The year was 1909, and thirteen-year-old Edward McLaughlin clutched his mother's hand as they walked through the crowded streets of Belfast on St. Patrick's Day. As the church bells chimed, Edward joined the procession through the village. They marched solemnly, reciting ancient Gaelic prayers and singing hymns in honor of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. On their walk home, Edward's father shared tales of leprechauns and mythical creatures that danced beneath the moonlit skies. The air smelled of fresh bread and damp cobblestones, and the sound of fiddles and tin whistles was heard from nearby pubs. It was a bittersweet day—soon, Edward and his family would board a ship for America, leaving behind the only home they had ever known. But for now, they celebrated. His father pinned a fresh shamrock to his coat, symbolizing their Irish pride. After Mass, they shared a simple meal of soda bread and lamb stew that evening, singing songs of the old country late into the night.

Ah, St. Joseph's Day—March 19th—the often-underappreciated sibling of more mainstream celebrations like Christmas or Easter. For Polish families, though, this day is a big deal. It's not just a feast; it's a full-on cultural performance complete with polka dots, pierogi, and more red clothing than a Valentine's Day clearance rack.

Let's explore the quirks and chaos that made St. Joseph's Day unforgettable for us as kids.

Nearly twenty years have slipped by since we lost my father, the steadfast patriarch of our family. That fateful day in March is forever etched in my memory. I can still hear the haunting ring of the phone in the early morning as my mom delivered the heart-wrenching news that he was gone. Tears well up in my eyes at the thought of it. He had just been welcomed into hospice care, yearning to spend his final moments by the serene lake he loved, surrounded by the warmth of his family. But God had other plans.

Dinosaurs aren’t the only thing that has vanished from our world. While it wasn't a colossal asteroid that caused this extinction, the COVID pandemic's impact has been just as profound. Enter the "Pandemic Generation," a cohort of children now labeled as being "Experience Extinct." This phenomenon has led to an era where the exuberant messiness of childhood is replaced by constant hand-washing and a prevailing aversion to dirty adventures.

Do you remember the major snowstorm in 1967 that dumped up to 24 inches of snow and created blizzard conditions? Or Snowmageddon of 2010, when the snow was so fine it was like crystals floating from the sky.

Winter has always been my season of wonder. Even after experiencing any of those, there is still something magical about the first snowfall of the year, when the world transforms into a pristine, white wonderland. As a grandma, snow, cold, and ice aren't just pretty—they're a challenge. Let me tell you about a particular winter's day that taught me a lesson I couldn't wait to share with my grandkids.

Did you know, sweethearts, that Valentine's Day didn't always sparkle with chocolates and roses? Long ago, it began as a Roman festival held in mid-February to chase away evil spirits and encourage fertility. As centuries passed, this ancient tradition blossomed into the romantic holiday we now cherish, celebrated in countless delightful ways worldwide.

Galentine’s Day, celebrated on February 13th, is all about cherishing friendships, especially among women. Originating from the TV show Parks and Recreation, it has become a day for celebrating love and companionship. It’s also a great opportunity to celebrate the bond with grandchildren. While others focus on Valentine's Day, you can use this day to honor your special connection with your grandkids. Here are some ideas to make this Galentine’s Day memorable.

Valentine's Day… what's "love" got to do with it?

As the chocolate hearts hit the shelves, the dinner reservations fill up, and florists start to ramp up for their busiest season, all the signs are there. We are approaching "the" Day. As we approach, I say NO! What part of No don't you understand, the "N" or the "O?"

Now, I am far from a negative Nelly, but if I had a magic wand and some influencers on my side, I would magically make Valentine's Day less about romantic love and more about an opportunity to focus on kindness, joy, and appreciation for those around them!