For Communion children there is no need to spend a fortune on a dress or suit. They will only wear this for a few hours so don’t feel pressure to spend hundreds of euros. We had a ramble around Ilac SC and found that TK Maxx have very affordable dresses, Dunnes Stores, has a wonderful Communion collection for boys and girls and Dealz are great for decorations, plates, paper cups, balloons etc. Charity shops are a treasure trove for dresses and suits; with amazing outfits from as little as €15! For Mammies who want to dress without spending a fortune, Mykindofdress.com has a huge range of dresses at their flagship store Unit 1, Fashion City Ballymount. Open 11-4, Mon-Sat and no appointment needed. I picked up a beautiful dress on their website for my daughters Confirmation and used discount code MAMS30 for 30% off. The dresses are reasonably priced already but the discount code, makes them even more affordable! For Dads and siblings, Penney’s is great. From cute dresses for girls to snazzy chinos, shirts and waistcoats for boys and Dads. As always, plenty to choose from and budget friendly. On the day itself, if hosting family and friends at home, don’t be afraid to ask family members to bring a dish or dessert along. We always do this in our family. My sister-in-law brings her yummy homemade profiteroles, and my aunt brings her famous lasagna. It eases the burden on parents a little. If you would rather go out; look for well-priced Communion packages. Bracken Court Hotel Balbriggan have a few different Communion menu options to choose from, depending on your budget and you can rest assured the food, service and atmosphere will be great. We have had many family events there throughout the years and always find them accommodating. Most of all, enjoy the day and try not to stress. The most important thing is that the child enjoys their special day! For more helpful tips, go to mams.ie

Courtesy of Malahide Historical Society

At this time of year in the 1830’s, it was popular in the past to take ‘the pledge’ after the Christmas excesses. The Pledge was a commitment not to take alcohol and was inspired and promoted by The Total Abstinence Society founded by the famous Fr Theobald Matthew in 1838. He paid a high profile visit to Malahide as part of the celebrations for the opening of St. Sylvester’s Church in July 1846, as recounted in the Freeman’s Journal:

“We perceive that the new Catholic church of Malahide will be dedicated upon Sunday next. The ceremony—the most interesting, perhaps, of all those by which the Catholic church stimulates—and elevates the piety of her children, will be performed by the venerated prelate of this diocese, the most Rev. Dr. Murray. The dedication sermon will be preached by the Very. Rev. T. Matthew. We understand that the completion of this holy edifice depends in a great degree upon the amount of the contributions which the congregation on this occasion may be pleased to bestow.The district of Malahide is far from wealthy, and the people have contributed already to the full extent of their means. The Right Hon. Lord Talbot De Malahide, with great liberality, as well of means as of mind, generously contributed one hundred pounds to the building fund, and we understand his Lordship has promised a further subscription at a future period. We have no doubt that the appeal of Sunday next will enable the excellent Catholic rector, the Rev. Mr. Fleming, to proceed in his good and pious work, and to complete a beautiful edifice dedicated to the service of the Almighty Father of all.

A Select Choir will attend, under the management of Mr. Gormley, of Saints Michael and Johns’ Church. Admission to the Sanctuary for a family of Five is £1; Individuals are 5s. each Admission to the body of church, 2s/6d each. The Very Rev. Mr. Matthew will administer the Pledge after the ceremonies of the day. Increased accommodation will be afforded on the Railway”. It is not recorded how many took the pledge in Malahide that day but at its height, just before the Great Famine of 1845–49, his movement enrolled some 3 million people, or more than half of the adult population of Ireland.

By Jonathan Kavanagh

Take a stroll around Swords or any local town and one is immediately impressed by the number of restaurants offering fine cuisine from around the globe. We are truly spoiled for choice. In days of yore, dining out has not yet entered our psyche. Our tastebuds go unchallenged. The free-standing kitchen cabinet, complete with drop down work board, contains the basics to quell our hunger and keep us upright. Meat and home-grown vegetables most days of the week. On Fridays, the scent of “fresh” herrings perfumes the air as the fishman roams the district in his Volkswagen pickup truck. On Sundays and special occasions desert: jelly and custard, rice with added raisins boiled to near annihilation, tapioca or semolina are added to the menu. We eat in season; with mushrooms straight from the fields simmered in milk with a generous helping of pepper, blanched new season nettles believed to have health benefits, and blackberries straight from the bush among our favourite treats. A bottle of chicory which tastes like a hybrid of brown sauce and sandpaper is as close as we come to Noel Purcell’s ‘heaven with coffee at eleven’. St Patrick’s Day finds my mother (best described as a chef de rough ‘n’ ready), sporting her green apron, as she unwraps an aesthetically displeasing lump of bacon, she bought in a corner shop. Incidentally, not a health regulation in sight as the shopkeeper cuts cooked and uncooked meat on the same slicer. Bedecked with a sprig of shamrock in the band of his hat, my father brings in the last of head of winter cabbage from the garden. My mother turns up her ‘How many pair of hands do you think I have?’ expression, as she despatches any squatting insects lurking in the cabbage leaves to a watery grave in the sink. His contribution made; my father sits down to read the newspaper. Like many men of his generation, he sees domesticity as a dark art best not tampered with. With well loaded plates, new oil cloth on the table and not a mobile phone in sight, we sit down to celebrate our national holiday in an age of simplicity.

By Jack Shanley

“All of us Strangers,” directed by acclaimed filmmaker Andrew Haigh, is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged drama that delves into the intricate web of human connections. Released in 2023, the film skilfully weaves together the lives of seemingly unrelated characters, exploring themes of loneliness, alienation, and the quest for meaningful connection. All of us strangers is a film that captures the beautiful essence of encountering a lost loved one in a dream. Many films have come along about grief but none like this. It’s a sensual, romantic and yet heartbreaking look at life through the eyes of an everyday man whose life has never really turned out the way he wanted. With extraordinary performances from both Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal the film really shapes out to put you on an emotional Journey. All of us Strangers unravels as a simple yet strange narrative exploring themes of isolation, identity, grief, and the lingering ghosts of one’s past. I found this film to be profoundly captivating, with its dreamlike atmosphere, heartbreaking moments, and a touch of melancholy adding to its beauty. With 2023 having some impressive films ‘All of us Strangers’ is way up the list amongst the best of 2023. Its with films like this that shall stay with you forever, only be different as you get older with every viewing of it, it shall remain the same film but is only different as you’ve changed, this for me is the pure definition of cinema. In conclusion, “All of us Strangers” is a compelling exploration of the human experience. Andrew Haigh’s directorial prowess, coupled with a stellar cast and a fantastic script, makes this film a poignant and relevant piece of cinema that will leave audiences contemplating the intricate dance of human connection long after the credits roll. In all truth I’d recommend checking out “All of us Strangers” at your local cinema and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Four stars. Director Andrew Haigh – Rating: 16 – Genre: Romance/Fantasy – Run Time: 1h 45m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Siobhan O’Neill White

This month it’s all about the Mammies! On 10th March, ‘Mother’s Day’, us hard working Mammies are ‘supposed’ to get the day off and have someone else do the cooking, cleaning and the million other things we do daily. Of course, its lovely to give a gift to your Mam or get a gift from your children but for me, the best gifts are usually the ones that don’t cost a thing. One of my best memories is my children bringing me Mother’s Day breakfast in bed.. Because they were too young to boil the kettle, they made the tea with lukewarm water from the tap. This was proudly presented beside a salad sandwich (at 8am!)! There was broken cheese, lettuce and chunks of tomato. They weren’t able to spread the butter as it was cold from the fridge, so the butter was also in chunks! But you know what – it’s one of my favourite Mother’s Day memories. Their efforts made me feel so loved. Was I able to eat it? Not quite but the gesture was enough to put me in a great mood. And what made me even happier was when my husband offered to take a few bites when the kids left the room so they wouldn’t be disappointed that I didn’t eat it! Another favourite gift was given to me last year. My youngest, who is so good at arts and crafts made me a ticket machine and every time I pulled out a ticket there was a little message on it, like ‘Here’s a hug’ or ‘I Luv U’. I’ve saved some of them in the back of my phone so whenever I turn it over, I am reminded that my youngest loves me. She will be a teenager before I know so I am relishing these little gestures of love while I can still get them! If your Mam is no longer with you, its ok to feel sad. You may want to be alone or with loved ones – you should do what feels right for you and please be extra kind to yourself if you’re having a hard day. Wishing you all the best for March 10th. Siobhán @mams.ie x
Shortlisted for Golden Spider Award & Infant & Maternity Award
As seen on RTE and Virgin Media Ireland & Weekend AM
As heard on Today FM’s Ian Dempsey & Dermot & Dave; RTE’s Ray D’Arcy Show, 98FM, LMFM Late Lunch, WLRFM & Shannonside FM

By Dave Kavanagh

In the last few claims, I have processed (death claims, serious illness claims and income protection claims) there was something that they all had in common. None of them knew what cover they actually had in place. Some were unsure whether there was sufficient cover in place to clear their mortgage (which is often the case. Consider all of the people that took 6 months’ payment breaks during Covid. Their mortgage protection cover continued to reduce while their mortgage balances slightly increased.) Some thought they had serious illness cover because we had discussed it a couple of years back, but they never actually got around to commencing it. It was yet another reminder that most people do not know the important details of plans that they pay regularly for. As people’s circumstances change, it’s important to be up to date with knowing what you are actually paying for. Here is the very least that you should know about any protection plans that you have in place:

Life Cover: How much cover is there? When does it expire? Is it dual or joint? Does it have a conversion option? Is it level, increasing or decreasing? How much does it cost?

Income Protection: What is the deferred period? (The length of time you have to be off work due to illness or injury before payments commence). What level of cover do I have? Up to what age will payments continue if I could never return to work again? How much does it cost? Have I claimed my tax relief? (I.P. premiums are tax deductible).

Serious Illness Cover: A.K.A. Critical Illness Cover or Specified Illness Cover. What level of cover do I have? Is it stand alone or accelerated cover? Is it dual or joint? When does it expire? Do I have the option to extend cover without further medical evidence? If you don’t know those details, it’s time to get out the paperwork and find out. You’ll be glad you did.

Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can of course also be contacted by you by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or you can also use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram.

Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM, LMFM and TV3.

By Dave Kavanagh

Capital Acquisition Tax includes Inheritance Tax and Gift Tax. In 2022 in Ireland, there was over €600 million collected in Capital Acquisition Tax. It also includes estates that may have been taxed in previous generations. For example, if someone left an estate worth €1,000,000 to an only daughter, she would (in the current tax year) have a tax bill of almost €220,000. After she pays the bill and puts what’s left in the bank, any interest is taxed (DIRT). Guess what happens when she passes and leaves her estate behind? It’s taxed again! Spouses can leave any amount to each other tax free. After that, the three thresholds are, a) Children - €335,000, b) Other close relatives - €32,500 and c) All others (including cohabiting partners) - €16,250. Everything received above these is taxed at 33%.

So, is there any way to prevent it? There are two main actions that can either reduce or eradicate such a tax bill. The first is to take the time to plan when making a will. Let’s say a value of €750,000 was being left to 2 adult children. (Not a big estate if you combine a house, savings and a life policy). This would create a tax bill of over €25,000. Instead, if €670,000 of it was left to the 2 children and the balance between a few grandchildren, there is no tax bill. The second thing that can be done is for the person leaving the estate to take out a Section 72 plan. This is a type of life policy that is allowed to pay any tax liability without adding to the value of the estate. It becomes particularly important for anybody that does not have children to plan things out, as even other relatives can only receive €32,500 before any balance is taxed. These thresholds are particularly important for anybody in the process of planning or making their will.

By Jon Kavanagh

These days we hardly notice the gigantic TV screens occupying an entire wall in our living rooms. Yesteryear, sitting down to watch a program was a planned event, shared by the whole community. TV sets are few and far between. Two sisters living locally are running a defecto cinema; opening the door of their cottage to anyone who wants to view their newfangled google-box. My father is among the patrons, visiting there twice a week to see The Virginian and The Fugitive. A debate opens up between my mother and father - now that we have electricity in the new house should we rent our own television? He is for, she is sitting firmly on the fence. Perhaps swayed by her growing suspicion that the sisters’ abode is a flea distribution centre, she capitulates. Ecstatic, my father heads to Paddy Weston’s television shop on the main street in Swords to arrange delivery. Paddy duly arrives in his Citroen DS, hauls in the heavy apparatus, connects a rabbit ears antenna, tweaks various knobs and hey presto a black and white picture flickers into life. My mother allocates herself the role of censor; issuing regular dictates: “TURN THAT OFF!” at the first hint of anything she deems inappropriate. I am mesmerised by the cartoons: The Flintstones, Bugs Bunny, Mr Magoo, and the famous duo Barney and Beany who are advertising a well-known brand of baked beans. Detectives including McCloud (who propels my normally serious father into convulsive laughter as he gallops his horse through the streets of New York), lolly pop addict Kojak, and the well disguised genius Columbo who always has “Just one more thing” to ask the culprit, chase the bad guys across our screen. Garda Patrol alerts us to real crime happening locally whilst Frank Hall shines a satirical torch on the not so fictional townland of Ballymacash. Bunny Carr “Stops the lights” on Quicksilver, as he doles out prizes ranging from shillings and pence to the jackpot of ten pounds. We see ourselves when we visit the microcosm of Leestown where The Riordans, and their eclectic friends and neighbours reflect our own daily lives. Real reality TV.

By Jack Shanley

Maestro, directed by acclaimed Actor and filmmaker Bradley Cooper is a captivating cinematic experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional 2023, the film delves into the tumultuous life of renowned conductor Leonard Bernstein, storytelling. Released in portrayed with brilliance by Oscar nominated actor Bradley Cooper. Maestro not only provides an intimate glimpse into the world of classical music but also explores the beautiful relationship Leonard had with Chilean-Costa Rican actress Felicia Montealegre (Carey Mulligan). The film unfolds as a seamless blend of flashbacks and present-day sequences, unravelling Bernstein’s journey from a prodigious young musician to a maestro whose genius is matched only by the shadows of his past. Coopers’ performance is nothing short of fantastic, as he navigates the character’s highs and lows with a nuanced grace that elevates the film to new heights. His portrayal of Leonard Bernstein’s passion for music, coupled with the internal struggles that threaten to consume him, creates an amazing yet emotional narrative. Bradley Coopers direction is a testament to his skilful storytelling, as he weaves together the threads of Leonard Bernstein’s life with a delicate touch. The film’s pacing is masterfully orchestrated, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the life of a great Composer. From the grandeur of concert halls to the quiet moments of introspection, Cooper captures the essence of each scene with a visual finesse that mirrors the elegance of classical music. Maestro’s supporting cast is equally commendable, with standout performances from Carey Mulligan who at times steals the show as Bernstein’s devoted but conflicted wife. The chemistry between the actors enhances the film’s emotional depth, adding layers to the intricate web of relationships that shape Bernstein’s world. The film’s cinematography, helmed by the visionary lens of Matthew Libatique, is a visual symphony that complements the musical narrative. Each frame is a work of art, capturing the sweeping grandeur of concert performances and the intimate moments of vulnerability with equal finesse. The use of light and shadow enhances the emotional feel for the story, creating a visual language that speaks volumes alongside the musical score. Speaking of the score, Maestro’s soundtrack, is beautifully composed and is a character in itself. The classical compositions evoke a range of emotions from melancholy to triumph. The wonderful score becomes the heartbeat of the film, underscoring the highs and lows of Bernstein’s journey with a sublime elegance. In all truth I’d recommend checking out ‘Maestro’ on Netflix and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Four stars. Director: Bradley Cooper– Rating: 15 – Genre: Romance/Musical – Run Time: 2h 9m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Siobhan O’Neill White

January is done and dusted and February is here. Goodbye to the dreariest month of the year and welcome the month of love! The growing popularity of Galentine’s day on February 13th means you can choose to celebrate with your girlfriends that day and the 14th can be a romantic day with your partner or if you are single, a day to treat yourself to some self-love and self-care. Last year my daughters and I spent Galentine’s day at an anniversary screening of Titanic at The Arc in Drogheda and then headed for dinner at Yeah Burger. If you haven’t been yet and you love a good burger, highly recommend, they have the best burgers! This year we’re planning to do that again. It’s a nice low-key way to spend an evening with my girls. I am also planning a Galentine’s get together with my Mam and sisters at City North for Afternoon tea with a few glasses of Prosecco thrown in! As for Valentine’s Day; often the most appreciated gifts are the personal ones. Making someone a romantic dinner, running them a bubble bath, giving them a massage – are all nice things you can do that won’t cost much. To make dinner at home extra special, pop a tablecloth on, sprinkle a few rose petals around and set out your nicest glasses, cutlery and plates. Or treat your loved one to their favourite takeaway and snuggle up to watch a movie together with a bowl of popcorn and warm blanket. As Valentine’s night is so busy, sometimes its nicer to stay home on the 14th and head out for a romantic dinner another night instead, when it’s less busy. Whatever you get up to on 13th and 14th February, try to make time to do something nice for yourself. It could be sitting down with a good book. Going for a walk on the beach followed by coffee and cake at your favourite café. Relaxing in a warm bath. Remember, we have to look after ourselves first before we can look after others. Happy Valentine’s Day everyone. And make sure to pop over to mams.ie for our fab competitions!