My father, was very proud of his Irish heritage and he certainly instilled that pride in me, even if his stories about my Irish ancestors - immigrants who came to this country in the 1700s - bored me to tears when I was a child and adolescent. (Sorry, dad.)

My father's surname is Elliott, which is Irish. My husband's surname is also Irish. To honor those who came before us - who paved our way to America with hopes and dreams for a better life - we gave our two youngest children Irish names, Sullivan and Bridgette. At Bridgette's baby dedication, Robert read the 23rd Psalm in Irish pentameter as her life verse. She was dedicated in March, on a day as close to St. Patrick's Day as we could get. My mom embroidered tiny green shamrocks on her dedication gown and cap.

I have posted an Irish playlist to celebrate the month of March and the coming of St. Patrick's Day. I invite you to sample it when you have time. Maybe you'll find something you really like. I'm very fond of the Chieftains. I discovered them many years ago via the Thistle and Shamrock on public radio. I also love many versions of Danny Boy. This one by Eva Cassidy is not my favorite, but I do like it. Finally, I couldn't post an Irish playlist on a Generation X blog without including u2. I've chosen my favorite, 40, and also, Bloody Sunday.

I won't post this playlist every day, but when I do, if it bothers you, scroll to the bottom and click the arrow or hit the mute button on your computer.

Enjoy!