Erin Go Bragh!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Chicago celebrates this holiday for about eight days. Since I grew up here, I just assumed that everyone nationwide celebrated St. Patrick's Day with the gusto that we Chicagoans do. After speaking with some of my friends from other places, however, I realize that this is not the case. Many people are not wearing green today. Multiple people have asked me what Erin Go Bragh means because they have never heard the phrase before. My friend Stacey had no idea that McDonald's made Shamrock Shakes for the holiday. Is it really possible that people elsewhere don't go bonkers on March 17th? I can understand not having parades or dying the river green, but the idea of not getting a Shamrock Shake or going out for corned beef & cabbage (a family tradition growing up) just puzzles me.

Surprisingly, I don't think I'll be going out to celebrate tonight. I know, I know. It's March 17th in Chicago. I should be indulging in a Guinness in whichever Irish-themed bar I find. But I've got an all-day St Patty's Party tomorrow beginning at 9am (complete with 4 or 5 kegs of green beer), and I know that if I want to be in drinking shape I'd better take it easy tonight.

Slainte!