and would get down on one knee.
Like the time I wanted to learn blacksmithing and I knew J and Albert (my dear friends) would be down. Probably one of the more unique classes I’ve taken, but Lawless Forge made everything easy. Well, minus the actual hammering of metal. I should have stretched before, but those pains and strains made me a knife out of a horse shoe and I am proud of that fact. Through sweat and fire it was made and to top it off, it cuts pretty well.