Weekend at Home

                                    Slow Saturday, Full Heart

Hello and happy, easy Saturday, my friend.  

This weekend, I made a very intentional choice—to stay home with Mr. C. Not because I had to, but because I wanted to. With my trip coming up soon, it just felt important to slow down and soak up some time together. And honestly? It was exactly what I needed.

We started the morning nice and easy, curled up watching a couple of movies. No rushing, no big plans—just being. Somewhere in between, we got a little productive too, knocking out some housework and making the space feel good again.

Breakfast was simple but perfect. I went the cozy route with pancakes, and Mr. C opted for hot links—very on brand for both of us. After that, we started pulling together ingredients for an early lunch because I had been craving a good, homemade meatloaf for a couple of days now. And let me tell you… we have a secret weapon in this house—a can of meatloaf fixing (not even sure the brand), but it works every single time. We had everything assembled by around 10-ish, already looking forward to meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans. A true comfort meal.

The rest of the day was a mix of TV and me sneaking away to the guest bedroom to start organizing for my trip. I’m really trying to do better this time—not overpack like I’ve done my whole life. I’ve realized it actually gives me anxiety having too much stuff I don’t even use. So today, I focused on getting my liquids together—shampoo, conditioner, makeup—all in one place so I’m not scrambling at the last minute. Progress, not perfection.

I do still think I need to pick up a pajama set. The one I had in mind is definitely more winter than spring, and with April weather coming, I already know I’d be too warm. So that’s one small thing left to figure out.

I was also invited by my friend Nancy to go see a musician perform in Medicine Park tonight, which honestly sounded like a really nice outing. But I made the choice to stay in. Driving at night just isn’t something I’m comfortable with these days, and I’ve learned to listen to that instead of pushing through. There will be other nights, other chances.

And so here I am—ending the day feeling content, grounded, and grateful. It wasn’t anything big or fancy, just a simple day at home. But sometimes those are the ones that fill your heart the most.

Thank you so much for stopping by and spending a little piece of your day with me. My life may be simple, but it is full of blessings—and I’m so grateful you’re here to share in it.

Until next time 🤍

Starting Retirement Planning at 58

                                                                   

                            Starting Where I Am: My Retirement Journey at 58

Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about the future. I’m 58 years old, and here’s the truth: I don’t have much saved for retirement. My 401(k) is sitting at less than $10,000, and while I do contribute a little each month, it’s not exactly the picture-perfect retirement fund you read about in financial magazines.

For a while, that thought really weighed me down. I’d catch myself thinking, “What’s the point? It’s too late.” But then I reminded myself—it’s never too late to do something. And honestly, something is always better than nothing.

So here’s where I’m at: I plan to work until at least 65, maybe longer if I feel good and enjoy it. In the meantime, I’m looking for little ways to set myself up better. For example, I’m trying to save just a little more each paycheck, even if it’s $50 or $100. I know it doesn’t sound like much, but it adds up.

I’m also being more mindful about spending. Those little extras—like streaming services I barely use, or takeout when I have food at home—add up faster than I realized. Cutting back gives me more room to save, and honestly, it feels kind of good to be intentional with money.

Another thing I’m exploring is earning a little extra on the side. Whether that’s selling things I don’t use anymore, picking up a small side hustle, or even freelancing, it feels good to think about money coming in that can go straight toward my future self.

And of course, I’m thinking about Social Security and how to get the most out of it. Waiting until full retirement age could make a difference in the monthly check, so I’m learning all I can.

Most importantly, I’m taking care of my health. Because what good is retirement if I don’t feel good enough to enjoy it? Walking more, eating better, and keeping up with doctor visits is part of my “retirement planning” too.

I don’t have it all figured out, and that’s okay. I’m starting where I am, and maybe that’s exactly what someone else needs to hear. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.