Vol. 2 10.22.25
🗞️ This Week in the World
Speaker Mike Johnson has officially hit Day 22 of refusing to open the government, with the Senate voting down the Republican-led, House-passed bill. This was the 12th vote on legislation that has passed the House, but not the Senate. Democrats are standing strong for affordable healthcare subsidies.
Meanwhile, over at the White House, a major renovation is on the way. In order to build the newest addition, Trump’s much wanted ballroom, the entire East-wing has to be torn down. How much is this going to cost taxpayers? Only time will tell, but at the moment, it’s around $300 million. Looks like Trump may need to look into another Department to get funds from…like how he’s requesting $230 million from the DOJ.
This past weekend No Kings protests were held around the world, with an estimated 7 million people in the US in attendance alone. What do we want? Less AI king dumping videos and more integrity for a start.
And in case that wasn’t enough chaos for one week, both service members and federal employees are unsure of the status of their next paychecks. Oh and SNAP isn’t funded as of November 1st for many states while the government is shutdown. If you or anyone you know receives them, make sure to check with your local office about their status.
💬 TL;DR: Political power plays continue, but the people paying the price is anyone who isn’t in the 1%.
💡 Small Ways to Stay Informed (and Involved)
🗳️ Check your voter registration: nass.org/can-I-vote
🍎 Support food banks: donate directly through Feeding America
📰 Stay grounded in facts: trusted reads this week include The Hill, NPR, and ProPublica
🛍️ Small Business Spotlight
This Week’s Find: Babe Co.
Founded by baddie entrepreneur Katie in 2012, this is the original profanity jewelry line. “They encourage people to give the finger to societal norms, to use their voice, and to be themselves, unapologetically. All jewelry is high quality stainless steel, 18k gold plated, doesn't tarnish, and long lasting.” I have the revolt necklace and adore it. $10 of every purchase from it goes towards to the Trans Lifelines.
Use SANDEELBOOTH to save 15% off your purchase too! Affiliate link
☮️ Bold jewelry for the bold individual.
🍲 Cozy on a Budget
Recipe of the Week: Spicy Parmesan Sausage Balls
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups Bisquick Biscuit Mix
1 pound hot ground sausage
1 egg
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning divided
1 1/2 cups shredded parmesan cheese
1/4 cup butter melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Pour the biscuit mix, sausage, egg, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese into the large bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. You could also use a food processor.
Beat on low speed until the mixture is fully combined.
Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to form the mixture into balls. They should be about 1-inch balls.
Place the balls on a parchment paper lined baking tray and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown.
When the sausage balls are finished baking, stir together the melted butter, remaining Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush the seasoned butter over the top of each sausage ball and serve immediately.
🩷 What I’m Loving
Affiliate links
Chuck E. Cheese Groupon deal because what do you mean I can celebrate my son’s birthday there for only $55? Pizza and games worth $95.94 for $54.99? Yes please.
Activism Tees that clearly state my views without having to say a word.
This pretty blue and white ceramic floral cone that pulls double duty - Christmas decor and spring.
Haunted Ever After for a cute, spooky little fall romance read.
💬 Parting Thought
“Stop giving your voice to people who would step on you to get ahead.”
Until next week — stay informed, stay kind, and don’t forget your iced latte. ☕
💛 Sandee
P.S. If you enjoyed this read, please share it with your friends!
🩷 Bonus Freebie
If you haven’t grabbed them yet — the free phone wallpapers are waiting for you once you become a member!