by Peg Prendeville

There were some lovely pieces on last Week’s Observer in the Christmas section. I especially liked Tom Aherne’s article on Barry’s Cross and the history of Martin and Mrs Barry who were my first teachers. There was another lovely article by Helen Broderick on Glenstal Abbey. It’s been a long time since I visited the abbey but it is a lovely place of peace and quiet if one want’s to have time to oneself.

The Rambling House in Ballyhahill will be held this Wednesday 13^th with lots of Christmas surprises in store for the night. We have been told to come early if we want a seat!

Glin Library hosts community singing every Tuesday from 12 to 1 pm. Directed by the very talented Bernie Hayes it is attracting a large crowd every week. Starts promptly at 12. Open to all.

It is hard to believe that there is only one weekend between us and Christmas. I don’t want to come across as a Scrooge but I don’t get too excited over Christmas. I find it a time of pressure; pressure to buy gifts for all knowing that people have so much already, pressure to have the place looking perfect, pressure to have decorations up weeks beforehand. So, I don’t do any of those and carry on with life as usual. I am lucky enough to be treated to Christmas dinner by my busy daughter Lisa and I look forward to the days after Christmas and into the New Year. I love that time. The fuss is over and the days are stretching that little bit and the hope of spring puts life back into us. Of course I love the small children around, if one could find them beneath all the new toys and presents! Christmas Eve night is a precious time as one can feel magic in the air and can even hear the sleighbells if one concentrates. Try it! Mass in Ballyhahill on Christmas Eve at 6.30 pm.

It’s nice to see the Outdoor Advent Wreath in Athea and the Crib in the square in Glin. Well done to all people involved