The Canadian Tourist

I landed on the Emerald Isle more than 6 years ago for a holiday, and I have yet to leave. My life took a wonderfully unexpected turn when I met Rob, aka DJ Techbot. He introduced me to Photoshop and it was love at first sight.

I + 10101010101

I have since developed a healthy addiction to digital...er...everything! I maintain a balance however, by ensuring the presence of at least one analogue keyboard in the house at all times. And the two dogs drag me out into the real world on a regular basis for plenty of exercise :)

I Would Rather Share Than Steal

I am enamoured of and inspired by the open source movement, not only because of what it stands for and the potential it fosters, but because it has enabled me to get to where I am, from starving artist to self-taught professional. And always an anarchist at heart.

Trial & Error (& Error & Error...)

In 2005 Rob and I began experimenting with Mambo (soon after to become Joomla) after a few years of getting to grips with html web design, including what was probably Ireland's first online radio station EMCradio. The problem was, in 2005, dial-up was still way too common a word. That didn't stop us (although maybe it should have!) and we went on to pursue other interests by initiating and joining projects in Galway and online.

We created the Galway Computer Club in 2007 in an attempt to unite computer enthusiasts and professionals in and around Galway. We inadvertently created a community of socialites interested in using a computer to talk about everything but. It seems we should have called it Facebook. That too didn't stop us (although maybe it should have!).

The Joomla! Experience

We've come a long way in 5 years. On the web development side of things, I have focused mainly on CSS coding and Joomla templating, and what can be called Information Architecture and User Experience Design, i.e., creating easy and natural access to content.

I have used Joomla! as a web framework, a mutlimedia device, an environment in which to connect with family and friends, a virtual playground, a business model, and, always as a source of inspiration. I have made my share of mistakes over the years, but Joomla is definitely not one of them.

Onward & Upward

I have scrapbooks, harddrives, and a head all overflowing with ideas. I consider myself a free agent, and the perk of this job is that the possibilities seem endless. It requires time and passion, and I am grateful to have plenty of both.