Oh, just kiss me already!

Top o' the mornin' to ya, Southeast Texas! It's the day when everybody's Irish! Too bad it's also a day when everybody has to go to work, or else we'd be out enjoying a nice breakfast with a side of Guinness.

One of our co-workers is 100% Irish and he claims that today is a racist holiday because it reinforces the negative stereotype that Irish people drink too much.

We respectfully disagree and view it more as an opportunity to celebrate through a green colored lens. Yes, as the day progresses, that lens might blur some, but that goes with the whole "celebrating" thing, no matter what your nationality.

Obviously celebrating is more fun on the weekend but, if you're stuck at work, there are still a few ways to fill your day with a bit of the Blarney. Try these:

1. Speak in an Irish accent for at least 15 minutes. Maybe when you go out for lunch, ask the sandwich artist for a "wee bit o' mayo."

2. Pretend you stashed a pot of gold in the office vending machine. Whenever people get a soda, tackle them and wrest it from their hands.

3. When someone you don't know walks by your desk, make friends by yelling "Seriously, I said keep your hands OFF my lucky charms!" Add to the fun factor by combining with #1.

4. Add a "-y" to the end of your first name and and "O'-" to the beginning of your last name. Then demand that people refer to you by your "Irish Name" all day long.

5. Leave work early for religious reasons. Tell your boss, "I have to spend some time with the Holy Trinity." Then hit a pub and have a Jameson, Guinness and Baileys.

No matter what you choose to do (at least try #3) carve out a few minutes to enjoy yourself, raise a glass with a mate, and say "Slainte!"

Happy St. Patrick's Day!