I just couldn't help myself ... I had to dedicate this month's Practical Distrcation to all things green! Blame it on my Irish heritage, but I do love St. Patrick's Day.

I have pulled together a few things to inspire your St. Paddy's Day celebrations.

xo,

Patti

I am not a huge chocolate cake fan, but this recipe has won me over. It's a rich and moist cake with a not-too-sweet frosting ... with a frothy Guinness top!

I adapted this recipe a bit from a NY Times Cooking recipe by Nigella Lawson. I've turned down the sweetness a bit and swapped out some of the butter for olive oil.  

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it is SO easy. Literally, you mix everything in one pan then it's into the cake pan! And the frosting isn't fussy at all, as it looks best when smoothed on with a spatula. You won't be disappointed with this recipe!

Get the Guiness Cake Recipe:

The Best Chocolate Guinness Cake

I stumbled upon this list of Irish Blessings and loved reading through these fun and cheeky inspirations. Some you may have heard of, but probably many you haven't Here are a few of my favorites:

• May peace and plenty be the first to lift the latch to your door and happiness be your guest today and evermore.
• Happiness being a dessert so sweet, may life give you more than you can ever eat.
• Here’s to a fellow who smiles when life runs along like a song. And here’s to the lad who can smile when everything goes dead wrong.
• May you always find three welcomes in life: in a garden during summer, at a hearth during winter, and in the hearts of friends throughout all your years.
• May the friendships you make be those which endure, and all of your grey clouds be small ones for sure.

If you're looking for a little positivity, see the whole list of Irish Blessings here:

The Today Show's List of 50 Irish Blessings

Although not traditionally Irish, the green hue of this lovely cocktail will fit right in with your St. Paddy's Day celebrations.

I've modified this recipe for The Last Word a bit from the traditional recipe, and I hope you like it!

See the cocktail recipe here:

The Last Word: Marcher Style