Welcome to Sunday in a Sip. It's May 18th, 2025. Tomorrow is National Devil’s Food Cake Day, it's only fitting to indulge in a rich slice of the past week’s stories. Some of it layered with a bit of depth, a touch of sweetness, and just enough bite to keep things interesting.

From headlines that sizzled to quiet moments that stirred hearts, we’re breaking it all down into digestible pieces, and guess what there are no forks required. So, grab your coffee, take a seat, and let’s savor what mattered most this week.


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Where are you going for summer vacation?

How about Bandera, Texas, the Cowboy Capital of the World.

Are you looking for an affordable adventure then, Bandera, Texas, stands out as a unique and budget-friendly option. Known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” Bandera offers a taste of the Old West with simulated gunfights, live music at local honky-tonks, and professional rodeos (tickets from $12). Lodging is also budget-friendly, with options like one-room cedar cabins at local ranch resorts. The surrounding Texas Hill Country provides opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and stargazing. August is typically the cheapest month to visit, and booking early can secure the best rate.

Oh, did you grab your Sunday in a Sip Travel Mug?

GOLD price starting to decline and Oil steady.

Gold Price $3,205.30
Oil Price $62.49 per barrel WTI

World News

Russia and Ukraine held their first direct peace talks in years, and emerged after just two hours with a deal for a prisoner swap, but not an end to their conflict.

U.S. News

$400M “Flying Palace” Gift Causes Turbulence Before Takeoff

President Trump’s second-term foreign tour hit turbulence with reports the Qatari royal family is gifting him a $400M luxury Boeing 747-8 “flying palace” to use as Air Force One. Critics call it “foreign influence with extra legroom” and warn it may violate the Constitution’s Emoluments Clause. Trump’s team insists it’s a government-to-government deal, but even allies are uneasy. The jet may eventually land at Trump’s presidential library, fueling questions over who really benefits from this sky-high gift.

Tax Bill Blocked by Republicans' Own Team

The “big, beautiful bill” the president wants for tax cuts, including no tax on tips, no tax on social security, no tax on overtime, was stopped, by some Republicans. These lawmakers didn’t think the bill cut government spending enough. They want bigger cuts to programs like Medicaid and want to get rid of clean energy tax breaks. Even though the bill could still move forward later with some changes, it’s rare for a bill to be blocked this early. Because the Republicans don’t have a big majority in Congress, they need to stick together to get laws passed, and right now, they’re not.

NATIONAL PIZZA PARTY DAY

It’s the third Friday in May. Each year on the third Friday in May, millions of pizza lovers across the nation join in extolling the qualities of pizza on National Pizza Party Day. So how are you going to celebrate? New Haven Connecticut is the pizza capital of the United States, if you’re going to celebrate visit Modern Pizza, my favorite New Haven pizza.

SPORTS

NO SECOND LEG DAY

Preakness Ends with a Whimper, Not a Winner

Pimlico, the gritty grand dame of horse racing and home to the Preakness Stakes, closed its gates on Saturday with more of a sigh than a roar.

In what was supposed to be a triumphant 150th anniversary sendoff before the storied track is torn down and rebuilt, the final race came and went without a true crown contender. Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty skipped the second leg of the Triple Crown, turning the Preakness into a one-off showdown with no shot at history.

Pimlico opened in Baltimore, Maryland, 155 years ago, starting in June, the remaining grandstands and clubhouse will be completely torn down and replaced by a new $400 million facility, which will open before the 2027.

No Triple Crown dreams. No back-to-back glory. Just one last lap at a track set to be leveled. Pimlico deserved better.

Journalism, the race favorite and Kentucky Derby runner-up, surged from behind to win the 150th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course. After trailing in fifth at the half-mile mark, Journalism, ridden by jockey Umberto Rispoli, rallied in the final stretch to narrowly defeat longshot Gosger, with Sandman finishing third. The victory marked trainer Michael McCarthy’s first Preakness win

Entertainment

Green Day members received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking a career milestone.

Comedian Nikki Glazer is set to host the Golden Globes again, following a well-received performance last year.

The Who announced their farewell North American tour, “The Song is Over,” starting August 16 and ending in Las Vegas in late September, with tickets going on sale this week.

Let’s talk over a cup of coffee.

If you’re looking for a movie check out Thunderbolts, it is a Marvel film that brings together a team of antiheroes. Fun flick, great one liners, and fun cast of characters. A compelling take on the Marvel Cinematic Universe by focusing on a team of flawed antiheroes rather than traditional superheroes. Florence Pugh’s standout performance as Yelena Belova, whose chaotic, dry humor and heartfelt moments bring a unique energy to the movie. The movie explores the idea that saving the world isn’t just about superhuman strength but also about confronting inner darkness and forming genuine connections. Go to a movie theatre, and watch it on a big screen with someone and you will get connected.

Please support our new advertising sponsors. We’re thrilled to welcome brands who believe your morning coffee should come with a side of wit, warmth, and a wink.

Check out Lucas Gifts, Specializing in custom-made items like leather keychains, engraved wallets, wooden nursery signs, and name necklaces. Each product is crafted with attention to detail, ensuring a unique and heartfelt gift for any occasion.

Get Ready for Sunny Days! Find Your Perfect Shades

Pour Over Life

Turns out, doing more than you're asked is the closest thing we’ve got to a real-life cheat code. While most folks coast on “meh,” those who go the extra mile are quietly snagging promotions, landing dream gigs, and getting upgraded to exit-row seats. Are you shocked?

In a world where showing up on time is considered exceptional, giving just 10% extra turns heads. Suddenly, bosses remember your name, your side hustle gets real traction, and your dentist gives you actual compliments.
Exceeding expectations isn’t just for “try-hards”, it’s for anyone who wants to win while everyone else is napping.

Guess what? Doing more than expected gets you more than expected. Who knew?

Perfect for Sippers -
Sunday in a sip Butterfly Design Vacuum Insulated Tumbler - 22oz

A great companion for morning commutes, afternoon picnics, or cozy nights in. Introducing our Copper Vacuum Insulated Tumbler! This sleek tumbler is perfect for anyone who loves to enjoy their beverages at the perfect temperature, whether you're at home, work, or on-the-go.

Exclusively available in the Sunday in a Sip online store.

Thank you.

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Thank you for letting me be a part of your day today. Embrace the sunrise, chase your dreams, and make today the day you turn possibilities into realities.

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Let’s Drink Together

Grab your favorite hot beverage and join me in keeping Sunday in a Sip thriving. Your financial support—no matter the amount—fuels the heart and soul of this weekly inspiration. Together, we can lift Sundays to new heights, turning quiet moments into something extraordinary. Every sip, every contribution, makes a difference. Let’s make it happen—together.

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