darachweb

Happy Birthday Robert Burns!

2012-01-25T19:20:00.000-05:00

“Ah wad some power the giftie gie us
To see ourselves as others see us.”

“The best laid schemes o' mice an' men gang aft agley.”

Carl Peterson sings the songs of Robert Burns

Robert Burns Birthday Jan 25

2012-01-15T13:42:00.001-05:00

Robert Burns, widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland, was born 25 January 1759. two miles south of Ayr, in Alloway, South Ayrshire, Scotland.
In celebration we will feature some quotes and poems by Robert Burns over the next week.

"Dare to be honest and fear no labor."

The Selkirk Grace:
“Some hae meat and canna eat,
And some wad eat that want it,
But we hae meat and we can eat,
And sae the Lord be thankit.”

Find great music to accompany your Robert Burns celebrations Here!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-11T18:21:00.000-05:00

I'm back from a couple weeks in Scotland, where I had a wonderful time! Who knew how beautiful Scotland can be in the winter. Here's a picture I took on January 1, 2012 of Neist Point, on the Isle of Skye.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T20:09:00.002-05:00

The Rest of the Days of Christmas

2011-12-22T17:32:00.000-05:00

Ok, ok, so I've been a little busy, working and preparing for my trip to Scotland, etc, etc. Still a lot of great presents for Christmas or you can treat yourself!

On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Twelve Scottish Claymores
Eleven Scottish Sporrans
Ten Welsh Fleece Blankets
Nine UK Tote Bags
Eight Irish Lanyards
Seven English Patches
Six Wooden Swords
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

16th Century Scottish Claymore replica. The total length is 54", the stainless steel, double-edged blade is 39" long. The black Leather Scabbard is included.

We also have basket hilt swords and celtic short shorts, as well as dirks and knives. All Swords are here!

Happy Holidays from darachweb!

The Ninth Day of Christmas

2011-12-17T08:50:00.004-05:00

On the ninth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Nine UK Tote Bags
Eight Irish Lanyards
Seven English Patches
Six Wooden Swords
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

These roomy Tote Bags are 15" by 15" by 3" canvas, with canvas handles. The design is on both sides. Also available in Scottish Lion Rampant, Scotland St Andrews, Ireland and Wales.

All Tote Bags are here!

The Eighth Day of Christmas

2011-12-17T08:48:00.002-05:00

On the eighth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Eight Irish Lanyards
Seven English Patches
Six Wooden Swords
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

Lanyard is 30" long, the detachable strap is 5" long. There is a bolt snap to hold keys, and a detachable cell phone or badge connector. Also available in Scottish Lion Rampant or St Andrews, Union Jack, England St George and USA.
All Lanyards are here!

The Seventh Day of Christmas

2011-12-13T20:27:00.000-05:00

On the seventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Seven English Patches
Six Wooden Swords
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

Embroidered cloth Patch of the England St George Flag. The patch can be ironed or sewn on. Many other flag patches also available. Rectangular and shield-shaped patches.
All Patches are here!

The Sixth Day of Christmas

2011-12-13T19:07:00.001-05:00

On the sixth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Six Wooden Swords
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

Sturdy wooden swords that are great as replicas for display, play or practice. Pirate swords, Excalibur, claymore!
Wooden Swords are here!

The Fifth Day of Christmas

2011-12-11T15:18:00.001-05:00

On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

The Fairy Ring is used by fairies to identify humans with a "touch of fae" (those having super natural or magical abilities). On such a person the stones on the ring will glow, but the glow is visible only to fairies.
Fairy Rings are here!

The Fourth Day of Christmas

2011-12-11T15:16:00.001-05:00

On the fourth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

Standard USA size metal license plate, with four mounting holes. Available in Scottish Lion Rampant, Irish Tricolor, UK, St George flag and more!
All License Plates are here!

The Third Day of Christmas

2011-12-08T17:54:00.001-05:00

On the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

Lightweight, 100% polyester scarf, 60" long and 8 ½" wide. These attractive scarves make a great accessory for any outfit and are machine washable. Also available in Scottish Lion Rampant, Irish Tricolor and Wales flags.
All Scarves are here!

The Second Day of Christmas

2011-12-02T07:11:00.001-05:00

On the second Day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

The Royal Standard of Scotland, also called the Rampant Lion. The lion has been used as a heraldic device by the Kings of Scotland since William I of Scotland in the 12th century. The Rampant Lion appears to have been used first by Alexander II (1214-1249). The rampant lion stands erect, on it's hind legs, with it's head in profile and forelegs extended.

The National Flag of Scotland is the cross of St. Andrew, also known as the Saltire. It is said to be one of the oldest national flags of any country. The official use of this flag, as a national emblem, dates from the 16th Century.

We have flags, stickers, blankets, key rings, lanyards, patches, and many more gifts using these two flags! Lion Rampant flags here and St Andrews flags here.

St Andrew's Day

2011-11-30T17:47:00.001-05:00

November 30th is St. Andrew's Day! This is the feast day of Saint Andrew.

Saint Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and St. Andrew's Day (Latha Naomh Anndra) is Scotland's official national day.

We'll have a wee dram of whisky and a toast to St Andrew!

The First Day of Christmas

2011-11-26T18:45:00.001-05:00

Our own holiday tradition begins again...

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson.

On this CD Carl Peterson leads you in singing some of his favorite Christmas songs and carols, and songs for the New Year. Go to the link above to hear samples! Songs include What Child Is This, Deck The Halls, Jingle Bells, Silent Night, The Holly And The Ivy, Auld Lang Syne and many more!

New: Lion Rampant Pendant!

2011-10-15T06:45:00.000-04:00

This just in...

A pewter, two piece pendant. The pendant hangs on an adjustable black cord that is 25" long. The pendant itself is about 1" tall.

Check out the Lion Rampant and other Celtic Knot pendants.

Only $4.95 each these pendants make great Holiday gifts!

Talk Like A Pirate - Sep 19th

2011-09-17T08:20:00.000-04:00

That's right, September 19th is Talk Like A Pirate Day!

Aye matey! They even have a website. At darachweb it's a day we always look forward to. Avast! Check out all our pirate stuff. We have flags, stickers, lapel pins, bandanas and much more here. So grab a flagon of rum and join the fun, don't be a bilge rat! We also have great wooden pirate swords.

Arrr, the day wouldn't be complete without music. Carl Peterson sings Pirate Songs, Sea Songs & Shanties. Step up smartly, me hearties, this CD is a must for any Pirate get-together. Listen to song samples!

Long Island Scottish Festival

2011-08-28T08:56:00.002-04:00

We were at the Long Island Scottish Festival yesterday, and there were more people there than expected. It went rather well, despite rain on and off during the day, and threat from the approaching Hurricane Irene.

We left around 2:30pm, along with other vendors (several vendors had opted to not come at all), and made it out of Long Island before Irene officially arrived. In fact, considering the news reports of mandatory evacuations, it was a surprisingly easy drive west, across Manhattan, into New Jersey and home to Pennsylvania.

The Faery Place

2011-07-30T09:42:00.000-04:00

NEW! You can now visit our Faery Place where you will find the Fairy Ring, Fairy Flags, Unicorn Flags and, coming soon, the CD of Faery songs, including Up The Airy Mountain, Fairy Ring, Tam Lin, Fairy Boy and much more!

Brittany Flag

2011-07-21T18:36:00.000-04:00

New! We have the Brittany Flag! 3' by 5' in polyester with grommets for hanging.

We have five of the seven Celtic Nations flags. Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Isle of Man and now Brittany.

You can find all of these flags Here!

Office Closed July 6 - July 11

2011-07-03T11:15:00.000-04:00

We're off to North Carolina for the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.

Our office will be closed July 6 to July 11. Orders can be placed during this time, and we will be checking emails. Orders placed during this time will be shipped as soon as possible after July 11.

St Andrews Cross Colour

2011-05-31T17:58:00.000-04:00

Due to the use of natural dyes through it's history the color of the background of the St Andrew's Cross flag has varied from Navy Blue (the color used in the British Union Flag) to a lighter sky blue. In 2003 a committee of the Scottish Parliament adopted a petition to standardize the colour and settled on an azure blue (Pantone 300), somewhere between dark and light.

Our nylon flags are the new lighter blue color (and are made in the USA). Our polyester flags are a darker blue color.

For all St Andrew's Cross flags click Here.

Scottish Festival

2011-05-23T20:17:00.001-04:00

Had a lovely day at the Colonial Highland Gathering in Fair Hill, Maryland on Saturday. It was the only day in the past nine that it didn't rain here!

Half Way Through May

2011-05-20T19:08:00.000-04:00

Wow, time just flies sometimes!

We began the month at a Fairy Festival near York, PA. We enjoyed a great day. Lots of activities, music, vendors. Interesting and sometimes scary people! A bit of rain at the end of the day, but it didn't bother us.

We were at a Scottish Festival (as vendors and entertainment) in Bridgeport West Virginia on May 7th. It was a great day, with the requisite afternoon showers.

May 14th was the Open House at the Rodale Institute in Kutztown, PA. Plants, a hike around the organic farm (including the old farm houses), and some rain. The 15th saw us Orienteering at Tyler Park, near Newtown, PA.

Think we should stop and rest for a bit...

UK Toothpick Flags

2011-04-27T17:22:00.000-04:00

The Union Jack Toothpick flags are back in stock! Click here to order the tiny flags for your next British themed party or picnic.

Jewels of the Elements

2011-04-23T19:40:00.000-04:00

We are happy to announce that we now carry beautiful necklaces, earrings and bracelets from Jewels of the Elements!

Jewels of the Elements features elegant, hand crafted jewelry inspired by the natural elements. Reveal your natural side and let the essence of Moon and Earth come alive through the creations of my custom jewelry.

The pieces are made up of a combination of semi-precious stones and gems, wooden beads, shells, pearls, ceramic beads, glass beads, hand crafted silver spirals, and much more.

More Faery Songs

2011-04-17T19:14:00.000-04:00

On Saturday we worked on "The Fairy Ring", an impish children's song, and "What Must a Fairy's Dream Be", a great song by Stephen Foster that we've never heard, or heard of, before.

I listened to what Carl had done over the week with "The Fairies". Wow! Just wait till you hear it!

We finished the day with "King of the Fairies", a traditional instrumental.

In the picture Carl plays the bodhran. You can't really see, but many years ago Carl's daughter adorned the head of this bodhran with some of her artwork. It doesn't seem to have effected the sound!

St George and The Wedding

2011-04-15T18:40:00.000-04:00

Two British events happening later this month.

The lesser known event is St George's Day which occurs every April 23rd, which is the traditionally accepted date of Saint George's death in 303 AD.
At one time it was a traditional custom to wear a red rose in one's lapel on St George's Day. Another custom is to fly or adorn the St George's Cross flag in some way. We have a full selection of St George Cross flags and gift items.

The more well known British event is "The Wedding" on April 29. All I'm going to say about that is that we still have lots of Union Jack flags and gift items, so check it out if need something to adorn your wedding event.

darachweb on Facebook

2011-04-10T11:28:00.002-04:00

We're slowly coming into the 21st Century :) and have finally put a page on Facebook. You can see (and "like") us here: darachweb on Facebook

We'll be updating the events section so our families can see where we are and customers and friends can see where to find us!

Carl Peterson's book is now an ebook!

2011-03-26T18:29:00.000-04:00

Now's the Day and Now's the Hour by Carl Peterson is now available as an eBook from:

Barnes & Noble Nookbooks

Amazon for Kindle

Sony Reader Store

iBooks available on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch and on your computer with iTunes.

Enjoy!

Now's the Day on Kindle

2011-03-24T18:57:00.000-04:00

Now's the Day and Now's the Hour the book by Carl Peterson, is now available on Amazon for your Kindle.

Book available Here

This book examines the role of Scotland at the Alamo and in Texas history. A unique combination of history and music that connects the spirit and background of the Alamo defenders to Scotland. Also contains melody, lyrics and historical notes on all the songs from the CD Scotland Remembers the Alamo. The double CD is also available on Amazon.

Double CD Here

Happy St Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T17:34:00.000-04:00

As we celebrate the Patron Saint of Ireland, we give to you this old Celtic blessing:

May the blessing of light be on you—
light without and light within.
May the blessed sunlight shine on you
and warm your heart
till it glows like a great peat fire.

Sláinte!

A Couple more Fairy Songs

2011-03-13T11:15:00.002-04:00

There were some technical difficulties this week, but we managed to get them sorted out. This is a picture of our current setup.

On Saturday we recorded:

Fairy's Love Song (also called "Tha Mi Sgith") - an old Gaelic song
The Fairies - poem by William Allingham, tune: C. Peterson

Sale Ends Soon!

2011-03-12T17:30:00.000-05:00

To celebrate St David's Day (March 1) and St Patrick's Day (March 17) all customers receive 15% off your entire order (excluding shipping).

Hurry! This sale ends March 17, 2011!

More Faerie Songs

2011-03-01T17:34:00.000-05:00

Faery, Faerie, Fairy?

This past Saturday we did more recording on three songs:

The Fairy Fiddler
The Fairy Boy
The Elfin Knight

And started two new songs. It was a very productive day!

Tam Lin (Child #39)
Queen of Elfin's Nurse (Child #40, tune: Dainty Davie and C. Peterson)

Work continues on Faery Songs CD

2011-02-20T08:09:00.002-05:00

Over the past two weeks Carl has been re-learning how to use Sonar (by Cakewalk, this is the software we use for recording). After the fire of two years ago, Carl discovered that the computer itself was still fine, so nothing there was lost. But the keyboard and mouse had to be replaced and the mixing board we'd been using had to be replaced, along with the amplifier, various cables, speakers, etc.

Anyway, during the past two weeks Carl recorded basic tracks for:

The Fairy Boy, written and composed by Samuel Lover (1797 - 1868)
The Wee Wee Man, Child #38, music by Carl Peterson
The Fairy Fiddler, this was re-recorded in a new key.

On Saturday, the 19th, we worked on

Thomas the Rhymer - this we recorded at a slower tempo then the previous version.
Monday Tuesday - this was recorded at a faster tempo then the previous version.
The Wee Wee Man - recorded new voice and guitar tracks a bit faster, but we decided the original tracks Carl had done during the week sounded better!

Saints Days Sale: 15% Off

2011-02-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

To celebrate St David's Day (March 1) and St Patrick's Day (March 17) all customers receive 15% off your entire order (excluding shipping).

Hurry! This sale ends March 17, 2011!

Alamo: 175th Anniversary

2011-02-13T11:48:00.001-05:00

The year 2011 marks the 175th anniversary of the Battle of the Alamo!

For 13 days in 1836, around 200 Texas defenders held the Alamo from over one thousand of General Santa Anna's troops. The defenders, along with their leaders William Travis, Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett, would die fighting overwhelming odds for freedom.

The battle, that is still remembered, ended March 6, 1836.

At the Alamo in 1836 was (at least) a bagpiper and a fiddler. The men at the Alamo played and sang songs that were brought to the New World from Scotland, Ireland and England. These songs were later used as tunes for ballads and stories written about the Alamo and the Texas revolution. Carl Peterson now presents these songs, many for the first time, in an incredible double CD collection, Scotland Remembers the Alamo.

And don't miss the accompanying book Now's the Day and Now's the Hour by Carl Peterson, that examines the role of Scotland at the Alamo and in Texas history, and also includes the lyrics and music for the songs on Scotland Remembers the Alamo CD.

Purchase the CD and Book at either of these locations:
Carl Peterson
darachweb

More work on Carl Peterson's new album

2011-02-06T19:30:00.001-05:00

Finally got another day of recording on the new album. Worked on two songs today.

Thomas the Rhymer (also called True Thomas) Child #37
Monday Tuesday

For the record, Carl does work on the songs between our recording dates!

Work on new Carl Peterson album has begun!

2011-02-05T08:24:00.003-05:00

It was two years ago in February 2009 that there was a fire in the studio at Darach Recordings. Although the studio itself suffered only smoke damage, it was pretty extensive. Carl has finally been able to get and set up new equipment so he can start recording again!

We started three weeks ago on an album of songs that includes intervention, intrusion, kidnapping, and other hi-jinks by faeries and other supernatural beings.

On January 15th basic tracks were recorded for three songs:

The Fairy Fiddler (poem by Nora Jane Hopper Chesson, music by Carl Peterson)
The Elfin Knight (Child Ballad #2, music by Carl Peterson)
Paul's Little Hen (traditional)

No title yet for the album, but stay tuned for updates as it progresses!

Happy Birthday Robert Burns!

2011-01-25T15:26:00.000-05:00

"At the height of his literary celebrity, Robert Burns proudly informed a correspondent: 'I was born a very poor man's son'. Yet he became a legend in his short lifetime and an enduring international institution after his death."

Robert Burns was born on January 25th, 1759 in Alloway, Ayrshire, Scotland. He was the eldest of seven children of William Burnes and Agnes Broun (Burnes' children later removed the 'e' from their name). The family was close-knit and happy, although they were often exposed to hard-times and poverty.

I was going to include a lengthy biography of Robert Burns, but you all know the story, or know where to look for it!

So a song, instead...

Robert Burns wrote this song in 1785. This song provides a vivid forecast of the author's coming fame. It was rumored, but never substantiated, that a way-faring woman, present at Burns' birth, actually announced a similar prophecy when the child was placed in her arms.

A toast to Robert with this (autobiographical?) song.

There was a lad was born in Kyle
But whatna day o' whatna style
I doubt it's hardly worth the while
To be sae nice tae Robin

Robin was a rovin' boy
Rantin', rovin', rantin', rovin'
Robin was a rovin' boy
Rantin', rovin' Robin

Our monarch's hindmost year but ane
Was five-and-twenty days begun,
'Twas then a blast o' Janwar' win'
Blew hansel in on Robin.

The gossip keekit in his loof
Quo scho: "Wha lives will see the proof,
This waly boy will be nae coof:
I think we'll ca' him Robin.

"He'll hae misfortunes great an' sma',
But ay a heart aboon them a',
He'll be a credit till us a':
We'll a' be proud o' Robin!

Robin was a rovin' boy
Rantin', rovin', rantin', rovin'
Robin was a rovin' boy
Rantin', rovin' Robin

Jewels of the Elements

2010-12-31T08:58:00.000-05:00

Check out this new website featuring beautiful necklaces, earrings and bracelets: Jewels of the Elements

Jewels of the Elements features elegant, hand crafted jewelry inspired by the natural elements. Reveal your natural side and let the essence of Moon and Earth come alive through the creations of my custom jewelry.

The pieces are made up of a combination of semi-precious stones and gems, wooden beads, shells, pearls, ceramic beads, glass beads, hand crafted silver spirals, and much more.

They are available in a variety of Elemental Collections, inspired by different realms of Nature and Earth, such as; Origins of Autumn, Wind Crystals, Moon Drops.

Some of my favorites are the jasper earrings, autumnal equinox necklace and the turquoise pieces.

2010-12-25T09:35:00.000-05:00

The Twelfth Day of Christmas

2010-12-19T10:15:00.002-05:00

On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Twelve Scottish Claymores
Eleven Scottish Sporrans
Ten Welsh Fleece Blankets
Nine UK Tote Bags
Eight Irish Lanyards
Seven English Patches
Six Wooden Swords
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

16th Century Scottish Claymore replica. The total length is 54", the stainless steel, double-edged blade is 39" long. The black Leather Scabbard is included.

We also have basket hilt swords and celtic short shorts, as well as dirks and knives. All Swords are here!

Happy Holidays from darachweb!

Holiday Shipping

2010-12-13T19:00:00.000-05:00

To ensure your holiday packages arrive before December 24, please place your orders by December 17th. This apply only to in-stock items shipped to physical addresses within the United States.

The Eleventh Day of Christmas

2010-12-12T18:15:00.000-05:00

On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Eleven Scottish Sporrans
Ten Welsh Fleece Blankets
Nine UK Tote Bags
Eight Irish Lanyards
Seven English Patches
Six Wooden Swords
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

The sporran is an essential piece of Highland dress that accompanies a Scotsman's kilt. The name comes from the Scottish Gaelic word for 'purse'.

In early years kilts were a very basic garment that required no tailoring and were generally a single piece of tartan cloth wrapped around the body. The kilt had no pockets and out of necessity the Highlanders carried a small pouch, usually suspended from a belt. This pouch became the sporran as we know it today.

We have 9 different designs that range in price from $15.00 to $25.00. Most sporrans are leather or cowhide, and a belt is included.
All Sporrans are here!

The Tenth Day of Christmas

2010-12-10T18:21:00.000-05:00

On the tenth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Ten Welsh Fleece Blankets
Nine UK Tote Bags
Eight Irish Lanyards
Seven English Patches
Six Wooden Swords
Five Fairy Rings
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

A soft, warm fleece blanket 50"x60". Excellent as a blanket, a bedspread, a throw on a couch or chair, car blanket, or in a college dorm, tons of uses! Each blanket comes in a reusable, zippered plastic bag. Also available in Scottish Lion Rampant, Scotland St Andrews, Ireland, Union Jack, England St George Cross and USA.

All Fleece Blankets are here!

The Ninth Day of Christmas

2010-12-07T17:51:00.000-05:00

The Eighth Day of Christmas

2010-12-02T18:09:00.000-05:00

St. Andrew's Day

2010-11-30T20:20:00.000-05:00

November 30th is St. Andrew's Day! This is the feast day of Saint Andrew.

Saint Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and St. Andrew's Day (Scottish Gaelic: Latha Naomh Anndra) is Scotland's official national day.

We'll have a wee drink of whisky and a toast to St Andrew!

The Seventh Day of Christmas

2010-11-29T17:31:00.000-05:00

The Sixth Day of Christmas

2010-11-26T09:11:00.002-05:00

The Fifth Day of Christmas

2010-11-23T19:15:00.000-05:00

The Fourth Day of Christmas

2010-11-21T16:08:00.000-05:00

The Third Day of Christmas

2010-11-18T18:27:00.000-05:00

The Second Day of Christmas

2010-11-16T18:07:00.002-05:00

On the second Day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Two Scottish flags
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

The Royal Standard of Scotland, also called the Rampant Lion. The lion has been used as a heraldic device by the Kings of Scotland since William I of Scotland in the 12th century. The Rampant Lion appears to have been used first by Alexander II (1214-1249). The rampant lion stands erect, on it's hind legs, with it's head in profile and forelegs extended.

The National Flag of Scotland is the cross of St. Andrew, also known as the
Saltire. It is said to be one of the oldest national flags of any country. The official use of this flag, as a national emblem, dates from the 16th Century.

We have flags, stickers, blankets, key rings, lanyards, patches, and many more gifts using these two flags! Lion Rampant flags here and St Andrews flags here.

The First Day of Christmas

2010-11-14T17:55:00.001-05:00

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson.

On this CD Carl Peterson leads you in singing some of his favorite Christmas songs and carols, and songs for the New Year. Go to the link above to hear samples! Songs include What Child Is This, Deck The Halls, Jingle Bells, Silent Night, The Holly And The Ivy, Auld Lang Syne and many more!

Fall Vacation

2010-11-10T18:29:00.001-05:00

Our office will be closed from Nov 11 through Nov 20.

We will be reading/answering email while on vacation. You can place orders from our website, but all orders placed during this time will be shipped upon our return.

Thank you for your business and your patience!

Fairy Ring

2010-11-07T11:34:00.000-05:00

darachweb is delighted to bring you the Fairy Ring. The Fairy Ring is used by fairies to identify humans with a "touch of fae" (those having super natural or magical abilities). On such a person the stones on the ring will glow, but the glow is visible only to fairies.

The ring is an adjustable resin circle with dangly red glass stones that catch the light as you move your hand. Perhaps you too, will be able to catch a glimpse of the glow that the fairies see!

The rings are only $1.19 each, or $1.00 each if you buy 5 or more. They make a great stocking stuffer!

Get your own Fairy Ring!

Celtic Nations Sticker

2010-10-24T08:31:00.001-04:00

A new item we recently discovered is a "Celtic Nations" sticker. This attractive 3"x5" sticker contains flags of six Celtic nations: Brittany, Isle of Man, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall and Ireland. Only $2.25, click to purchase this sticker.

We also carry t-shirt, sweat shirts, hoodies and other apparel, as well as mugs, steins, tote bags and many other items containing flags of seven Celtic nations at our CafePress Shop.

Summer Schedule

2010-07-14T18:52:00.000-04:00

Last weekend was spent at the Scottish Festival at Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. It was a great weekend. Beautiful weather. Well mostly beautiful! There was brief rain shower Friday afternoon, and a bit of a downpour on Friday night. But we were staying in a condo at the top of Sugar Mountain ski resort (no, not that huge building at the top of the mountain) and were able to watch the storms roll in and out from a nice deck.

The photo shows the Friday morning Sunrise from our condo.

Next week our office will be closed again. From July 17 to July 25. Orders can be placed during this time, but all will be shipped as soon as possible after July 25.

Silly Songs Updated!

2010-06-21T17:58:00.002-04:00

Carl Peterson's Silly Songs CD has been updated and re-released! With a new cover featuring drawings by John V. Cody, this album includes audience favorites Seven Old Ladies and The Sow, as well as Soldier Soldier with The Drambeauties and many old and new favorites.

You can order the CD from
darachweb
Carl's Web Site
CDBaby

New! Sporrans

2010-05-22T07:52:00.001-04:00

We are pleased to announce that we now carry a selection of leather sporrans.

The sporran is an essential piece of Highland dress that accompanies a Scotsman's kilt. The name comes from the Scottish Gaelic word for 'purse'.

In early years kilts were a very basic garment that required no tailoring and were generally a single piece of tartan cloth wrapped around the body. The kilt had no pockets and out of necessity the Highlanders carried a small pouch, usually suspended from a belt. This pouch became the sporran as we know it today.

A variety of designs, these sporrans include a chain or leather belt to complete your Highland gear. Browse the collection at Leather Sporrans.

St George and Shakespeare

2010-04-23T09:19:00.000-04:00

St George's Day is celebrated April 23rd in England, Saint George being the patron saint of England. Many other countries also observe St George's Day on April 23, the traditionally accepted date of Saint George's death in 303 AD.

St George Gift Items

William Shakespeare died on 23 April 1616, aged 52. But what fun would that be if there was no controversy? It appears that the 23 April date is based on the Old Style, or Julian calendar, of Shakepeare's time. According to the Gregorian calendar, used today, the date of Shakespeare's death would actually be 3 May 1616.

Death--the last sleep? No, it is the final awakening.
--Walter Scott

Silly Songs

2010-04-05T19:11:00.001-04:00

Our latest addition to CDBaby is Carl Peterson's Silly Songs. This a great collection of songs to make you smile, chuckle, giggle and laugh out loud.

Live versions of favorites Seven Old Ladies and The Sow. Try not to laugh along with My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean and The Laughing Policeman.

Brighten up your day with these and many more at CDBaby. You can download individual songs, or the whole CD.

New Ireland License Plate

2010-03-08T17:23:00.003-05:00

Just in, a license plate with the Ireland and USA flags! This is a standard US sized, metal license plate with four mounting holes. You can find it Here.

The St Andrew's Flag Fleece Blankets are back in stock! You can purchase this great blanket Here. The blanket is a lightweight polyester fleece, 50" by 60", soft and warm.

Don't forget our St Patrick's Day coupon! Enter the coupon code IRISH17 for 17% off your order (excluding shipping). The coupon is valid until March 31st.

New Coupon!

2010-03-02T18:38:00.002-05:00

In honor of St Patrick's Day this coupon will take 17% off any order from darachweb (excluding shipping).

The coupon code is IRISH17 and is valid until March 31st.

Faith and begorrah don't miss out on this one!

Irish flags and flag gifts at here!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T18:39:00.000-05:00

Our 15% coupon expires February 16th! Get 15% off your entire order (excluding shipping) by entering the coupon code THIRTY10.

Love Songs

2010-02-07T17:47:00.001-05:00

Valentine's Day is fast approaching! Don't miss Carl Peterson's Scottish Love Songs. This CD has the most beautiful love songs that ever came out of Scotland. Including Lizzie Lindsay, Annie Laurie, The Rose of Allandale and 11 more.

Will ye gang tae the highlands, Leezie Lindsay,
Will ye gang tae the highlands wi' me
Will ye gang tae the highlands, Leezie Lindsay
My bride and my darling tae be.

There's dancing and joy in the heilands,
There's piping and gladness and glee.
For MacDonald has brought home Leezie Lindsay,
His bride and his darlin' to be.

Listen to samples and order the cd Scottish Love Songs.

We're still offering 15% off your order total (excluding shipping) until February 16th. Just enter this coupon code: THIRTY10 when you check out, for the discount.

Happy Birthday, Robert Burns!

2010-01-25T20:18:00.000-05:00

January 25th is the anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns.
A toast to the immortal memory:
Here's tae us - wha's like us? Gae few - and they're aw deid!

Burns / Valentine Coupon

2010-01-21T18:16:00.003-05:00

Robert Burns was born on January 25th, 1759 in Alloway, Ayrshire, Scotland. During his short life he wrote over 300 poems and song lyrics. He wrote love songs such as My Love is like a Red Red Rose and Flow Gently Sweet Afton.

February 14th is St Valentine's Day. In many countries, this is the traditional day on which lovers express their love for each other.

To celebrate these two Romantic events we're offering 15% off your order total (excluding shipping) until February 16th. Just enter this coupon code: THIRTY10 when you check out, for the discount.

UK Blankets are Here!

2010-01-14T17:45:00.005-05:00

The Union Jack Fleece Blankets are finally back in! They are on the way to our shop. We are once again taking orders for the UK Blankets and will ship them out as soon as they are here, which should be no later than January 21, 2010.

You can order the blankets from either of these pages:
Union Jack Stuff
Fleece Blankets

Download Christmas Music

2010-01-04T18:46:00.006-05:00

OK, so we were a bit late getting this out but here it is! Carl Peterson's We Wish You A Merry Christmas and a Guid New Year CD is now available on CBBaby. You can download individual songs or the whole album. Great traditional carols such as Silent Night, The Holly and the Ivy, God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman, A-Soaling and many more. Also these songs for the new year: A Guid New Year, Here's Tae The Year That's Awa' and Auld Lang Syne.

In plenty of time for Christmas 2010! Hey, we're not late, we're early!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T09:20:00.003-05:00

Best wishes to everyone for a joyful, healthy and blessed 2010!

Shipping Alert!

2009-12-20T07:55:00.003-05:00

The U.S. Post Office seems to be moving slower than usual this holiday season. If you are ordering something for Christmas please place your order by the end of the day December 20th. Even then, I'm not sure we can guarantee delivery by Christmas, but we will get your package shipped as quickly as we can!

12 Days til Christmas

2009-12-13T13:19:00.006-05:00

We've created our own version of the Twelve Days of Christmas! For expediency sake we're just going to present the last verse here.

Happy Holidays!

On the twelfth day of Christmas my True Love gave to me:
Twelve Scottish Claymores
Eleven Pirate Windsocks
Ten Welsh Fleece Blankets
Nine UK Tote Bags
Eight Irish Lanyards
Seven English Patches
Six Wooden Swords
Five Scottish flags
Four License Plates
Three British Scarves
Two Pocket Knives
and Christmas Songs by Carl Peterson

Wooden Spoon - Mountains of Mourne

2009-12-12T09:31:00.004-05:00

If you listen to The Village on XM Satellite Radio you may have heard "The Wooden Spoon" singing Mountains of Mourne. The Wooden Spoon was a folk music trio from the 1980's. The singer is our own Carl Peterson! You can find his lovely recording of Mountains of Mourne on his album These Are My Mountains.

To learn more about Carl Peterson go to his website at www.carl-peterson.com.

Holiday Shipping

2009-12-06T11:12:00.002-05:00

The holidays are fast approaching!

To ensure delivery to the USA, by December 25, please place your orders by December 20 and select Priority Mail shipping! We will do our best to get your packages to you on time!

Holiday Songs

2009-11-29T14:15:00.005-05:00

For a great CD of Christmas and New Year's Eve songs check out Carl Peterson's We Wish you a Merry Christmas and a Guid New Year. Eighteen favorite songs in the beautiful warm voice of Scotsman Carl Peterson. Click here to hear samples and order this wonderful CD.

Includes A-Soaling, Deck The Halls, Jingle Bells, Silent Night, The Holly And The Ivy, A Guid New Year, Auld Lang Syne and many more! A great background for your holiday celebrations.

Christmas Songs CD!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T08:04:00.003-05:00

Today is Thanksgiving Day in the USA. Originally a harvest festival, it is a day to gather with family and friends to give thanks and show gratitude for everything to the smallest thing.

So, thank you to family, friends and all our great customers!

Fleece Blankets (update)

2009-11-02T18:27:00.002-05:00

The Scottish Lion Rampant Fleece Blankets are back in stock! Yeah! Unfortunately, the St Andrews Cross Blankets are back-ordered. Sigh. We are working on it and hopefully we will soon have all the blankets back in stock.

Fleece Blankets

New ! Powder Horns and More

2009-10-26T17:43:00.004-04:00

We now have Powder Horns. These are great replicas made of authentic horn, in an early American Frontier style. No two powder horns are alike! They come in two sizes (10" and 14") and two color styles, a lighter brown/white and black. For more images and to order click Powder Horns.

We also have a new folding pocket knife. Dubbed the Scottish Heroes knife, the knife handle has images of Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Bonnie Prince Charlie. The knife has a 4" blade and comes in a wooden presentation box. A great gift for your favorite Scot! For images and to order click Scottish Heroes knife.

New Oval Stickers

2009-10-20T18:46:00.003-04:00

We now have a new style of Oval Sticker! These stickers are 4 ½" wide and 3" tall. They have the country flag, waving, as the background. A very bright and attractive sticker!

The stickers are only $2.50 each and available with Scotland Royal Standard, Scotland St Andrews, Ireland Tricolour, Union Jack, Wales flags. You can order the Stickers Here.

But wait! You can also get these same designs as Magnets! Only $4.50 each for a flat magnet. You can order the Magnets Here.

Gadsden and Culpepper Bandanas

2009-09-03T18:40:00.010-04:00

We once again have the Gadsden Flag and Culpeper Flag bandanas in stock!

These are 22" square and made of a polyester/cotton blend. You can find these and other Bandanas Here!

We have also added 12"x18" flags of the Gadsden, Culpeper and First Navy Jack! These flags are available on this page.

All of our Gadsden, Culpeper and First Navy Jack flag items can be found here!

Foxburg Scottish Festival!

2009-08-18T17:47:00.005-04:00

We attended the first Foxburg Scottish Festival last weekend and it was great!! The festival was for the benefit of the Allegheny RiverStone Center for the Arts (ARCA).

The weekend started with a Ceilidh on Friday night. It was outdoors in an area that formed a natural amphitheater. The performers were bagpiper Johnathan Shegog, singers Carl Peterson and Bob Murdoch and fiddler Melinda Crawford.

The fun continued Saturday at the RiverStone Event Center. There was Scottish food and crafts, sheep herding dogs, clans, athletics (caber toss, wheat sheaf toss, hammer and stone throws), highland dance demonstrations, children's events, carriage rides through RiverStone Farm and the MacDonald Pipe Band of Pittsburgh provided the essential bagpipe music through out the day.

Kudos to Art and Pat Steffee, who hosted the festival on their premises, Drew Orient, director of ARCA, Kathy Shepherd who organized the clans, Dave Strunk who organized the athletics, Carl Peterson who helped organized the entertainment and vendors. Last, but far from least, are the numerous committee members and volunteers who made the festival a success.

More on Foxburg Scottish Festival

2009-08-05T17:54:00.002-04:00

You can find Foxburg just 3-4 miles from Exit 45 of Route I-80 in Pennsylvania.

Here is their web-site with more information on the activities planned Foxburg Festival website.

Can't wait!! Hope to see you there!

Scottish Festival - Foxburg, PA

2009-08-03T18:26:00.002-04:00

The first ever Foxburg Riverstone Scottish Festival will be held on Saturday August 15th 2009! The festival will take place at Riverstone Farms Event Center, in Foxburg. There will be clan gatherings, traditional pipe bands, dancing, traditional songs and fiddling and athletic demonstrations. Lots of food and fun for the family. General admission - only $5.00 per person. Children under 12 free.

If you're anywhere near the Pittsburgh area you won't want to miss this inaugural event. In case of rain the festival will be held indoors in the Event Center's 2 acre arena.

On Friday evening August 14th there will an outdoor Ceilidh along the Allegheny River in Foxburg. Beginning at 7:00pm join us for an evening of traditional song and music by Carl Peterson, Bob Murdoch, fiddler Melinda Crawford and more.

Come join us for a great Scottish weekend!

New Products Available!

2009-07-28T09:36:00.002-04:00

We continue to restock, following the fire earlier this year, and now have several new products added to our catalog. Tote Bags, Kitchen Sets, Mini Banners and Scarfs.

The Tote Bags are heavy canvas with canvas handles and a great flag design. These are generously sized and great for shopping or carrying your stuff to the beach! Browse Tote Bags.

The Kitchen Sets include a Canvas Apron, Pot Holder and Over Mitt. They make a great gift for your favorite chef or BBQ'er! Browse Kitchen Sets.

Mini Banners are 3" x 4" fringed flags that can be hung from a window with a suction cup hook (which is included). Hang in the house or in your car! Browse Mini Banners.

Finally, the scarfs are lightweight 100% polyester, 60" long and 8 ½" wide. They look great as an accent with any outfit. Browse Scarfs.

Happy Canada Day!

2009-07-01T18:51:00.004-04:00

Canada Day (French: Fête du Canada), is Canada's national day celebrating the anniversary of the July 1, 1867 enactment of the British North America Act of 1867, which united Canada as a single country of four provinces.

This day marks the joining of the British colonies of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Province of Canada into a federation of four provinces (the Province of Canada being divided, in the process, into Ontario and Quebec) on July 1, 1867.

Oh, Canada
The true north, strong and free.

Father's Day & New Lower Flag Prices!

2009-06-21T09:19:00.008-04:00

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there! Including my own dear Dad who, I'm happy to say, at 83 is still healthy and active.

We've lowered the prices on our 2'x3' and 3'x5' polyester flags. The 2'x3' flags are now only $5.95, and the 3'x5' flags are only $7.95!

2'x3' Flags $5.95

3'x5' Flags $7.95

Shipping Rate Increase

2009-05-06T18:40:00.002-04:00

Well the United States Post Office is raising their rates again. As much as we hate to do it, we have to raise our shipping costs to keep pace.

But we prefer to keep the price of our products as low as possible, and add the shipping cost, rather than raising the price of the products to attempt to cover the shipping costs.

Nevertheless, since most of our products are of relatively low weight, we find that the USPS still has lower rates than other shipping companies.

Spring and Festival Season

2009-04-21T17:23:00.004-04:00

April is already more than half over! Yes, I've been busy (haven't we all)! No new products recently, just our normal great selection of flags and flag gift items as well as some great Scottish and Irish music.

If there's something specific you are looking for please let us know and we'll try to get it for you. If you are from a clan or organization contact us about quantity discounts.

It's looks like spring is finally arriving here in Pennsylvania, and the festival season has begun. We were at the Scots Irish Heritage Festival in Lexington, Virginia early this month, and will be at the Scottish Festival in Bridgeport, West Virginia on May 2nd. Then the Colonial Highland Gathering in Fairhill, Maryland on May 16th.

Come out and see us!

Celtic Music now Available

2009-03-29T15:28:00.003-04:00

Once again we have CDs available from Martha Clancy and Ellen Tepper. Some beautiful music featuring the Celtic Harp. You can learn more about these lovely CDs on the Celtic Harp page.

Tartan Day coming April 6th

2009-03-10T17:46:00.004-04:00

National Tartan Day will be here agin on April 6. The anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath (1320) has been used by numerous groups and societies throughout Canada and America to celebrate their Scottish roots.

On December 19th 1991, in response to action initiated by the Clans & Scottish Societies of Canada, the Ontario Legislature passed a resolution proclaiming April 6th as Tartan Day, following the example of other Canadian provinces.

America followed suit on March 20th 1998, when Senate Resolution 155 (S.Res. 155), proposed by US Senate Republican majority leader Trent Lott, was passed unanimously.

So it's official! Celebrate your Scottish roots, or just celebrate! See our Tartan Day Gift Package. A red plaid bandana and a CD of Bagpipe music for only $5.00!

St David's Day & Square Root Day

2009-03-03T17:20:00.006-05:00

St David's Day, honoring the patron saint of Wales, was March 1st. Yes, we missed it! But nevertheless...

David is a native of the country of which he is patron saint (a rarity in the British Isles). He became renowned as a teacher and preacher, founding monastic settlements and churches in Wales. David died 1 March circa 589. Celebrations of this day generally involve daffodils, leeks, parades, musical and sporting events. Wales flags and gift items can be found on our Wales web page.

Today is also Square Root Day! That's right, the date is 3/3/09. Get it?! 3 is the square root of 9! Hallmark has plenty of time to prepare cards to celebrate the next Square Root Day which will be Apr 4, 2016.

Have a great day!

Fire!

2009-02-18T18:38:00.007-05:00

On Wednesday February 11, we had a fire at the darachweb offices. No one was hurt, but one corner of the building experienced major damage. There was smoke damage throughout the building.

The Fire Marshall, after much investigation, has declared the cause of the fire "indeterminate". A very frustrating result!

On the bright side, while sorting through the damage we have discovered some products, almost miraculously, survived the fire. These are available on our website, and as we restock, new items will be added.

Thank you all for your kind words and support! You make the whole process so much more bearable. Please visit darachweb.

St David's Day, March 1st

2009-02-01T12:38:00.005-05:00

Saint David (or Dewi Sant, as he is known in the Welsh language) was a Celtic monk, abbot and bishop, who lived in the sixth century. During his life, he was the archbishop of Wales, and he was one of many early saints who helped to spread Christianity among the pagan Celtic tribes of western Britain. He is the patron saint of Wales.

To celebrate, all of our Welsh flags and flag gifts are on sale for 20% off! Check it out on the Wales Flag page.

Robert Burns Birthday

2009-01-25T10:22:00.004-05:00

Robert Burns was born, 250 years ago today, on January 25th, 1759 in Alloway, Ayrshire, Scotland. He was the eldest of seven children of William Burnes and Agnes Broun

Across the world Burns is regarded as the national poet of Scotland. In his short lifetime he wrote more than 500 poems and songs. His writings were romantic, political, bawdy, satirical and so much more. He wrote in the Scots language, and also in English and Scots dialect, accessible to an audience beyond Scotland.

There was a lad was born in Kyle
But whatna day o' whatna style
I doubt it's hardly worth the while
To be sae nice tae Robin

Robin was a rovin' boy
Rantin', rovin', rantin', rovin'
Robin was a rovin' boy
Rantin', rovin' Robin

Our monarch's hindmost year but ane
Was five-and-twenty days begun,
'Twas then a blast o' Janwar' win'
Blew hansel in on Robin.

On this day let us raise a toast to "The Immortal Memory of Robert Burns".

Burns Supper: Songs and Poems

2009-01-16T18:11:00.005-05:00

Robert Burns wrote over 500 songs and poems during his short lifetime. No Burns Supper is complete without singing the songs and reciting the poetry of Burns.

The supper is usually preceded by Burns' Address to a Haggis. This noted production was composed with little forethought within a fortnight after the poet's arrival in Edinburgh, and was printed in the pages of the Caledonian Mercury, December 20th, 1786. You can find the full text, as well as a translation Here

At a Burns Supper you might also hear My Love is Like a Red Red Rose, There was a Lad, Coming Through the Rye, Ye Banks and Braes, and perhaps even a recitation of the great narrative poem Tam 'o Shanter.

The traditional end to any Burns Supper is the singing of classicly Scottish song Auld Lang Syne. Burns claimed to have written only two stanzas of this song (verses 2 and 3), while the others verses were from an old song. Nevertheless it's sentiment is timeless.

Songs of Robert Burns CD, sung by Carl Peterson.

Burns Supper: Neeps and Tatties

2009-01-10T09:31:00.002-05:00

Haggis is traditionally served with "Neeps and Tatties", but at a Burns Supper, since the Haggis may be served separately, the Neeps & Tatties will be served with the main dinner.

Tatties are mashed potatoes. Neeps are traditionally mashed rutabaga (called swedes in Scotland), but if necessary turnips can also be used. The Neeps and Tatties are mashed and served separately.

If you mix the Neeps and Tatties together and add some onion you have a dish called Clapshot, which is said to have originated in Orkney.

The name rutabaga comes from the Swedish "rotabagge". Some claim the vegetable is native to Sweden, but others think it was introduced to Sweden, possibly from Finland or Siberia, in the early 17th century. From Sweden, it reached Scotland (where it is called a "Swede"), and from there it spread to the rest of Great Britain and to North America.

Neeps and Tatties are a delicious side dish to accompany the Haggis and your Burns Supper.

Visit the Robert Burns page of our website for Gift Packages and more information about Robert Burns.