I've been tagged!

I was tagged by Pamela from Farrell & Chase on her blog and the idea is for me to answer some questions about myself so you can get to find out some more about me! So here we go...

1. Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Dublin and I really love this city! It's not that I'm a home bird as I absolutely love travelling, but Dublin has a special place in my heart and I love 're-discovering it' when I've been away for a while.
2. What made you choose the career path you have?
I've had a curvy career path! I started off studying graphic design and illustration. A six month trip to India and Nepal in 1993 inspired a love affair with colour and ornamentation and I chose to return to college to study jewellery design. I also specialised in textile design and ended up combining traditional jewellery techniques with textile skills...and having lots of fun! I suppose everything that I do is inspired by pattern and ornamentation - I have to surround myself by it :-)
3. Who is your favourite bridal designer?
This is a really hard question for me as I get to see so many gorgeous gowns every day! For delicacy and femininity I would pick Claire Pettibone but I have stacks of 'favourites'.
4. What is your favourite colour?
I go through phases of loving different colours and it would be boring to have to pick just one...and so unfair. I just love everything between blue and green and I think peacock or petrol blue is my ultimate favourite.
5. Where is your favourite holiday destination?
Travel is one of my passions. Myself and my husband like adventures and discovering places that are off the beaten track. Two years ago we spent three weeks in Iran and it was one of our most memorable holidays for lots of reasons. The people are incredibly welcoming, (contrary to what the media might lead you to believe). I got to experience a completely different culture and occasionally, it felt like stepping back in time. I also had to get used to wearing a veil but this had its benefits - I was able to blend in and observe everything around me. Iran is a totally fascinating country and I would definitely go back if I can.
6. What is your favourite past time?
Hmm, sipping or guzzling wine with good friends...
7. Do you have any pets?

Yes, we have a gorgeous black cat called Samson. However, I'm number 2 in the pecking order for lap cuddles.
8. What is your favourite song?
I actually don't have a favourite song but I love listening to Bebel Gilberto in my studio. I can listen to her albums over and over and still love them. I also browse new music online at last.fm
9. What is your favourite meal?

Indian food is definitely top of my list - South Indian food in particular. It's much lighter, with lots of vegetarian and fish dishes subtly flavoured with chilli and spices. My favourite meal would have to contain dhal, vegetable or fish curry, rice, chapatti, raita and pickle. The image above is a South Indian Thali served on a banana leaf.
10. What items are currently on your work desk?
I bought a huge desk when I set up my business in 1998 and I love that every piece that I have made has been at this desk. However, in my case, it's really a question of what surrounds my desk. I have trays and trays of stones and pearls, tools and wires, inspiring pictures and drawings as well as photos of clients. It's very organised chaos though and it's my space which is what makes it special. I feel like my studio is my second home!
Well I hope you enjoyed reading a little bit about 'my world' - It's been fun thinking about the answers :-) And I have someone in mind to tag...