Some of the last petals of this year's rhododendron float like confetti on the Glensaul River, or what remains of it because of the drought brought about by the glorious June weather.
It has been one of the best summers in years so far. I'm told that turf cut in early June is almost ready to be brought home. Silage and haymaking machinery seem

The twenty-ninth of June, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, was an important day in two of the parishes I have worked in.
It is pattern or patron's day on the Aran Island of Inis Mór in Galway Bay, and it is a day remembered fondly in the parish I am leaving in a couple of week's time.
The big fair day held on that date in Tourmakeady, Aonach an tSleibhe, the hill fair, was a most important day in the sheep farmer's calendar, though it was not confined to sheep, but to all manner of other animals too, from bonhams to cattle.

For many people the real summer begins now. The major State examinations are over for most, a relief to both students and their parents.
The Leaving is probably the toughest educational test young people have to endure in their lives, no matter what courses or careers they choose to follow afterwards. Well done to all concerned.
Enjoy the summer in as much as you possibly can, knowing as you wake up every morning that the