The waft of barbecues at the end of yesterday's balmy day gave us a tantalising hint that summer is here, but it was only that.
For, sadly, the forecast for the rest of this week is for weather more akin to winter than the holiday season. Yes, we know that our temperate climate is the reason why Ireland is known as the Emerald Isle, giving us lush green vegetation. But is it too much to ask for a few weeks of weather like yesterday's when scores of people basked in the sunshine in the grounds of Belfast City Hall and every other open space? Why do we only get a hint of summer and then only when we are at work?