Three days left and I am back to this summer’s dilemma … No gifts. In fact, I was planning on completing some Christmas shopping. As of this moment, I have my sweater and socks. I also bought three skeins of yarn; it allowed me to buy something to bring home.

So which direction? South to Blarney Woolen Stores in Blarney, County Cork or north to Newbridge, County Kildare. Since I had spotted a watch on the Newbridge Silverware website last fall … I decided to go North. It was also a damp, rainy day. Stuck in a car for four to five hours wouldn’t be a sacrifice.
Staying with my theme, I had another stop a further northwest of Newbridge. I was still looking for Irish linen on a bolt. But with my continued luck with shopping, they were closed. I was hopeful for Newbridge.
Finally, a shop is open! And, it is busy! My luck is changing. There is one parking space next to the front door and it has my name written all over it.
Oh, what a store it is! Every piece of jewelry available from Newbridge is on display. But the service! I was met by an staff member … Can I help you? Yes … I am looking for this watch. (I had a product number.). She wrote it down and said she would be back. A couple of minutes later, she was back with the watch, nicely packaged in a Newbridge box.

Needless to say, I spent a little bit more time there then anticipated. I mean, with the long drive, I might as well make my time in the car worth it! Plus, I managed to do a little bit of Christmas shopping while I was there.
You can buy Newbridge jewerly throughout the country in shops. However, this place was the pinnacle! I would highly suggest a stop; even if for only a half an hour. For those that want to stay longer, they do have a museum on site, as well as a cafeteria. This is definitely on my ‘must return to’ list.