by Kathleen Mullane

 BITS AND BOBS

Well October is with us already and despite the evenings getting darker much earlier the temperatures are remaining humid to say the least, lets hope they remain so for another while in order to give everyone a chance of saving on their fuel supply whether it be turf, oil or whatever.

Next weekend sees the annual church gate collection in aid of St. Ita’s, Newcastlewest which will take place before Saturday Evening Mass. I’m sure we are all aware of the marvellous work and care that St. Ita’s gives and has given patients  throughout the years and Fergus Scanlon who is at the helm of the fundraising has told us of the very state of the art equipment that is being added constantly  to help the patients so you are asked to give whatever you can , every little helps.

There is a book case in the kitchen at the Hall where you can drop in a few books you may have read. There is also the option of taking some of the books home to read. I always put initials on the inside of books I might drop in just so I dont bring the same ones home again in error. Also the Vincent De Paul shop in Abbeyfeale has a great selection very reasonably priced and at the same time you are helping those who aren’t very well off.

I was just listening  to the radio recently and there was a discussion about mobile phones. We all know our young people especially are addicted to them and the art of conversation has gone out the window, to say the least. The presenter was saying that there should be family time with no phones to be seen at dinner time when all family members are sitting down together. Also that at bedtime both the parent’s along with the children’s and young teenager’s phones should all be left on the kitchen table together. Indeed Food For Thought.

Sincere congrats are extended to Lal and Eileen Browne on becoming first time grandparents. Their son Ala and his wife Niamh in Dublin having a little baby girl they are naming Elle. Indeed happy times for all.

Just came across these few lines which I thought were nice so here goes——

If you’re walking past a stranger who you think is looking sad,

Are you brave enough to say hello for that person might be glad, 

That you’ve taken just a moment to brighten up their day,

It might lift them from gloomy thoughts as you carry on your way.

Just that little gesture will warm that persons heart,

And you can go home knowing that today you’ve played your part