Happy St. Patrick’s Day everyone!   Here are some pictures I took from New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day parade on 5th Avenue. I’m happy to say, I’m part Irish. My grandfather on my dad’s side was Irish, and my parents are Jamaican.  The unfortunate side, I don’t have any memories of my grandfather growing up. My dad sometimes would share some of his childhood stories, and from what he says, my grandpa was a strict man. I was born and raised in America, and he died when I was a little girl.  It saddens me at times because I don’t have any Irish heritage to pass down to my own children.  On days like today, I often research Ireland’s history. I came across their National Anthem, which is quite heroically amazing. 

Chorus:
“Soldiers are we
whose lives are pledged to Ireland; 
Some have come
from a land beyond the wave.
Sworn to be free, 
No more our ancient sire land
Shall shelter the despot or the slave.
tonight we man the gap of danger
In Erin’s cause, come woe or weal 
‘Mid cannons’ roar and rifles peal,
We’ll chant a soldier’s song.”

The parade was great to watch. The day started out wet, but the sun came out and the parade-goers were out in full swing. Many colleges and schools are out for Spring break this week, so the city was packed with young adults, families and tourist in their full Irish green ensembles.  Days like this makes me feel proud to be an Irish.  There’s an Irish saying that’s pretty popular:

“There are only two kinds of people in the world, the Irish and those who wish they were.” 















Beannachtaí Lá Fhéile Phádraig daoibh go léit – Happy St Patrick’s Day!