Better late than never.

I didn't find this Irish-themed free embroidery pattern ("She Scatters Shamrocks," by SeptemberHouse) until Friday, the day after St. Patrick's Day. But that didn't stop me from stitching it up this weekend.

{I had almost finished wrapping the hoop when I ran out of green ribbon.}

I think she's cute enough to hang up year-round. And I'm super proud of my French knots- I struggle with those!

On the actual St. Patrick's Day, I didn't wear green. I did eat birthday cookie (it was my brother's birthday), and watch two movies in celebration (we have Scotch-Irish ancestors).

First, another viewing of Leap Year. Set in Ireland, and one of the few "modern" romantic comedies I actually enjoy.

Then a viewing of Brigadoon. I know, I know. Brigadoon is in Scotland, not Ireland. But Leap Year is the only Irish-related movie I own, so I had to throw in another.

Watching Brigadoon is always interesting for me. I bought it years ago, without having ever seen it before, merely for Gene Kelly. It's an interesting plot with a fantasy twist. But most of the songs aren't that great and most of the cast seems to be over-acting (or maybe it's just the fake Scottish accents that make it seem that way). Also, I do not find Van Johnson's character very likable.

But I can watch it just for Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse, who are so ridiculously elegant and graceful in every move that it's a little sickening for klutzes like me.

Brigadoon always sort of reminds me of the I Love Lucy Europe episode: Lucy Goes to Scotland. I guess because of the Scotland/musical similarities (and the episode was aired just two years after the musical was made, so maybe Brigadoon inspired it?). That episode is one of my least favorites, and I never look forward to watching it. Although I always enjoy it more than I expect, mostly because of Ricky trying to speak in a Scottish accent, the hilarious song lyrics ("I'm in love with the dragon's dinner..."), and the Fred/Ethel dragon.

Until next time,