St. Patrick’s Day is a good day to answer that question.  My grandparents on my father’s side were both from Ireland- arriving in the United States as young adults.

While raising their family and living in Philadelphia, they spent summer vacations in Stone Harbor (I have a picture in my office of the family in front of one of their rental cottages- my father looks about 8 years old-  ironically in a house literally behind my current home). 

In the late 1950’s, my grandparents built a home in Avalon and moved here full time.  My parents followed in 1963 (with babies in tow).   We lived in the high dune area of Avalon- which was a bit more desolate than today.   The beach and the dunes were our backyard play areas!

My grandfather loved the area- I think the ocean and damp weather reminded him of home.  After visiting Ireland last spring, I can see the similarities (although no sheep on Ocean Drive…just an occasional turtle). 

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!