By Peg Prendeville

Congratulations to Han Geoghegan, Turraree  who celebrated her 93^rd birthday on Thursday 8^th August, just the day before her grandson Joe White celebrated his marriage to Vicky Hallinan in Dromcollogher Church. Best wishes go to Joe and Vicky for a happy future ahead with their children Kelsey and Joey who were delighted to be part of the wedding group. The rain fell heavily but it did not spoil the celebrations and all enjoyed the day.

Best of luck to Shauna Long who is heading to Dubai to work for a while. I hope she enjoys the experience but I know her Nana Maureen is hoping she will be back soon again. She will. Meanwhile her friend Sarah Prendeville is enjoying travelling around Thailand and Vietnam during the summer holidays.

Belated Congratulations to Joan and Tommy O’Connor, Turraree on the birth of a grandson Monty in Australia recently. Parents Noel and Norma will be home before Christmas to introduce Monty to his family in Ireland. Having had a grandchild born in Australia myself a few years ago I know the longing to see and hold the baby but time is flying and soon Joan and Tommy will be cuddling Monty. I wrote this poem to my daughter at the time.

On the birth of Ayda in Perth

Miles are NOT a barrier at times like this

For love can travel quickly as a thought

You’ve brought my grandchild to the world. Kiss

Her for me; may she never want for nought.

And though I know I cannot hold her tight

Think of me when you hold her to your breast

Your heartbeat will merge hers and mine tonight

We share the same blood. Let love do the rest.

Whisper our names into her ear and tell

Her of her family in Limerick West –

Her cousins, aunts and uncles wish her well

With all our loving thoughts she is being blessed.

We know you are so many miles away

But you are held close to our hearts today.

One year has passed since my cousin Denny Falahee left this earth. Mass will be offered in his memory in Templemore on this Sunday and in Athea on September 1^st.

Glin Library is closed this week. Re-opening on Tuesday next August 20.