My menu for work lunches

                             Work Lunch Menu Monday

For the last seven years of working in the corporate world, I’ve made it a habit to take my lunch to work. It started as a way to eat healthier, but let’s be honest—it also saves a ton of money and time. With only a 30-minute lunch break, there’s really no time to leave the office and grab food, so bringing my own just makes sense.

Yesterday, Cherrie and I made a quick stop at Aldi so I could pick up a few things for my work lunches. Of course, I ended up buying more than I technically needed—but that just means I now have plenty of options to choose from. Some of the items I grabbed included Canadian ham, cheddar cheese, pineapple spears, grapes, individual chicken and cranberry salad, shredded lettuce, and two different salad kits. Easy, mix-and-match foods are my favorite for busy workweeks.

Here’s what my lunch menu looks like for the week:

Monday: Stew

Tuesday: Sub sandwich & grapes

Wednesday: Chicken salad & pineapple spears

Thursday: Grilled chicken & loaded baked potato

Friday: Canadian ham, cubed cheddar cheese, black olives, Ritz crackers, and pineapple spears

Most mornings, I open the refrigerator and decide what I’m taking for lunch right then and there. But having a menu planned out ahead of time really takes the guesswork out of it. Now, knowing me, I’ll probably change my mind at least once during the week—and that’s perfectly okay too.

Lately, I’ve been trying to cut back on carbs in my daily meals, and this menu is centered around foods I actually enjoy eating. No fancy recipes, no stress—just simple, satisfying lunches that keep me full and on track during a busy workday.

Sometimes the easiest plans are the ones that work the best.

Secret Shifters Next Door Book Report

                             Secret Shifters Compete Series

by Roxie Ray

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Published: September 11, 2024

The Secret Shifters Compete Series by Roxie Ray is a sizzling paranormal romance series filled with fated mates, hidden identities, danger, and fiercely protective alpha shifters. From the very beginning, the author pulls you into a world where shifters must compete, survive, and ultimately trust fate—and each other.

This series follows four main couples: Miles & Celina, Steff & April, Blayne & Ava, and Tate & Harley. Each pairing brings its own emotional journey, challenges, and chemistry, making the series feel fresh from book to book while still staying connected through its overarching storyline and shifter competition theme.

Roxie Ray’s writing style is engaging and well paced. The story flows smoothly, with just the right balance of romance, suspense, and action. Each twist and turn kept my attention, and I found myself wanting to keep reading to see how each couple’s story would unfold. The danger lurking in the background adds tension, while the strong mate bonds give the series a solid emotional core.

While all the couples were enjoyable, Blayne and Ava’s relationship stood out the most to me. Their story carried the deepest emotional weight and had a strong sense of history behind it. Rather than falling into an instant, easy romance, Blayne and Ava had to confront past mistakes, personal struggles, and emotional walls. Watching them grow individually before fully coming together made their relationship feel realistic and earned. Their journey showed that love sometimes requires healing, patience, and personal growth before it can truly thrive.

One of the strongest elements of this series is the possessive yet protective nature of the alpha shifters. These characters will do anything to keep their mates safe, which adds intensity and passion to every relationship. The fated mates trope is done well here—romantic without feeling rushed, and emotional without losing the excitement of the paranormal elements.

Overall, the Secret Shifters Compete Series is an entertaining and well-written paranormal romance that fans of shifters, fated mates, and strong alpha heroes will thoroughly enjoy. If you’re looking for romance mixed with danger, competition, and emotional depth, this series is definitely worth adding to your reading list.

Sunday Funday with Cherrie

                                                          

                                                           Weekend Vibes ✨

This weekend I called Cherrie to see if she wanted to take a little trip with me to Norman, Oklahoma. It was time to stock our pantry for January, and I always enjoy having company on a grocery run. Of course, no trip like this is just about groceries—we had a little shopping and lunch planned too.

Our first stop was Ross Dress for Less. I was on the hunt for a new shower curtain for the bathroom, and while I was there, I went ahead and picked up a few new towels and washcloths. I also found a really cute shower caddy that hangs right on the showerhead. I decided I’ll add a 4-piece bathroom accessory set later to tie everything together.

I chose a dark blue shower curtain, which is way outside my normal comfort zone. I usually lean toward seashells or dolphins, so I’m not sure why my taste seems to be shifting—but I kind of like it. While there, I also picked up some white ankle socks for Mr. C. He’s been wanting shorter socks, so that was an easy win.

Next, we stopped at Burlington. Surprisingly, I didn’t buy a single thing. That doesn’t usually happen there, but sometimes it’s nice to walk out empty-handed.

                                                  

A trip to Norman wouldn’t be complete without stopping at Barnes & Noble. I browsed through the paranormal book section and flipped through Flow magazine for junk journaling inspiration. Nothing really jumped out at me, so I left without a purchase—and that’s okay too.

                                                 

For lunch, we headed to Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar for cheeseburgers and fries. It was just as good as the first time we ate there. I really enjoy the relaxed atmosphere—it’s a great place to slow down and visit.

                                                       

After lunch, we finally made our way across the street to Crest Foods. I usually spend close to two hours grocery shopping since I buy for the entire month. I use the AnyList app and print my list by sections, which helps keep me organized and on track. I’ve really enjoyed using this system.

Once we finally checked out, we headed toward home. I was extremely thirsty and decided I needed a stop at Sonic Drive‑In. Lately my favorite drink has been a Diet Coke with cherry and vanilla—it was so refreshing.

Our last stop was at McDonald’s on the tollway to pick up dinner for Mr. C. He always enjoys a Quarter Pounder.

Once we were home, we put all the groceries away and settled in for dinner. I was definitely tired, but it felt so good to have this big chore done for the month. There’s just something comforting about a full pantry and a well-stocked chest freezer.

Weekend accomplished 💙

Happy New Year 2026

Hello 2026: Goals, Gratitude, and a Whole Lot of Excitement

Happy New Year, friends! ✨

Hello, 2026—you already feel like you’re going to be a good one.

I’m stepping into this new year with excitement buzzing in my bones and a heart full of anticipation. There’s just something about a fresh calendar that makes everything feel possible again. This year isn’t about pressure or perfection for me—it’s about intention, experiences, and progress in whatever form that takes.

One of the biggest highlights on the horizon is a dream I’ve carried with me since I was about 16 years old: a trip to New York City. I can hardly believe I finally get to say that out loud. I’m looking forward to all the touristy things—walking the streets, soaking in the energy, and seeing places I’ve only ever admired from afar. It feels surreal and incredibly exciting to check this off my life list.

Another trip close to my heart will be heading north to visit Trevor and his family. This Nana needs some quality snuggle time with Kyndall and Liam. There is nothing better than being surrounded by little voices, laughter, and the sweet chaos that only grandchildren bring.

2026 also marks a special milestone for Mr. C. and me—our 5th wedding anniversary. Even though we’ve been together for over 20 years, it still feels worth celebrating. Life has had its seasons, but we’re still here, still choosing each other, and that’s something I never take for granted.

As for my goals this year, I’m keeping things realistic and meaningful. Decluttering the house is high on my list. The older I get, the stronger the urge becomes to simplify and let go of what no longer serves us. I don’t need to do it all at once—I just need to start somewhere.

I’m also committing to working in a personal journal. I love my blog, but I want something just for me—a space to decorate with washi tape and stickers, to write without editing, and to create for the joy of it.

Health is another focus this year. I’ll be honest—I love carbs, sugar, pasta, bread, and chocolate. Cutting back won’t be easy, but I know small changes add up, and I want to take better care of myself.

I’ve also been missing having a home computer. My desk is organized, staged, and ready—it just needs the computer to bring it to life. I truly believe if it’s there, I’ll use it.

And then there’s my passport. Still not finished. Still on the list. This is the year it gets done—no more excuses.

I don’t make resolutions because they never seem to stick for me. Goals feel gentler. If I stumble, I’ll keep going. If something no longer fits, I’ll adjust. That’s grace, and I’m allowing myself plenty of it this year.

Here’s to new beginnings, meaningful goals, and a year filled with experiences worth remembering.

Cheers to 2026—let’s do this. 🥂

 

Word for year 2026 Intentional

                                 Word of the Year and Target Areas

I had a bit of insight yesterday and realized that intentional really is the perfect word for my year ahead. As I think about how I want to move forward in 2026, everything keeps circling back to being more purposeful with my time, my energy, and my choices.

One big area I want to work on is doing more things outside my comfort zone. Crowds definitely aren’t my happy place, but I don’t want that to stop me from being more social. I also want to be very intentional about spending more quality time with family and friends—because that’s what really matters in the long run.

Getting Out More (Even When It Feels Uncomfortable)

One place that makes stepping out a little easier is Cotton Blossom Winery. They host so many activities throughout the month, and most of them are completely free—which I love. Things like book club, puzzle races, bingo, singo, trivia nights, live music, and outdoor family movie nights.

They also offer paid workshops for those times when you want to try something new and creative—sand art, succulent workshops, charcuterie classes, sip-and-shop events, and paint-and-sip nights. I really like that they offer a good mix of free events and ones that require a little out-of-pocket spending.

For example, in January, they have bingo, puzzle races, Modern Family trivia, another bingo night, and live music with Randy Brown. I really want to push myself this year to attend more of their events instead of just talking about it.

Initial Target Areas for the Year

I’m trying not to overload myself, so I’m keeping my focus simple and realistic:

1. Less time on social media – being more mindful of how much time I spend scrolling.
2. Continue eating better and exercising – progress, not perfection.
3. Saving for a vacation to New York City – something fun to look forward to.

Home Projects & Life Logistics

We also have several projects around the house that need attention—replacing and upgrading a few things, fixing small items, and making room for a little more creativity in our everyday life. The key for me is not being overly ambitious each month, just taking things one step at a time.

First up on the replace-and-upgrade list are the hot water heater and the pressure tank for our water well. We’ll also need a new refrigerator at some point, but the hot water heater will most likely come first. We’ve been having issues with it for quite a while now, and honestly, we know we’re running on borrowed time.

It feels like everything wants to go out at once. We’ve been watching the hot water heater and pressure tank closely, keeping our fingers crossed and hoping they hang on just a little longer.

Vehicles: Another Big Piece of the Puzzle

We also need a new vehicle. I was really hoping to get our Jeep paid off first, but unfortunately, Mr. C’s truck has completely died. It’s not worth repairing at this point, and it’s just not in the budget to have it overhauled.

We truly need two vehicles. I work about 30 minutes from home, and while Mr. C is usually home, we live out in the country—so you never know when a trip to town will be needed or when he might need to help Brody and Savannah with the kids.

We’ll see how far we get with all of these projects as the year goes on. I’m reminding myself that progress is progress, even if it’s slow.

Here’s to being intentional, one step at a time. 💫