Another Friday, another week of life doing its thing. Between dodging early Christmas ads and trying to figure out how many sides I actually need for Thanksgiving, this week has been a blur. Spoiler alert: I’m still not ready for the holidays, but hey, we’re getting through it! Let’s catch up, because this week certainly kept me on my toes.

I’m officially in that awkward pre-holiday phase where I’m still pretending I have plenty of time to get everything done, but deep down, I know the holiday train is barreling toward me at full speed. This week, I tried to be proactive and make a list of everything I need for Thanksgiving. The problem is, I got distracted by a recipe for pumpkin cheesecake and now I’m debating whether to add yet another dish to the menu. How many desserts are too many? Asking for a friend.

On top of that, the Christmas ads have fully invaded every inch of my life. I can’t even scroll through social media without being bombarded by holiday sales, and I’m pretty sure my phone is plotting against me. It’s like every retailer knows I’m weak when it comes to sparkly decorations and cozy blankets. At this rate, I’ll have my house decorated for Christmas before I’ve even finished planning Thanksgiving dinner. Priorities, right?

Ma decided it was time to get a head start on holiday baking this week. She dragged out her 1960s recipe cards and got to work. Uncle R, eager to ‘help,’ suggested adding rum to everything… including the cookies. The result? Rum-flavored sugar cookies that could probably knock you out after two bites. Ma claims they’re ‘festive,’ while Uncle insists they’re just strong enough. I’m pretty sure we could start a side business selling them as moonshine.

Here’s a fun fact about midlife: glasses are now required for… well, everything. I’ve got reading glasses, driving glasses, and that one pair I’m always losing but desperately need. Half the time I forget they’re on top of my head, so I’m walking around blind while my glasses just laugh at me from my hairline. Welcome to midlife, where clarity is optional!

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 Parmesan Croutons
2. Tuesday: Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce and Sage
3. Wednesday: Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti and Garlic Knots
4. Thursday: Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, and Mashed Sweet Potatoes
5. Friday: Salmon Cakes with a Lemon-Dill Sauce, Quinoa, and Roasted Broccoli
6. Saturday: Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef, Rice, and Tomato Sauce
7. Sunday (Family Style): Lasagna with Caesar Salad and Garlic Bread, and Tiramisu for dessert

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.

• Treat yourself to a home facial or skincare routine.
• Practice deep breathing for 5 minutes before bed.
• Light a candle and enjoy some quiet journaling time.

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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