I don’t know about in your home, but some days don’t feel like errands… they feel like survival mode with a shopping cart. I start out thinking I’m just “running in really quick” to places like Walmart or Home Depot…
Next thing you know, we’ve helped fix a car situation, dealt with a plumbing issue, stopped for keys, and somehow ended up eating a split hamburger at a place like Griff’s and calling it a win because it only cost $11 for two people.
And somewhere in the middle of all that? You realize the most important stop of the entire day wasn’t planned at all — it was the restroom stop at QT (Quick Trip). Because if you know, you know. When you’re over 60, “I’ll hold it” is no longer a lifestyle choice. It’s a risk assessment.
Me and my mother-in-law (who is 80+ and absolutely not playing games anymore) have a system now: No restroom = questionable shopping decision. We don’t even debate it anymore. Restrooms first shopping after and before we leave the store might be another restroom stop depending on the day.
We just quietly evaluate stores like:
✔ clean restroom
✔ easy access
✔ or we’re leaving early
And honestly? It saves a lot of stress. Now, my friends know if they plan on shopping with me there will be multiple restroom breaks. C will not leave the house until we’ve mapped out the stores were going to and looking for the restrooms because he knows I will need them.
By the end of the day, I’m tired, and more times than not hungry, and I’ve probably stopped at too many places, and you’re still thinking I might swing by somewhere like Hobby Lobby “just for a minute” like that’s ever actually true.
Spoiler: it’s never just a minute. But somehow… we make it through. Barely organized. Slightly exhausted. Fully fed. And always planning the next stop around the nearest bathroom. That’s just real life when your on the downside of 60.
Tell me I’m not the only one who plans their day like this…
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
