By Peg Prendeville

A lot of schools are having Grandparents days recently. Our grandchildren up in Abbeyleix never had the “pleasure” of our company at these events as Jim and I were both working pre covid/stroke  times. But now that we are retired we headed up, last week, to attend their school Mass in the Halla of their school, Scoil Mhuire in Abbeyleix town. They were so excited to have us there so it was worth the journey. It is lovely to see the pride in all the grandparent’s eyes and the joy in the children’s eyes when all are together in the room. All the children had written a little bit about their grandparents and lined the walls of the hall. It is nice to know that they all have nice memories – and that they have forgotten the scoldings which they can get sometimes too! We were treated to tea and treats afterwards as is usual at all these events.

Lily and Lucy Hutchinson with Granda Jim and Nana

I must extend my sympathies to Rosie Normoyle, Barneigue, on the death of her father Jackie Normoyle from Loughill recently. He was a well loved character and musician. He formed the band  White River Sound. May he rest in peace.

I was sad to hear that Deirdre Purcell died suddenly from a stroke this week. She was one of my favourite authors.

I am looking forward to the Athea drama on Saturday night. No doubt it is going down well.

The Senior Citizens post Christmas party will be held in Ballyhahill Hall this Sunday at 1.30. I am smiling as I write this as I am now one of those invited to attend. It does not seem that long ago when I was taking my Dad down and thinking I was way too young for those parties. Tempus fugit for sure. I look forward to attending and thank all those who go to the trouble of organising these events. There are givers and takers in this world and we must have a healthy balance between the two. So I am happy to be a taker now. I enjoyed being a giver for a long time in various organisations. That is how the world goes round.