In recent retirement years, particularly during the Pandemic, I have had reason to create closer links with my local environs and really discover the wonder and beauty that was just beyond my doorstep. Lockdown rambles helped me become more observant and more attentive to the geographical, historical, botanical and wildlife wonders of my immediate locality. I also discovered I could take this wonder home to my garden. I was provoked to apply my reasonable digital competency to zoom into the free webinar world of organic gardening (Fingal Co. Library), Viking Cork (CHAS), Corkcumnavigation (Meitheal Mara) and a host of other interesting forums from the comfort of my Wilton home. With the relaxation of travel rules I was introduced to the beauty of the Owenabue valley during masked, yellow vested, socially distanced, walks with my good friend Frank. The ever changing roadside flora received our special attention, allied to itemising distant vistas, ring forts and the seasonal activity of the farming community.

Dear reader, as I enjoy the last quarter of life's wonderful game, I continue to respect and marvel at my world and all living in it. I try to ensure that I do all the right things as advised or directed - by science, Local Authority, state and European agencies. My actions, although important, will never impact greatly on the world stage. I do have concerns about issues being presented dramatically in a manner that can only frighten young and old alike. I wonder if a softer spoken Greta Thunberg might make a far greater impact on world affairs. After all she has the concerned youth of the world on her side.

I certainly believe that a caring and informed new generation will always do a far better job than the generation that went before. As I 'do my bit' in the final quarter, I must believe that a whole new world awaits my wonderful beloved grandchildren Ethan, Auden, Pierce, Daniel and Charlie as they step into the first important quarter of their lives.

Go mbíodh gach rath is ádh leo ar an aistear iontach sin.