A Penny For My Thoughts

My Eyes Were Smiling

By Paul Wein

Yesterday was St. Patrick’s Day, a day to celebrate the Irish heritage, don the color green in recognition of The Emerald Isle – and gather with good friends for Corned Beef, Cabbage – and of course – beer. After having a really successful day at work, I decided that Julie and I – along with my friend Avery – should go out and have a good time. So we headed over to an Irish pub in Red Bank – and, instead, had a “Great O’ Time.”

Avery had to head home after the first round, but Julie and I decided to stay and enjoy the packed house, jolly atmosphere – and flowing nectar that has become associated with the 17th of March. With a DJ in the background playing some good popular tunes entwined with old Irish classics – we stood amongst over 100 people and soaked up the atmosphere like the towel I dry myself off with after a warm and soothing shower.

I wore a green tie in commemoration of the holiday, but there were people there dressed in nothing but the day’s famous color. In fact, one person was dressed in full Leprechaun regalia – and one guy actually painted his face the same color as my tie. People wore hats, scarves, earrings, shoes, beads, dresses, pants – and even blinking eyeglasses – all in the one and only color that instantly reminds you what day it is – even if you forgot to check your calendar.

Once we were able to actually get close enough to the bar to get a seat, I had Corned Beef and Cabbage with Red Potatoes. I would never eat this dish, for whatever reason, on any other day of the year – but last night – I devoured it – and it was delicious. While we were eating, a man with a set of bagpipes came into the bar and played for us. How perfect to be sitting in an Irish bar eating the traditional meal of the holiday while listening to a man play the bagpipes less than two feet away from me. I am so glad that we decided to go out last night – because I could not have had a better St. Patrick’s Day.

When we left, we both got home and passed out, not from being intoxicated – but due to the incredible amount of excitement we both felt from being in such a party atmosphere. Next year, I think we’ll do it again…

…but this time – in the heart of New York City.

“You’ll see our battle wagons on the highways,
makin’ pit stops at a thousand nameless bars.
We’re livin’ for the moment and the music,
singin’ songs and reachin’ for the stars.
But sometimes in the heart of all the madness,
there are moments money cannot buy.
When the singer and the song just come together,
the music is pure magic – and that’s why.”
The Whole Shebang – Dreamers And Believers