The native language of Ireland is Gaelic. Many of the sayings printed on St. Patrick’s Day signs that Girlawhirl sees everywhere are traditional Gaelic sayings. “Erin Go Bragh� means “Ireland Forever.� "Guid Forder!", or good luck, is another traditional term she loves to incorporate into her March vernacular.

Sláinte chugat, direct from the Gaelic language, is a traditional cheer to health. Alone, Sláinte translates to “bottom’s up.� Girlawhirl likes both meanings. But she’ll have to be careful no to start “acting a micky� – translation: “acting foolish� – or she better be ready for her Irish friends to “take the piss out� of her, otherwise known as making fun of her. But she still thinks “eejit� is a much nicer sounding way to be called a fool.

And if she runs into someone asking her where the jacks is they want to know where the bathroom is. If she heads this person – “Himself/Herself� – in the right direction she’ll be “bang on� or correct.

But Girlawhirl’s favorite Irish phrase by far is “what’s the craic?� – as in what’s up? What’s the news? What’s good? And what’s going on at this fun gathering?

And after a hanging out on a night that’s sure to be a “gas� – or great time – Girlawhirl knows she’ll be more than happy to head back to her “gaff� (home) before she gets too caught up in the “Black Stuff� (Guinness) and ends up “ossified� (intoxicated). It is Monday after all.

related articles:

Mar 16, 2007:

Girlawhirl gets a morning treat with some homemade Irish Soda Bread. read full entry

Mar 16, 2007:

Girlawhirl wishes for lucky four leaf clovers…. read full entry