By Kathleen Mullane

To start on a happy note – we are told that temperatures will rise around Easter to 24°-26° for a few weeks – we live in Hope.

What can one say about all that has happened ‘Worldwide’ in the past week – it’s like nothing we have experienced before! And now as I write my few lines this Sunday evening – pubs and restaurants will be closing tonight – airports are in chaos– there is panic buying – families are stressed and worried. However, I think – and many will agree, that we here in Ireland are very lucky – we look out for each other – we help each other – we check on our elderly and no matter whose house you call to you won’t go hungry – so this message is – We will all get through this difficult time. Try not to worry and stress – if possible get out in the fresh air and go for a walk – it’s good for both “Mind & Body” and with the GAA track everyone can keep a physical distance away from each other. Unless you really have to don’t stay ‘cooped up’ inside all day – one questions the fact that before when there were no phones, x-boxes etc and all kids were out playing in dirt and muck – there was none of this – maybe a lesson learned.

Well masses have been postponed but our church is open daily from 10am – 3pm. I listened to a lovely mass on 102fm at 10am this morning – it’s called ‘Sacred Space’ presented by John Keeley (Philomena Kiely’s father-in-law) and continues each Sunday, so tune in.

Another person doing his bit for others is Denny Mulvihill who, in the near future, will cycle over 600k from Mizen to Malin in aid of Cystic Fibrosis and for a 75 year old man – it’s no mean feat!

Tune into Radio 1 Céilí House on Saturday night next when two Athea musicians Eamon O’Riordan (son of Ned & Mary)  and Liam Woulfe (son of Nancy & Timmy) will air their music talents.

Congrats to Geraldine Missorici who celebrated her 60th birthday recently along with her family at The Aghadoe Heights Hotel in Killarney – best wishes to her.

Birthday wishes also go to Sean Ryan, Lower Athea who celebrated his 21st birthday with family and friends on Saturday night last at his home.

Congrats all around.

Thoughts for this week: “Find time for the things that make you feel happy to be alive” And “You don’t always need ‘A Plan’. Sometimes you need to let go and see what happens”.