Lyndelby

"Tús maith, leath na hoibre", meaning "A good start is half the work", is an oft heard phrase among those who sow and reap. Neighbors help each other harvest their crops to the benefit of all the participants.

I am Suibhne the fleet-footed; I run quickly over the glen;
That is not my lawful name; my name is greater, I am the man Fer Benn.

'I'm not needin' any sleep just yet!' says a yawnin' Diolun, clearly in denial of the truth of it.

Bealtaine
("First Day of Summer")

At Bealtaine cattle are driven out to the summer pastures. Rituals are performed to protect cattle, people and crops, and to encourage growth. Special bonfires are kindled, whose flames, smoke and ashes are deemed to have protective powers.

The children of the village marvelled at the beautiful white pony, and thought that Beannaithe looked grand sittin' upon it.

"Hooray for Beannaithe!" they cried.

I threw open the front door and ran towards the bear as quick as me spindly legs could carry me, bangin' on the cowbell and shoutin', 'Hoo! Away with ye bear!'

Just then I saw Beacha tumble to the turf.