Sunday, May 24, 2026

“Are ye enjoying this weather? It’s our summer. Was on a Sunday last year as well.”

Two weeks into my three weeks here and I’ve ticked loads of boxes on cottage projects and repairs. This is my main purpose for being here this time. When I went through customs in Dublin, they asked the purpose of my visit and I replied it’s to spend money and support the local trades community. No sense of humor. They just gave me a skeptical look and stamped my passport. 

When I land in Ireland, the first greeting I receive from friends and neighbors and even shop keepers is, “You’re back! Welcome home! How long are you home for this time?” It’s wonderful. And yet the welcoming home can’t be complete until I spend time with the natural world energies here. So on this sunny and warm Sunday, I went for a walk in the Coole Park Nature Preserve where I met the man who offered the comment on Irish summers. After so much focus on the organization and details of projects, I needed recalibration. 

My first stop was to greet the copper beech and stand under her branches as my natural world communion begins with the energy and wisdom of two hundred years. 

Yes. She’s the autograph tree. The names of many famous writers are carved into her trunk. Now those carvings are growing faint as she heals over those wounds.

Birds are still nesting in the deep recess of an ancient cedar tree along the path. As I quietly peek in, she turns her head to greet me. The pungent aroma of wild garlic fills the air. The abundant variety of plants dance in the wind in a harmony of glorious cohabitation. Bird song echos through the landscape. As I sit by the river, I tune into what is flowing in my life right now.

As I leave Coole Park, these natural world energies and vibrations have harmonized my vibrations. A welcome recalibration. Deep breath. Peace lands. I am grounded. My welcome home is complete. 

Blessings of natural world harmonies,
Judith