By the time you read these words St. Patrick’s day will be on our horizon. March 17 will bring forth the sprit of the Irish and the wearing of the green.
I know so many in this valley do not have any Irish roots so please stay with me as I explore my own heritage.
Before I do the St. Patrick’s Day talk I have to tell you it is confusing at best when stale Valentine’s candy still sits in the stores waiting for you to fall for the 50% off pitch. Right next to that Easter eggs and a stuffed bunny or two has popped up well in advance of the event. I started to wonder if I had missed a month. You know I have an idea if I looked a little further I just might find some Christmas stuff either coming or going.
Back to St. Patrick’s Day. My grandfather came from Ireland a very long time ago. For many years my mother would observe the 1,000 year-old-tradition in style. I would always have a green woollen elf of some sort pinned to my shirt. A wee drop of Irish whisky was a must. If we were in the mood Irish Coffee would be served. My mother’s maiden name was Scholes so I have an idea she thought that was similar to the “bottoms up” phrase.
I know when the day arrives many of you will wear green or have a pot of Shamrocks in your home. Shamrocks, by the way, were used to explain the trinity to Irish Catholics.
I have an inkling many will want to tell you a joke about the Irish but today I feel in the mood to share a blessing with you.
“Grant me a sense of humour Lord,
The saving grace to see a joke,
To win some happiness from life,
And pass it on to other folks.”
Here’s another one:
“May the good Saints protect you, and bless you
today,
And may troubles ignore you,
Each step of the way.”
There you have it — Happy St. Patrick’s Day to you. If you are not Irish just think of the green as an indication that spring will come our way soon ... I hope.
Thanks for the calls to 250-846-5095 and the e-mail notes to mallory@bulkley.net.
Brenda Mallory writes the weekly Spice of Life column.