The Shape I'm In: A family affair for Mary O'Rouke

Westmeath mammy of the nation Mary O’Rourke reads a lot of historical biography.

Most recently, she read Claire Tomalin’s book on Charles Dickens, as well as Mary Kenny’s The Crown and the Shamrock.

She started writing her own memoir, Just Mary as soon as she lost her Dáil seat in 2011. “I did it through my tape-recorder. I spoke into it. The book is very much me talking. I found that whole rediscovery and re-examination very challenging and very interesting,” says the 75-year-old, who wouldn’t be drawn on what specifically she learned about herself in the process of remembering her life.

She and her late husband, Enda, had two sons. “They’re two men now, they’re fathers, husbands,” says the grandmother of six.

What shape are you in?

I’m not jumping gates everyday but I feel in fair enough shape. I used to swim a lot — I have no time now. I just get up and go around the house and go around town.

Do you have any health concerns?

I’m not going to tell you my private medical history. When you reach 75, you’re just glad to be alive and to put your feet on the ground everyday.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

I eat fairly regularly. I always eat brown bread. I eat fruit — oranges, grapes, pears. I eat a lot of fish and not a lot of red meat.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

I like to sit down with a big mug of milky tea and a slice of homemade cake. I always allow myself that at night.

What would keep you awake at night?

I used to have a lot of stress but now the minute my head touches the pillow I’m asleep. I wake up early. I’d be dressed and showered by 8am.

How do you relax?

With my family, meeting my six grandchildren, relaxing with friends. I go out with them once a week for a glass of wine and a nice meal. I read a lot of historical biography.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

I’d invite my sons, their two wives and all their children. I’ve had my fill of celebrities all my life.

What’s your favourite smell?

A rasher sizzling.

What would you change about your appearance?

I’d stop my hair going grey, which it is and which I colour. I’d make my complexion smooth. I’d love a slim figure.

When did you last cry?

I cried very deeply when Brian Lenihan Jr died. That was my last deep cry.

What trait do you least like in others?

I don’t go around looking at negative traits. People have their reasons for being cross and grumpy. If you met them next day, they might be lovely.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

When you reach my age, you accept yourself as you are. I don’t go introspectively looking at my navel. I am as I am.

Do you pray?

I do.

What would cheer up your day?

A telephone call from a friend or making one. Or getting an unexpected call or email. Human contact.