Saturday Shenanigans

 

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Saturday Shenanigans & A Surprise Night Out 🎉

Saturday turned out to be one of those “let’s just do all the things” kind of days — and honestly, I loved every minute of it.

A few days ago, my coworker Sheila asked if I wanted to ride with her to Lawton, Oklahoma. I told her yes, of course — but added that I didn’t want to be gone all day because I had a few things I wanted to get done around the house later. She said that was perfectly fine; she just didn’t want to make the trip by herself. And that’s all the convincing I needed.

I left the house at 9:30 a.m., filled up my gas tank, and made it to the Lawton~Duncan Y right on time to meet her. First stop? Hobby Lobby.

Sheila was on a mission to find birthday gifts for her dad, and she did such a good job. She picked out quality paints, paint brushes, a Marine magnet, and the cutest container to package everything together. I love when gifts feel thoughtful like that.

Now let’s talk about what I found. 😄

I bought a 50-piece washi tape set (because clearly I don’t have enough), lots of stickers, and some journaling supplies. I also finally bought the photo storage container with individual boxes inside for organizing stickers. I’ve had my eye on it for months, and since my current container is completely full, I decided it was time. No regrets!

After Hobby Lobby, we ran across the street to Braum’s for Diet Cokes because priorities. Then we stopped at DD’s where I found some socks for Mr. C to tuck into his birthday gifts. We had originally planned to celebrate Sunday, but with a few people feeling under the weather, we pushed it back. Once Alisha and Jonathan get back from Italy 🇮🇹, we’ll grill out and celebrate properly.

Next up was the Asian Market. Sheila grabbed some of her favorite snacks. I didn’t buy anything at first but told her I’d be back for the strawberry ice cream on our way out of town. (Spoiler alert: I absolutely went back for it.)

For lunch, we went to the Asian Fusion Buffet. The food was decent — I stuck with my usual: fried rice, fried potatoes, sweet and sour chicken, sweet and sour soup, plus a few extras. Nothing fancy, just good comfort buffet food.

After lunch, we made one more stop at the Asian Market so Sheila could grab a few more things — and yes, I got that strawberry ice cream. It was so good. Totally worth the second trip. Our final stop was Dollar Tree so she could pick up a few face items, and then we headed home.

But wait… the day wasn’t done.

While we were at the buffet, Nancy called and asked if I wanted to go to The Blue Door in OKC to see Bob Schneider play. She had already bought the tickets! I told her I’d check with Mr. C, and he said, “Sure!” So now she’s picking me up at 6:30 p.m., and we should be home by midnight.

From Hobby Lobby hauls to spontaneous live music plans — I’d say that’s a pretty packed Saturday. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Ms Brantley’s birthday Celebration and Shopping

 

Saturday Shenanigans: Shopping Bags, Burgers, and Birthday Fun

Saturday turned into one of those unexpectedly good days—the kind that leaves you smiling on the drive home. It all started with my friend Cherrie, who had the rare luxury of a Saturday off so she could attend her granddaughter’s 6th birthday party. Anyone who works weekends knows how precious that is, so this day already felt like a small win.

We met at our usual parking spot, and right around 10:30 a.m. I hopped up into her truck, ready for a little road trip. Destination: Lawton, Oklahoma. We had a plan—well, a loose plan anyway—which is usually the best kind.

Our first stop was Ollie’s, because let’s be honest, Ollie’s is never just a stop. I picked up a few scrapbook items (because of course I did), some black pepper, spicy marinara sauce for a pizza casserole I’ve been thinking about, and a few other odds and ends that somehow found their way into my cart. Cherrie stuck to her usual Ollie’s staples: laundry soap and coffee for her Keurig. There’s something comforting about having “your items” at certain stores.

Next up was Hobby Lobby, which we treated more as a browsing adventure than a mission—although I did have junk journaling on my mind. I’m currently working in a junk journal for Moira, and stickers are basically a requirement for that kind of project. I also had a craft knife on my mental wish list, and wouldn’t you know it, Cherrie spotted one right at the checkout. That alone made my day. Sometimes it’s the small victories.

By then, we were officially ready for lunch, and S&B’s Burgers won the debate. We both ordered the SirBacA~Lot burger, which is exactly as indulgent and delicious as it sounds. We also shared queso and chips, because sharing queso feels like a friendship requirement. I even splurged and ordered a margarita on the rocks. Zero regrets—it was cold, refreshing, and perfect.

Before 2 p.m., we arrived at Curiosity Avenue for the birthday celebration. This was my first time there, and I have to say, it’s such a cute place for kids. Inside, they had different themed rooms set up—a fire station, bank, post office, veterinary clinic, hair salon, restaurant, and several more. There was also a bounce house and multiple ride-on toys. It’s one of those places where kids can just let their imaginations run wild.

Even though there was another private party happening at the same time, the space was large enough that it never felt crowded. Everything flowed smoothly, which is impressive when you factor in excited kids and birthday energy. I later learned they close on Sundays for private parties, which honestly makes a lot of sense.

We stayed for nearly two hours. I had a decent time, even though I didn’t know many people there. Aside from Cherrie, Coty, and Hailey, most faces were new to me—but that’s okay. Sometimes it’s nice to just observe, soak things in, and enjoy the atmosphere.

For the birthday girl, Ms. Brantley, I picked up a Mini Verse “Make It Café” Mini Brands set and tucked $10 into her birthday card. She was genuinely happy, which always feels good. There’s something special about watching kids light up over a gift.

After the party wrapped up, Cherrie and I made one last stop at Viridian for coffee. This time I tried the coconut toasted latte, and let me tell you—it was really good. I think I’m on a mission now to try all the flavors until I find my signature drink. It’s a delicious challenge.

I was back home before 5 p.m., tired in the best way and feeling grateful for a day filled with friendship, laughter, good food, and a little bit of adventure. Not every Saturday needs to be big or busy—sometimes it just needs to be good.