"This place makes me sick." I turn to Connor, surprised at this vehemence. "Physically sick, I mean", he continues. "It's the fluorescent lights, I'm sure of it. They affect my eyes. I hate coming here." A teenager who hates shopping malls? Intriguing. I love them, always have. I inherited a love of shopping - or … Continue reading in praise of suburban shopping malls
life & style
the big barossa
A free hire car upgrade is always a good way to start a weekend away. Satnav on and away we go, out of Adelaide, up the Main North Road to wine country. Shiraz country, to be precise: the Big Barossa. Once past the outer suburbs the landscape becomes more and more sun-scorched, all browns, ochres … Continue reading the big barossa
heartbreak… 21st century style
It was a brief, but short-lived, love affair. A chance encounter online then, finally, a hurriedly-arranged reunion on Australian soil. The few weeks of anticipation dragged as my impatience rose and my expectations fell. How could it be the same as the last time I'd seen him, back in London, so many years ago? I … Continue reading heartbreak… 21st century style
christmas shopping
Monday morning in Dublin during a recession is an ideal time to go Christmas shopping, I think. No crowds, plenty of space, a bargain or two. I park in Drury Street, a friendly Corkman relieving me of my car keys and hiding the hire car in the bowels of his underground car park. St. Stephen's … Continue reading christmas shopping
Máiréad Doyle 