It’s the second Friday in November, and I’m already questioning how we got here so fast. One minute, I’m carving pumpkins, and the next, I’m staring at turkey decorations and mentally preparing for the holiday chaos. This week had its fair share of surprises (as usual), so let’s chat about what went down and how I somehow managed to keep it all together… mostly.

This week was a rollercoaster of seasonal confusion. I’ve still got pumpkins sitting on the porch, but inside, I’m already testing out Thanksgiving recipes. It’s like my house is in a weird autumn limbo, halfway between spooky and festive. I tried to make a pie this week to feel more ‘holiday ready,’ but let’s just say I’m not winning any awards for presentation. The taste? Pretty solid. But that crust? It looked more like a patchwork quilt. At least it was rustic… or that’s what I’m telling myself.

On top of that, I made the mistake of wandering into a craft store. I went in for one small thing and came out with armfuls of holiday decorations I didn’t need. Now, I’ve got a mini snowman sitting next to a Halloween skeleton on my bookshelf because apparently, I have no sense of seasonal timing. But hey, at least it’s festive!

This week at Shady Pines, Uncle R discovered Alexa. Yep, he found out that you can ask her anything. So naturally, he spent hours asking Alexa for the weather, random trivia, and—wait for it—the winning lottery numbers. Mom, on the other hand, is now convinced Alexa is spying on us, so she’s started whispering whenever she talks in the living room. I’ve never seen two people have such a serious conversation about whether or not Alexa can ‘hear their thoughts.

At 48, I’ve discovered that midlife comes with random obsessions. Lately, I’m into candles. I can’t explain it, but I now own enough scented candles to light up a small village. They make me feel cozy and in control, which, let’s face it, is a nice change. Plus, if life’s going to be a dumpster fire, at least my living room will smell like lavender.

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: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos with Chipotle Crema
2. Tuesday: Roast Chicken Thighs with Root Vegetables (carrots, parsnips, and potatoes)
3. Wednesday: Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta with Spinach and Toasted Pecans
4. Thursday: Beef and Sweet Potato Stew with a side of Cornbread
5. Friday: Pan-Seared Trout with Lemon Butter, Wild Rice, and Green Beans
6. Saturday: Spaghetti Bolognese with Garlic Bread
7. Sunday (Family Style): Pot Roast with Carrots, Potatoes, and Gravy, and Apple Pie 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.

• Take a solo coffee date.
• Listen to an inspiring podcast or audiobook.
• Do a 10-minute mindfulness meditation.

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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I hope that you will check out the reviews above and maybe find something new to read. I love reading and love to share with y’all the books that I am checking out.

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