It seems fitting my last blog was about the wonderful Tourism Ireland event in New York City, as I’m now writing about St. Patrick’s Day and how my family celebrates. I always appreciate a good theme from post to post.

I have always taken pride in my Irish background. I grew up sharing a fun fact that my last name was originally O’Fogarty, before my ancestors immigrated to the United States, to just about anybody who would listen. In order to honor our family name, my dad once changed his Facebook alias to Ken O’Fogarty, not knowing he was stuck with the name change for six months! Sept. 17 couldn’t come quickly enough that year for my dad as he cringed at the silly nod every time he logged in.

ID 88449501 © Atomazul | Dreamstime.com

On the other hand, St. Patrick’s Day holds a special place in the hearts of my family members on my mom’s side, as well. While none of my Irish blood comes from my maternal family, my mom is one of the best celebrators of the green-themed holiday, and I will tell you why.

My older brother, Max, who turned 29 in February, celebrates another annual milestone, often called “Gotcha Day,” every year on March 17. It is the day he was officially adopted by my mom from Colombia in 1993.

To celebrate, I headed to the suburbs for a traditional meal of corned beef and cabbage, mashed potatoes and a glass of Guinness to commemorate my wonderful heritage and to toast my brother. Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all of our readers, and may you have good luck and even find a pot of gold. Cheers!

— Haley Fogarty, advertising manager