As a countdown to my 30th birthday on March 18, I’ve committed to offering 30 people, things and experiences I want to celebrate from the last 30 years. Grab a piece of cake and enjoy reading!
If you’re not one of the few who mistake my looks for Russian, you may have guessed that I’m mostly of Irish ancestry. My dad’s grandparents, if I remember correctly, all came to the U.S. from Ireland. My mom is packing about 50% Irish heritage and the rest is your typical American mutt story.
Perhaps its the proximity of Ellis Island. I don’t know. What I do know is that people on the East Coast are strangely attached to the roots of their ancestors. And in my neck of the woods, being Irish during the month of St. Paddy’s Day provides an opportunity for excessive pride.
Some examples, for those who care:
So I’m Irish. And my birthday is the day after St. Patrick’s day. And I live in Philadelphia. I know what you’re thinking: nothing could possibly symbolize the convergence of these important factoids like green beer, right? Close, but no four leaf clover.
For me it is another green beverage: the Shamrock Shake from Mickey D’s. Yes, there was the making of Irish Potatoes and the hanging of paper shamrocks around the house, but when I was a kid nothing said, “Jen, your birthday is here!” quite like the Shamrock Shake. I religiously requested and enjoyed one every year in the days leading up to my birthday.
I don’t eat at McDonald’s more than once a year (have you seen Super Size Me?!?) and I’m not thinking the Mickey D’s in Spain (where I am today) stock up on the minty green frozen “milk” beverage, but it doesn’t matter. I know where we are in the year the same way I’ve known for so many years prior: the Shamrock Shake has hit the stores!
Tags: celebration, change
I HAVE seen Supersize Me! Disgusting. And I haven’t had McDonalds in about 6 years, thanks to that documentary and Weight Watchers. However, now that I’m pregnant and married to an Irishman, I suppose I have somewhat of an excuse to find my way there and sample this Shamrock Shake.
Have a wonderful birthday and a safe trip! Let’s get together soon when you are back – we miss you guys!
Jess – I think skipping out for 6 years is definitely a wise move. But you’re right: Doheny is your last name now and you’ve got cravings to satisfy. I hope you grabbed one for yourself!