Erin go bark (or St. Catrick’s Day?)

Obviously, Friday links are a little late. Let’s just call it a Shamrock Saturday instead. After all, given that St. Patrick’s Day is on Sunday, could I choose any other theme?

  1. First up, your punny pet name: Sinead O’Collar.
  2. I’d like to follow that up with a little shameless self-promotion. Looking for a dessert to make this weekend? Try my recipe for Whiskey Beeramisu (aka Irish Tiramisu). That’s right. I don’t mess around.
  3. If that’s not your speed, how about Green Beer Cupcakes or Spotted Dog?
  4. No time? I guess you could just buy a dessert instead.
  5. Now that I’ve gotten that out of the way… can we discuss how weird this Lucky Charms video is? It’s like they want me to have breakfast at a dance club. (Idea: spoons that double as glow sticks. You’re welcome, party kids.)
  6. What are your plans this weekend? Whatever you do, remember to beware the sides of starch.
  7. Speaking of things that rhyme with starch, will you be giving in to March Madness? If basketball’s not your thing, you can always play Animals March Madness instead.
  8. Did you know that Greyhounds have some Irish history?
  9. Enjoy this Corgi limerick! (Also, this next link in no way relates to today’s theme, but I don’t care. The Corgi’s name is Corgnelious. I had no choice.)
  10. If you, like me, enjoy the occasional Shamrock Shake (I allow myself one per year and try not to think about how horrible it is for me), I want to let you in on a little secret. Ask for it half Shamrock, half chocolate. You won’t be sorry. (Allegedly, it’s called the McLeprechaun, but somehow I doubt that my local McDonald’s would have known that if I’d tried to order it that way.)

Finally, today’s video. There are no words…

Do you have big plans for St. Patrick’s Day?

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Seuss-obsessed blogger on the loose (plus… cats in hats!)

February has passed, and March has slid into its place. The first signs of spring are slowly showing their face. Today is the first day of this glorious time, but do you know why tomorrow has inspired me to rhyme?

If you’re a studious scholar of literary renown, it’s likely this riddle will not cause you to frown. It just so happens that many years ago on that day, a man named Theodor Geisel joined our great mortal play. That’s right – tomorrow’s the birthday of the fab Dr. Seuss, so now you know that my rhyming has a fantastic excuse. I became similarly rhythmic at the same time last year, so I hope that this format will not cause you to jeer.

  1. First up, I present you with a new punny pet name. Last year, Fleaodor Seuss Geisel was my entry of fame. Repeating myself would be cheating a tad, so instead I introduce you to Ms. Feral Ladd.
  2. Fun flights of fancy seem quite fitting today, so enjoy these whimsical paintings without further delay.
  3. Do you find the alphabet much, much too tame? Use the Seussabet instead – you’ll not again feel the same.
  4. Dr. Seuss is remembered for the Grinch, green ham, and a cat, but his body of work is far more extensive than that. Before all the Sneetches or an elephant caper, Seuss was in the same business as one Mr. Don Draper.
  5. Speaking of hats, it seems the good doctor had quite a flair, for finding charming haberdashery to cover his hair.
  6. I think that this story is worth sharing, so go take a quick look. I wish that someone named Martha Graham Cracker was here to read me a book.
  7. Here’s the answer to a question you likely did not ponder: it’s Star Wars redone in shades of Seussian wonder.
  8. Although the Lorax is often quite busy speaking for trees, he still inspires fantastical parties with the greatest of ease. (Yet if you may permit me one quibble with that adorable scheme, the use of all that paper might somewhat contradict the book’s theme? I’m probably being a picky old grouch, but if I’d kept my mouth shut, I’d have felt like a slouch. In my mind, I’ll just hope that this use was excusable, and that these cute decorations will prove to be quite reusable.)
  9. This story is old, but some might find it surprising. Who knew that Yertle the Turtle posed the danger of a grade school uprising?
  10. If you’re not anti-Yertle and hosting a Seussian soiree, put these dishes on your menu to simply blow guests away.
  11. We’re not the only blog paying tribute to this brilliant writer. This poem from Cat Chat is another one to help make your day brighter.
  12. Oh, and in case a product rep is here doing some reading, I have some advice that might help if you think of proceeding. Before you request a humble blogger work for free, I suggest you take a moment – or perhaps even three - to read this cautionary missive that will help in gauging, just why your unsolicited email could prove to be mildly enraging.

Now it’s time to abandon the numerical form. I end with a video (as is often the norm):

How will you celebrate this prince of the book? Perhaps channeling his characters with your next fashionable look?

If I can make one final request of you at this time… if you’re going to comment, maybe do it in rhyme? Rhyming comments would fill me with utter delight. Then I’ll know that this post did not lead to mass reader flight.

(I hope that this format did make you feel glee, but regardless, dear reader, the choice was not up to me. For you see, I’m not only a great Seussian fan, I happen to share the day of my birth with the man. Now that my motives have been fully explained, I’m sure you’ll agree that my whimsy was no doubt preordained.)

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Grab your puppy purse & meet me on the red carpet

As you know, I am addicted to awards shows. The Academy Awards are this weekend, which makes me feel… well, kind of like this.

(Oh, and if you follow me on Twitter, I apologize in advance for the fact that I will probably tweet far too much about the Oscars on Sunday evening.)

  1. Your punny pet names are, of course, inspired by this year’s nominees: Spaniel Day-Lewis, Alan Barkin, and Fang Lee. 
  2. I wish I was throwing an Oscar party so that I could make these punny foods. I’m especially partial to Beets of the Southern Wild.
  3. Has there ever been a puppy purse on the red carpet at the Academy Awards? Well, there will be soon. To paraphrase Ted Mosby… Pulling. It. Off.
  4. I would very much like to hire these animal doppelgängers to star in punny remakes of my favorite Oscar movies. (Until then, this video will have to do.)
  5. If that random Tupac hologram isn’t available, maybe the Academy should consider asking Tupac Shacorgi to be a presenter instead. Ratings gold.
  6. I enjoy this slightly different take on the Best Picture race.
  7. Speaking of Best Picture winners, these posters are pretty cool.
  8. Still need to fill out your Oscar ballot? Here’s one way to make your picks.

I was torn between two videos this week, both starring the canine star of a past Best Picture winner: Uggie from The Artist! Although this one features Uggie in a tie, the corny humor in the video below edged it out by the slimmest of margins.

Finally, in conclusion… thanks, Meryl.

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Looking for a great dog blog? Kol’s Notes explains it all

You may have heard about the Pet Blogger Gift Exchange in your travels around the Interwebs. If not, I have to tell you – it’s pretty darn cool. Pamela from Something Wagging This Way Comes had a flash of inspiration recently – instead of gifts, let’s exchange compliments, encouragement, and some love.

When I found out the blogger I’d been paired with, I could not have been more thrilled. Perhaps you’re familiar with the lovely Jodi (pictured below with pups Koly and Felix) from Kol’s Notes?

Check out that smile!

She’s pretty darn awesome. (Dear Jodi: I borrowed these photos from your site. I hope you don’t mind. If you do, please do not send a zombie after me unless absolutely necessary. Thanks!)

I spent a lot of time thinking about my gift to Jodi. I finally settled on a No Frown Friday dedicated to the genius that is Kol’s Notes. An epic one, in fact. If you’re not already a devotee, you really should be. Today, you’ll find out why. (At the end of this post, you’ll also find out how you can help me make this gift really special.)

Intrigued? Let’s start at the top. Just check out this header… Continue reading

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Dance of the Sugar Plum Kitty

Happy holidays, friends! It’s time for your weekly link roundup…

  1. First up, your punny pet names: Norman Tockwell, Mariah Hairy, and Brenda Flea. (Also, meet Salvador Doggy.)
  2. Corgi with your legs so short, for sleigh-pulling duty, please report.
  3. All dogs go to… law school?
  4. Much like my own dogs during the holidays, these dogs are So. Over. It. (These cats, on the other hand, are making the most of the giant scratching post you so kindly installed.)
  5. Is it time for Downton Abbey to return yet? (I always type that as Downtown Abbey, which is a show I would also watch.) Until then, enjoy Breaking Abbey.
  6. Holiday overload? Yes, please.
  7. I whipped up a batch of homemade butterbeer once. It was glorious. I think I want some right now.

Finally, here’s today’s video:

Epic.

Welcome to the Advent Calendar for Dog Lovers hosted by Kol’s NotesPupLoveRescued InsanityWoof Woof Mama & I Still Want More Puppies

Today’s giveaway is sponsored by Zippy PawsClick here to enter to win a prize package of their boutique toys, plus be entered to win a Grand Prize package worth more than $1000!

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Getting into the holiday spirit…

It’s time for your Friday linkage…

  1. Your punny pet name: Bob Scratchit.
  2. We’ll start with a little shameless self-promotion. My long-dormant baking blog is back on the scene! Wondering what to make for the holidays? Check out my recipe for Coconut BonBons.
  3. Not sure what to get your furry (or feathered) friend this holiday season? Here are some great ideas.
  4. I can’t get enough Grumpy Cat. The 12 Days of Christmas will never be the same.
  5. Best version of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas ever? You be the judge.
  6. Definitely an awesome holiday window display.
  7. I just got my holiday cards – now I just need to find the time to address them. (I used to be a Kodak Gallery gal, but they don’t do the cards online anymore. I tried Snapfish this time around – what service do you use?) Speaking of great Christmas cards, have you seen the White House one this year? Adorbs.

Finally, it’s time for today’s video. I figure you can’t go wrong with Simon’s Cat:

Welcome to the Advent Calendar for Dog Lovers hosted by Kol’s NotesPupLoveRescued InsanityWoof Woof Mama & I Still Want More Puppies

Today’s giveaway is sponsored by Chewy.com. Click here to enter to win a gift credit to shop for your favourite dog food, treats, toys & more, plus be entered to win a Grand Prize package worth more than $1000!

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Barking for the gold

Despite my general lack of athletic ability, I’m kind of an Olympics nerd. I really enjoy watching them, so you can bet that tonight I’ll be watching the opening ceremony. The costume craziness is just too good to pass up. (My menu will not be as classy as this one, although I now really want this baking gear.)

Anyway, the torch is on its way, so let’s get to it:

  1. This week’s punny pet names are, yet again, inspired by Olympic athletes: Aleasha Packramone and Tabby Wambach (or, if you prefer, Abby Wambark).
  2. The games are in London, Eng-a-land, this year, making this post from under the blanket a perfect fit for today’s linkage. (Did you know that London is the first city to host the Olympics three times?)
  3. Well, this is an entirely new take on the dog eating your homework. (I just love an Olympian with a beloved pet!)
  4. There will be some dogs looking out for those attending the Olympics. All security should be this cute.
  5. Maybe your dog wants to get in on the action? Make him this Olympic rings dog toy. If that’s not enough, tell him to check out the Pet Blogging Games.
  6. Adding Olympic sock catching to the games in 2016? I vote yes.
  7. I’m fond of (watching) many sports, but I’ll always have a soft spot for gymnastics. (I desperately wanted to take gymnastics classes as a child, but the logistics did not work out. To this day, I still can’t do a cartwheel.) As such, I enjoyed this salute to Olympic gymnast hair.
  8. I loved this next link – photos of Olympians hugging their parents. So sweet.
  9. Let’s stick with the sappy for a moment. Check out this list of ten inspirational moments from the Olympics.
  10. Cheetahs named after Olympic sprinters? Brilliant.

Today’s video is, fittingly, about Olympic athletes and their pets.

Are you excited about the Olympics? What events are you looking forward to watching?

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One more reason to love a herding dog…

So, another Friday is upon us.  Let’s get to it.

  1. Your punny pet names: Colin Furrell and George Bernard Paw.
  2. Self-promotion alert… I finally updated my oft-neglected baking blog.  Even more surprising?  I updated it twice!  Check out my recipes for Green Beer Cupcakes and Spotted Dog.
  3. Speaking of recipes, I want to try this recipe and make my own Shamrock Shakes.  I do not, however, wish to replicate any of these cakes.
  4. Need a smile today?  Then check out this post about dog people.  Trust me.
  5. March Madness is here once again.  Not into basketball?  No problem! Check out Go Pet Friendly’s Best City for Pet Travelers Tournament instead.
  6. This next one is unrelated to the month of March or St. Patrick’s Day, but I just had to share.  Behold, a basic truth about Nutella.
Finally, here’s your video for the week… I’m loving this ad from Guinness:


What are your plans for St. Patrick’s Day?  I’ll be having a few friends over for dinner and beer.  Can’t go wrong with that, in my opinion. Well, unless you’re this guy.  (Might as well end today’s post on a beer-related note.  So, enjoy these videos of animals burping.  You’re welcome.)
Have a great weekend!
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Hello… is it a doggie you’re looking for?

I’ve got lots of linky goodness for you today.  Before we get silly, however, I have some cool information to share with you in honor of Pit Bull Awareness Day, which just so happens to be tomorrow.

Our pals over at love and a six-foot leash have put together a special adoption event with the Montgomery County Humane Society.  For a select group of lovable wonderbulls known as Little Zee’s Fabulous Four, all adoption fees will be sponsored.  Once a dog in the Fabulous Four is adopted, a new one will take his or her place on the list.

If you’re in the DC area, check out the details on how you can bring one of these adorable pups home.  (Even if you’re not looking for another dog right now or aren’t in DC, you can still help by spreading the word!)  For bonus points, head over to Peaceful dog, where a donation will be made to the Washington Humane Society for each comment.  Pretty cool, huh?

Now, back to your regularly scheduled puns…

  1. Your punny pet name: Lionel Itchy.
  2. Remember how much I loved that Lionel Richie teapot?  Well, here’s an awesome flyer to go with it. I don’t know why he fascinates me so… perhaps I’ve been wooed by his grammar skills.
  3. On a related note, I saw the sign below one day, and it was the highlight of my week.  I’m sure the people who saw me taking this photo thought I was nuts – however, anyone who gets the reference below scores instant awesome points.  (I’m beginning to think I need to join Lionel Richie Fans Anonymous.  Their motto?  “Hello… is it therapy you’re looking for?”)
  4. Lionel Richie crossing
  5. Um… moving on… looking for a treat to make for Halloween? Check out these creepy eyeball cake pops from Bakerella.  (Continuing on that theme… there photos of animals’ eyes up close are pretty cool.)
  6. If that didn’t satisfy your sweet tooth, try these awesome cakes inspired by Tim Burton.  (There might even be some new eye candy on my baking blog… head on over and check it out.)
  7. Last week, I highlighted some dogs in Halloween costumes.  This week, cats get their due.  (Speaking of cats, this diagram should clear up what all the fuss is about.)
  8. Also… I think this might be the best costume ever (although I doubt it’d translate into a pet costume).
  9. Want to see more cute pet costumes (and vote for your favorite)?  Go to All Things Dog Blog to vote for the Most Original Costume, and swing by DogTipper to vote for the Cutest Costume.
  10. I wish I’d read this article about pumpkin carving tips before I tried to carve mine last weekend.  Nonetheless, maybe it’ll help you in your carving endeavors.  (Are you a pumpkin carving savant?  Then you might want to enter this contest.)
  11. This photo looks like it came from some sort of horror movie.

The video below, however, looks like it came from the best movie ever.

It’s like a remake of 8 Seconds only much more fun and without Dylan McKay.

Oh, and I know it’s No Frown Friday, but I want to keep you posted on what’s up with us today.  Bella had to go in for surgery to have a lump removed this morning, and I’ll be picking her up this evening if all goes well.  That being said, we’d appreciate any healing vibes you could send her way.

I’m hoping that it’ll turn out to be nothing, and that the worst part of the whole ordeal will be her displeasure regarding the cone of shame.  (At least we don’t have a doggie door, I suppose…)

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