Ireland - Callan - Fashion Business - Irish Stuff

Designing Irish Stuff

2009-09-24T01:20:00.000-07:00

Many people around the world love Irish stuff, so if you had thought of starting a fashion business, then you should seriously consider designing Irish stuff for this bouyant market!

That's exactly what I did and if I could do it, believe me you can too.

To encourage you, I've just set up a fashion course online . (Click the link to take you to the webpage, which explains more about it.)

It's unlike the majority of Fashion Business Courses in that you can do everything to get started and even run it, all from your own kitchen table ... or your spare room, if you are lucky enough to have one!

When you go to the site, you can hit the image of the free report to download that immediately.

With the Irish history and culture we have been blessed with, why not take advantage of it and keep Irish tradition alive by designing garments with an Irish twist. This could be something as simple as a celtic design on the top shoulder of each knitted garment - a type of branding!

I won't go on with my own ideas because they may influence your own creativity but designing Irish stuff is certainly food for thought if you had decided that now was the time for you to start your own fashion business.

Debt Help - In Ireland - Live A Debt Free New Life

2008-07-21T12:45:00.000-07:00

Debt in Ireland - Debt Help for the Irish

Debt information related to the Irish economy, a global issue ...

Did joining the eurozone bust Ireland?

But is the recession such a bad thing? As John Stepek, Deputy Editor at MoneyWeek pointed out on Newstalk Radio, the Irish radio news station on Tuesday, not at all. In fact, it’s probably exactly what Ireland needs right now. ...

Local industries offer biggest growth opportunities

Before talking about current action on fiscal and economic challenges, it is important to remind ourselves that Ireland is not fully responsible for the current challenges. Make no mistake about it, this is a global downturn. ...

Ireland Inc may have to prove itself on the world stage all over ...

Irish Independent, Ireland - 30 minutes ago There are one or two countries which carry more household debt, as a percentage of national income. Admittedly, only one or two, and the gap is small. ...

Spain, Ireland `Thrown to the Wolves' After ECB Move

Ireland, with the second-lowest government debt in the euro area after Luxembourg, will maintain a 184 billion-euro infrastructure investment plan. That may not be enough to buffer the hard landing. The Spanish downturn destroyed 75000 ...

Next Day Student Loans

FinFacts Ireland Friday Newspaper Review - Irish Business News and International …FinFacts Ireland, Ireland - 11 hours ago - Any student from a family with an income under 18000 was eligible last year, but this threshold rises to 20000. ...

The above reports are just a reminder that debts challenge is a global problem and Ireland is suffering as much as other countries to ensure that debt help is available to the majority.

For a Debt Help FREE REPORT click this link now

Ireland - AnneMarie Callan - Fashion Design Business - Debt Help

Secrets To Getting Free Stuff - Review

2008-01-18T09:51:00.000-08:00

Secrets To Getting Free Stuff - Review

While browsing today I came across 'Secrets To Getting Free Stuff' website. (Normally I don't mention reviews on this blog but I felt I had to pass this one on to you. )

How fantastic? What a wonderful way to start off a new year, finding out that you can get loads of free items and these include your groceries, TV's, laptops, ipods.

If you want to start buying TVs, computers, i-phones and other expensive stuff without paying for it, then go direct to the site to see for yourself now.

Can you imagine how much this website is going to save you? I personally wish it had been around before last Christmas as I am sure you would have saved a fortune on all those Christmas presents. But, there are birthdays coming up and even necessary purchases for your home and also for yourself.

All you have to do is to go to the site and see for yourself. See how much you can save over the next few weeks or months.

I really feel that this site is going to take off in 2008. Grab the details now

AnneMarie
Ireland - Callan - Fashion Design Business

Irish Aran Knitwear

2008-01-07T05:44:00.000-08:00

Irish Aran Knitwear is a 'must have' to keep warm in the winter months. Not only are they very attractive but they can eventually be handed down from generation to generation, thus becoming the family heirloom.

Whilst basking in the Spanish sunshine yesterday, I received a call from a friend in the UK who told me that Ireland was suffering from severe cold weather. Now that I have detached myself from those kind of winters, it was not a pleasant experience to recall those times but then I remembered the warmth of the Irish Aran sweaters that I used to wear and also used to give as presents.

If only people knew how snug these garments were to wear in the cold weather, they could tolerate it more. Not only that, but they are also conversational pieces. Often strangers used to come up to me and start chatting about the designs because of their historical meanings.

For all those who want to get hold of one of these garments, contact me direct, AnneMarie Callan, so that I can give you a special discount on an Irish Aran sweater before the end of March 2008.

Ireland - Callan - Fashion Design Business

Irish Dancing to lift you up!

2007-12-15T11:02:00.000-08:00

The grace of Irish dancing would surely lift the spirit of anyone.

At this time of the year there are so many people who need cheering up, and I hope whoever hits on this blog will enjoy this little video and leave the blog with a smile.

Many people around the world have been inspired to take up Irish dancing and in one young girl's case, to championship level.
Read the article here - http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/1212phxirishdance1212.html

AnneMarie - (Aine)
Ireland - Callan - Fashion Design Business

The Garden of Hope

2007-12-02T03:33:00.000-08:00

During my visit to Ireland this weekend, I was delighted to come upon an article about The Garden of Hope. I had not heard of it before and was greatly impressed by the people who give up their time and some of their personal possessions, to give something back to society.

In this particular case The Garden of Hope is a charity project in Cape Town. The purpose of the charity is to help people in South Africa, who are living in unacceptable conditions to be moved into more sustainable communities.

People interested in giving up one month of their lives to help build a community should contact the Niall Mellon Township Trust, which is in Dublin. This is the link to their site - http://www.irishtownship.com/htm/about.htm

Diarmuid Gavin has recently returned from helping the charity project and is noted to have said that the experience had a "profound and lasting effect on him".

With the newspapers and media as a whole, supplying us with a daily feed of negative news, it was a joy to read about this project and I am sure that from the seeds of this one, implemented by Niall Mellon, many more excellent, unselfish projects will flourish in time.

AnneMarie
Ireland - Callan - Fashion Design Business
AuctionAds

Irish Folk Music - Irish dance by Andre Rieu

2007-11-26T09:15:00.000-08:00

Enjoy this wonderful piece of music today. If you are not smiling by the time it is over - well.... I won't believe it!

AnneMarie

Ireland - Callan - Fashion Design Business

Nylon Stockings - Rush On Stock

2007-11-25T10:24:00.000-08:00

Nylon Stockings were the cause, when ladies, including many from Ireland, made a stampede on a top New York store. For more details on this, please click ther following link - http://jewelryfashionaccessories.com/the-rampage-on-nylon-stockings/

It is general knowledge that in the past, many workmen in the building trade, wore nylon stockings under their work clothes to help keep the cold out and I wonder if that is still the case.

Apparently, milkmen also used to practice this form of keeping themselves warm on the cold freezing mornings, when delivering the milk bottles to the doorsteps.This may seem like a flippant subject but nylon stockings have in fact had many uses over the years and the main one, other than ladies normal wear, was that of being used for the temporary repair of a fan belt.

Ireland - Callan - Fashion Design Business

Can Ireland Protect The Red Squirrels

2007-11-18T13:49:00.000-08:00

A 2 week old squirrel, sleeping peacefully.

The environment minister of Ireland has plans to portect the red squirrel from its British grey cousin, according to Dublin (AFP) today.

What wonderful news!

Plans are afoot for a large proportion of them to be taken to a safe haven, away from the more aggressive grey squirrel.

The red squirrel is so beautiful and I am sure that there are many like me who also think the same.

I am just so happy about this news and it is incredibly strange because many years ago I knitted and sold several sweaters with red squirrels on. Now I am going to bring them back. If anyone reading this is interested, please let me know so that I can find out if there will be a market for them in Ireland, at the very least.

While I was in America and Canada, I was absolutely fascinated by the black squirrels which I saw there but I have never seen a red squirrel and apparently there are over 40,000 in Ireland.

Ireland - Callan - Fashion

Secrets to Start A Fashion Design Business eBook is live, at long last!

2007-11-14T15:21:00.000-08:00

I finished the Secrets to Start A Fashion Design Business eBook on Saturday night!

I have to tell you what it was like because it was so incredible.

For nearly two years, I have been getting all the information together for this eBook, plus writing two other eBooks and also a chapter in yet another eBook, which is being sold all over the internet.

To go with writing the eBooks, there was all the learning on how to set up websites to let everyone know about them. The hosting, autoresponders, search engine optimisation, cover graphics, marketing and a million other areas involved with working online. Last time I counted, I had more than 12 websites and blogs!!

I did all this, as well as redecorate my house throughout, put it on the market to sell and then move over to Spain. In the nearly ten months of living in Spain, I have had a wonderful time making new friends and spending time with my family, plus all the above.

Now why am I telling you all of this?

Because I just could not believe what happened last Saturday night when I finished. As soon as I said it was done, I sat down to a family meal prepared by my son and his girlfriend. Fresh fish, red and green peppers and tomatoes with special potatoes. The meal looked wonderful and a glass of wine was handed to me.

Then, my body went into the most complete and utter exhaustive state.

It was so amazing. I could hardly eat my meal. All enegry had drained from my body completely and I felt like a 90 year old. Frail and utterly exhausted.

Thank goodness for a good sleep, that's all I can say!

Now the time has arrived for me to help everyone who wants to own their own fashion business to become successful - that's my next goal!

I've most likely mentioned somewhere on my blog, my favourite motto is ...

"If you think it, you can do it!"

If you, or anyone you know wants to start a fashion design business - get the free report or even go directly to the page by clicking here now.

Do you think I am determined? I've decided that I am and I think it is my Irish blood! -
anyway I like to think that is why!

I'm off to Ireland in a couple of weeks and that is going to be just wonderful. Can't wait.

To all your successes.
AnneMarie

Ireland - Callan - Fashion Design Business

Irish Clothing for style and comfort

2007-10-29T05:20:00.000-07:00

How I miss the wonderful feel and cut of an Irish tweed jacket.

I have actually gone one which needs to be relined, so that is going on my list of things to do.

One thing everyone outside of Ireland talks about is the way the Irish women dress in Dublin. They have such class and style which is down to the designers of Irish clothing.

Sadly in other countries women have relaxed their efforts in dressing and resort to wearing sloppy clothing for comfort. Thankfully the sweat top and pants are hardly ever seen around now because in the majority of cases, they were a sight for sore eyes!

I wonder if this is why our dieting habits have changed, to fit into the sloppy clothing? That is certainly food for thought.

Men are just as bad, bless them. How often do we see a smartly dressed man, other than in a city? A lot of people may say that it is not practicle but I remember when my Da used to go outside. He would never go out without a jacket and a tie. Even when he went fishing, he wore a jacket and tie! His shoes were always gleaming with polish. Nice memories!

This season sees the return of classic fitted clothing and hopefully will encourage a lot of us to start taking pride again in how we present ourselves to the outside world. The latest fashion of today remind me very much of the classical style of the 1960's fashion.

If you have ever thought about designing clothes, look to the Irish clothing market for inspiration.

AnneMarie
You can start a clothing business
Ireland - Callan - Fashion - Irish Clothing

Famous Fashion Designers - Paul Costello

2007-08-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

Irish designer, Paul Costello, one of the famous fashion designers to today, has produced a fantastic season of designs which is reminiscent of the sixties. Aline skirts, structured coats and suits, all beautifully tailored.

If you would like to have more information on Paul and his career, then I suggest you go to the following link http://www.answers.com/topic/paul-costelloe?cat=biz-fin because there is an enormous amount of information there.

Also, if you would like to become one of the famous fashion designers of the future yourself, what are you going to do to get started? Anyone can own their own fashion design business, if they really want to and they can start from their own kitchen table too. To say that it's easy, is an understatement because if you have the desire to do it, you can. Believe me!

AnneMarie - Fashion Design Business

Pictures of Kittens - America - Fashion - Tenacity

2007-08-27T00:36:00.000-07:00

You're probably wondering what pictures of kittens and America have to do with each other. Well the fact is, an enormous amount. That event which happened on my first visit to beautiful Scotland, has led to everything else I have done, including writing this blog - click here to get the complete story

Just like everyone, I thank God that I have been blessed with a positive outlook in life.

Determination and tenacity are qualities which we all have in abundance but, sometimes they get drown by the enormity of other depressing pressures.

That is when having a sense of humour is also a blessing. Pictures of kittens ...

AnneMarie
Pictures of Kittens - America
Ireland - Callan - Fashion Design Business

Man Made Diamonds Jewelry Designs in Ireland

2007-08-21T00:04:00.000-07:00

Man Made Diamonds being distributed out of Ireland globally may be a thing of the past if the route from the Shannon to Heathrow is stopped.

Surely the fact that 600 jobs from Element Six alone, are at risk in such a small region has to be given some serious consideration. This company, formerly De Beers Industrial Diamonds, has employed people in the Shannon area for the last 45 years. This is not to forget the other companies who have also sweated long hours to keep their business afloat in the Shannon area.

How often would they have used this airline route for their distribution services?

The company has been very successful over the years, has brought prosperity to the area and always looking to the future of expanding their Man Made Diamonds business. Now if an alternative is not found, what stress that is going to put on the companies finances.

For more information on man made diamonds - click here.

The move follows the decision of the airline to end the daily route and switch it, instead, to Belfast!

Fine, the route may not be making the money the airline needs to cover the costs at this moment, but how much money has the Man Made Diamonds industry brought into the Shannon area for the airlines in the first place? Have they not heard of a cash forecast?

Ireland - Callan

Callan Art - James Joseph Callan

2007-08-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is a strange request for me to put on my blog, so please bear with me.

My father, James Joseph Callan, was a Slade trained artist who died in 1976. He had exhibited in many places in Ireland and sold numerous of his paintings worldwide.

I am now doing research to find some of his paintings so that I can get a collection together.

Within the family we have approximately fourteen and it would be wonderful to see some more of his work. Unfortunately all the documentation was destroyed after his death, otherwise the National Library in Dublin were set to catalogue his work.

Towards the end of his life he specialised in minature art with fine art details as well as larger fine art paintings.

If you know anyone who has a James Joseph Callan (JJ Callan) piece of art, please get in touch with me at am.callan@yahoo.co.uk. You can't imagine how grateful I would be! Even to have a sighting of one of his pieces in a public place, ie corporate or hotel etc, would be wonderful.

Thank you, in advance!

AnneMarie (Aine) Callan

Ireland - Callan

Fall In House Prices - Ireland

2007-07-03T06:08:00.000-07:00

Help with debt problems will be required by millions if the following is true:-

A fall in house prices in Ireland have been predicted by the Economic and Social Research Institute. Professor Morgan Kelly, UCD academic has indicated that house prices could drop by approximately 60% in Ireland, if a pattern he has found in other countries is repeated.

Since 1970, he has researched almost 40 house price booms and crashes on OECD economies and indicated that that the larger the initial boom is, the larger the eventual bust will be.

There is an obvious concern that in view of the fact that the house building industry is paramount to the financial industry in Ireland, this will have a very negative effect.

Debts will start to rise again, just as they did in the early 1990's, due to the collaspe of house prices. People have suffered for many years since then and entirely because of that situation.

Therefore, rather than wait for the consecquences of this, please take a look at the FREE REPORT on Debts-Challenge and get Help With Debt Problem (s) NOW ...

Ireland - Callan

Callan - Art

2007-06-30T15:45:00.000-07:00

Callan - James Joseph

James Joseph Callan was a Slade trained Artist from Dublin who eventually specialised in minature oil and watercolour paintings of Ireland. His paintings were very detailed and precise. He sold his paintings to many people throughout the world as well as through exhibitions at Trinity College Dublin.

As James Joseph Callan was my father, I am looking to find any of his paintings, so if anyone has one of his paintings, I would love to hear from you.

Ireland - Callan

Celtic Designs - The Book of Kells

2007-06-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

The Book of Kells is a famous hand painted illustrated manuscript of the Gospels. It was prepared by monks around 800 AD on the Isle of Iona and then taken to Kells in County Meath by the monks who were fleeing from the Vikings.

Today it has pride of place in the old library of Trinity College Dublin where each day one page is turned for the public to enjoy. The Book of Kells attracts tourists from all over the world.

My designs were inspired by The Book of Kells and just recently I have an inclination to return to these designs again.

If you have read some of my previous blogs, you will know that I am a great believer in ...

If You Think It, You Can Do It!

Sometimes people get into a rut and make excuses for not doing what they are capable of doing. They make the excuse of - 'They can't afford it, they can't get childminders, they would not know where to start, etc. etc." The list could go on indefinitely and then they reach the ripe old of forty plus, not having lived any of their dreams, just excuses!

All you really have to do, is picture yourself achieving your dreams and putting some action into actually doing something towards them! It's that simple. For many people , they need a little help and direction. If that is the case with you, then have a look at this site to see if it is what you have been looking for to live your own dreams.
Not only have I read it but I also had the tape for many years.

One particular sentence I love is ..."I Will Not Be Denied"

Ireland - AnneMarie Callan

Ireland - Irish Writers - Bill Cullen

2007-06-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

Have you read Bill Cullen's - 'It's A Long Way From Penny Apples.

If not, I really suggest you go and get it right now. I've even put a link and you can buy a second hand copy if you want, which is much cheaper than a new copy. Either way, you will definitely love it.

If you are like me and no longer live in Dublin, then memories of Dublin will come flooding back. Just the name of the street - the diving into the Liffey - Clontarf, all conjure up a wonderful memory of life in Dublin.

We have many great writers listed from Ireland and this is definitely a book which I think will be on the shelves for many years to come. I look forward to Bill Cullen bringing out more books.

On a different subject, last night I had a call from someone who was commenting on my celtic designs. I'll chat about that tomorrow.

Callan
Ireland - Fashion Design Business

Ireland - X Factor - Success

2007-06-22T06:17:00.000-07:00

Louis Walsh returns to 'The X Factor'
(Friday, June 22 2007, 10:35 BST - By Nick Levine, Entertainment Reporter)

Louis Walsh is to return to The X Factor as a replacement for Brian Friedman.

The 54-year-old Irishman lost his place on the TV singing contest's judging panel in March, but has been reinstated after Friedman asked Simon Cowell to change his role on the show.

Walsh pledged not to hold a grudge, saying: “In spite of all the bantering, I have continued to have a good working relationship with Simon, ITV and the show’s producers and I am thrilled to be asked back on the show."

Read the full article here = http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/xfactor/a62282/louis-walsh-returns-to-the-x-factor.html

How could they not have him back? There has to be a balance and much as we all love/hate Simon, the two of them together are great.

Everybody needs to follow their dreams and with this team, the opportunities are great for those who put put themselves out there, doing that extra mile. If you feel that you have a 'yet to be released' dream, Click The Link Below - within no time you will be living your own dream too.
REMEMBER ...

Ireland - Callan

Fashion Magazines

2007-06-21T00:45:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE for Fashion Magazines Direct

You can get every magazine you would want for your fashion business and delivered direct to your door anywhere in the world.

Fashion Design Business - FREE REPORT
Ireland - Callan

Entrepreneur Success Stories - Business - Ireland

2007-06-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

Entrepreneur Success Stories

Real-Life Case Study #1 — Robert Clark
See exactly how Robert Clark turned his $275 a week paycheck into a highly profitable online business that takes him only 2 hours each day to run... while earning him over $250,000 a year in profits!
Click here for more details...

Following was reported in BizWorld - Small businesses optimistic for the year.

A total 50pc of companies in the Republic of Ireland expect their business prospects to improve in the year ahead and a further 30pc believe their business performance will remain the same, according to the first all-island survey among businesses with up to 100 employees
The 'Ulster Bank Business Confidence Survey' carried out by independent researchers Amarach Consulting in April 2007, assessed how businesses felt their company performed in the last year and how they feel about the year ahead.

In the Republic of Ireland, of the 5 in 10 companies expecting to achieve a stronger performance in the next year, over 20pc expect this to be fuelled by more orders and enquiries, with a further 20pc planning on expansion to deliver the expected stronger performance.

Only 15pc of businesses believe their operation will not perform as well in the year ahead and 45pc of these said their main concern was competition.

Only 15pc of businesses believe their operation will not perform as well in the year ahead and 45pc of these said their main concern was competition.

-----
What does this report tell us? For me, the answer is that there will always be entrepreneur success stories - because of the determination of people who want to succeed in business and even earning money at home.

However, having said that, sadly there is an unsavoury element in the business world who use every - so called - 'business' opportunity they can to 'steal' from the business they profess to own and then put that same business into liquidation! These people invariably go on to repeat this at every opportunity.

It is therefore important that the genuine people who want to own their own business keep focussed and enlightened with all the entrepreneur success stories they can read.

Ireland - Callan

Ways To Make A Lot Of Money - Bill Cullen

2007-05-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

Ways to make a lot of money are explaind in Bill Cullen's number one bestseller - 'It's A Long Way From Penny Apples'.

This is a really interesting read, telling the story of his childhood in Dublin. I'm only half way through it as I can only spent about thirty minutes a day reading but really look forward to reading the next stage of his story.

The book is also quite heart breaking in places, such as reading about the famine. How the Irish people were thrown out of their homes, left dying at the sides of the streets through starvation, whilst other healthy produce was shipped out of Ireland - to England!

This guy went from a poverty childhood to building a business worth over £250 million. He has been very generous with helping and supporting many because of this.

Highly recommend you read this book, as one minute you are reading a true life fiction story mingled with the history of Dublin, life in the 1950's onwards and the ways to make a lot of money even at that time.

I found it very strange, as he and I are only a few years apart, lived just within a few miles of each other, I even went to school in the heart of Dublin, yet our childhoods were miles apart in respect of the material advantages we lived with.

Ireland - Callan

Handknitted Irish Aran Knitwear

2006-12-11T10:11:00.000-08:00

Aran Handknitting
With this really cold weather now upon us, it's time to consider getting yourself a wonderful handknitted aran sweater. These aran sweaters are lovingly hand knitted by Irish ladies in their own homes.

Normally they take about six weeks to complete but today I've just had the good news that one of my customers will be getting theirs much earlier than expected.

They haven't selected the usual natural colour but instead a grey one. I personally love the natural arans but most of all I love the arans which are knitted with such pride and care in Ireland.

I've had some other aran sweaters knitted outside Ireland and there is no comparison in the quality of the finished garment.

Why don't you think about getting one for yourself. They're so warm and they'll last for years - in fact they're the sort of garment which can be handed down in the family - what a lovely thought! Your own heirloom.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ARAN KNITWEAR
Ireland - Callan

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT HOW TO BE HAPPY IN DEBT TODAY!

Irish Interest Rates - Will They Increase Again?

2006-09-11T15:17:00.000-07:00

Fear of an interest rate rise has meant that many people have gone without their normal holiday this summer.

The Irish Central Bank is also concerned about the possibility of higher debt costs and the potential collapse of the building construction industry, should an interest rates increase be imminent. The rate has already been increased four times since December 2005 by a total of 1 percent.

Ireland's property boom has enabled 77% of Irish homes to be owner-occupied. However, the Irish Central Bank has discussed the prospect of house prices falling due to the acceleration in price inflation which may have had the effect of an over valuation in house prices.

Ireland has generous tax incentives for property owners, as Britain did before the 1989 changes which lead to the worst recession for many years. In Ireland, a purchaser is allocated a deduction in their taxes for the mortgage interest they pay. Also they don't pay property or capital gains tax on the sale of their homes, provided they are owner occupied.

However mortgage debt has soared in Ireland. It is now estimated to be approximately110 percent of disposable income which is a rise of over 50% since the 46 percent in 1998.

The thought of the stress of dealing with negative equity and repossessions has led to the following eBook being produced by Aine Callan, who has first hand experience of living through the effects of the 1989 property downfall in the UK.

'How to Survive Your Debt and Live a Fun-filled Live Within Days'
You can obtain a FREE Report at http://www.debts-challenge.com

Ireland - Callan

Waterford Crystal from Ireland

2006-07-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

The light glistens through the crystal like rays of diamonds as you caress it in your hands. Pinging your finger gently against the side of the crystal encompasses a feeling of sheer luxury. Oh! To own the whole set of the new beautiful Waterford Crystal design.

It’s the Waterford ® Dolmen Suite
A new suite, sublimely Irish, rich in ancestry, commemorates the massive rocks that mark the graves of ancient Celtic ancestors.

What a wonderful description of this new design.

Following is a brief history about Waterford Crystal …

Waterford Crystal is a trademark brand of crystal glassware produced in Waterford, Ireland, by the company Waterford Wedgwood plc. A crystal business was originally founded in the city in 1793 by George and William Penrose, it produced extremely fine crystal that became world-renowned.

However, their company later closed, reportedly due to excessive taxation of the product. In 1947, Czech immigrant Charles Bacik established a glass works in the city, due to the superb reputation of the original glassware. Aided by fellow countryman and designer Miroslav Havel, the company started operations in a depressed Ireland, by the early 1950's it had been taken over by Irish management.

In May 2005, Waterford Wedgwood announced the closure of its factory in Dungarvan in order to base all operations in the main factory in Kilbarry, Waterford City, where 1,000 people are employed by the company. The move resulted in nearly 500 Dungarvan workers losing their jobs. The Kilbarry operation features a tourist centre offering guided tours of the factory, a gift shop, cafe, and gallery.

If ever you go to Ireland, you must visit the home of the Beautiful Irish Crystal in Waterford - in the meantime, have a look at the catalogue at the range.

Ireland - Callan

People from Ireland are Moving to Spain

2006-07-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

Click here to see a Beautiful Spanish Villa!
Thousands of people are moving to Spain and you can't blame them because it is a fantastic country where the sun always seems to be shining down on the beautiful mountains and the glorious blue sea.

The Spanish people are very friendly and the Spanish food is just out of this world with wonderful tapas, fresh fish, fresh vegetables and fruits, which line the roads.
The colour of the oranges, lemons and limes are a picture to behold as you drive from the airport into the various regions of Spain.

I wish they would make these Beautiful Spanish Villas in Ireland!If you are looking for a property in Spain, have a look at this site. It has fantastic views and is build to a very high specification.

Bye for now – Enjoy.
Ireland - Callan

Bono - U2 and his video

2006-07-08T10:29:00.000-07:00

Bono, of Ireland's band U2, has posted a question on on the internet - Yahoo Answers.

What can we do to make poverty history?

Bono stated words to the effect that because of people like us, the world’s richest countries leaders had a meeting in July 2005 and made several notable promises to help end the needless killing of 9,000 people a day in Africa, entirely because of extreme poverty. The fact that an entire continent and, most of all, the lives of millions of people are in jeopardy through this needless situation, we have to give our support.

Why not go to Bono's video watch it and leave a comment on your views.

Millions may die just because of poverty - is that fair?

Ireland - Callan

Aer Lingus Moving Toward Public Float.

2006-07-07T01:41:00.000-07:00

Ireland’s national airline, Aer Lingus is being considered by the Irish government for flotation. The Irish Transport Minister, Martin Cullen believes that, in order that the government can block any potential foreign takeover in the future, that Ireland should retain more over 20% of the shares.

In the Dail, Ireland’s parliament, a debate is taking place with regard to the exact number of shares to be offered to the Irish and United Kingdom exchanges.

I, for one, hope Martin Cullen’s points are given serious consideration. How ridiculous it would be for Ireland’s national airline to be taken over by another country. Would it happen to British Airways?

What is your view?

AnneMarie
Ireland - Callan

The Kiss!!

2006-07-05T04:52:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of 'The Gift of the Gab'?

Irish people have been known to be able to communicate with people of all class due to their inherent eloquence. If you would like to be able to enjoy this gift, there is a way! All you have to do is visit Blarney Castle, locate the Blarney Stone and kiss it. That’s all!

However, in order to kiss it, you have to lean backwards and at the same time hold onto an iron railing, from the parapet walk.

There are many theories of how the stone came to be. One of these stories is that it was mentioned in the Bible as 'Jacob's Pillow' and was brought to Ireland by Jeremiah the Prophet, either way, tradition has it that once kissed the stone bestows the gift of eloquence.

So it is well worth a visit to the Blarney Castle for a kiss! Don't you think?

If you have kissed the Blarney Stone, please leave a comment and share it with us.

AnneMarie
Ireland - Callan

Holidaying in Ireland

2006-07-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

With this fabulous weather we are having here in the UK, it makes me wish I was back in Ireland. Back in Kells by the river with my father fishing, mother relaxing with her friends and all us children paddling with our fishing nets.

My greatest wish is to spend some time in Ireland, sitting quietly, catching the beauty and sketching my potential paintings. We all have a dream to fulfil, don't you think?

If your dream is connected with Ireland, why not share it with us and leave a comment.

Bye for now
AnneMarie

Ireland-Callan

The Book of Kells

2006-05-14T04:32:00.000-07:00

Now that the weather is changing and we are all thinking of holidays, you might be considering a trip to Ireland. The welcome you will get in Ireland is quite unique, something everyone should experience at some time in their lives.

If you get the change, do visit Trinity College in Dublin. It houses the Book of Kells.

The Book of Kells is an hand painted illustrated manuscript of the four gospels, of the Bible in Latin. It was produced by celtic monks between 600 and 800 AD. with numerous colourful illustrations and illuminations. It's on permanent display at the Trinity College Library, where it is catalogued as MS 58.

It is amazing how the Book of Kells has inspired so many people over the years in different artistic mediums. For myself, it inspired some of my knitwear designs. Trinity College is also a place where my father exhibited his art. He was a Slade trained artist and specialised in minature detailed art of Ireland.

If anyone owns any of his paintings, I would love to know. His name was James Joseph Callan.

AnneMarie Callan

Fantastic learning curve!

2006-03-26T05:53:00.000-08:00

Almost there!!

The Free Report on Fashion
will be ready within days.

Email for a free copy am.callan@talktalk.net

My ebook should be ready sometime in April (2006!)

I have been working like a trojan for months now and at long last, am beginning to see the end of it. However, or should I say 'but', it has been the most mammoth task I have taken upon myself for years.

Writing the book was the easy part because it's all from my own experiences. Putting everything in place with regard to all the 'techie' stuff has been a nightmare!! Do you realise how many processes you have to go into to put something online?

It has been almost a year, and probably will be, by the time I get the book 'live'. That's a year of complete social neglect. Every free hour has been spent finding my way around all the various processes.

One of the benefits has been that I have learned an enormous amount. It has been a fantastic opportunity and I have loved every minutes (well almost every!) of it. Perhaps that will be my next book - who knows!!

AnneMarie
Ireland Callan Fashion Design

Aran Knitwear Special Offer for Easter

2006-03-21T08:31:00.000-08:00

If you have ever fancied yourself wearing one of Irelands beautiful hand knitted Aran sweaters or jackets. you may want to consider getting yourself one now as I have a Special Offer on until Easter. Click the photo on the right and it will take you direct to the sales page, then just email me at am.callan@talktalk.net or am.callan@virgin.net so that I have let you know how much you will save.

They are amazing garments. They're warm, cosy, attractive, smart and a garment you would be really proud to own.

Plus they will last you for many years so it is a great investment and, guess what, you'll even be able to pass it down to the next generation. In their own way, they're heirlooms.

Ireland and 'The Luck of the Irish'

2006-03-19T12:48:00.000-08:00

Who has not heard that saying? Yesterday at Twickenham, UK, Ireland won the Triple Crown in the great sport of rugby – in the final 99 seconds by Shane Horgan.

I down tools to watch the game on Saturday. It was an amazing and nerve wrecking game throughout. Both sides took it in turn to lead the match and just when it looked like England were going to win, Brian O’Driscoll, in fighting spirit, make a break down the right, he passed to Shane Horgan who determinedly steaked to bring the ball just pass the line and into victory for Ireland.

Just brilliant!!

And this was after Ireland had won the Cheltenham's Triple Crown due to the brilliant ride by Conor O'Dwyer riding War of Attrition. The Gold Cup was presented to the trainer Mouse Morris and owner Michael O'Leary.

Irish horses came second and third as well.

What a great week for the Irish!
Oh! By the way, did I mention that I am Irish too!!

Unique Irish Aran Knitwear

2006-03-18T09:25:00.000-08:00

If you want a warm, comfortable, classic and unique knitted garment to wear at the weekends or during those cool evening walks, you would not go wrong by investing in one of Ireland’s traditional hand knitted Aran sweaters or jackets.

They are so distinctive and attractive that they always command complementary comments whenever you wear one. The aran sweater is knitted in many distinctive patterns. Some of these patterns have a traditional interpretation and these are often of a religious significance.

For instance:

There is the honeycomb design which is represented as a symbol of the hard working bee.
The cable, an integral part of the fisherman's daily life, is said to be a wish for safety and good luck when fishing.
The basket stitch represents the design fisherman's basket, a desire for a full catch.
Plaited or braided stitches represent the interweaving of life paths.
Diamonds represent the contours of the fishing net, and wealth and success.
The Moss stitch represents abundance and growth. It is often used within the diamonds pattern.

It is open to debate as to how accurate these meaning are. They are probably just myths about Aran knitwear and possibly have no historical significance but, either way how many other knitwear garments in the world have such interesting interpretations?

If you would like to see some of the beautiful Aran designs click the following link:-Beautiful Aran Knitwear to go direct to my webpage.

Details of my eBook

2006-03-03T00:04:00.000-08:00

"How to Create Your Own Internation Fashion Business, even from your kitchen table."

It's getting nearer the time when my eBook will be ready to 'live'. If you'd like a Free Report on Fashion
contact me now am.callan@talktalk.net

In my Book, you will find:

27 niche fashion areas you could specialise in.

You'll be given information on 27 niches you work in. There will be some you may never have considered but with all the details I have given, it may direct you to specialise in one of these niches.

15 places you can find customers.

You'll find information on the benefits and pitfalls of selling to 15 different places, most of which I have used.

18 sections on dealing with the production.

From protecting your designs to employing people, you will find all the information available within the pages of the eBook.

Advertising your fashion business.

You'll find places you probably had not even thought of as well as information of how to go about getting free advertising!

The legal requirements.

How to protect your business so that it grows successfully into a worldwide fashion business.

That is just a tiny part of what is in the eBook. It will be a great help to anyone dreaming of owning their own business. I should know, because I lived my dream and now have put all the details into an easy to read eBook for you.

AnneMarie

How to Raise Capital for Your Business

2006-02-25T11:07:00.000-08:00

If you're ready to GO with your business idea but are held back because of lack of funds, then just click here to find out how one person, who now owns several profitable businesses, started without using any of his own money.

He shows you a simple step-by-step formula for locating those hard to find "Financial Angels" you've no doubt heard so much about. These "Angels" have extremely deep pockets and can offer a TON of cash for REAL workable ideas.

To Learn How to Get All The Capital You Need In The Next 30 Days Or Less
click here. It is an amazing read and could get you started sooner rather than later!

The techniques in this little book will help you realise your own dreams and don't forget it's tax deductable - and with a guarantee. Go for it, it could get you started within a month.

Loads of good luck.

Your Business Mission Statement

2006-02-22T14:03:00.000-08:00

Having a mission statement is very important to your success in business.
It can be a paragraph, or a bulleted list, stating your specific business goals.

For instance,
What vision do you have for your business?
Where do you want to take the business?
Why do you want to build your business?
Who is going to benefit from your success?
What financial aims do your have for your business?

Why do you need a Mission Statement?

When you start building your business and while you are running it, other events will also be taking place in your life. These events could cloud you vision for your business and you could lose a lot of valuable time and thus motivation.

By creating a Mission Statement, you have something tangible to focus on. It is an excellent idea to:-

- Read your Mission Statement every morning and every evening.

- Spend time each day visualising your eventual goals.

- Keep a copy in your car and in your purse or wallet.

- Never forget what you want to achieve.

How You Can Have a Money Grabbing Store on eBay

2006-02-05T15:40:00.000-08:00

Amazing Ebay eBook Reveals How One Woman Made $11,212 A Month On Ebay--And How You Can Too!

I have to recommend this eBook because I know you'll get loads of benefit from it.

There are areas within the book which will really open your eyes as to how simple it is to get hold of the stock that this lady used.

For the small amount the book costs, it's well worth the investment. Don't forget that you can take the cost off as a business expense and there's also a great guarantee with the book - so you can't go wrong.

Business Loans for your own business

2006-01-31T11:03:00.000-08:00

There will be loads of relevant information in my eBook about financing your business.

Apart from going to a bank, there are many other ways of raising the funds to enable you to get started. Also, once you start your business, there are various ways of raising funds to move your business up to the next step.

In my eBook, I will be explaining what techniques I used to ensure that I got the answer I wanted when I had my own appointments with the bank.

I am aiming for the middle of March for the release.

Why not send me an email so that I can put you on my list for the release information. As a special gift to you I will be sending everyone who gives me their email address with their first and last name, a free report.

A Motivational Saying

2006-01-20T15:55:00.000-08:00

One of my Favourite Sayings

You are what you think

All that you are - arises from your thoughts

With your thoughts

You make your world

The Buddah

I just love that saying and I'm always passing it on to people when they need a little motivation to move on with the next stage in their lives.

Say it to yourself whenever you feel down - and you won't feel down for long! In fact, you will realise that you are totally in control of your own life.

AnneMarie

The Kitten Tunic

2006-01-19T13:14:00.000-08:00

Memories connected with my Kitten Tunic Design

I sold it twice as I wore it!

The first time was on a train journey to Scotland. I was on my way to exhibit at Aviemore in the middle of Scotland. It was the winter time and I decided to wear one of my samples to keep warm. A passanger approached me to ask where I had gotten the sweater, when I told them it was one of my own designs, they asked me there and then if they could buy the one I was wearing!!

Needless to say, I offered to take an order instead.

A few days later, while exhibiting at my stand, an American buyer wanted the kitten sample I was wearing, as well as placing a lovely large order.

I guess the moral here is, if you create designs - wear them!!

I have attached a photo of this design and if you are interested in one for yourself please contact me. This particular design is not on my website at the moment.

Some Questions and Answers about Cashmere

2006-01-17T13:53:00.000-08:00

What is it like to wear cashmere?

That depends on the quality of the cashmere.

If you have ever been lucky enough to have worn both the high street budget quality and the luxury of the very best but expensive cashmere, you will feel the difference.

There is no comparison. The feeling of the best high quality cashmere against your skin, is the most comforting feeling. And knowing that, with gentle hand washing, the garments is going to last you for many years to come.

Wearing high quality cashmere also makes you feel very confident. You may have treated yourself or have had it given to you as gift, but either way, wearing your garments gives you a wonderful feeling of confidence. Confidence of knowing that you deserve to wear the very best.
We all desire some luxury item every now and then in our lives. Some days it might be just a box of delicious chocolates, a bunch of your favourite flowers, jewellery etc. But to have at least one piece of the very best cashmere in your wardrobe, is sheer indulgence. Just stroking the silken feel garment while you are wearing it, is such a wonderful feeling of opulence.

Why is the best quality cashmere so expensive?

The answer is, because it takes one goat alone, four years to produce enough wool to make just one cashmere cardigan or sweater. Years ago, royalty were the only people who could afford to wear cashmere.

Why are some cashmere cheaper than others?

The most expensive cashmere is taken from the underbelly and the neck of the Kashmir goat. The fibres from these places is longer and this length is what makes for much softer wool and less "pilling" of the yarn when worn.

The cheaper cashmeres are made from the shorter fibres, which are taken from the backs and legs. This yarn is less expensive and therefore can produce cheaper cashmere garments. However, it will not last as long nor will it wear as well as the best quality cashmere.
© AnneMarie-Callan 2006 http://www.annemarie-callan.com

My Designs Inspired by "The Book of Kells"

2006-01-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

History of my "Book of Kells" Designs
I created my Celtic theme designs approximately 20 years ago when I received a St Patrick’s Day card from my family in Ireland.

Have a look now, if you like!

At the time, I was living in London with my own family and had just started my business, designing knitwear. Even though people admired my samples, I felt there was something missing.

Then the postcard arrived. On the front of the card was an old sword with Celtic designs depicted on it. As soon as I saw the card, I knew immediately that those designs were what I had been looking for.

The strange thing is, I had had a dream a few days before which I could not understand and found it disturbing. In the dream someone had thrown me a gift of a potato! Then another, and finally a third potato! (Seriously!)

Putting the card and the dream together, I realised that the potatoes represented my roots and the fact that there were definitely three – represented the Trinity, to me. Therefore, the St Patrick’s Day card was also relevant to my dream with its Celtic designs.

I went on to create designs using this theme. Some days everything went brilliantly. The colours blending just as I had imagined. I was really thrilled and the adrenaline was scoring high. But other days, it was a nightmare. Mixing and matching yarns but never quite finding the correct blends of colours in the yarns.

Knitting sample after sample, pieces of yarns across the floor and feelings of complete frustration.

However, I did not give up and eventually I got it right. Right enough to command loads of orders, which were delivered to several countries around the world.

People still buy them, because they have a history and because they are classic. My next step is to create more designs inspired by "The Book of Kells". Watch this space!

Visiting Ireland

2006-01-14T06:16:00.000-08:00

Arriving in Dublin

Flying into Dublin Airport on the national airline of Ireland, Aer Lingus, or any of the other international airlines - and then travelling a short journey, either by bus, taxi or hired car, will bring you into Dublin City, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Dublin is the Capital City of Ireland. It has beauty in its’ architecture, from the Georgian houses to the modern Spire on O’Connells Street, the widest street in Europe - to its’ art and its’ literature.

Another reason for visiting Dublin, are the people, both famous and infamous. During the last few years it has become very much a cosmopolitan city with the natural friendliness of the Irish people.

Dublin is also well-known for its ownership of, "The Book of Kells", a famous hand painted illustrated manuscript of the Gospels, housed within the Old Library of Trinity College, Dublin. The manuscript dates back to 800 AD and is a national treasure. People travel worldwide to view the "Book of Kells".

The river Liffey separates the Northside and Southside of Dublin. It rises near to Kippure, a mountain in South Wicklow and runs down to the Irish Sea in Dublin Bay.

To the west of the city centre you will find Phoenix Park, the largest public park in the world. The park is ringed by a seven mile wall and it is where you will find Dublin Zoo, Aras an Uachtarain, the official residence of the President of Ireland, as well as many other visitor attractions.

People love to spend long weekends in Dublin because of the fantastic shopping and the ‘crack’ – a word popularly used for the great social life in the City.

Where ever you go in Dublin, you will see many signs in both Gaelic and English and one of the first signs you will see when you arrive is - Dublin or "Baile Atha Cliath" .

Gifts from Ireland

2006-01-12T13:32:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Aran Knitwear

The Aran sweater is a traditional garment of Ireland, a country, to the North West of Europe.

If you owned an original hand knitted Aran sweater or jacket, you would be delighted!

Why, you may ask yourself?

Because,

You'll enjoy years of wear with one of these beautiful hand knitted sweaters or jackets.
When you wear your aran knitwear, you'll have to be prepared for all the compliments you'll get.
You won't need to wear a heavy coat, when you're wearing your aran jacket.
You'll be able to wear your aran for many months of the year.

Aran knitwear is hand knitted in a natural coloured, oiled yarn. The knitwear is so durable that you would hand it down to the next generation(s). It is also very protective in the cold climates, making it a great purchase for three of the seasons of the year.

The knitwear is very distinctive in its design. Legend has it that each family used to create their own designed garment and when a fisherman drowned, his family would be able to recognise him by the design on his sweater.

If you would like to see some of the beautiful Aran designs click the following link:-
Beautiful Aran Knitwear