By Megan Lardie
“Kiss me, I’m Irish” is a popular phrase that people often say on St. Patrick’s Day. Kiss Me, I’m Irish comes from the Blarney Stone. It is said that if you kiss the Blarney Stone, you will receive the gift of gab, which means you will be able to speak very well and be very persuasive. Since most people will not get the chance to kiss the stone, kissing an Irish person is the next best thing.
The Blarney Stone is a famous stone located at Blarney Castle in Ireland. The castle was built almost 600 years ago by a chieftain named Cormac MacCarthy. People from all around the world visit and climb to the top of the castle to kiss the Blarney Stone and enjoy the beautiful gardens and surroundings.
The story of the Blarney Stone goes back hundreds of years, and there are many legends about how it got its magical powers. One popular legend says that an old woman cast a spell on the stone to reward a kind king who saved her from drowning. Another story says the stone was a gift from the goddess Clíodhna to the builder of the castle.
No matter which story you believe, the Blarney Stone has become a symbol of Irish heritage and charm. People continue to visit Blarney Castle to kiss the stone and take part in this unique tradition.
Overall, Kiss me, I’m Irish is a way for people to show their enthusiasm for St. Patrick’s Day and to share in the festive spirit. It’s a fun way to connect with others and celebrate a culture that is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people. So, the next time you see someone wearing this phrase, remember that it’s all in good fun and part of the joyous St. Patrick’s Day tradition.
Kids in the Kitchen:
Mint Chocolate Covered Cookies
Ingredients:
- 3 cups crushed chocolate wafers (about 65 wafers)
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- Sugar
- 1 pound chocolate mint candy coating disks, chopped
- 2 tablespoons shortening
- Green and white sprinkles, optional
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine chocolate wafer crumbs and cream cheese. Shape into 1-in. balls. Coat bottom of a glass with cooking spray, then dip in sugar; flatten balls to 1/4-in. thickness (Re-dip glass in sugar as needed). Freeze for 30 minutes or until firm.
In a microwave, melt candy coating disks and shortening; stir until smooth. Dip cookies in coating mixture; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper. If desired, decorate immediately with sprinkles. Store between layers of waxed paper in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Literature Corner
The Banshee
By Eve Bunting
Terry is half asleep when he hears the wailing, rising and falling like the waves of the sea. He wishes it were a dream, but he knows it isn’t. It isn’t an owl screeching, either. Or the Flannery’s’ old cat. Could it be the Banshee – the ghostly figure of Irish legend who wails outside a house when death is near?
Why would she come here? In spite of his fears, Terry goes out to confront her. Is it really the Banshee, or . . . something else? For ages 4-7. 32 pages.
The Castle of Tangled Magic
By Sophie Anderson
Olia is 12 years old and knows some things about secrets. Her parents take care of Castle Mila, a huge palace with golden domes, countless rooms, and lush greens. Some of these rooms appear and then disappear and only Olia has access to them. She seems to have a special bond with the castle.
One day, a strong storm rolls in and surrounds the castle, threatening to tear it apart. While seeking shelter, Olia stumbles down a secret passage that she has never seen before. Down this passage are rooms that hide the castle’s past and the truth about who is trying to destroy it. For ages 8-12, 304 pages.
Lardie’s Laughs
Q. Where can you always find gold?
A. In the dictionary!
Q. Where do leprechauns post their photos?
A. On Insta-sham!
Gab in Gaelic:
Happy Saint Patrick’s Day = Beannachtai na Feile Padraig
(pron. bann/ockt/tee nih fail/eh pawd/rig)
