Irish Christmas

Monday, March 17, 2014

St. Patrick's Day is most certainly one of my favorite holidays!  I rank it only after Christmas.  For me, this holiday is about much more than binge drinking, pinching people and wearing my favorite color.  It has always been a family affair. This year will be my third, and first in more than 5 years, St. Patrick's Day spent away from my family.  Needless to say, I am in a bit of a funk.  I feel lost without the routine and tradition.  I am missing those people.  So, clearly, the best solution is to share a play-by-play of the day with you, my sweet friends, and hear all about your traditions and plans!!!    

The day usually starts with Mass, followed by brunch with the AOH and LAOH communities.  From there, the entire town turns out for the parade, rain or shine.  And many times, snow.  Following the parade, the Irish Hall is opened up to the entire community for dancing, celebrating and several toasts.  My favorite part of the entire parade, and the day as a whole, is the Irish Washer Women.  My mom happens to be one!    The Irish Washer Women specialize in traditional Irish dances, party starting, and marching.  All while utilizing a washboard as an accessory!  The women range in age from 22 to 72.  It is truly impressive.

At the Hall party songs are sang, dances are danced, stories are shared, and drinks are drank.

The people disperse and my family & friends often wind up at my favorite bar.  Corned Beef is consumed, I take a few more spins around the dance floor, and, the Irish Christmas comes to a close.

Slainte!

My mother, the Washboard Woman!

I call him father.  He calls me daughter. 

My father making Irish Flag Shots!

Irish Flag Shots

My LAOH Sisters and Irish Washer Women.  

These ladies dance, march and full on Irish Jazzercise, often in the snow, for more than 6 hours on 

St. Patrick's Day.  

They are my fitness idols.  

And my life of the party idols.

And, my people idols.

They are, without a doubt, the best of the best!