bu Kathleen Mullane
OUT AND ABOUT
Well as I start to e-mail my few bits this Monday night, I was thinking to myself that tonight 2 weeks Xmas Day will be almost done. One wonders is all the fuss and panic necessary. From speaking to people this year it seems that many have cut out sending an abundance of Xmas cards and instead are texting friends and relatives or phoning them to extend Christmas wishes. Its not the cost of the cards it seems that is putting people off but the cost of the postage .Maybe —An Post would be better off to maybe reduce the cost of stamps for the month of December and have just one stamp with a Xmas scene, not different ones that might be more expensive to print. Its nice to receive a card with a personal message written on it especially for anyone who may be away from home for Xmas but I suppose times are and have changed and with Face Time etc the art of writing has gone out the window and its such a pity.
What a great day everyone had on Wednesday last at the Going Strong Xmas Party at the Hall. Canon Tony Mullins said the Mass which was followed by a beautiful dinner provided by The Kitchen Table in Abbeyfeale. There was an abundance of Spot Prizes kindly donated by shops and individuals which lucky people were delighted with. It was off dancing then as well as some lovely songs from some of those attending. People came from Newcastlewest, Abbeyfeale, Ballyhahill etc so around 100 people were present. Great credit is due to the organisers and to all those who gave of their time to help out in any way in making the party the great success as always that it turned out to be.
You are advised at this time of the year to make sure your fire alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are all working and that lights are all switched off on trees etc at night. Also its important to have one’s chimney cleaned for Xmas, just to be on the safe side .
Another lovely little ceremony on Sunday evening last when the 2nd Paschal Candle was switched on in the church grounds by Gracie Hough much to the applause of all present despite the inclement windy weather. Afterwards, all present were treated to lovely hot mulled wine in the church, non-alcoholic I may add as well as treats. Again well done to all who helped out on the evening . Next Sunday evening the 3rd Candle will be lit at 5oc all are welcome.
Congrats to the Athea Ladies Football team who on Sunday last won their Co Final in Martinstown much to the excitement of everyone. The weather was bad and cold but this didn’t stop them, celebrations all around as they made their way back to Athea.
I heard today that schools in England are introducing bringing back Life Skills into schools like showing students how to do ironing, put in a bulb, wire a plug, write a letter, fill in forms , make a bed properly, how to cook basic meals etc . Isn’t it a great idea maybe it will take off here too.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
SILENCE IS ONE GREAT ART OF CONVERSATION