by Kathleen Mullane

OUT AND ABOUT

Well, you’ll have to excuse me, as I’m emailing these few lines for my weekly bit of news a week earlier than usual—so really, no news as such has cropped up! The reason being, a group of us are off on the Camino again this year, covering around 120 km over six days—a different section from what we did last year. I’ll give a full report on our travels upon our return, hopefully with no blisters, as hot conditions are forecast. Unlike last year, when we were like drowned rats most days!

Just a reminder to householders in the village: it would be lovely if you could put out holy pictures or perhaps a small floral altar in front of your homes this Saturday evening for the annual Corpus Christi procession. It will make its way down the street to the bridge and turn there, en route back to the church. Hopefully, the weather will stay dry for the occasion. No doubt, the First Communion children will be taking part. The procession had to be postponed from its original date and has been rescheduled for the 28th.

A gentle reminder too—please help keep Athea tidy, as the judges will likely be scrutinising all approach roads and the village in general in the very near future. It would be wonderful if Athea could perform well. A big well done to all who dedicate their time and effort to the Tidy Towns work. And please, take your rubbish home or place it in the many bins provided in and around the village and down near the river.

National Friendship Day is on the horizon, and with that in mind, the following lines seem particularly apt:

You may think you are completely insignificant in this world, but someone drinks tea or coffee from the mug you once gave them. Someone heard a song on the radio that reminded them of you. Someone smiled after a hard day’s work because they remembered the joke you told. Someone loves themselves a little more because you gave them a compliment. Never think you have no influence whatsoever. Your touch, word, and good deed cannot be erased—so remember, just be you.

Tom Barrett (Snr) and Tom Barrett (Jnr) taking a well deserved rest on the Camino

Fr. Willie Russell waiting for Paella up the mountain during tjhe Camino walk