Last week, Vice President Joe Biden pronounced the mother of the Irish Prime Minister dead during a St. Patrick's event at the White House.

He quickly apologized to the hale and hearty Mrs. Cowen.

This week, he swore, saying "this is a big f------ deal," when he embraced President Barack Obama after the signing ceremony for the health care bill. Microphones clearly picked it up.

Joe should listen to his own advice: After last week's gaffe, he quickly quoted an old Irish proverb, "Is Binn Beal in a Thost," which means "Sweet is the mouth that's shut."

Joe could learn a lot from that proverb.