December is here, and let the holiday madness officially begin! This week was a mix of decking the halls, battling with tangled Christmas lights, and realizing I’ve got about 20 gifts to buy and no clue what anyone actually wants. But hey, we’re making progress (sort of)! Let’s chat about what this week brought and how I’m holding up so far.

Decking the halls has been an adventure in itself. I don’t know who decided that Christmas lights were meant to be tangled like a cat’s favorite toy, but I’d like to have a word with them. After spending an hour wrestling with a knot that would put a sailor to shame, I finally managed to get the lights up—only to discover that half of them don’t work. So, I’ve embraced the ‘rustic’ aesthetic this year, which basically means my tree is half-lit and looks like it’s seen better days. But it’s all part of the charm, right? I like to think it gives off a cozy vibe—like I’m trying to keep it real amid the holiday hustle.

As for gift shopping, I’m pretty sure my brain has turned into a holiday mush. I’ve started a list of ideas, but it mostly consists of “cool stuff” and “something they’ll like,” which is incredibly helpful (not). I ventured into the mall this week, thinking it would be a grand idea, only to find myself lost in a sea of shoppers and overpriced knickknacks. And let’s not even talk about the food court; I could practically smell the cinnamon rolls calling my name! So, here I am, embracing the chaos and hoping for a holiday miracle where I magically find the perfect gifts before the 25th. Fingers crossed!

Shady Pines was in full-on holiday mode this week! Ma decided we needed to start decorating early, but she couldn’t find the Christmas lights. Naturally, Uncle R suggested using a string of flashlights instead. So, we now have a ‘Christmas tree’ covered in flashlights, duct tape, and a random assortment of ornaments from the 80s. I’m calling it ‘rustic chic,’ but really, it’s just a fire hazard waiting to happen.

My closet is a tale of two lives: half of it is the clothes I *think* I’ll wear, and the other half is what I actually wear—leggings and oversized sweaters. Every year I tell myself I’ll update my wardrobe, but here we are, and I’m basically living in “cozy chic.” Who knew fashion in midlife meant dressing like you’re always ready for a nap?

I started meal planning to help me in the grocery store a little more. WE shop monthly and well lets be honest sometimes I don’t buy enough of something or I buy too much of something else. So, I thought I would share what our dinner plans are for next week and see what you think.

1. Monday: Lentil Stew with Sausage and Kale
2. Tuesday: Baked Lemon Garlic Cod with Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa
3. Wednesday: Turkey Meatloaf with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
4. Thursday: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Marinara
5. Friday: Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles
6. Saturday: Shrimp and Grits with a side of Collard Greens
7. Sunday (Family Style): Slow-Roasted Pork Shoulder, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, and a Spiced Apple Cake

I thought I take the time to share three things that you can do or read for a little self care, a moment of peace and quiet or more.

• Indulge in a 30-minute solo hobby (crafting, reading, etc.).
• Take a mindful walk, paying attention to the sights and sounds.
• Enjoy a candlelit bath.

Did you know I write more than one blog? Well I do and here are a few highlights from Storied Conversation. Please note that clicking any of the links below will take you away from Rita Reviews. I just wanted to let you know but please click away and give these blogs some love as well. You never know what you may find.

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