Having a big, Irish family is one of the most amazing blessings someone can have. They maybe a little loud, a little too truthful and know just how to drink a little too much- but you will never find a family who cares more, laughs more and celebrates even when there's nothing to celebrate more.

1. We drink tea, not coffee.

My mother raised us to drink tea in the morning, in the evening, in the afternoon, whenever we were stressed, whenever we weren't stressed, whenever we were bored, and whenever we weren't. She taught us that the kettle should always be on.

2. Saint Patrick's Day is basically the same as Christmas.

When that beautiful holiday comes around, the world stops. Grab your green, grab your orange, grab your beer. It's time to celebrate.

3. Someone in our family has Irish Step danced.

Whether its the eldest or youngest cousin, someone has picked up the Irish step trait, and is always using it at gatherings.

4. Someone in our family knows how to play the bagpipe.

I mean sure, that's just expected. But when it's a good night, or a sad night, or just a regular family night- the bagpipes are coming out and there's not a dry eye in the crowd.

5. Someone in our family is a police officer.

It's the biggest cliche of all- an Irish family with some cops from Boston. But that doesn't mean it makes it any less special. The Irish always protect their own.

6. We never say "no" to potatoes.

In all different shapes and sizes, potatoes are a go to meal. Whether they're mashed, grilled, diced, slices, boiled, sweet, fried, we'll take them. I promise.

7. Our mom definitely sang us 'Over in Killarney' when lulling us to bed.

The Irish lullabies are a classic. When nothing else worked, mom always pulled the lullies that her mother used to sing her.

8. It's a guarantee that Irish blessings cover the house.

There's one in at least every room letting you know how welcome, how loved, and how happy we are to have you.

9. Weddings are done a little differently.

They don't just go until 11. They are three god damn days long and you bet your ass it will be a test of how much Jameson you can drink.

10. Being anything but Roman Catholic just wasn't in the horizon.

But with the drinks aside, Church on Sundays and mass on Easter and Christmas were a must for the big family. Growing up, it was just something we did- no questions asked.

11. Trips to the homeland are nothing short of spectacular.

If you ever get to take a trip to Ireland with your whole family, you my friend are one of the luckiest alive. But when it happens, get ready. And bring an extra pair of drinking shoes.

12. They will tell you the truth and the whole truth so help me God.

I suppose its a curse and a blessing- to have such a caring family that no matter what you do, someone's gonna tell the awful truth about what you're doing. But you always thank them later.

13. Their sense of humor is outrageous.

Anything, and I mean anything, is subjected to a joke. And trust me, it will be.

14. They will love you unconditionally with all they have.

My family may not be perfect, but they love with passion, and fight with courage and will always protect their own.