You finally took the high road, and admitted that you were wrong. It seems like you are getting plenty of congratulations for doing so, too.
Many of us say or do things we regret. My wife is part Irish herself, and like you says what is on her mind, but it's not always appropriate to do so.

Anyway, I just wanted to say you did the right thing. Hopefully the favorable response you got from your apology will influence you to give them out more often. When they are deserved that is.

It was a pleasure to read your post.

Be well,
Glenn