No, corned beef is not Irish. Our paper said it originated in Boston when the colonists were getting beef from Ireland. It had to be pickled before crossing the pond, of course.

On the 17th, we had three guests for corned beef and cabbage. I cooked the meat in a slow cooker and steamed the cabbage separately. it was not slimy, though it was indeed green. A friend brought the soda bread.

Afterwards we played cards or music. the tunes were

Si Beag, si more (however you spell that)
Eleanor Plunkett
The Pigeon on the Gate
Rachel Dafyd Ivan (great Welsh tune)
Red River Valley

Usually we do more, but we were tired after a week's work.

Wait! I forget to mention the mashed potatoes. We had delicious mashed potatoes.