September

Fall is here, and I have to say it's my favourite season. The dry crisp leaves are being blown everywhere, the boys are back to school, and the air is constantly changing between warm and chilly. The farmers down the road were just trimming the hedges today, which certainly makes these narrow roads more passable. The blackberries are out in force up and downthe road, and at the weekend people come down in their cars to pick them. Anyone who wants to enjoy the sensory and atmospheric experience of this must read Seamus Heaney's Blackberry Picking poem.

Its been a long month, sidelined with a tennis injury after a fabulous summer on the Cork tennis circuit. I never realised that for such a wet, windy country, there'd be so many people out there playing tennis. And as crazy about tennis as me. In fact, in Cork City there is a fantastic social scene and quite healthy competitive spirit. Playing in Sunday's Well where you have to wear white was a real treat. It was like stepping into another world. And Carrigaline, everybody was so friendly. Especially inspiring, all the women players, of all ages, playing well, enjoying themselves competing at all levels. So keep playing, I'm coming back soon!