If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life is a constant game of “Where did I put that?” Whether it’s a grocery list, my car keys, or the remote (which is never where it should be), I spend half my time searching for things I swear I just had. This week was no exception—though, to be fair, Ma and Uncle R didn’t exactly make the hunt any easier.

This Week in the wilderness

I made the mistake of going to the grocery store without my list this week, thinking I could “wing it.” Big mistake. I ended up with a cart full of things I thought I needed—like three different kinds of cheese and enough paper towels to last a year—but forgot the basics like bread and coffee. By the time I got home, I realized my list had been sitting on the passenger seat the entire time. Maybe next week, I’ll just bring the whole fridge instead of trying to remember what’s in it.

Life at Shady Pines free range seniors

Ma and Uncle R have declared themselves the reigning champions of couponing. This week, Ma handed the cashier a stack of coupons that were so expired they belonged in a museum. When the cashier politely pointed it out, Uncle R chimed in, “Well, they were good once, and we’re still good, so what’s the difference?” They left with their groceries, full price—but still convinced they almost pulled off the deal of the century.

Hot Flashes & More the joys of midlife

Remember when mornings were a frantic blur of getting kids dressed, finding lost keys, and inhaling coffee? Midlife mornings hit differently. There’s a joy in sipping coffee while it’s still hot, watching the world wake up, and realizing that being a morning person isn’t about waking up early—it’s about waking up peacefully.

What’s Cooking for dinner tonight

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: White Bean and Kale Soup with Crusty Bread
2. Tuesday: Cajun Jambalaya with Sausage and Shrimp
3. Wednesday: Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans
4. Thursday: Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Broccoli
5. Friday: Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce, Quinoa, and Roasted Brussels Sprouts
6. Saturday: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Basil Sandwiches
7. Sunday: Roast Turkey Breast with Cornbread Stuffing, Roasted Root Vegetables, and Apple Crisp

A Moment of peace and quiet

There’s something therapeutic about a long drive with no agenda. This week, I grabbed an iced coffee, rolled down the windows, and let the road take me wherever it wanted. No errands, no obligations—just good music, fresh air, and the freedom to wander. Turns out, peace sometimes comes in the form of an empty road and a great playlist.

Storied Conversation a little book chat

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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