By Peg Prendeville

I write these notes late on Monday night – May eve – having returned from a lovely walk in Ballybunion. The fresh breeze and the sound of the waves is always a tonic. What a difference a fine evening makes and it is heartening to hear that there will be an improvement in the weather for the rest of the week. There are rumours that this summer will be fine and we sincerely hope so.

Sometimes it is interesting to go back five or ten years and compare notes. This is what I found in May 2008. “With all this fine weather one would think we were living in Spain or Italy these days; it is most heartening. Turf is being cut and some people are at the footing stage. Sunburn is the danger and it is important that one protects oneself from this. No point in looking for trouble. Memories of scalded hands and legs from days in the bog and meadow years ago come to mind as I write”. But five years ago in May 2013 it was as miserable as it is now.

I believe that the cuckoo has arrived, in spite of the weather. I have yet to hear him myself but am glad to hear that he is still singing.

The parishes of Ballyhahill and Glin have been surrounded by sadness all week due to the sudden death of Edel O’Brien whose funeral took place on Sunday last. Our continued prayers go to her parents Den and Gertie and partner Timmy and extended family.

And as with life in general while one mourns another rejoices. I wish to congratulate my neighbour Tom O’Grady who celebrated his 60^th birthday during last week.

Welcome home to Paul Mullane, Knockdown, who is back from Australia with his wife Brid and son Keegan with a view to settling down here. It is great to see people returning. My own son Seán is currently at home also for his wedding to Bernie Small from Tyrone but they will be returning to Australia for another spell.

A six week course for beginners on Meditation and Mindfulness is starting in Cloverfield in Glin on this Thursday May 3rd to June 7th from 7.30 pm to 9 pm. Learn how to slow down and experience the peace of a relaxed mind. Booking is essential as group size is limited. All welcome. Call Ali on 087 6452227

Glin Library will be closed from this Wednesday at 1 pm to Thursday May 3 at 11 pm.