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Did you know? Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland wasn't actually Irish, he was born around 373 A.D. in either Scotland, near the town of Dumbarton, or in Roman Britain. The Shamrock (traditional spelling: seamróg, meaning summer plant) is a three-leafed clover that grows in Ireland. A common image in Celtic artwork, the shamrock is found on Irish medieval tombs and on old copper coins, known as St. Patrick's money. The plant is also reputed to have mystic, even prophetic powers-- for instance the leaves are said to stand upright to warn of an approaching storm. Legend has it that St. Patrick used the shamrock in the fifth century to symbolize the divine nature of the trinity when he introduced Christianity to Ireland. The seamróg is a big part of Irish history, as the Shamrock was used as an emblem by the Irish Volunteers in the era of Grattan's Parliament in the 1770's, The Act of Union. When it became an emblem of rebellion in the 19th century, Queen Victoria made wearing a seamrog by member's of her regiments punishable by death by hanging. It was during this dark time that the phrase "the Wearing of the Green" began. Today the seamróg joins the English Rose and the Scottish Thistle on the British flag and is an integral part of Saint Patrick's Day celebrations. "The Wearing of the Green" also symbolizes the birth of springtime. Irish legend states that green clothes attract faeries and aid crops. A GREAT RECIPE for dessert! 1 C graham cracker crumbs 1 1/4 C sugar, divided 1/4 C butter, melted 1 envelope unflavored gelatin 1/2 C cold water 3 eggs, separated 16 oz. cream cheese, softened 2 tablespoons cocoa 2 tablespoons Irish whiskey 1 C whipping cream, whipped Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and butter. Press onto bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Soften gelatin in water by stirring over low heat until dissolved. Beat egg yolks in a separate bowl. Mix in 3/4 cup sugar and beaten egg yolks to gelatin mixture. Cook stirring constantly, over low heat until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Beat cream cheese and cocoa, gradually mix in gelatin mixture and Irish whiskey, mixing until well blended. Chill until thickened, but not set, about 20-30 minutes. Beat egg whites until foamy, gradually beat in the remaining sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Fold egg whites and whipped cream into the chilled cheese mixture and pour over crust. Chill until firm, at least 3 hours. Garnish with chocolate curls or additional cocoa, if desired. What is a leprechaun? The Leprechaun is an Irish fairy. Full grown leprechauns are reported to be about 2 feet tall. They will frequently be clothed in the garb of a shoemaker, with a cocked hat and a leather apron. Frequently scowling, leprechauns are said to resemble small, grumpy old men. According to legend, leprechauns are unfriendly, live alone. They spend a great deal of their time making shoes. Most importantly, each and every leprechaun possesses a hidden pot of gold. Treasure hunters should listen for the sound of a shoemaker's hammer, when looking for leprechauns. If caught, the leprechaun must reveal the whereabouts of his pot of gold. But be careful! Keep your eyes on the tricky leprechaun every second. He will try to trick you into looking away, and if you do...PooF! He vanishes and all hopes of finding the treasure are lost. A RAINBOWCUP DESSERT FOR THE KIDS: Make a rainbow Jello for St. Patrick's Day or other festive occasions. This cute snack is simple to make, but each layer has to set before you add the next layer, so start days before you want to eat it. Supplies needed: Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple Jello Hot and cold water Clear plastic cups Refrigerator Make the red Jello according to instructions on the box. Pour a small amount in the bottom of each clear glass (about one sixth of the cup). When the red Jello has set (this will take hours or overnight), repeat using the orange Jello. Repeat with the yellow, green, blue and purple Jellos. You now have rainbow Jello |
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