If you haven't done so already today, go to Google and check out the logo. The Book of Kells would be proud, begorrah!

We are getting our first rain of winter, our first real winter weather, today, and probably our only winter storm for this 2011-2012 cold season.

The garden is drowning in happiness and the rest of us who had travel plans for today are re-thinking our possibilities. Drive? On a weekend designed for drinking? In the pouring rain? I don't think so.

That said, let me now sing the praises of rain, lovely rain. It brings a promise of new growth, of clean air and sidewalks, of refreshment to body and spirit.

Slainte!

May the road rise up to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
And the rain fall softly on your fields.
Until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.