In preparation for the overnight expedition to Glenbeigh what to pack was bound to be a challenge. Embracing A.I. immediately prompted itself. The suggestions spewed out: “Bring a bucket & spade” etc. etc….at length. It took a few sharp blows from the lumphammer to to stem the flow. However, the bucket & spade were first into the case. The beach walk element of our mini-holiday was led by Bernadette O’Shea. Using local knowledge she led us out the back strand, avoiding known hazards, and back along the front beach where the high tide was receding. It was a joy to see the rich variety of shells where we walked plus the huge bonus of a wonderful absence of litter. We had ample time to make it back to our accommodation to freshen up and don our posh casuals for dinner.
There was a low “buzz” of speculation that the grub might not be a “thar moladh beirte” but we ought not to have worried. The food did not disappoint. The service, always friendly and helpful, was at times a little uneven! Chat was lively at table and some who had not walked earlier added to the celebration of RTAI Cork on tour. Before heading for the leaba a selection of songs from the high end of the group’s repetoire got an outing. The curtain fell on Acts 1 & 2 with all in a jolly mood, ready for Act 3 – the 16km walk the following day along “The Kerry Way” to be led by Ann Buckley.& Bernadette O’Shea.
Morning brought rain and dark ominous skies. We refused to despair – Martin was confident it would clear. Thus fortified, we set off upwards. In any event we were confident the RTAI walk-luck would deliver at any minute. Downhearted, we were not. There is no market for mist/rain -enhanced views. The underfoot going grew heavier, muddier and slippier as we walked on post our standing-up picnic. Coming down from the lofty heights of “The Kerry Way” was proving quite a challenge. Poles, boots and waterproofs were being found out if not up to scratch. Then in a surprise turn of mood the weather relented and we walked on without rain. Alas, it was a little late to rescue the outing but we got a glimpse of what it might have been.
All praise to Ann and Ber who did not spare themselves for us and to RTAI for planning our first overnight adventure since Covid.
In the Emilie Cafe good company, home baking and restoring coffee massaged our wet egos back to vitality. It had been a stern test but all had risen to it. We basked in feelings of accomplishment in the absence of a “John Hind postcard” outing induced purrrrrrrr!
Seán O Callanain
Míle buíochas as alwaysto Martin Conroy as ucht na griangrafanna
RTAI CORK BLOG - Suíomh na Múinteoirí Scortha Chorcaí 