Today is the day of “the wearing of the green.” It also is my aunt’s birthday, so my uncle brought her for a visit with Dad who is her one remaining sibling.  Since she was born March 17, I call my aunt our family’s little leprechaun, always a funny prankster.

On another note: Did you know that Saint Patrick was not really Irish? And Patrick was not his birth name? His real name was Maewyn Succat but he took the name of Patrick when he became a priest — and I’m glad he did; it’s easier to say!

Patrick was born in Scotland in 373 AD, but was captured by raiders when he was sixteen and taken to Ireland as a slave. After six years he escaped by ship, then returned years later on a mission from God at about 430 AD.

Do you know how the shamrock became known as a symbol of Saint Patrick’s Day? Legend has it that Patrick used the shamrock as a visual aid in teaching about the Trinity.

Patrick grew to deeply love Ireland, and as an old man that is where he died on March 17, 460 AD, having fulfilled his mission. If you are interested in reading more about his life, click here.

Even though their history is tumultuous and rugged I love that some of my ancestors came from Ireland and some from Scotland.

Dance a little jig, count your many blessings, and hug a leprechaun today. I did.  🙂

HAPPY SAINT PATRICK’S DAY!

Do you happen to have any leprechauns in your family? 

Do you celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in any way?

Thanks for reading, and … Creative Musings!  🙂