It’s the Friday before Thanksgiving, y’all! T-minus 6 days until we all collectively pretend we know what we’re doing in the kitchen. This week was a mix of grocery store chaos, trying to plan the perfect meal, and realizing I’ve never met a side dish I didn’t like. Let’s break down the week’s adventures and what’s on the horizon for Turkey Day.

This week’s trip to the grocery store was nothing short of a survival mission. I thought I was being clever by going early, but apparently, everyone else had the same idea. I found myself in a battle for the last can of cranberry sauce like it was the Hunger Games of holiday shopping. And don’t even get me started on the sheer panic I felt in the baking aisle when I realized I forgot to grab butter. Again. I’m starting to wonder if I’ll ever make it through a grocery run without forgetting something crucial.

On top of that, the Thanksgiving menu planning has gotten slightly out of hand. I started with a modest list of must-have dishes, but somehow that’s turned into a buffet that could feed a small army. Do we need both mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes? Absolutely. Should I make three kinds of pie? You bet. I’m sure I will take it down. In fact, my menu below is much smaller. Thanksgiving chaos? Bring it on!

This week at Shady Pines, Ma and Uncle R declared it ‘practice Thanksgiving.’ Apparently, they couldn’t wait for the real deal, so they cooked a whole turkey on Wednesday—two days before Thanksgiving. The turkey was perfect, but they forgot to make any sides. So, we had an elegant feast of turkey, canned green beans, and toast. Uncle Joe said it was ‘a minimalist meal,’ while Ma swore she was just ‘testing the waters’ for the real Thanksgiving.

You know what midlife has given me? Patience. But only for naps. If you want to see me truly zen, give me a comfy spot and 20 minutes. In midlife, naps aren’t just for kids—they’re survival. At this age, it’s like my body taps out around 3 p.m. and says, “We need a recharge, stat.” And you know what? I’m happy to oblige.

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: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Crusty Bread
2. Tuesday: Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage
3. Wednesday: Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey and Quinoa
4. Thursday (Thanksgiving): Roast Turkey Breast with Sage Butter, Sausage and Apple Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce, Green Bean Casserole, Sweet Potato Casserole,Pumpkin Pie and Pecan Pie
5. Friday: Turkey and Vegetable Soup (using Thanksgiving leftovers)
6. Saturday: Ham and Swiss Sliders with a Mixed Green Salad
7. Sunday (Family Style): Braised Short Ribs, Creamy Polenta, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, and Pear Galette

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.

• Go for a peaceful evening walk to enjoy the autumn air.
• Spend time reflecting on the week and what you’re grateful for.
• Listen to a calming playlist while stretching.

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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