It's that time of year again - Panto season - and I'm definitely feeling the festive cheer. I'm back in the Gaiety Theatre tangled up in an array of wigs, under skirts, sequins and glitter, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
This year I've slipped into the comfy shoes of Jill – little lady of Jack (as in the one who climbs the beanstalk) and with 14 shows a week, it has all been a little crazy but, as I've said, I wouldn't change a thing. Here's a peek at how I've spent the holidays ...

Saturday, December 26
Christmas was very short, but very sweet. I drove home after our evening performance on the 23rd and just made it to Limerick in time to ring in Christmas Eve with my family.
It had been over a month since I'd been home so needless to say, being the home bird I am, it was very emotional. Today I got up before anyone else, so I wouldn't have to say goodbye – I hate goodbyes – and tried to sneak away.
My aunt is far too clever though and is always one step ahead. She caught me for a "See you later on" before I set off.
Work was easier than I thought. Everyone was in good spirits, hugs and kisses and Christmas stories circulated in the green room (which is actually green!).
That is what is a little special about this job. We spend so much time together it's like a home away from home. A second family. I call it the Panto bubble ...

Sunday, December 27
I'm not going to lie; today I was shattered. Between shows, we had what we call a 'onesie' day. I'm giving away all the backstage secrets now, but a few weeks back, over lunch, I let slip that I had an all-in-one sleeping suit (onesie).
I expected a few taunts and jibes for this but in fact the opposite happened. The whole company decided to go out and buy them too. Now on 'tired' days we all get suited up and huddle in the green room on couches.
It's a sight to behold. Men and women scattered around dressed in over sized baby-grows and still sporting panto make-up. But it does the world of good. That little rest got me recharged for part two - it's like my own personal Red Bull!

Monday, December 28
Today was Aisling's birthday – one of the dancers – so the backstage buzz was great.
The shows themselves were amazing too; I had friends in for the matinee so that always makes them a little more exciting knowing there are people you know out there.
After the second show, we all raced for the showers to get ready for a well-deserved night out. We didn't have to go far though – the green room was the place of choice!
It might sound strange that after spending nine hours in the Gaiety, that when we go 'out', we choose to stay there for the night, but to me it makes perfect sense. I love it. I think it shows how close the cast and crew grow together.
It's always a lovely atmosphere, I don't think I've ever experienced it before. Over the past few weeks we've had some very interesting people join us for post show get togethers: boxer Bernard Dunne, TV3's Alan Hughes, Brian Ormond, and even Ireland's most famous weatherman - Martin King!

Wednesday, December 30
Busy, busy, busy! Two shows and in between them I made a start on studying for my exams in mid-January.
I went back to college part time in September to do my Masters in Journalism and Radio Broadcasting and I'm loving it!
It's my sensible side coming out, as I always have to have a back up plan!
It has been tough mixing college with the schedule at the Gaiety, but I've just about managed!

Thursday, December 31
We had two shows again today and the thought of two more tomorrow is turning everyone off the idea of New Year's Eve celebrations!
It's a tough schedule at times like this, being away from family and friends. I will admit today, it got to me a little – it's difficult to be away so much. I've only ever lived in Limerick so being in Dublin full-time is a big struggle for me, but it makes the time I do spend at home very special.
Tonight's show was amazing. At the finale, the house lights went up and everyone in the audience got to their feet and with crossed arms joined us for a lovely rendition of Auld Lang Syne. It was really beautiful, a sight you don't see every day.
After the show I went for a lovely Chinese meal with my dressing room buddy Louise (The Fairy) and rang in the New Year with her, her family and friends.

Friday, January 1
A new day and a new year! I kicked it all off on a positive note and had a lovely dinner between shows with some of the cast. We topped it all off with some amazing knickerbocker glories – yum!
We got talking about resolutions and I realised I don't really make resolutions, so this year I've decided to make a promise to myself instead.
That promise is to work very hard to make the most of everything I've been given in the past 18 months. It has been a bit of a roller-coaster, but you know what? That's life.
Life has its up and downs, you just have to do the best with what comes your way. That's what 2010 is going to be about for me because all you can do is your best and that way you can have no regrets.
People often ask me where do I see myself in 10 years, but this year, I'm going to stay in the here and now, that way life can't pass me by. I've got some very exciting things lined up and I cant wait to get stuck in! Happy New Year, everyone! xxx