Louis Mulcahy in Ballyferriter, I bet.

We usually just get stuff we can use and it's just a bonus that it's not necessarily things you wouldn't find back home.

Wool is good. I really like to grab some of the wool walking socks for winter. Very comfy. Bought a few other assorted wool things to wear.

Last time though, a couple of house things ended up in the bag... a Connemara green marble carving and a large wooden bowl from an artist's shop in Cahir that was carved from sycamore, leaving the top edge rough and uneven from the original bark layer of the tree. Hard to explain, but it was unique enough to catch the eye.

MaryZ.. yes! Louis Mulcahy -- Thanks!

Thought I would come back and tell you all what great suggestions you gave me. I did buy Aran sweaters (thank heavens I had them shipped home), lots of scarves and Celtic jewelry. I haven't taken off my new ring since I have been home! We stopped in Roundstone and bought some pottery. Went to Dingle and I was so blown away by Louis Mulcahy's pottery that I couldn't make a decision- I didn't buy a thing! Still kicking myself but I was afraid that once I got started, I might not stop. Absolutely incredible stuff!

I did not buy any crystal- it is not really my thing. I failed to follow the directive to buy it when you see it so I missed my chance to buy 2003 Christmas ornaments and lots of other great stuff. However, Connemara marble- yup! had to have some.

I really wanted to buy my BIL some Wellies but couldn't find them in his size.

Next time I will know better what to pick up immediately and the best part is that there will be a next time!

Thanks again!

Message: My Guiness t-shirt and umbrella from the Guiness Brewery Gift Shop in Dublin!!!! Take the tour!

ed,

You've presented a good query. In all my travels to Ireland there is one homegrown company that stands head and shoulders above the touristic pack, Nicholas Mosse pottery. This lovely, superbly made pottery evokes rural Ireland, and its shop/cafe in Bennettsbridge, County Kilkenny is worth a special trip. There is a wide selection of priced-right "seconds", and the Mosse staff couldn't be more hospitable, very much in keeping with Eire itself.

Best of luck.