Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

 Aloha Reader! 

Reflecting on my time in Boston, Saint Patrick's Day was one of my favorite holidays to celebrate. Mostly because it combined all of the fun elements of life: lively music, good vibes, fun drinks and truly letting loose. At least this was the case between 2004-2007, when I lived in Theatre District. I truly doubt much has changed. This environment especially appeals to young professionals. Often, like many of my peers, I was juggling full-time work (plus over-time), taking CPA prep classes, studying for the treacherous CPA exam and taking graduate classes at Boston College - sometimes all at the same time! 

Letting loose was an essential part of maintaining one's mental health, as a working professional, not only in Boston, but worldwide. :) It's easy to see how stress and alcohol consumption go hand-in-hand, doesn't it! No wonder companies are willing to stock fridges with alcohol... employees letting loose at work means more time for them to be at the office, doesn't it!? Unfortunately, it also means more opportunities for sexual harassment and violations. I've seen it all, folks. All.

Years later, after becoming a nutritionist, my green smoothies were always safe in the fridge. Stressed out CPAs often go straight for the half-empty bottle of Chardonnay, not the nutrient-dense, protein-packed fueling option, which I carefully tucked in the crammed fridge, when I began to regularly consume them, after getting into triathlons.

Back to Boston...

I contemplated visiting one year ago for Saint Patrick’s Day festivities, but ultimately decided to fly to Seattle and enjoy a quiet weekend of walking, massage therapy and eating nutritious seafood instead. Even though it's only a 6 hour flight from Boston to San Francisco, it felt like too much for me to do at the time, as I was overwhelmed with my legal affairs in the Bay Area. Plus, I wanted a 3-night trip, and Boston is COLD this time of year - hahaha! Seattle was the best choice for me at the time.

Funnily, while I was in Seattle on Saint Patrick's Day in 2024, I didn't actually go out and celebrate in town. I was too tired from walking the hilly streets and had purchased some new clothes from Target, which needed ironing. So I grabbed a drink to-go, listened to music and ironed my clothes at my lovely hotel: Citizen Seattle Pioneer Square. Such a "Heidi" move! :)

I do plan on returning to Boston for Saint Patrick's Day celebrations one day, but also thinking it could be fun to celebrate in Ireland!

*This blog is dedicated to an ‘ol friend of mine, Lloyd, who is celebrating his 93rd birthday today.*

With Aloha,

Heidi