I HAVE MOVED!! COME JOIN ME AT SASSY IRISH LASSIE DOT COM

The move is official!! You can now find me and ALL my sassiness HERE! So come on over and share a pint with me. I'll be waiting!!!

time for the unveiling!!

I am so proud to announce the new and improved Sassy Irish Lassie. I am still trying to figure out all the linking and stuff so bare with me while I iron out the rest of my pre-facelift wrinkles. Let me know what you think of the new look!

better late then never - giveaway day pente

Alright - today is the last and final day of Giveaway Palooza! Woo hoo!! Hope you all have been having as much fun as I have. I am so looking forward to picking all my winners next week!

For day five I am offering yet another fabulous 'techy' prize. Today you will have the chance to win Jabra A7010 Bluetooth Hub. Oooooo! Aaaaaaaah! I told you it was fabulous didn't I?? This handy hub is compatible with most standard corded desk phones and sets up in a snap. What better way to stay connected to your office phone without being plugged in!? Along with offereing you wireless freedom on your office or cell phone it also comes with features galore!! Here are some quick info facts:

 ** Go wireless on desk & cell phones
 ** Up to 33-foot wireless range
 ** Wide phone compatibility
 ** Easy set-up
 ** Supports MultiPoint™ technology
 ** Exceptional sound quality

This Bluetooth hub connects any Jabra Multiuse headset to your desk phone or Bluetooth mobile phone and is also compatible with most standard corded desk phones. Who wouldn't want this?? Come on... you know YOU do!!  So leave a comment, with your email, and you will be entered. It couldn't get any easier!! I will announce the winner next Friday. I will also be unveiling my new look next week so be sure to stop by to catch a glimpse of an all new lassie!!

who is ready for giveaway day vier?

Do your children suffer from the epidemic known to mothers and fathers alike as "whining"?? Do they complain about bed times? Getting up in the morning? Taking a bath? Are there days where their whining sends you running into the streets on the brink of insanity? Then do I have the book for you!!

January Jones, also know as the Whine Tester, had made it her mission to rid the world of whining, one book at a time. In her book, Thou Shalt Not Whine: The Eleventh Commandment: What We Whine About, Why We Do It and How to Stop, Jones uses humor to discuss the top ten things people and children whine about every day. She then goes one step further and offers over 100 different ways to deal with it! Jones addresses it all - from bad hair days to feeling fat - with a few slow drivers that won't merge in between.

I loved that I could relate to something in every chapter of the book. When Jones described the horror of shopping for a bathing suit as "worse then taking your mother-in-law to lunch" - she had me hooked! Don't even get me started on the chapter about Grandparents 'Top 10' whines about their children's parenting. I wanted to photo copy every page and mail it to MY parents!! (between snarkily snorting of course)

So now I am going to offer you a chance at happiness. A chance at a whine free life. In the spirit of keeping it simple all you have to do is leave a comment with your email and you will automatically be entered. I will announce the winner next Thursday! *FYI* - since the publisher will be mailing the book directly I can only extend this offer to those living in the US - sorry!

giveaway numero trois

Hello faithful followers! It is now day three (technically day 4 if you count Sunday, but I'm not) of Giveaway Palooza! I love giving and am excited when I get to share with others. (kissing up BIG time I know) Up for grabs today is a Targus Notebook 90W AC Power Adaptor. Did I mention the retail value of this puppy?? No? Silly me. It is $105.00!! Woo hoo - now that is quite the catch! This power adaptor has 90 watts of continuous power, that's 115 watts of peak power my friends! The Universal Notebook AC Power Adapter is a portable, lightweight power supply for high-power notebooks and other mobile devices. If you have a notebook you can't live without this! Want to know all the nitty gritty about this amazingly awesome prize? here you go!

**** Quick Facts ****

Compatibility: Varied models of Averatec, Compaq, Dell, Fujitsu, Gateway, HP, IBM, Panasonic, Sony, Sotec, Toshiba, and Winbook

Compliance: RTCA Guideline/D0-160C and FCC Class B Compliant FCC, CE

Includes: 10 tips (S1, S2, S3, S4, S7, S12, S14, S31, S34 & S35)
3-foot AC input cord
6-foot DC output cord
Carrying pouch

Technical: Input: 100-230 Volts AC Output: Up to 90 Watts of continuous power

Warranty: Limited Two Year Warranty

Weight: 14.5 oz.

Since I am easy - wait I mean nice, yeah real nice, all you have to do to win this prize is leave a comment. I will pick a random winner a week from today. Oh! Don't forget to leave your email so I can contact you when you win. Good luck!!

tuesday tunage - another giveaway!

In honor of Giveaway Palooza, I have another music giveaway for you!! But first things first - my winner from last Tuesday. I used the all and mighty Random.Org to pick a lovely winner. Drum roll please..... and the winner is - silverhartgirl!! Congrats to you!

This week I have three CDs from the popular Celtic harpist Anne Roos. She combines the beauty of the harp with a hardcover CD book outlining the background of the music on each CD. This music is truly amazing! I have downloaded many of her songs to my iPod and love listening to it. It hits this lassie's Irish heart strings! Here is a quick summary of the three CDs I have.

Anne arranged and recorded a special Celtic wedding music CD called “Haste to the Wedding,” in direct response to the many requests she received from brides and grooms. “Haste to the Wedding” is popular with couples looking for romantic music to accompany their wedding festivities. It includes traditional Celtic music played on solo harp accompanied by an ensemble of traditional instruments. This CD is enclosed in a 48-page hardcover book containing vintage color images, Celtic toasts, blessings, legends, wedding traditions, and recipes.

“Mermaids and Mariners” features traditional and original music of the sea, arranged by Anne for both solo Celtic Harp and harp within a small ensemble. The beautiful sea ballads and shanties are packaged inside a 24-page hardcover book containing a bounty of illustrations and tales about life at sea and the lost loves of those who sail on its waves and swim at its depths. Selections from this recording have been featured on United Airlines Inflight Music Service.

One of her earliest projects, “Through the Mist,” features original New Age flute and harp duets, with flutist David Blonski. This recording is enhanced with soothing environmental  sounds woven into the selections. This recording remains a favorite among massage therapists and yoga enthusiasts.

Once again I am going to make it easy for you to win one of these fabulous and truly amazing CDs. Just head over HERE, listen to some of the samples, pick your favorite and leave you choice in the comments with your email address. I will pick a winner next Tuesday and soon you too can enjoy some of my beautiful heritage.

giveaway day - numero uno

Since the season of Christmas is quickly approaching, I wanted to share some of my holiday love with you. So for the next week I will hosting "Giveaway Palooza!" Everyday will offer a new present. Just. For. You!

Feast your eyes on this piece of technological beauty. Since many states are instituting laws prohibiting talking on cell phones and driving I am offering all my loverlies a BRAND spankin' new Jabra Bluetooth BT8040 to keep you all safe and sound this holiday season. This Jabra has the radical no ear-hook design and has a retail value of $80.

**** Want more info?? Here are some some quick facts: *****

MultiPoint equipped — connects up to 8 devices, any 2 at once.

No-hook wearing style — includes 3 sizes of Jabra ear gels for a snug fit without an over-the-ear hook.

Up to 6 hours talktime — up to 200 hours of standby time.

Lightweight — weighs less than 10 grams

Supports Bluetooth 2.0 — includes a 10-meter range.

Easy pairing and operation — pairs automatically with your Bluetooth-enabled device and includes answer/end call, voice dialing*, last number redial*, reject a call*, call hold/call wait*, mute and quiet mode functionality.

Rechargeable battery — charge from AC power supply or PC with USB cable.

Cool right? You totally want one don't you?? Well, leave me a comment along with your email address and you could be the proud new owner!! Winners will be announced next Monday. Have I mentioned lately how much I love the season of giving? No? Well now you know!! Be sure to check back everyday this week for more gifts from this Sassy Lassie!

i am in love

Have you ever instantly fallen in love ..... with a product? I am ashamed to say that I am a product junkie. I buy a product because I am wooed by it's pretty package and worldly promises, but when I get it home it - Lets. Me. Down. I know you can relate. So because of this problem I have drawers and cabinets full of once or twice used products. Sigh.... Hubby is not pleased.

So when I heard a lot of positive reviews about SkinCare RX  I decided to give it a try. I filled out a quick and simple survey and they developed a list of skin care products that work with my skin type and fit all the requirements I was looking for. Fabulous!!

Since this lassie has skin so fair and enjoys being outdoors, I am beginning to exhibit some, *gasp* wrinkles. Grandma O'Donnell was quite wrinkly so I know what is in my future. I decided to try Bioelements Sleepwear.  Swoon!! After one application my face was so soft (softer then a baby's bottom I might add) and looked noticeably different. Ok, that was just one night - will you hold up to the test of time?? I am happy to say that yes, Bioelements Sleepwear has passed the test! Hubby notices my new softness and I find myself always touching my new soft skin. 

Since I am hosting 'Giveaway Palooza' this week I thought I would kick off the week with a prize for everyone! SkinCare RX is offering all of my readers a $20 gift certificate! All you need to do is enter you name and email address and they will send you your gift certificate code. The email will come from the address 'promo.sk@skincarerx.com' with a subject line 'SkinCareRx.com Free $20 Gift Certificate. This gift certificate will allow you to purchase products from any of their three websites - SkinCareRx.com, Apothica.com & SkinBotanica.com!

So go, shop and enjoy your gift! 

photo hunt 139 - breakfast

Aaaah, the breakfast of champions! (or at least Grady's choice this morning) Grady loves his 'Cocoa Cops'. He cracks me up every time he asks for them. What? There is a fuzzy tail in the picture? Well for those of you with spectacular eye sight - yes that is one of our kitties tales in the picture. Grommet was stalking for some spilled milk. Can't blame him for trying!!

Be sure to check out all the other photo hunters HERE!! If you are playing along, add you link below and leave some comment luv!!

haiku friday - giveaway bonanza!!!

The season is here
To pass along some good cheer
To all my blog friends

I have lots to give
Prizes, books, music and more
Giveaways for all!

There will be something
For everyone I am sure
That I guarantee

A prize everyday
Keep those winter blues at bay
Some treats just for you!

So tune in next week
And win your self some cool treats
From this giving lass!

wordless wednesday - words to live by (and my favorite tat)

Originally uploaded by Secret-Agent-Mama

tuesday tunage - part duex

In honor of Ann's Tunes on Tuesday, I decided to tag along and introduce you to some great female budding artists. While I am known to dabble in music on the dicey side, I am happy to say that this young girl band is fun and family friendly. Let me introduce you to Groovy Ruby! If you are looking for some fresh and upbeat music for you children - This. Is. It. My favorite summary phrase of the band is: "The Monkees and Beach Boys collide with the Go-Gos....in middle school".

In their sophmore CD, "Strong, Lovin', and Fun", the girls instantly grab you with their fun lyrics and toe tapping beats. I first listened to this CD in the car on my way to work. My mood was instantly uplifted and I found my self B-boppin' along to all their songs.  Groovy Ruby  songs have positive themes - think friendship, helping others, doing your best and making good choices. Uh, what parent doesn't want their kid listening to that? AND did you know they share the same hometown as the Jonas Brothers?? If that doesn't sell your kids right there I don't know what will!

Here is one of the songs from their album "Strong, Lovin', and Fun".

LOVE what you hear? GREAT! Cause I am offering you... YES YOU.... a chance to win their new CD. Just leave a comment below, with your email, and I will scientifically randomly pick a winner next Tuesday.  Good luck!!

A B C D E F G...

Here's Some Crap to Read About Me!

I stealthily stole this meme from Jiggety Jigg who originally shamelessly stole it from Decisionally Challenged. I mean, what is a meme if you don't have to secretly hijack it right? What?? That is not how a meme works? Darn!! I have been doing it wrong all along. Oh well!

A is for age: This lassie just celebrated her 35th birthday a week ago.

B is for burger of choice: Mmmm Cheeseburger! Add a little ketchup, mustard, special sauce and it is all good.

C is for the car I drive: 2004 Mazda 3. I had a totally kick ass car that my husband sold out from under me while I was at work one day... but I won't go there.

D is for your dog's name: Sophie aka: Sophinella or the Sophinator!

E is for essential item you use every day: Coffee maker and tooth brush.

F is for favorite TV show at the moment: Big Bang Theory and Criminal Minds.

G is for favorite game: Everyone say it with me....... SOCCER!!!

H is for home state: Ohio

I is for instruments you play: I am musically challenged, some may even say I have no musical ineptitude.

J is for favorite juice: Any juice mixed in an adult beverage.

K is for whose bum you'd like to kick: My MIL is first in line with a quick second being Hubby's ex-wife!

L is for last restaurant at which you ate: Balzac. The entire time I had to listen to Hubby comment on how it made him think of 'ballsack'.

M is for your favorite Muppet: I love Beaker and of course Statler and Waldorf.

N is for number of piercings: Right now only 5 have jewelry in them right now.

O is for overnight hospital stays: Only when my boys were born, though I refused to leave the hospital without Drake so I ended up sleeping at the hospital for almost two weeks.

P is for people you were with today: Lots of children and teachers at school/ work, my family and the excessively slow drivers in the newly fallen snow.

Q is for what you do with your quiet time: Read.

R is for biggest regret: Ooo, there are too many to list. Maybe being naive enough to worry about what people thought in High School. 

S is for status: Happily married to Hubby.

T is for time you woke up today: 5:10 and I only hit the snooze button once!

U is for what you consider unique about yourself: I am a skater and punk rock princess locked in the body of a mother and wife who is also a devote Christian.

V is for vegetable you love: Corn on the cob and asparagus.

W is for worst habit: Same as Jiggity -interrupting! The idea or thought pops in my head and there is no stopping the spewing.

X is for x-rays you've had: Just dental though I did have an MRI of my knee once.

Y is for yummy food you ate today: I am making chicken Parmesan for dinner. Yummmay!

Z is for zodiac: Scorpio. Yes, I am aware that I am the sexual sign of the zodiac - just don't tell hubby!!
 

Be sure to let me know if you steal this meme play along! I would love to read your answers.

photo hunt 138 - metal

In an attempt to find something different for metal, I decided to take a quick shot of two of my favorite metal belts. My favorite has bottle caps all around with a real and working seat belt as a clasp. Oh yeah! This lassie is stylin!

Be sure to check out all the other photo hunters HERE!! If you are playing along, add you link below and leave some comment luv!!

haiku friday - plumped and sated

The turkey was stuffed

All the potatoes were mashed

Cooked to perfection

Together we sit

Giving thanks for our blessings,

Family and loved ones

Everyone digs in

A yummy feast well prepared

Let the meal begin

With bellies now full

Plates and glasses are empty

Happy Thanksgiving!!

turkey day!!

Wishing you all a blessed and relaxing Thanksgiving!! I am off to enjoy the day with Hubby's family and a bus load of children. Pictures and stories to follow!

weekend wrap up or coffee clutching

Well it was another fantastic weekend in this lassie's abode. If you don't note the dripping sarcasm then at least take notice of my dripping nose. Yep, the lassie has been infected. It was only a matter of time since the boys were sick last weekend. Needless to say it was relaxing and I got to take a long and glorious nap on Saturday. I also got some news that one of my bloggy friends, Ann, from Ann Again, has traveled to the Chicago area and I am excited at the possible chance to meet her. Keep your fingers crossed and I will keep you posted!

In soccer, it was another glorious soccer Sunday. Our team won our game and I have to take this moment to bask in the glory of my utterly amazing goal from midfield. It was beautiful, went through two defenders and past the goalie to the distant corner of the net. If it were basketball you would have heard the 'swoosh' of glory. I guess I should also admit that I got a wee bit snarky during the game too. I had one of the opposing player tell me I was playing 'too close' to her. Ummm, last I checked soccer is a contact sport and if I want to get the ball I have to get close to it and thus... you. Well, the next time she came towards me with the ball I held my arms out nice and wide in an attempt to give her space and let her run by me with no effort. (By the way, my coach didn't like that too much) When I asked her if she had enough room I got the evil eye so I quickly ran and got the ball away from her. I know, not nice or sportsman like, but I do not have a high tolerance for whining. Nor did I feel bad when we pummeled them into the ground *ahem*

Since I was not feeling up to par this weekend I decided to peruse my referring URLs. Some of the things that lead people to my blog are utterly shocking! I discovered that someone googled "Irish girls that talk dirty" and my blog came up! So for that person I will now take this opportunity to give you what you were looking for, "Smelly socks, crusty dishes, grass stains and the dirty nails of the two nasty boys that live in my house." Hope that gives you your dirty fix for a while.

Colleen tagged me for "Seven Facts About Me Meme" so here it goes!
1. I love the ocean and hope to live by it VERY soon. The smell of salt water calms me to my core.
2. I used to downhill slalom race but quit once I had Drake. I think I am too overly cautious to try it again.
3. I have a strong desire to live overseas.
4. I believe there is nothing better then a hand written note - if it is mailed it is even better!!
5. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.
6. I made Shepperd's Pie this weekend and hubby all but licked the pan. Ali gave me the recipe but you can find another version of it here! Highly recommend it and was also very kid friendly - YUM!!

7. I have many OCD tendencies that drive hubby insane others he has learned to tolerate, or at least he lets me think he does!

photo hunt 137 - reflection

Be sure to check out all the other photo hunters HERE!! If you are playing along, add you link below and leave some comment luv!!

sharin' some bloggy love

I have been seriously slacking. The loverly Diane from The Mommy Diaries nominated me for the Butterfly Award and I have yet to reciprocate. I received this award during one of my "bad" moments last week. I was so shocked and overwhelmed that I almost cried. Sad and pathetic I know, but like I said I was having one doosey of a week. According to all the hoopla and fanfare I am supposed to share the love with seven other blogs. Here are my nominees!

1. The Blarney Spot because she gets me and even though she was oh so close the other weekend we could have had coffee, but I am not holding a grudge, I know one day our green paths will cross.

2. Putz because he can twist anything I say into a story of his own AND he was the honorary invisible  diva on my road trip to BlissDom 08 in Nashville.

3. Ali because she is super cool and can always make me smile!

4. Ann because I secretly (and openly) heart her. have I mentioned I wish she didn't live so far away? I think we were separated at birth... just a thought!

5. Cheryl because she is hot, sassy and blonde AND her daily breakfast make me envious!!

6. Spice a fellow sexy soccer diva extraordinaire and dwindling down to nothing. Congrats!

7. Kaza - My fellow wine lover and lover (most days) of our three year old heathens  angels.

So there you have it. Now go forth and share the love!! Oh, and be sure to check out all the fabulous bloggers I just nominated because, well the lassie said so! You will be glad you did.

wordless wednesday - passionately angry

Be sure to check out other WW participants HERE and add your link if you are playing!

questions of the week

1. What measures have you taken to cut back expenses?
* I am a coupon cutting queen!! We have also cut back on going out to dinner. By the time we get a sitter and go out to eat the grand total can be quite scary!

2. Have you ever bought a book and used the receipt as a bookmark?
* Guilty as charged! I did this just a few weeks ago when I went on vacation!!

3. Can you recall any traumatic, embarrassing or troubling events as a child that
you still remember vividly? If so, care to share?
* Her name is Nicole and to this day I can remember the entire event! It was Brownie Camp and we were sleeping in a cabin with bunk beds. My friend had gotten a top bunk so I grabbed the top bunk next to hers. Nicole, who was sleeping below me, started to cry because she thought I was so heavy that I would fall through the bunk and squish her in the night. To this day I am hyper sensitive about my weight because she also called me thunder thighs. I have always been tall and was always the tallest in my class. All the other girls were very tiny and petite versus my tall and athletic self. In case you are curious here I am now:
I would love the chance to squish her now!!

4. What is the strangest question you have ever been asked at a job interview?
* How do I feel about parents spying into your treatment room?

5. Does it make you uncomfortable if a woman is breastfeeding her baby in public?
* Not. At. All. I was a very open breastfeeder to my boys and got a lot of looks. My favorite was when I was confronted at Sea World by someone asking how I could do that in the middle of the park. I smiled and answered simply "He's hungry." That shut them up pretty quickly!

6. Do you know anyone who has an unpredictable temper? Who?
 * The first person that comes to my head is my three year old. I really think he either suffers from bipolar disorder or has multiple personalities because he can go from happy to evil in no time flat! This little Irish Lad has quite the temper!!

7. What did you have to learn “the hard way”?
* You can't pick your family.

8. Have you ever been dishonest about the origin of a bruise?
* Not that I can remember.

9. Have you ever gotten any kind of envelope in the mail without the senders return address? Did you found out who it was from?
* Not an envelope but I did get a Vermont Teddy Bear once from a Secret Admirer. After a lot of digging and prodding I eventually found out it was from the guy who lived in the apartment across from mine.

10. It’s our 40th QOTW. I am giving away something. Can you tell me why should I give it to you? It’s just a little something to spice up this little Meme!
* Because I am one spunky and sassy lassie who would love to win during her birthday month!! And if that doesn't work how about.... PULLLEEEZZZ!?

Come on and join in the fun! Post you answers to these questions in the comments or on your blog. Be sure to let me know when you do so I can stop by and compare! You can also check HERE for next week's list of questions.

manic monday

Do you believe people are basically good?

   * I feel awful saying this but I think as time goes on I run into more people that are bad then good. At work I am shocked by how mean and nasty many children are towards adults and other children. While I do believe and know people who are genuinely good, I think they are quickly falling into the minority. We are a selfish society plagued by greed.

If you could change the custom of shaking hands, what would you replace it with?

  * Hmmm, I am not sure. I don't mind the fake air kissing since there is no real body contact involved (yes I am a germ phobe) But that would involve a lot of people in my personal space that I don't want there. Maybe we could smile and just give each other a 'thumbs up' or 'hang ten' sign.

What is something that you enjoy that is a chore for most other people?

  * I actually enjoy doing and folding laundry. NOW, putting it away is a whole other entity in itself. My laundry never seems to make it back where it belongs and putting away all the boys laundry is a pain in the rear. Ironically, Hubby never gets his clothes put away either. They pile up on his dresser, sometimes tumbling to the floor. Yet another reason we are a perfect mathc!

Want to join in?? Check out here for this weeks questions and participants.

the lassie IS alive!

Yes, yes. I am alive AND I am posting on a Sunday again. What is up with me?? Well, I have officially flunked National Blogging Month. The pressure was just too intense I tell you and I cracked. This week definitely threw me for a loop and by Friday I was burnt like nobody's business.

Tuesday night I discovered I had not one but TWO flat tires. (damn Chicago construction) Luckily, since these have become a regular occurrence, Hubby decided to get the warranty insurance the last time he had to get me tires. When he called to get my two new, and supposedly free tires, they claimed to not have any in stock. (ironic) They did however have the next level up but of course, we would have to pay for those and because they weren't the same type, buy four. THAT didn't fly with hubby and after many phone calls, he got me the tires I needed. Oh how I heart him!! (BTW, I plan on elaborating on this whole ordeal a bit more in a later post)

Work had been beyond crazy and our tech department had the nerve to block the ability to read blogs while at work!! How am I supposed to keep up with all my peeps?? grrrrrr So I have been trying to read everyone at night but have been seriously slacking in the comment section. Don't worry! I am reading just not commenting - sorry!

To top it off Grady is sick. Nothing like waking up on a Friday night to the lovely sounds of puking! I thought about posting something for Photo Hunt since the theme was "ruined" but opted against the idea of ruined sheets. Letters of thanks can be sent to the email in my sidebar! lol

Finally, I have also been in the process of a little nip/ tuck and facelift. It's my birthday and I decided to get a little work done. Oh wait!! I guess I should mention my blog will be getting the facelift not me. No scary Joan Rivers for this lassie! I like my face just the way it is. I am working with the ultra fabulous Karla at Fruition Designs to create the new and improved look. AND great news for you!! When I unveil my new look YOU get all the perks! I am planning a week or two of giveaways just for this occasion. I have some great goodies and swag to celebrate!! 

Stay tuned. I am still here! I promise to try and make more of an effort to post. So please bare with me while I try and sort all the craziness and chaos that is my life out. I promise.... it will be worth the wait!

wordless wednesday - my life line

tuesday tunage

While running on the treadmill this morning watching the Today Show, I was happy to see that Seal has a new albulm coming out. Now, I know he has been busy with his gorgeous wife making beautiful children, but the fans are ready!! His new albulm, SOUL is being released today. SOUL is comprised of the best classic soul songs ever created, from Sam Cooke's 'A Change Is Gonna Come', Ben E. King's 'Stand By Me', and Ann Pebbles' 'I Can't Stand The Rain' to Harold Melvin And The Blue Notes' 'If You Don't Know Me By Now' and Otis Redding's 'I've Been Loving You Too Long'. Here is one of the songs off his new release. What do you think??

                                                                                        

manic monday

What was the first thing you thought when you looked at yourself in the mirror today?
** Dang! I am looking rough. Oh come on! I am way too old to be getting a pimple!!

Do you have a recurring nightmare? If so, explain.

** I don't have a specific one per say, but I often have dreams where one of the boys is in trouble and I am doing everything in my power to go 'save' them and I just can never seem to get there.

List three foods you can’t stand:

** Swiss cheese, bacon and lima beans

Want to join in?? Check out here for this weeks questions and participants.

work at home closet

Since it is Sunday and NaPoBloMo or GoBloMeMoFo, I am stretching as to what to post about. I had a handful of peeps offer to guest post and now they have disappeared! Where are you peeps?? The ever cute Assertagirl started a group on Flickr called "Work At Home Closet".  Since I was working at home one day I decided to add what I was wearing in my home office. AND since I dislike posting on Sundays I tyhought I would share my 'at home' outfit with you.
Be gentle!! While I did shower I am make up free. I steer away from makeup if I am not going into work. But I think I still get bonus points for straightening my hair!!

photo hunt 135 - together

Together through thick and thin, brothers till the end.

Be sure to check out all the other photo hunters HERE!! If you are playing along, add you link below and leave some comment luv!!

haiku friday - still trying

GoBloMeMoFo

Making me blog every day

What is there to say

Sent out a life line

Fellow bloggers come unite!

Please save the bunny!

GoBloMeMoFo

 

Hey you!! Yeah... you! See this cute little bunny? You better offer to post or the bunny gets offed. Yeah, that's right. The bunny gets it right in middle of the eyes. As part of NaBloPoMo, Megan is once again hosting GoBloMeMoFo. It gives bloggers the opportunity to guest post on other blogs to help fellow bloggers reach their full NaBloPoMo potential. I mean, come one, let's be honest, who can really write one post everyday for a WHOLE month. I am honest enough to say that this lassie lacks daily commitment. I also know that I had a lot of guest posters a few weekes ago, BUT, if you feel the need to share a post, either new or old, let me know because I am a strong supporter of GoBloMeMoFo. So offer to post for your favorite blogger, ask someone if you can offer a hand, SHARE the blog love. And of course, save the bunny!

i like to move it move it

The Mom Salon and Mc Donald's are asking families what they would do if they had one minute to MOVE. One Minute to Move It, which is launching this Friday, is also getting boost from the wild and crazy characters from the new "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa". Also starting this Friday, the fun continues online at http://www.happymeal.com/ where kids and families can find suggestions for online and offline activities, track their "minutes moved" and enter special codes found on the delicious Happy Meal choices of lowfat Milk Jugs and Apple Dippers! The site also features an inspirational 30-second video with Olympian Shawn Johnson, which airs this weekend through November 16 on Nickelodeon, Nick.com and Nicktoons.

So what movement would this Lassie's family do for one minute you ask?? We would dance of course!! I can't guarantee it would be a full out Irish jig, but this my little leprechans are known to break out in to an impromptu dance party in the middle of the kitchen at a moments notice. These boys can bust a move let me tell you!  

So go check out The Mom Salon,  enter their online give away for some really cool prizes and get out there and MOVE it!!

wordless wednesday - so excited for a change

mandate for change

This is courtesy of an old friend of mine. Thought it was a good day to post it.

So here we are. Nearly 2 years into the most exciting presidential campaign of our time... The most important... Historic... A Turning Point... Years ago I read a book by Fritjof Capra (better known for the Tao of Physics) called The Turning Point. The basic premise of this "essay" is that we as a society and a people are a system that is interconnected in such a way that we cannot live simply as part of the whole, but as the sum of its parts. Humans cannot exist independently as they once did in order to move foreword - to progress. That one moment can represent a turning point in which we may overcome our isolated states and move on... Turning Points can be a series of moments or a process or a person. We are at one of those points. We are witness to the beginning of a new time, however small. That day is tomorrow (and today to some of you). We will participate in the largest political changes in a generation when we get up tomorrow and slog to our polling places in rain and snow, hot or cold. We will have this chance to create a turning point when we elect Barack Obama. Obama is that one person who will put our country right. He is that one person who has risen above and like no politician we have ever seen. He has been described by progressives and conservatives alike as transformational, transcendent, the man of our age, and inspirational. He is the visionary, the storyteller, and collective personality that is neither democrat or republican, green or libertarian, right or left. He looks at the world where human rights are paramount, spreading opportunity is a responsibility, and compassion is patriotic.. He understands the issues, exudes intelligence, and maintains his cool. He is attacked as a terrorist, Muslim, anti-American, communist, yet swats away the ignorance with ease. Oh, don't get me wrong he is fallible and makes it known to us repeatedly. He has warned us from the beginning that this will be a difficult journey. And he is right. We all knew that BushCo and their neo-conservative surrogates would not go down without a fight. This has been a ground war. And tomorrow we fight the bloodiest of all.

This is our chance; our opportunity to lead the world once again to change for the better. To become respected again. To show our friends and enemies that Americans will take the high road and elevate compassion and equality for all above retribution, revenge, and hate. To show that our democracy will persevere. That we will strive for the more perfect union. And what makes Obama so remarkable? He is way ahead in his thinking - he is not a Democrat or Republican, a liberal or conservative. He wants to talk to Republicans, not just ignore them. C'mon, he is only person (in a very long time) who has come forward to ask Americans to sacrifice for their country in this time of need. This is the simplest most patriotic request that defines a leader to his core. How can we not admire this?

A couple of weeks ago, I was calling Nevada for the Obama campaign here in California. While I got my share of hatred and rudeness, I was surprised to hear how many folks out there want would I want regardless of their political persuasion. And that they "get it" and are sick and tired of the partisanship and divide and how the far right-wing actions of the past 8 years has done lasting damage. One phone call stands out - a Republican gentleman named Roger from Sparks, a town outside Reno. He was combative at first saying he did not want to hear from liberals and I was ready to give up, when I asked him to tell me what type of President he really wanted. And, this part is what really has made the Obama campaign so much different from them past Democratic campaigns. We were to work through the political walls, because this is not about the Democratic Party, nor who's right or wrong, but what is the best we can do and why everyone matters. Roger wanted a leader who is strong, smart, and thought strategically. A leader that did what he could to help as many folks as possible and not pander to get elected. One who thinks of every possible option, but would act when we could not afford to wait. And finally, he wanted a leader to get it done and get Congress to stop stalling. (Mind you, his emotions were rising as he went on). When he ended, I said nothing, but thanked him for talking to me. I was about tell him to get out a vote early and end the call, when he said, "That's why I will vote for Obama." And it floored me.

That is Barack Obama. And that is why tomorrow is a turning point. Now is our time. We will take that step to move in the right direction. Eight years ago when I started this newsletter, I asked you all to be the change even in the face of the most backward step in American political history. We have endured and waited, fought and protested, and now that change is in our grasp. Let's take it.

Vote.
jc
...the.antiMandate.....be the change...
"Don't gain the world and lose your soul, wisdom is better than silver or gold." Bob Marley

questions of the week

1. Are you living in a fantasy world all your own?
** No. Sadly I am fully aware of my stark reality.

2. You’re sitting on a small rock with your 5,6,7,8 year old child in your lap, watching the blue sea together, what would you talk about?
** Where they would want to travel, what their dreams are, the beauty of God's creations - the possibilities are endless. The sea is very calming to me, must be because I am a water sign!

3. If you have all the time in the world, what would you change about your life?

** Definitely take more time to relax and catch up on my reading list!

4. What is the best thing that ever happened to you this past week?

** I celebrated my wedding anniversary with my best friend.

5. I seldom _______ without a _______ in my _______.

** I seldom leave the house without a cup of coffee in my hands.

6. Is there something you will never do?

** I would never abandon my children, betray a friend or get my boobs done (moo ah ha ha).

7. Naughty or nice…which have you been this year?
** 75% nice 25% naughty

8. How self-conscious are you?
** Extremely, though I am getting better with age.

9. Do you think photos of you capture your essence?

** No, not always. I have a few that do but not many.

10. When I get angry,________________.

** It is not pretty. This lassie has quite the Irish temper. 

photo hunt 134 - blue

I tried to find something BLUE besides water and sky, which I thought would be very popular today. I chose the vase my brother and SIL gave me for Christmas. It was hand blown by an artisan in Hawaii and is definitely one of my favorites!

Be sure to check out all the other photo hunters HERE!! If you are playing along, add you link below and leave some comment luv!!

haiku friday - happy anniversary

Once an Irish Lad

Spotted a Sassy Lassie

And stole a small kiss

They both fell in love

Partners in crime and best friends

"Let's go and get hitched!!"

Nine years it has been

Since I promised you my heart

In pure wedded bliss

We vowed to cherish

And love each other always

Sealed it with a kiss

Another years passed

My husband and confidant

I'm the luck one

top ten things i learned in cancun

Hello blog friends! I am back, relaxed and have a very fainted subtle glow from the southern sunshine.(ok I am really peeling but that is just a technicality)  It was nice to get away, though coming back to the disaster that my blog sitters left was a little much! I am just kidding - they actually left this place cleaner then it has ever been! I loved reading all their posts on MY blog ... hee hee  Thank you to all my guest writers!!! You were fabulous!

While away on my holiday I learned quite a bit. So I decided to make a top ten list to share my new wealth of knowledge from traveling abroad. I will warn you that some pictures may cause permanent damage to the eyes and nightmares for life!

1. People need to pass an 'airplane etiquette' class before being able to fly long distances on a plane. The woman in front of me felt the plane was her own personal nail salon. She sat and cut and filed her nails for over two hours. I won't even get in to how gross it was to see her nail clippings flying through the air!!

2. After reading "Twilight" I am convinced the pages are laced with crack. As I say this the second book is sitting next to me on my desk tormenting me to read it in a day like it's previous partner.

3. No matter how good my intentions were, my workout clothes did NOT even make it out of my suitcase. I didn't even look at them!! I am hoping frolicking in the waves and drinking counts as exercise. No?? Really? Hmmmm.

4. When you are in the middle of the ocean snorkeling and you guide asks if you want to see some sharks and your husband says "Yes!!", you really have no choice but to swim after them. In my mind I was hoping that if there was a pack of us the sharks would be deterred - insane I know!

5. I am also now convinced that there is a top secret Water Mafia operating in full force in Mexico. The whole 'bad water' thing is just a ploy for you to dole out $3.00 for a bottle of water. You have no choice but to buy it or suffer Montezuma's revenge for days. They really have us all fooled.

6. Guys, if I am expected to wax, so should you. I am sure if I came out to the beach looking like this you would try and jab the nearest sharp object in your eyes while running and screaming to the hills. A little hygiene goes a LONG way my friends!!

7. I learned that no one that looks like Matt Grevers wears a speedo. Sigh.... where is an Olympic swimmer when you need one? My eyes are still recovering from the men I saw in speedos - oh the pain, the pain I tell you!!

8. I also learned that no matter how hard I try, how diligent I am with my sunscreen, I ALWAYS miss something. It varies every trip. This trip, I forgot to put sunscreen on, or should I say IN, my bellybutton. In case you were curious I have an innie, so the cute little button got burnt to a crisp.

9. I should never try to straighten my hair in a tropical climate. I did it without thinking and with good intentions, but as soon as the wind and humidity hit me - it was all over. You know it's really bad when your husband has that scared, wide eyed look while nodding and mumbling, "No really... it looks fine."

10. Last but not least - No matter how crazy my boys drive me on a daily basis, there is nothing better then being smothered with kisses and hugs after a few days away. I guess absence does make the heart grow fonder!!

questions of the week

I came across this post while entrecard dropping and it peaked my interest. I thought it would be a great way to share some of the 'inner workings' of this lassie with the masses. Here is my first go of it - let me know what you think.

Here are this weeks questions!

1. What does whispering make you think of?

** My paranoid answer would be people talking about others (or me) and telling secrets. I am not quite the fan of whispering.

2. What kinds of current women’s clothing styles do you dislike the most?

** The super short shorts. I was so happy when bermudas came back into style this summer.

3. What is your greatest extravagance?

** I would have to say wine. I LOVE it and drink it often - but in moderation!!

4. Do you have a good luck charm? What is it?

** I don't have a good luck charm but I do wear a 'worry ring'. I am on my third one as I have worn out the other two. The one I wear now is just starting to break - so sad!!

5. Fill in the blank: “Without ___ I am nothing.”

** God

6. How do you react when you find out that your closest friend dated your ex?

** I did not react well. We did not remain friends much longer after that.

7. Do your heart and your mind ever disagree?

** All the time.

8. In what areas of your life are you uncompromisable?

** I am strong in my beliefs, even if they are not the popular views. i tend to do my own thing and not worry about pleasing others. It is my 'inner Betty' - if I can't be true to myself how can I be true to others? Guess that is why I still dress like I do and shy away from "Mom wear".

9. Have you ever gossiped about other people in order to add excitement to your
own life only for it to back-fire on you ?

** I’d like to say no, but sadly I was voted class gossip in High School...... sigh.

10. I am___________________.

** Wow, this is hard. I can come up with s many ways to answer this question. Blessed, strong, fragile, sassy, independent, a good friend, scared, a giver, a soccer diva, surrounded by boys!

Be sure to check here for next week's list of questions.

Kaza has the Keys to Kat's Kingdom!

Okay, that post title sounds rather inappropriately naughty, but I likes me some alliteration, so it's staying. Hi everyone. That's right, just when you thought the guest-post-a-pallooza was over, there's yet another guest blogger holding you hostage. Never fear, Kat will be back soon. And we're doing our best not to trash the place (completely). I'm Kaza, of Kaza's Place, a funny (as in odd, not humorous, unfortunately) little blog where I blither and blather about this and that. Mostly I whine and complain about my life, which is ridiculous because I have a beautiful life really. But we mamas work damn hard and spend so much of our days meeting the incessant needs of our small human "becomings" (and those not-so-small human beings, the sometimes equally demanding partners/husbands), so we need our safe havens in which to stash our "real" selves. Blogs fit the bill quite nicely. And the best part about it all is that we make some amazing friends in the blogosphere who are willing to bear witness to our insanity and who hold us up and cheer us on and above all laugh with us. Kat is one of my most treasured bloggy friends, and I am honored that she asked me to post here.

But I'm going to restrain myself and try not to whine and complain here. That would probably be bad manners in someone else's bloggy home. Instead, I want to tell you about a shocking confession my mother made to me yesterday. She hates Halloween. WHAT?!? Okay, I realize this does not seem shocking at all, and in fact many of you may share this dislike. But to me this was a stunning revelation. Because I. LOVE. HALLOWEEN. And the reason I love it so much is that my mother always made it so much fun for us.

Every year she would make the most delicious pot of chili, and there were doughnuts for dessert, with hot apple cider. When we were little, she stayed home to watch the pot while my dad took us out trick-or-treating. When we reached age 11 or so she deemed us too old to be out there anymore and instead let us invite our friends over to hang out and eat the goodies (including the trick-or-treat candy) and sip cider and watch scary stuff on t.v. It wasn't an elaborate party, just a warm house and good food and our favorite friends.

So now you see why I was astonished to hear that she hated Halloween all of those years. When I expressed my surprise, she said "I didn't let how I felt about it interfere with your fun." But it was more than non-interference. She created a simple magic. (Not to mention a safe haven to help us resist the temptation of getting into trouble playing Halloween tricks on neighbors). Because that's what mamas do. We make magic for our kids.

I'm the mama now, and so I try to make the magic for my little girl. Only I don't have to pretend, because I adore this funny little holiday and I love sharing these traditions with her. My kidlet is only 3 1/2, so at this point she's pretty much just into the doughnuts-and-candy part of the tradition. She's not such a chili fan yet. That's for the hubs and I to enjoy after she's passed out in bed with her sugar coma. We stuff ourselves in cheese-laden chili chased down by adult libations (beer for him, wine for me, 'natch), followed by doughnuts dipped in cider and topped off with the sweet deliciousness of candy stolen from our daughter's freshly-collected trick-or-treat stash. Fortunately Halloween is on a Friday this year so we can all sleep off our overindulgences the next morning.

Now if you want to talk holidays I do hate, get back to me next spring. Because as much as I loves me some pumpkins and ghosties, I hates me some Easter bunnies and chickies. All of that pastel. Blech.

Name that tune

I'm so excited that this Lassie asked me to close out her week of guest posts. I've got to be honest with you, I've been a little nervous about this responsibility, you know, cleaning up after these ladies can be quite a chore… naw, just kidding, they are all great, but a little help vacuuming would be nice. *ahem*

Oh, by the way, this is Diane from The Mommy Diaries. I've been very lazy with my own blog during the last couple of weeks, so Kat was really taking a chance in letting me close the show. In fact, I'm wondering how long it will be before I'm no longer considered a blogger? While I'm still in the game, let me tell you a little story, I don't want to let her down.

Truth be told, I am a terrible singer, but I try. I try every single day while driving my car, you know the acoustics in the car are only rivaled by those in the shower, right? Every day, I have the joyful experience of having to listen to one children's song after another. For someone who loves music, this experience is mind-numbing. In order to wake myself out of the self-induced coma, I sing along with the tunes. I know every word of every song and I sing as loud as my little lungs can carry my voice.

This does not sit well with my daughter. Every day, my darling 2-year-old says to me, "No, Mommy. Stop singing. This is my favorite." And so, every day I am shamed by into stopping my singing so she can listen to her favorite song.

Her Daddy, on the other hand, can do no wrong. When he sings, she wants him to keep singing. "Sing with me, Daddy," she says to him. "Not you, Mommy. Daddy sing."

Oh, the humiliation!

So, you can imagine my surprise when last night, after reading a bedtime story, she looks up at me, and in her best sheepish voice, says, "Mommy, sing to me."

My heart simply melted, and I sang. I sang her a lullaby I made up as I went a long. I didn't care, my brain didn't think about what song to sing, I was only thrilled that she wanted me, yes ME, to sing her to sleep.

It was simply lovely. Of course, she woke up 3 separate times during the night, but I won't tell if you don't.

Forgive Me, Sam, For I Have Sinned

Hello all you lads and lassies! I'm Ali from Home of the Lazy Dog. I'm a nervous lazy dog today. I've never guest posted before and I'm afraid that with this one post I may single-handedly drive away all of Kat's readers. Please bear with me!

Actually, I'm really glad to have this opportunity to guest post. I have a confession to make and I just don't feel comfortable baring my soul like this on my own blog. Here it goes: I'm a thief. A dirty, rotten, unintentional thief.

Here's the story. Last year I bought some new Halloween lights to go on the front porch. When I got home, I opened up one of the boxes and found not only the lights that I had purchased but a rose that I had not purchased. A decorative black rose to match my now dark, cold, criminal heart.

And what did I do for atonement? Did I return it to costumer service? Did I slip the $1 plus tax to the elderly greeter on my next visit? Did I put it in my purse and make a trip to their restroom and "accidentally" leave it sitting beside the sink?

No. No. And no. You see, Walmart actually owes me $52 in quarters that I've lost in their Sam's Choice soda machines.

It's obvious. We are both corrupted.

The Wonder in the World

Hello, everyone. MommyTime here. I want to thank Kat so much for asking me to guest post today. I'm delighted to be here. And while I have a tendency to write long, it did occur to me that on a Friday it might be nice to give people I've never "met" a less verbose post. So today, I'm focusing on something simple and beautiful: getting up close and personal with astonishing wild animals.

Have you ever been this close to a real live giraffe? Me either.

Until last weekend.

I took these photos without a fancy telephoto lens or anything except the built-in zoom on my regular camera. I was at the Vilas Zoo in Madison, WI, where the only thing separating the people from the giraffes is a 3 foot high wrought iron fence, a few feet of bare space, and a slightly higher wooden rail fence -- so low that the giraffes have to scrunch and scooch to reach down over it to nibble tasty weeds.

Giraffes have long been my favorite animal -- so graceful, peaceful, gorgeous in their long-limbed loping walk. I was delighted and awed to be able to look this one right in the eyes, to watch it quietly munching on a sunny fall day...

...and to watch it watching me back.

I have no idea what giraffes think about all day long. But I'm pretty sure this one wants to know when I'm going to stop taking photos and start handing over something better tasting than a thistle.

I know there are many people who argue that large animals shouldn't be kept in zoos, but I have to say that this animal encounter was the most wondrous I've ever had. Looking eye to eye with a giraffe for a long quiet moment is priceless.

Really, isn't that one of the most amazing faces you've ever seen?

Wishing you a weekend full of wonder...

MommyTime.