Disney Family Reunion from Years Ago (Aunt's 60th) + Quick St. Patrick's Day Spots This Weekend

Found an old photo the other day of the family at Walt Disney World celebrating my aunt's 60th birthday. I wasn't on that trip myself, but seeing everyone together—smiles, park energy, all in one spot—hit hard years later. With my aunt and some others gone now, it brought back what it represented: getting a scattered family reunited for something special, the meals and rides that made it last, and how Disney became more than just a vacation spot—it turned into a place where life got celebrated and connections stuck around even after people pass.

I talk about that here: why the parks feel like home base for families like ours, where memories build up, people reconnect, and you can still sense the ones who aren't here anymore. Got the usual dad rants and laughs about how big family trips are always a chaotic mess in the good way, plus real thoughts on why Disney hits deep for so many of us who listen.

Quick St. Patrick's Day rundown at the end since it's happening right now (Friday, March 13 kickoff):

• On-property: Raglan Road at Disney Springs is the spot with The Mighty Festival (March 13–17)—live Irish bands from Ireland, dancers, food/drinks, outdoor bars, Celtic face painting. No park ticket needed, just head to Disney Springs. Hours vary (11am-midnight today, 10am-midnight most days); reservations smart for March 13–16, $20 cover 18+ on March 17 (first-come, first-served, no res that day). It's the authentic, lively one if you're nearby.