The Loves Of My Life
From her go-to gadget to her favourite tipple, the weather presenter tells Elle Gordon what delights and dismays her
Nuala Carey’s favourite things
The person
I’d like to mention both my parents here — Maurice and Ann. They have always been very encouraging, supportive and helpful to me. They have, without fail, put the needs of their children first, and instilled in us a very good value system.
The memory
At the age of 16, auditioning for the first time for a part in a local production of John B Keane’s, Big Maggie, and getting a phone call to say I was successful. I remember my mum and I jumping around the kitchen with delight.
The moment of the day
The morning. I really do think it is the best part of the day, and it is a wonderful thing to be able to get out of bed each day and go to work doing a job I really enjoy.
The song
Amazing Grace. It’s an all-encompassing song — it can be sung at weddings and funerals. I love the lyrics, melody and the inspiration behind it. The story goes that
“I hate bad manners. I cannot fathom why people don’t say thank you”
John Newton, who wrote it, was a slave trader caught in a storm, who vowed to change his ways if God saved his life.
The movie
Beaches with Bette Midler. It is the story of two friends whose enduring relationship goes through many trials and tribulations. It is a tear-jerker, and every time I watch it I still cry!
The hero
Adi Roche. I think she has done such wonderful work for the children of Chernobyl through her charity. I have had the pleasure of meeting her and she is a very warm-hearted, calm, serene lady.
The outfit
My Communion dress. It was a hand-medown from my older sister, Lynda. It was long. My mother told me, ‘It won’t date’, and she was right. Looking at photos of it now, a girl could still wear it today.
The book
The House at Riverton by Kate Morton. It is a decadent novel akin to the TV show
Downton Abbey, with a sprinkling of an Agatha Christie mystery. My heart was beating increasingly fast as I read the final chapters. The accessory Pink diamante stud earrings from Rocks jewellers on Grafton Street. They work with any outfit. The gadget My Samsung smartphone: my phone, alarm clock and internet rolled into one. The hobby Walking and running. I love being outdoors and enjoying the fresh air. The pet hate Bad manners. I cannot fathom why people don’t say thank you. They are two words that are very underestimated, but always appreciated. The friend It would be impossible to single anyone out. I have a number of different types of friends. If I have a particular problem, experience has taught me who is the best one to approach for advice and support. “It was my dream to see Monaco where Grace Kelly got married. We saw Prince Albert and he waved at us!”
The beauty product
Silcock’s Base. It is a very inexpensive cream-based product. I use it as a facial wash, but it can be used as a cleanser and mosturiser, too.
The holiday
A holiday to the south of France with my younger sister, Brenda. We went there about three years ago. It was my dream to see Monaco and visit the cathedral where Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier. It was a holiday that exceeded my expectations, as we saw Prince Albert and he waved at us!
The piece of advice
Be good to people on the way up, as you might need them on the way back down!
The drink
I’m not much of a drinker, but I do enjoy an occasional glass of red wine.
The hotel
Carton House in Maynooth, Co Kildare. The grounds are simply stunning; the hotel is beautiful.
The bar
I’m not a great fan of pubs or bars, but if pressed, I would say Finnegans in Dalkey. It has a very cosy feel to it.
The part of my body
People tell me that I have shapely legs. I’m convinced it’s as a result of all the exercising I do.
The celebrity
Reese Witherspoon. People often remark that we look alike. I admire her because not only is she an Oscar-winning actress, but she is now a producer, and advocates equality for women.