Can you believe January is almost over? It feels like just yesterday we were ringing in the new year. This week has been a whirlwind, but as always, there’s plenty to share.

This Week in the wilderness

I’ve been in a decluttering frenzy, tackling everything from junk drawers to old email inboxes. It’s amazing how much stuff can accumulate over the years. Of course, now I have a pile of “maybe keep” items that I’ll probably sort through sometime in 2025.

Life at Shady Pines free range seniors

Ma decided to try her hand at online shopping this week and accidentally ordered 10 pounds of flour. She claims it was “a great deal,” so I’m bracing myself for a baking marathon. Uncle R, on the other hand, found a harmonica he bought decades ago and has been serenading us with off-key renditions of old folk songs. Let’s just say the dog is not a fan.

Hot Flashes & More the joys of midlife

This week, I discovered the joy of compression socks. Laugh all you want, but they’ve been a game-changer for my tired feet. Also, I’ve realized that “comfortable shoes” are now a top priority in life. Who needs stilettos when you can have arch support? Also if anyone actually has a picture of me in stilettos lets burn those please!

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: Chicken Alfredo with steamed broccoli.
2. Tuesday: Beef stew with crusty bread.
3. Wednesday: Turkey burgers with sweet potato fries.
4. Thursday: Lasagna with a side Caesar salad.
5. Friday: Fish tacos with a zesty lime slaw.
6. Saturday: Grilled cheese and tomato sandwiches (quick and cozy!).
7. Sunday: Roast turkey with stuffing, green beans, and a pecan pie for dessert.

A Moment of peace and quiet

This week was a little walk each day. Again, nothing major but it helps. I have been doing one little thing each day each week so far this year as a way to have a moment of peace and quiet to myself. A small walk in the neighborhood close to the house in case I fall gave me a chance to get outside and breathe in the fresh, although cold, air.

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.

FYI… Don’t Forget to head over and enter The Monthly Chapter Giveaway!

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

ENTER BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A $50 AMAZON GIFT CARD. GIVEAWAY IS OPEN WORLDWIDE AND ENDS February 1, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway