Sassy11's Blog

Things that make you say:  "Why did they do that?"  Feel free to add to the list.

1.  People that think cooking means turning the burners on high heat. 

2.  Not putting a cover over something placed in the microwave.  It splatters everywhere for some other unfortunate soul to use after your "whatever" you call that, explodes in the microwave.

3.  Burning one's food is unhealthy.  Why do some people insist on burnt food?  Solution:  Refer to 1.  Stop turning your heat to high in order to cook your food. 

4.  Why do some people find it compelling to constantly talk.  Never letting anyone get in a word.  Okay, a sentence might be good. 

5.  Why do some people just listen and never offer input?  We've all encountered these souls.  Apparently they have nothing to contribute to the conversation.  In fact, they never hardly speak.  They aren't mute, they just claim to have no formulative brain cell interaction going on inside their head (not really, but you get the point).

6.  Longwinded discussionists don't have to grandstand on a topic while in "live interaction" conversation.  Which translates into, take a breather.  Let the other person say something.  It's called an exchange of discussion.  Don't get mad if people try to interject something.  Basically, you've just bored the tears out of the listener(s) and they have to wake up from the sleep induced coma conversation. 

7.  Young whiners group up to be adult whiners. 

8.  Some people do not have the sense of humor gene.  Yes, this is the same group of people who never laugh at anything funny.  In fact, they are too busy being serious.   I'm sure Socrates or Plato had a sense of humor. 

9.  Put something in their mouth.  Then spit it out and hand it to another individual to throw away.   That's gross.  How about you throw it away.

10.  ..... You fill in this one.....

"A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars."  - - Revelations 12:1

The Archangel Gabriel called her "full of grace" because she never was deprived of sanctifying grace, and consequently she possessed this grace in the first moment of her conception.

Since God himself had announced from the beginning of the world that Mary was destined "to crush the head" of the infernal serpent through her Divine Son, she could not have begun her life by being wounded herself by his poisonous bite and subject to his power. 

Reason, too, approves of Mary's Immaculate Conception, for this privilege corresponds with her sublime vocation.  She was the throne of God, the wonderful place in which the Son of God chose to dwell for nine months. Her womb was the chosen place honored by the mysterious working of the Holy Spirit.  If everything that comes in contact with God must be pure and immaculate, purity was necessary for her, the vessel in which the Son of God formed His Flesh and Blood.  Her Immaculate Conception is a brilliant witness to the sanctity of Jesus, her Son.

If Jesus, the Son of God, could choose for His Mother her who pleased Him most, He would surely choose one acceptable to the Blessed Trinity and worthy of the great honor for which she was destined.  Mary was, therefore, not only free from all actual sin, but she also remained exempt from original sin; otherwise, she would not have been a Mother suitable for Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

As Eve received natural life from Adam, Mary received spiritual life, the life of grace, through her Son.  If Eve was originally immaculate, Mary, who is superior to Eve in merits, could not be inferior to her in dignity.  Since Eve was immaculate in her formation, Mary, must have been immaculate in her conception.

God Himself has testified to Mary's Immaculate Conception by miracles.  We should be grateful to God for the grace of Baptism by which we were cleansed from original sin and spiritually regenerated and sanctified.  We ought to ask the Immaculate Virgin Mary to guard us against every sin, above all against every mortal sin, lest we lose the grace of God, infinitely greater than all the riches of the world.

Finally, let me end with this beautiful prayer:

Hail, holy Queen, Mother of Mercy,
our life, our sweetness and our hope.
To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve;
to thee do we send up our sighs,
mourning and weeping in this valley of tears.

Turn then, most gracious advocate,
thine eyes of mercy toward us;
and after this our exile,
show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.

V./ Pray for us O holy Mother of God,
R./ that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Source of all information:  Catholic Catechism, Catholic Book Press and Treasury of Novenas, and the Holy Bible (biblical quotes).

I knew the heading of this would grab some attention.  Now, on to the subject that has me ticked off with humanity.  Why are people destroying holy objects?  Come on, surely your parents or religious leaders have taught you better.  Then why is it necessary for "hooligans" street or any other religious group "hooligans" to go to a house of worship and destroy or deface the Blessed Mother of our Lord, Jesus Christ?  I quote from page 2 of the Catholic Herald:  "Three different statues of the Virgin Mary have been vandalized on the grounds of All Saints Church."  Crimestoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and charging of a suspect(s) responsible for vandalism at All Saints Church in the Heights area. 

Catholics are honoring the lives.  Not worshipping them.  Therein is the difference.  Don't get these two confused, HONORING

Come on people of this planet.  Recently read my Catholic Herald at the horrendous activity that transpired.  Oh my goodness this breaks your heart.  Why are people out there knocking the head of the Virgin Mary off the statue, destroying or defacing any christian statue?  This is simply mean, ignorant and grossly out of hand.  Catholics do not worship idols, we are honoring their lives.   Jesus Christ's Mother is Mary.  Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ.  Mary, the Mother of Jesus Christ should be honored and respected.  Not defaced, destroyed and treated like garbage that you throw in the trash.  Anyone who does such a malicious thing, is seriously in need of prayer and intervention.  What a horrible thing to do to the Mother of Jesus Christ, Our Lady of Lourdes, Virgin Mary.

Anyone have any thoughts on the subject, feel free to express yourself.

As many of you know, I enjoy working around the home on a few design projects.  Always wonder if anyone else is gaining any info from my DIY projects.  Always envision some young person with hardly no furniture, barely anything on the walls and thinking.... "Help, I need stuff or ideas to make my space look better."   Okay, here's a few low budget fixer uppers:

1.  Look for unique wallpaper that is on the clearance aisle.  Always love those low low prices that can jazz up a place in no time.   You can use them for trim around candle pillars.  Hodge Podge works wonders and it looks like a design with purpose.  Really neat to take those boring white shades, apply spray adhesive and your premeasured wall paper.  Viola!  Wondermous matching assessories with your wallpaper trim. 

2.  Boring coffee table that has a few dents and scratches.  Actually it was a candidate for the dumpster?  You salvaged it.  Cleaned it up, deodorized it.  Now you can get a few laminate tiles - lots of styles to choose from.  You can cut and tack down with the adhesive backing.  Really can brighten up a space. 

3.  Add pizzazz to your curtains.  You can buy beautiful trim - beaded or textured.  Lots of trim to choose from these days.  Actually, make it a challenge for yourself to stay under a specific price point.   You can add the trim to your bath towels if you sew.   For those that do not, you can use the iron on type that works fine.  Double sided tape is an excellent option for adding trim to your curtain. 

4.  Dress up those bar stools.  Get some foam, cut it out to the dimension of your stool seat.  Use a sturdy staple gun.  Select your favorite type of fabric.  Think of the colors that are within your room.  This always works great for those chairs that are mixed and matched.  A great design trick is to make each cushion match with each other.  This way it takes the eye away from the flaws.

5.  Think mosaic base for a tile project.  This one is for those of you who might have various tile and nothing seems to match.  Okay, now go outside and smash it.   Now, pick up the pieces.  You can use a glue gun to add them to a clay pot, then grout over it.  Nothing has to be perfect.  Another idea is to use the pieces on a small end table to dress it up.  Sketch out a design, then place the various pieces onto your design.   Which of course you have hopefully added to the wood surface. 

Share your ideas and thoughts.  Always enjoy the creativity of others.   Remember - Have fun and think outside of the creativity box.  It also helps to remember the saying, "Rome wasn't built in a day".  

Good grief the general election is turning into various little twists and turns.  Our economy doesn't help matters.  But, wow how goofy are these candidates?  Come on, the people on the streets know that the smooth talking jive just isn't going to cut it.

I've heard them bounce the energy subject around like a ping pong tournament.  Each blames the other party.  When in fact, BOTH parties need to accept responsibility.  Now there's a novel idea....don't look for that to happen. 

Give these political stupidos (McCain and Obama) the boot.  None of these bozoo's can really get the right thing done.  To be quite honest, it will take an extraordinary person to do so. 

Until the Republicans and Democrats get off their hidden agendas in Congress, nothing can get resolved.  What say you people? 

Let's put the humor back into reality for a second.  What if Congress could be told by the public, in public townhall forum style just what John Q and Susie Q public think.  Come on folks, be creative.  Tell it like it is.   Your chance to stand up to the podium and address Congress.  What would you say?

I've heard like many of you, a few people across the country that seem to think about having selected days to not buy gas.  Last year many of us here in bloggersvilled pondered these questions on the future of gas.  Guess what, snopes.com can provide some information on this pondering in case anyone is interested.  It doesn't work.

I'm getting revolting by these high prices of gas.  Come on, if I hear one more person say some piece of revolting know it all answer.  I'm going to puke and upchuck some huge chunks of gas fumes and hurl in the direction of Congress and the lobbyists.

But, has anyone else thought about the fact that the Federal Reserve has the control over this issue.  Didn't the Bush administration lose a most valuable soul last year in the Federal Reserve - Alan Greenspan?  The man is phenomenally intelligent and if I recall correctly (set me straight if not), he had nothing positive to say about our future in terms of gas and the economy? 

Really think that the traders are the ones responsible for setting the panic button.  What I mean by this, if they can make the market panic, it makes the price go up.  Which, we all know that barrels of oil are selling for record high prices.  Congress called the fair haired boys and gals of gas to Washington.  We all know that was going to be a game of dodge ball tough issues and spout off the same rehearsed rhetoric - supply and demand.

Now, here's another panic aftermint thought.  Isn't anyone else concerned that China and other countries are drilling near our shores?  Come on, this makes us look like knucklehead nerd whimps of oil.  "Sorry Universe, America can't come out to drill today.  My Big Brother Al (Al Gore) and the environmentalist tree hugger fanatics won't let me.  But, you go right ahead and drill near our shores for exploration."  I'm being sarcastic, but you get the drift.  This is totally phenomenal in our era to have this happen?  What is happening to America as we know it?   Seriously folks, we are in peril.  Is anyone out there?  Is there anyone that cares?

The production is not up to par.  We need to drill for oil and let the oil companies drill in our country.  Folks, we need it here.  Not in some foreign land.  While we are on the subject isn't OPEC becoming the cartel mafia of oil? 

So someone out there help me and the rest of our country understand.   Serioulsy, let's stop spouting off last years rehearsed rhetoric.  Someone out there just simply say - "I don't really know!" 

Name your top 5 all time funny movies.  Tell us why they stand out from anything you've ever watched.

If you feel extra specially inclined, feel free to tell us your top 5 comedians.

Dose of humor anyone? 

Many of us know that the school districts need help in many areas.  There are programs for children to learn English.  At least that is what many of us have been told all of our lives.  Yet, I'm also wondering, why not have a trade off.  Many adults, children and the public need to be taught conversational Spanish.  Yes, conversational Spanish.   The formal Spanish that is taught is okay, but the real life skills is utilizing it with many.  Clearly it is evident that conversational Spanish would benefit many.  What about utilizing the skills that are apparent.  What about a trade off?  There could be more classes to teach conversational Spanish, by people who have learned English.  It could be a trade off of skills.  The people who want to learn Conversational Spanish could conduct free classes.  You never see this being offered.  Really think it would bridge the communication between many people.  I know there is a need for this area/skill to be developed.  The medical communities, business and laborers.  Really think this could be a win-win situation for everyone involved.  Wonder why this has never been tried before in the communities.  I've never heard of it.  Really think it would be innovative, thinking outside of the box and helping others. 

How could a community get one started?  Do we have a need for this?  Why are all free classes on language solely for English?  How come no one ever teaches something we need to learn, conversational Spanish?  Yes, how about free of charge.  Since ESL is free of charge.  Why not teach Spanish free of charge? 

Anyone who works in the service industry has to deal with the public.  The public however, can be downright horrible.  Yes, you the customer, the beloved Divas of shopping, the Kings of cargo pants, the gals who have nothing better to do with their day than to terrorize the postal clerks, utility companies or the food vendors.  At least the food industry folks can deal with you in various creative ways.  Other poor souls have to tolerant your rudeness divided by the highest power of crude.    No you are not always right.  Some of you think you, the customer are always right.  But, guess what you are not always right.  Many of you are just plain RUDE. 

Why is it that half the population can go about their business transactions without interference.  Then you meet up with a snarly customer who wants to curse out the employee for doing their job.  Feel free to chime in with your bad experiences if you have ever witnessed horrible customers.  Today's scenario unfolded with a diva in training.  The line was long in one store that was having a huge clearance sale.  Well, the store runs out of bags.  Wild I know, but it does happen.

This diva goofert gets livid with the cashier.  Tells her to go get a bag.  Guess what, there were no bags.....  Meanwhile, it was a workable situation.  Yet the Diva bully was making the situation far worse than anyone could imagine.  She proceeds to curse at the cashier, tells her that the customer is always right and for her to go get a bag for her merchandise.  Good grief people....LOL  Is it so wild out there in your offices that you have to bully the poor sales clerks and people who assist you in the service sector on a daily basis? 

Why would anyone find it necessary to curse at the sales clerk?  Seriously, didn't your Mom ever teach you any better?  In order to receive something, it helps if you have a good attitude.  The sour attitudes and snippy comments, just draw out the emotions in everyone and test nerves of Job himself.  Come on, get over your arrogance and spoiled brat behavior.  Things happen.  Some stores are understaffed and they cannot be your personal shopper.  Stop calling them to look up goofy stuff.  They are trying to assist the sane shoppers.  Sometimes everyone has no control over it.  Just do what you have to do and try to be pleasant in the process.  Oh, by the way:  The Customer IS NOT always right.  If you fail to be courteous to the people who assist you.  Guess what, you could be carted off the premises.  Most people don't have to resort to this, but if you push it far enough you can be escorted out of the building.  If you have to return merchandise and you have had it for an entire year. I guess you need to hold your tongue and refrain from cursing out the employees.  Most people have policies, some of you push it far beyond reason.  Some of you act like you are shopping on Rodeo Drive and clearly you are shopping inside Target, K-Mart or WalMart...LOL  Good grief, that is pathetic.

Is the Customer ALWAYS right?

One of my favorite past times as many of you know is gardening.  Really love the outdoors, planting something and watching it grow and flourish.  It is recylcing nature from the purest form of green as we know it.  Anyone who has children can identify with gardening.  The seedlings are like little toddlers.  You tend, care and feed them in order to make them grow.  You really are a proud gardener parent when your saplings or little seedlings grow into maturity. 

A great thing to do is to plant a victory garden.   Urge many of you to research the subject and learn about the history along the way.   The rising cost of groceries, many people are getting back to nature.  Since we are at war, really think it is something productive each of us can do.    Remember though, this is about gardening.  So let's keep the discussion connected to the topic at hand, gardening. 

Gardening is also good for the soul.   It is a proven fact that it helps relieve stress and anxiety.  So there you go, another super reason to get on board with the gardening tools.  You don't have time to focus on negative energy.  Those little hands are too busy tending to the weeds and taking care of the plants. 

Some of my garden club favorites are:  cucumbers, squash, sweet peppers, tomatoes, sage, fennel, dill, rosemary (this little plant is finicky and takes persistance), cantaloupes, mint in various varieties (these do well in containers and decorative planters).  Speaking of planters, you know those planters you see in the garden center that have various holes in them and they stand up tall?  Well, those make great herb gardens.  Fill it up and in each hole place specific herbs.   The mint really does well, they produce runners like ivy.  They look and smell yummy.  Especially when they flourish.  They do like moisture.  Know many of you have read some of my thoughts on mint. 

I've also spoken to a ton of friends about planting tomatoes and cucumbers in hanging containers.  Yes!  These are so cool.  You can eliminate a lot of pests.  I've got three friends who have grown these this way and wow you should see how they produce.  So hearty and lush.  Has anyone else tried this or heard of this?  Chime in with your skills, don't be bashful.  Are any of you planting any type of vegetables this year?  If so, tell us what you are planting.

Will the frugal shoppers among us please answer up.  Maybe on aisle 18 we can get a glimpse of a frugal shopper with cost saving tips.  Feel free to share your best and most ingeniously clever frugal explorations.  I liken this to an adventure of an unknown terrain.  Some people are totally clueless on this subject.  Some have never been subjected to cost savings, since their days in college.  But enough of that, gather round the frugal shopper stone and share those tales of lore.  I know many of you have some great ways to share.  

Since, I generally get a bit theatrical and have a tendency to expound on every aspect of the subject.  I've decided to let all of you answer first.  This way, you have to come back and see what type of tips I have to share.  Believe me, there are plenty.  Some totally unexpected.  So give it your best thoughts folks. 

With the price of gas, groceries and everything in between.  It is a smart and savvy shopper these days to maintain your household and supply food for your family. 

Frugal shoppers please answer up and share your wise ideas.  Many people are eager to know and learn from you.

Partial Shade Loving Plants

I gathered together a list of plants that do well in our Texas climate.  Shade loving plants that some of you might find useful.  As with all types of plants, some do require care.  To get you started, try your hand at growing one of these on the list.  Let me know your results, I'd love to see and hear how you progress on this endeavor.  I've tried to compile some interesting varieties for those that do not have a green thumb, time or energy to spend out in their yard.  Those of us who enjoy gardening, planting and tending the flowers, please feel free to add to the list.  I'm hoping that many of us who do have a green thumb can pass on that love to others.  Spread the joy this season by venturing out into your yards and sharing your cuttings with others.   Recently received a beautiful gift from one of my coworkers who loves various cactus.  He put together a wonderful assortment for me.  Truly a treasure when you receive something like a plant (for me anyway). 

Sassy's fun list of partial to full shade loving plants:

Begonia, impatiens, caladium, coleus, petunia, sweet alyssum, hosta lily, periwinkle, fern (some varieties, not all), dahlia, columbine, daylily, butterfly lily, lily of the valley, oak leaf hydrangea, hibiscus (various varieties can tolerate partial shade), rhododendrons, wild ginger, mint (various varieties - this is really good if you have an area/ground that receives a lot of moisture.  It does need some sunlight in order to thrive heartily.  Mint loves moist soil.  Plus on the up side, that side of your yard will be fragrant and you can add it to your tea or foods.  Fun and useful plant.)  African violets are wonderful indoor plants that enjoy partial shade. 

Come on folks, get those gardening rakes out and start planting.  Enlist your children too!  Pass on the love of flowers.  Who knows, maybe you might not have a green thumb, but one of your family members does. 

Happy gardening folks!